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14 Best Day Trips from Washington, DC: Easy Getaways Near the City

Elle MacRae — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 10:12:00 +0000

Washington, D.C., is surrounded by great day trip options that showcase history, nature, and charming towns. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, scenic views, or cultural experiences.

14 Best Day Trips from DC

Mount Vernon, Virginia – Just 30 minutes from D.C., Mount Vernon is the historic home of George Washington. You can tour the mansion, explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, and learn about the life of America’s first president.
Great Falls Park, Virginia – About 30 minutes from D.C., Great Falls Park offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and impressive waterfalls. There are hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for kayaking, making it a great outdoor escape.
Alexandria, Virginia – Only about 15 minutes from D.C., the historic district of Alexandria offers cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, waterfront dining, and a collection of museums. You can stroll along King Street, visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center, or relax at the Old Town waterfront.

4. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia – Just across the river from D.C., Arlington offers a solemn and historical experience. You can visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the John F. Kennedy gravesite, and the Arlington House.

5. Annapolis, Maryland – About 45 minutes from D.C., Annapolis is a charming waterfront town known for its naval academy and colonial architecture. You can tour the United States Naval Academy, stroll along Main Street, or take a scenic boat ride on the Chesapeake Bay.

6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia – A bit further (about 1.5 to 2 hours from D.C.), Shenandoah offers beautiful mountain views, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Skyline Drive is perfect for a scenic drive, and there are plenty of spots for picnicking and wildlife watching.

7. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia – About 1.5 hours from D.C., Harper’s Ferry is a historic town located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. It’s known for its Civil War history, hiking trails, and the picturesque views from Maryland Heights.

8. Chesapeake Beach, Maryland – About 45 minutes away, this small town on the Chesapeake Bay offers beaches, boardwalks, and a laid-back vibe. You can relax by the water, go fishing, or enjoy local seafood.

9. Richmond, Virginia – Around 1.5 hours south of D.C., Richmond is rich in Civil War history. You can visit the Virginia State Capitol, the American Civil War Museum or stroll through the beautiful Maymont Estate and gardens.

10. The Wine Region (Loudoun County, Virginia) – About 1 to 1.5 hours away, Loudoun County is home to many vineyards and wineries. You can visit a few wineries, enjoy tastings, and take in scenic views of the Virginia countryside.

11. Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland – Located about 1.5 hours from D.C., these parks offer great hiking, picnicking, and waterfalls. Cunningham Falls is Maryland’s largest cascading waterfall, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

12. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – About 1.5 to 2 hours from D.C., Gettysburg is one of the most important Civil War sites in the U.S. You can visit the Gettysburg National Military Park, take a guided tour, or explore the historical museums.

13. Baltimore, Maryland – About 40 minutes away, Baltimore has plenty to offer, including the National Aquarium, Inner Harbor, historic neighborhoods like Fells Point, and the American Visionary Art Museum. You can also take a stroll along the waterfront or visit Fort McHenry, where the Star-Spangled Banner was written.

14. The Eastern Shore of Maryland – A 2-hour drive, the Eastern Shore offers small towns, beautiful shorelines, and charming beaches. You can visit towns like St. Michaels, known for its maritime history, or explore the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching.

These day trips offer a mix of history, culture, outdoor adventure, and relaxation, making them great escapes from the hustle and bustle of D.C.

Plan Your DC Trip!

Honestly, there’s nothing like a trip to Washington, DC. It is the perfect destination for families. If a museum or monument isn’t holding your kids attention, there’s always another one you can check out- and it’ll most likely be free!

If you’d like a little guidance for your itinerary, see our 4-Day Itinerary. It was designed with young kids in mind and hits a lot of the most popular sights in Washington, DC such as:

The White House
National Museum of American History
National Air & Space Museum
Ford’s Theater
National Children’s Museum

and so much more!

Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit

Ready to hit the road with magic in the speakers?

Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!

Includes:

Packing checklist
I Spy game
Travel Bingo boards
Snack list
Activity ideas

Click here to download yours now!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

For future reference, save our “14 Best Day Trips from DC.” Pin one of the images below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, be sure to check out our 4 day itinerary and our list of 15 Must See Places in Washington, DC. You can also learn how to visit the White House, and we’ll help you navigate the Metro.

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Essential Washington DC Attractions with Timed Entry: What You Need to Know

Elle MacRae — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 07:59:00 +0000

Some of the most iconic DC attractions and museums require visitors to have a timed entry ticket to enter them. Other sites strongly suggest you get a timed entry ticket to guarantee your entry. In this post, we’ll cover all of the attractions you’ll need to get tickets for and let you know if it is simply a suggestion or a requirement.

DC Museums and Attractions Requiring Timed Entries

National Museum of African American History and Culture- Suggested

We highly recommend reserving advance-timed passes to this can’t-miss museum. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is one of the newest and most popular museums in DC.

You can obtain up to six advance passes. Timed passes are always required on weekends, while during peak season (March-August), passes are required for entry before 1 p.m. every day of the week. Same-day online passes are released at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday from September – February and every day of the week from March – August.

US Holocaust Memorial- Required

Like the NMAAHC, the US Holocaust Museum is incredibly moving. A visit to this site is a great way to pay homage to those who lost their lives during the Holocaust. The exhibit is gut-wrenching and was perfectly done.

While passes are necessary to enter the Permanent Exhibition from March 1 – Aug. 31, visitors can enter the building without passes to visit the museum’s public memorials, programs, and the Interactive Wexner Center. On its website, the Holocaust Memorial Museum provides detailed information on acquiring advance tickets and same-day tickets for the Permanent Exhibition during the March 1 – Aug. 31 time frame

Bureau of Engraving- Required

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is a U.S. government agency responsible for designing and printing paper currency and other secure government documents. It operates under the Department of the Treasury.

The Washington, D.C. tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing is typically open Monday–Friday, except for federal holidays. Tickets are free, but during the peak season (March–August), they are required and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes and provides an inside look at the currency production process, from engraving to printing and cutting. The facility is located at 301 14th Street SW, Washington, D.C.

White House- Required

Visiting the White House requires a bit of planning. You’ll need to contact your Congressman and request a visit. Once your background check comes back clear, you’ll be able to select a time. To learn more about how to visit the White House, take a look at our post.

US Capitol- Suggested

While timed entry tickets aren’t required for this top attraction, they are strongly recommended. Same-day passes are available at Information Desks on the lower level of the Capitol Visitor Center, although availability can become limited during spring, summer and the holiday season.

Ford's Theatre- Required

Ford’s Theatre is the playhouse where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. All visitors need a ticket to enter Ford’s Theatre. Access to the museum and theater is not included in every ticket, so select your ticket option carefully. We suggest making sure your ticket includes the Petersen House and the Aftermath Exhibit.

Library of Congress

While the Library of Congress isn’t high up on everyone’s list, it should be! The World’s Largest Library was stunning and remarkably impressive. Visit this website to get your tickets.

Washington Monument

There are two different ways to experience the Washington Monument. First, you can admire the massive white obelisk from the exterior. The monument is visible from pretty much everywhere along the National Mall. If you’re flying into Dulles, chances are you’ll even be able to see it from your plane.

The second way is to ride the elevator to the top of the monument for impressive views of the National Mall. If you want to go this route, you’ll need a timed entry. For the life of me, I haven’t been able to secure tickets. Hopefully, you’ll have better luck! Visit Recreation.gov to get your tickets.

National Archives- Recommended

The National Archives houses America’s founding documents. From March to Labor Day, there may be long lines to enter the National Archives. To avoid these lines, you can reserve through recreation.gov for timed entry.

National Air & Space Museum- Required

If you’re traveling with kids (or simply just love space), a day at the National Air & Space Museum is an absolute must.

The museum got a facelift in 2022 and it is awesome. We had so much fun learning about aviation and space exploration. The museum even had a collection of race cars in it- which the kids LOVED!

Tickets can be acquired here.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

There are so many incredible things to see and do in DC. We’ve compiled some of our favorites in our 4-Day DC Itinerary.

If you need tips on how to schedule a tour of the White House, Visiting DC with Kids, or Riding the Metro, we’ve got you covered! Check out our Ultimate Guide to the National Mall or 15 Must-See Places in Washington DC for more great things to do on your trip!

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5 Things Kid Can Learn About at NMAAHC

Elle MacRae — Sat, 03 May 2025 12:01:00 +0000

Affectionately known as the Blacksonian, the National Museum of African American History and Culture is one of Washington, DC’s newest (and hottest) museums. It is so popular that we could not get tickets during our 2022 visit. When we went to DC in 2024, I made a point of setting a reminder on my phone to alert me when tickets were released.

I was excited to visit the museum- and judging by the line outside, so were many others. We have been teaching our kids about black history with visits to places like Kingsley Plantation, Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, Gettysburg, and other historical sites. Visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) would give us another opportunity to educate our kiddos.

The NMAAHC is an incredible place for families to learn about African American History.

5 Things Kid Can Learn About at NMAAHC

The History of Slavery and Freedom

Kids can explore exhibits about the transatlantic slave trade, the lives of enslaved people, and the struggle for freedom.
Artifacts like slave shackles, abolitionist newspapers, and Harriet Tubman’s shawl bring history to life.

The Civil Rights Movement

Interactive displays highlight leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and John Lewis and the importance of protests like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington.
Kids can see a Greensboro lunch counter where peaceful sit-ins took place.

African American Achievements in Sports and Music

Learn about legendary athletes like Jackie Robinson, Serena Williams, and Muhammad Ali and their impact beyond sports.
Discover the evolution of jazz, hip-hop, gospel, and blues and listen to music from stars like Louis Armstrong and Beyoncé.

The Power of Culture and Innovation

Exhibits showcase the impact of African Americans in fashion, literature, art, and film, from writers like Maya Angelou to filmmakers like Spike Lee.
Learn about inventors and scientists, including George Washington Carver and Madam C.J. Walker, who changed industries.

Interactive Learning at the "Explore More!" Gallery

This hands-on area is designed for kids to ask questions, explore artifacts, and create art.
It helps kids understand African American history through storytelling, puzzles, and digital activities.

Best Exhibits for Kids

“Explore More!” Interactive Gallery
- A hands-on space where kids can touch, create, and explore history through digital and interactive displays.
- Kids can try oral history recording booths, artifact exploration, and storytelling activities.
“Sports: Leveling the Playing Field” Exhibit
- Features Jackie Robinson’s baseball jersey, Michael Jordan’s shoes, and other cool memorabilia.
- Teaches kids how sports helped break racial barriers.
“Musical Crossroads” Exhibit
- A vibrant, sound-filled exhibit showcasing hip-hop, jazz, blues, and gospel music.
- Kids can see Prince’s guitar, Chuck Berry’s Cadillac, and more while listening to influential African American music.
“Slavery and Freedom” (Lower Level – for older kids)
- Features powerful artifacts like Harriet Tubman’s shawl and Nat Turner’s Bible.
- Helps older children understand the fight for freedom and the importance of perseverance.
- Highlights recent history, including the Civil Rights Movement, Barack Obama’s presidency, and Black Lives Matter.
- Engages kids with multimedia displays and real-life stories.

Family-Friendly Activities & Tips

“Kids’ Activity Guide” – Ask for an activity guide at the entrance to help kids engage with the exhibits.

“Interactive Touchscreens” – Many exhibits have digital features where kids can play, listen to music, and explore history.

“Step into History” Photo Spots – Great places for kids to take photos, such as the Oprah Winfrey exhibit and sports hall.

“Cultural Expressions” Dress-Up Area – In this exhibit, kids can see and learn about African-inspired fashion and textiles.

Visit the Sweet Home Café – Try family-friendly meals with a taste of African American food traditions.

Visiting Information

Location: 1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, D.C.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on December 25)
Entry: Free, but timed-entry passes are required. Reserve in advance online here.

Must-See Highlights Based on Your Time

If You Have 1 Hour:
“Slavery and Freedom” Exhibit (Concourse Level) – See Harriet Tubman’s personal items and learn about the journey to freedom.
“Musical Crossroads” (L4) – A quick, fun stop to see Prince’s guitar and learn about hip-hop and jazz.

If You Have 2-3 Hours:
Explore the “Sports: Leveling the Playing Field” Exhibit – Learn about Black athletes who broke barriers.
Visit the Oprah Winfrey Exhibit – Inspiring for kids and adults alike.
Stop by “Cultural Expressions” – A great interactive exhibit on fashion, food, and traditions.
Grab a meal at Sweet Home Café – Try classic soul food dishes like fried chicken, cornbread, or gumbo.

If You Have a Full Day:
Start at the Concourse Level (Slavery to Civil Rights Movement) – Walk through history in chronological order.
Go up to the top floors – Explore sports, music, film, and art exhibits.
Visit the “Explore More!” Gallery – Hands-on activities perfect for kids.
Take breaks at Reflection Spaces – Areas designed for quiet moments after emotional exhibits.

Kid-Friendly Museums Near NMAAHC in Washington, D.C.

1⃣ National Air and Space Museum ( 5-minute drive / 15-minute walk)

Why Kids Love It:
Walk through a real space shuttle and touch a moon rock!
See the Wright brothers’ airplane and Amelia Earhart’s plane.
Hands-on exhibits let kids experience what it’s like to be an astronaut.
Timed-entry passes are required. Reserve here.
Read More

2⃣ National Museum of Natural History ( 10-minute walk)

Why Kids Love It:
Dinosaur fossils & a life-sized T. rex skeleton.
The Butterfly Pavilion, where kids can walk through a live butterfly habitat.
The Ocean Hall, featuring a giant whale model and deep-sea creatures.
No timed entry is required.
Read More

3⃣ National Children’s Museum ( 5-minute drive)

Why Kids Love It:
A mix of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) exhibits.
The Dream Machine – a multi-story climbing structure!
Interactive exhibits on weather, coding, and space exploration.
Timed-entry tickets are required. Reserve here.
Read More

4⃣ International Spy Museum ( 8-minute drive)

Why Kids Love It:
Get a secret spy identity and complete interactive missions.
Try real-life spy gadgets and learn about disguises and codes.
Fun exhibits on James Bond, Cold War spies, and real espionage history.
Paid admission & timed tickets required. Book here.

5⃣ Smithsonian’s National Zoo ( 10-minute drive)

Why Kids Love It:
See giant pandas, lions, elephants, and gorillas.
The Kid’s Farm – an interactive farm experience.
A great outdoor break after museum-hopping!
Free timed-entry passes required.

Plan Your Trip

Honestly, there’s nothing like a trip to Washington, DC. It is the perfect destination for families. If a museum or monument isn’t holding your kid’s attention, there’s always another one you can check out, and it’ll most likely be free!

If you’d like a little guidance for your itinerary, see our 4 Day Itinerary. It was designed with young kids in mind and hits a lot of the most popular sights in Washington, DC, such as:

The White House
National Museum of American History
National Air & Space Museum
Ford’s Theater
Lincoln Memorial
Washington Monument
National Children’s Museum

and so much more!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventures!

For future reference, save our post: “5 Things Kids Can Learn About at the National Museum of African American History and Culture”. While you’re at it, browse the 10 Tips for Riding the DC Metro, 15 Must-See Places in Washington DC to Add to Your Itinerar y, and 10 Practical Tips for Visiting DC with Kids.

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5 Inspiring National Mall Monuments Every American Should See

Elle MacRae — Sat, 15 Mar 2025 12:10:00 +0000

Can you believe there are more than 100 monuments and memorials at the National Mall in Washington, DC? The National Mall, known as “America’s Front Yard”, is a park in the heart of downtown DC. It is home to several museums, memorials, monuments, sculptures, and statues. The monuments and memorials along the National Mall honor former Presidents, Veterans, and people important to our nation’s history.

The National Mall receives more than 25 million visitors annually and spans from the United States Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. It also includes the White House, Ford’s Theater, and the parks along the Tidal Basin and Washington Channel.

The National Mall was originally drawn up by Pierre L’Enfant in 1791. He envisioned a 1 mile long garden-lined “grand avenue”, much like you would find in prominent European cities. In his plan, it was flanked by the Congress House (now the United States Capitol) and an equestrian statue of George Washington.

The Landmarks, Museums, Monuments, Memorials, and Features of the National Mall

National Museum of American History
National Museum of Natural History
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
West Building of the National Gallery of Art
East Building of the National Gallery of Art
National Museum of the American Indian
National Air and Space Museum
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Arts and Industries Building
Smithsonian Institution Building “The Castle”
Freer Gallery of Art
Arther M. Sackler Gallery
National Museum of African Art
Joseph Henry statue
Andrew Jackson Downing Urn
Smithsonian Carousel
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Library of Congress
United States Supreme Court
Jamie L. Whitten Building: U.S. Department of Agriculture Administration Building
United States Capitol
Union Square (Capitol Reflecting Pool & the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial)
Peace Monument
United States Botanic Garden
James A. Garfield Monument
Lincoln Memorial
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
WWII Memorial
Washington Monument
American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Jefferson Memorial
Lockkeeper’s House, C&O Canal Extension
Constitution Gardens
Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence
District of Columbia War Memorial
Sylvan Theater
George Mason Memorial
John Paul Jones Memorial
John Ericsson Memorial
The Arts of War and The Arts of Peace sculptures
Jefferson Pier
Tidal Basin paddle-boat dock
Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
Vietnam Women’s Memorial
Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site
Petersen House
Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
National Park Service Stables
German-American Friendship Garden
A Prayer for the Nation Memorial

Our 5 Must-See National Monuments on the National Mall

I’ve spent countless hours walking up and down the National Mall, popping in and out of museums, visiting some of our nation’s most important buildings, and viewing the numerous monuments and memorials. Even after all of my visits to the capital city, these are the monuments that I never get enough of.

Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is located at the western end of the Mall. Each year, the monument sees more than 7 million visitors making it one of the most visited monuments in the United States. It honors one of America’s favorite presidents, Abraham Lincoln. The memorial features a massive sculptor of our tallest president and is inscribed with two of his most famous speeches: the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address.

The memorial was the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream Speech”. The step where King stood during the March on Washington is marked so visitors can stand in the spot where King gave this iconic speech.

World War II Memorial

The World War II Memorial is centered between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. The 56 granite pillars, adorned with bronze laurel wreaths, represent the 48 states (that were in the union in 1945), Washington DC, and the US territories. The pillars line an oval-shaped plaza and reflecting pool flanked by two triumphal arches.

The Freedom Wall, located on the western side of the plaza, is dotted with 4,048 gold stars. Each star represents 100 Americans who died in the war.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

One of the most underrated memorials is the Korean War Memorial. Perhaps it’s because, for many, this has become a forgotten war. The memorial, located just south of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, memorializes those who served in the Korean War (1950—1953). It’s a showstopper. It includes 19 statues that depict soldiers in battle. The sculptures are gorgeous.

In 2022, the Wall of Remembrance, a series of long black granite slabs, was added. The slabs list the names of 36,634 Americans and 7,174 South Koreans who died under US Command. Unfortunately, due to errors in the list submitted by the Defense Department, the wall includes more than 1,000 spelling errors and lists 245 servicemen who did not die in the war. An additional 500 names should have been added but were not. Corrections are slated to take place soon.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

A massive granite statue called Stone of Hope stands tall at the center of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. The memorial was inspired by a line from King’s famous “I Have a Dream Speech” where he said, “Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope.”

The memorial lines up with the Lincoln Memorial, the location of King’s 1963 speech. King was the first African American to be honored with a memorial at the National Mall, and only the fourth non-President to receive such an honor.

The memorial includes an Inscription Wall which has 14 quotes from King’s speeches. Take time to read his words of wisdom and reflect on how far America has come, and how far we still need to go.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

While other memorials and monuments on the National Mall are more elaborate, it is the simplicity of this memorial that makes it so remarkable. The memorial features two massive black granite walls that are engraved with the names of service members who died or went missing during their service in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. In total, there are 58,320 names listed.

There are directories of the names and their locations on podiums near the memorial. It is not uncommon to see people using a pencil and paper to create a rubbing of their relative’s names.

...Wait....What About the General?

You might be wondering why the Washington Monument didn’t make our list. In all honesty, it’s because that sucker is 555 feet high and can be seen from pretty much everywhere in this area. While visitors are able to ride to the top of the monument to witness sweeping views of the Mall, it’s incredibly difficult to get tickets.

Planning Your DC Trip

No lie…DC is my FAVORITE city on the planet! Despite making several trips, I’ve barely scratched the surface. There are so many incredible things to see and do in DC. We’ve compiled some of our favorites in our 4-Day DC Itinerary.

Junior Ranger Program

The Junior Ranger Program invites visitors to explore, learn about, and protect national parks. Participants complete activities in a special Junior Ranger booklet, then take an official pledge and receive a Junior Ranger badge or patch.

How It Works

Visit a National Park
Head to a participating national park, monument, historic site, or recreation area. You can ask a ranger at the visitor center for a Junior Ranger activity book.
Complete Activities
Activities vary by location and are tailored to the park’s unique features. Common tasks include:
Meet a Park Ranger
After completing the booklet, kids (and adults!) show their work to a ranger. They may ask a few questions or have a quick chat.
Take the Junior Ranger Pledge
Participants promise to protect parks, learn about nature, and share what they’ve learned.
Earn a Badge or Patch
Every park has a unique Junior Ranger badge, making it a fun collectible!

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For future reference, save our post “The 5 Most Incredible National Mall Monuments.”

While on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip, we also visited Gettysburg, the nearby Eisenhower National Historic Site, and Hersheypark.

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Arlington National Cemetery: The Final Resting Place of American Heroes

Elle MacRae — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:57:41 +0000

Arlington National Cemetery is a sacred and revered place where the brave soldiers and their families are honored for their courage, valor, and selfless sacrifices. The cemetery, with more than 400,000 graves, serves as a poignant reminder of the immense price paid for our freedom. This hallowed ground was established during the Civil War, and its historical significance attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year. Every headstone, meticulously arranged amidst the rolling hills and manicured lawns, represents an American hero.

This iconic landmark provides visitors with an opportunity to pay their respects to fallen American soldiers who have served in every conflict since the Revolutionary War. In addition, many notable figures including John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Thurgood Marshall rest in the cemetery. The somber and respectful atmosphere envelops visitors, leaving them with a profound sense of patriotism and appreciation for those who have served their country.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington is an unforgettable experience for visitors who witness the Changing of the Guard, a ceremony that symbolizes the never-ending vigilance of the military. Educational programs, tours, and exhibits are also available to visitors that showcase the diversity, history, and valor of the men and women who have served our country.

A visit to Arlington National Cemetery is an emotional and moving experience that instills a sense of pride, gratitude, and respect for those who served our country. The cemetery represents an enduring legacy of our nation’s past, present, and future. It is a powerful symbol of the American spirit and reminds us of our responsibility to safeguard the precious freedoms they fought tirelessly to preserve.

The History of the Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington House was originally built in the early 1800s and was owned by George Washington Parke Custis, the grandson of Martha Washington. When Custis died, the house was passed down to his daughter Mary Anna Randolph Custis, who later married Robert E. Lee.

During the Civil War, Arlington House was used as a military headquarters for the Union Army, and later became a freedmen’s village. In 1925, the house was designated as a national memorial to both Robert E. Lee and George Washington Custis. Today, visitors can tour the house and grounds, which offer stunning views of the National Mall and Washington, D.C.

When Virginia seceded from the Union, the Lees left Arlington House, never to return. Mrs. Lee stopped paying taxes and the house was seized by the government. The US Army occupied the estate as a camp and headquarters.

As the war continued, the death toll steadily rose and there was a great need for a new cemetery. The Army set aside 200 acres of property to be used as a military cemetery.

Throughout its history, Arlington House has been a symbol of both the country’s noble past and its tumultuous present. As a memorial, it honors two men who held vastly different views on the issues that ultimately led to the Civil War. As a historic site, it tells the story of those who built and lived in the house, as well as those who worked and fought at the site during the war.

Famous People Buried at the Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of many famous personalities who have contributed greatly to the history of America. Some of the notable figures buried at the cemetery include:

John F. Kennedy – 35th President of the United States.
Robert F. Kennedy – Attorney General and younger brother of JFK.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis – Former First Lady of the United States and wife of JFK.
Thurgood Marshall – First African American Supreme Court Justice.
Audie Murphy – World War II veteran and Hollywood actor.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. – Supreme Court Justice and Civil War veteran.
William Howard Taft – 27th President of the United States and the 10th Chief Justice of the United States.

The Arlington National Cemetery is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have fought for the United States of America.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a unique memorial that serves as a tribute to anonymous soldiers who selflessly gave their lives in service to their country. This hauntingly beautiful monument is located at Arlington National Cemetery and serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and bravery exhibited by countless men and women throughout history. The tomb is guarded around the clock by members of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as the “Old Guard,” who march 21 steps forward, pause for 21 seconds, and then march 21 steps back, representing the 21-gun salute that honors fallen soldiers.

Visitors to the tomb can witness the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour on the hour, and they can pay their respects to the Unknown Soldier with a moment of silence. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a revered national symbol that represents the unyielding courage and dedication of America’s military population. It serves as a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for all those who seek to recognize the heroic deeds of our nation’s soldiers.

How to get to Arlington National Cemetery from Washington, DC

The easiest and most convenient way to get to the cemetery is by taking the Metro. Using the Blue Line, disembark at the Arlington National Cemetery Station. The metro ride lasts about 15 minutes from downtown Washington, D.C.

Another option is to take a taxi or an Uber. This is a more expensive option but still convenient. If you want to avoid the traffic, you can also book a private tour or shuttle service that includes transportation to and from the cemetery.

Once you are at the Arlington National Cemetery there are various easy-to-navigate paths alongside many notable graves, or visitors can use the Cemetery’s mobile app to find important sites and events. You can also take a guided tour or explore the cemetery on your own.

No matter how you choose to get there, the Arlington National Cemetery is a place that every American should visit at least once in their lifetime.

Visiting Information

The cemetery is open every day of the year, including weekends and holidays, with the only exception being during extreme weather conditions. Its operating hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, with extended hours on Memorial Day and Veterans Day weekends.

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8 Hamilton-Inspired Things to Do in Washington, DC

Elle MacRae — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 16:56:28 +0000

Raise a glass to freedom and celebrate Alexander Hamilton’s legacy with these Hamilton-inspired things to do in Washington, DC.

Although he never strolled the streets of DC (he was killed 2 years after it became the capital), the rest of the cast— er important historical figures such as Eliza Hamilton, Rochambeau, Marquis de Lafayette, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington all end up in the Washington, DC.

8 Hamilton-Inspired Things to do in Washington, DC

See how Hamilton was able to RISE UP During His Days as a Soldier

Alexander Hamilton had a distinguished military career that began during the American Revolutionary War. At the young age of 19, he became a captain of artillery and served under George Washington. He played a pivotal role in several battles, including the Battle of Monmouth and the decisive Battle of Yorktown, where he led a daring charge on British forces. Following the war, he continued to serve in the military as an aide-de-camp to Washington, helping to put down the Whiskey Rebellion. Hamilton’s military career enhanced his reputation and leadership abilities and helped him become one of America’s founding fathers.

Today you can visit the Anderson House on Embassy Row in Dupont Circle to get a glimpse of his military career. The house features a portrait of Hamilton that was donated by his family. The home also contains several items belonging to the Society of the Cincinnati, a guild that Hamilton belonged to. The guild was devoted to upholding the ideals and fellowships of the Continental Army.

Get a Glimpse of His Work

The National Archives Museum holds many of the United States’ most important documents, including the U.S. Constitution. The Constitution was signed by 39 delegates, including the New York Delegate, Hamilton. His signature is on the right-hand side of the last page.

The Archives is also home to the Alexander Hamilton Papers, a collection of public papers and personal letters to members of the Hamilton and Schuyler families, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, the Marquis de Lafayette, John Adams, George Washington, and more. In the collection, you’ll also find drafts of some of his works.

The collection has nearly 12,000 items dating as far back as 1708, and documents Hamilton’s life from his boyhood in St. Croix to his career as a legislator, US Secretary, and lawyer up to his death in 1804.

See the First Stamps that Feature A. Ham

The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum is home to an original set of 1870 postage stamps featuring Alexander Hamilton. The 30¢ stamp ran from 1870 until 1890. The stamps, known as “The Officials,” were used for use by the Executive departments of the Federal government.

When he served as the Treasury Secretary, Hamilton issued “sin taxes” on tea, coffee, beer, wine, and distilled spirits. The museum holds a 1870s beer tax stamp in its collection.

Here Comes the General!

Hamilton served as General George Washington’s right-hand man. Washington lived at Mount Vernon, just outside of Washington, DC. Step into the General’s boots in Be Washington: It’s Your Turn to Lead, a digital first-person experience starring Chris Jackson, the gent who played Washington in Hamilton.

You can also learn about the relationship between the two forefathers with the Hamilton The Musical Tour offered at Mount Vernon.

Take a Tour of the Treasury Building

Alexander Hamilton served as the nation’s first Secretary of Treasury. Although he never operated out of the current Treasury Building, the building stands in his honor. You can get a glimpse of the Hamilton statue standing outside in the south plaza.

The Department of the Treasury also offers tours of the building. You must register in advance with your Congressional Office. Learn more about how to book a tour.

Take the Ultimate Walking Tour

Tours By Locals offers a 1/2 day tour of DC for fans of Hamilton. The tour begins at the Lincoln Memorial and visits the Washington Monument (as a nod to Eliza Hamilton, the White House, and the US Capitol Building.

Have Another Round (Tonight)

Several eateries and bars have a Hamilton theme. Grab a Hamilton Mule at The Hamilton restaurant and bar. There’s nothing rich folks love more than spending the evening at the Hamilton Hotel.

See DC Through Eliza Hamilton's Eyes

Although A. Ham never settled in the District, his wife, Eliza, was no stranger to the capital. She moved to DC as a widow and lived at a house on H Street until she died at the age of 97.

While living in DC, Eliza and her neighbor, Dolley Madison, raised funds for the Washington Monument. She was also no stranger to Capitol Hill and the surrounding area.

Relics of Eliza’s time in DC can still be found in her home, Tudor Place. Here you’ll find needlework, an engraved portrait, and other mementos.

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10 Practical Tips for Visiting Washington DC with Kids

Elle MacRae — Sat, 20 May 2023 11:49:06 +0000

As we wrap up our posts about the District of Columbia, I thought I’d end by sharing tips for visiting Washington, D.C., with kids. I visited DC numerous times before we took a family trip there—and let me tell you, visiting with the kids is a totally different ball game. Like with any trip, Visiting Washington, D.C., with kids takes a bit of planning and foresight.

Tips for Visiting Washington DC with kids

1. Don't try to cram too much into your itinerary.

When I mapped out our itinerary, I planned for us to visit 3 places a day. That may not seem like a lot, but considering how long it takes to visit an attraction, transit in between, potty breaks, meals, etc., 3 places a day works out quite well.

When booking timed-entry tickets, I would book them for 10 o’clock and 4 o’clock. This worked out perfectly for us! It gave us plenty of time at our first location and time to check out another attraction before our 4:00 stop.

Check out our itinerary!

2. Try to stick to your normal schedule.

When we travel, we try to keep our schedules as close to our home schedule as possible. We’ve found that this helps cut down on meltdowns.

If your little one still naps, you may need to keep that in mind when you’re planning out your days in DC.

3. Make time for FUN!

As it turns out, many kids find museums to be…well…boring. Be sure to leave time for a little fun in your itinerary! The National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum have done a great job of adding interactive displays in their exhibits.

After spending the morning learning about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and touring Ford’s Theater and the Petersen house, we let the kids decompress by running around and participating in STEAM activities at the National Children’s Museum. Y’all! THIS PLACE IS EVERYTHING! Trust me, add it to your itinerary now, your kids will thank you.

4. Take breaks.

Trust me, even if you use the Metro, you’ll be doing a TON of walking in DC. We walked between 7 and 8 miles every single day. Be sure to rest those little feet.

Enjoy an ice cream cone on the lawn at the National Mall, find a park bench, or find a spot to take a break inside the museums.

5. Plan for the weather.

Straight up, the weather in DC during the summer months is miserable- and this is coming from a Florida girl. If you’re going during the summer, be sure to pack plenty of water and stay hydrated.

My favorite time to visit the capital is during the fall, once the weather and crowds have died down.

If you’re going in the fall, winter, or even spring, consider dressing your kids in layers so they can peel off a layer as the days warms up. During our fall trip, our kids wore pants, a long sleeve shirt, and then a button down shirt on top. Towards the end of the day, we’d remove the top layer and tie it around their waist or toss it in our backpack.

6. Make sure your hotel is in an ideal location.

In the past, I’ve always stayed in Arlington or Alexandria when I’ve visited DC. When visiting Washington, DC with kids, you’ll most likely want to book a room in DC so you can scoot back to the hotel quickly, if needed.

We found a hotel, Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall, that was in an ideal location. It was located less than 1/2 a mile away from the National Mall, and 1/2 a mile from the District Wharf, where there are plenty of food options.

Also, make sure your hotel includes breakfast. Trust me, the last thing you’ll want to do is drag hungry kids around first thing in the morning searching for breakfast.

7. All of the Smithsonian Museums are FREE

The Smithsonian museums are some of the best attractions in DC. The National Museum of American History features many pieces from pop culture that will probably spark your kid’s interest.

Our kids’ favorite museum was the National Air and Space Museum. There are lots of interactive elements (AND SPACE SHIPS!) that will keep your kids entertained.

Consider planning your museum visits for the afternoon, when the weather gets warmer, or in the event of rain.

8. Decide if You'll Be Bringing a Stroller

Despite the fact that everything we did in DC was all within the National Mall area, we did a TON of walking. As I mentioned before, we walked 25 miles during our 3 days in DC….and that is with us riding the Metro, a lot! You may want to bring along a stroller.

Our youngest were 4 when we went to DC and they were freaking champs when it came to walking. They didn’t complain once. In retrospect, with all of the running around they did in places like the National Children’s Museum, they probably did more than 25 miles on our trip.

9. Tour the White House

I’ve read other blogs that suggest you skip the White House tour, but they’re nuts- take the tour! It will be a memorable experience and will give them a little street cred.

Taking a White House tour requires a little advance planning. Be sure to check out our guide on Visiting the White House.

Although strollers are not allowed in the White House, you can baby wear (use a baby carrier worn on the body). Purses and bags are not allowed inside the White House, either, but there are lockers nearby (more info in the above-mentioned post) where you can stash your belongings.

If you decide to skip the White House tour, consider going to the White House Visitor Center. The exhibits give you an insight into the daily lives of the President and their family.

10. See the Monuments at Night

Believe me, there’s nothing quite like seeing the monuments all lit up at night. If your kiddos aren’t too tired, take an evening stroll. If they are feeling a little drowsy, you can always find a spot on the lawn at the National Mall to take in the sights.

The Lincoln Memorial is jaw-dropping at night, as is the Jefferson Memorial, and the Washington Monument. There are plenty of options available, including tours via boat, trolley, and bicycle (for older kids).

Our Kids Must-Haves for DC

Our kids each have their own little camera to take with us on trips. They love bringing them along on our trips to capture their memories. Our kids have this one, which has a video mode that our kids love to play with.

One thing we always do is check out library books about the destinations we’re visiting. This gives our kids the opportunity to have some background knowledge about the things they are seeing. Amazon has this cute little Kids’ Travel Guide that is full of coloring pages, fun facts, and special activities.

Not that you ever need an excuse to be fancy AF, but DC makes for a pretty good reason. How cute would pictures at the Lincoln Memorial, Ford’s Theater, and the White House be your kiddo in a top hat?

Ready to start planning?

If you’d like a little guidance for your itinerary, see our 4-Day Itinerary. It was designed with young kids in mind and hits a lot of the most popular sights in Washington, DC, such as:

The White House
National Museum of American History
National Air & Space Museum
Ford’s Theater
Lincoln Memorial
Washington Monument
National Children’s Museum

and so much more!

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Post updated: 4/30/25

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10 Tips for Riding the DC Metro That Will Make Your Trip Easier!

Elle MacRae — Sat, 13 May 2023 23:20:27 +0000

Riding the DC Metro is one of the easiest ways to navigate the city. One of the best features of Washington, DC is that it is very pedestrian-friendly. Many of the main attractions are centered on or around the National Mall.

I remember my very first trip to Washington, DC with my family. My dad made us walk EVERYWHERE because he was intimidated by riding the DC metro. I can see how it might be a little daunting, if you’re not used to riding public transportation. To help, we’ve put together a list of tips to for riding the DC Metro.

DC Metro Passes

A SmarTrip card is required to enter and exit the system. All riders ages 5 and older must have a card. SmartTrip cards can be ordered online or you may buy a card at the station. Cards cost $10/each, $2 for the card itself and they come preloaded with $8 of credit. You can also purchase the pass at any Metro station.

Fares for single trips average between $2.25 and $6.00 during peak hours. Peak hours are from opening until 9:30 and between 3 pm and 7 pm on weekdays.

Each vending machine will show you how much it will cost to travel to any station within the system.

Prior to our last trip (see our 4 day itinerary), we planned on purchasing a 3-day pass (a weekly pass is also available). After talking to one of the Metro stewards, he actually convinced us that it would be more economical to load $20 on a Metro card and go from there. Don’t hesitate to speak to the employees and decide which option would be best for you.

Having a card, whether pre-loaded or a 3-day or weekly pass, makes it easier to utilize the Metro system. Not only can it save you money, but it also makes it easier to get in and out of the station- since you won’t have to worry about purchasing tickets at each stop. This is especially beneficial during peak times (morning and afternoon rush hours and during special events).

1-Day Passes

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of re-loading cards, you can purchase a 1 day pass for $15/person. Although this seems like a good deal, you may want to do the math first. If you’re staying close to the National Mall or Capitol Hill, you’ll probably want to skip this option. This will be better for people who are staying a bit further out.

3-Day Passes

If you’re visiting DC for a weekend, you may want to look into a 3-day pass. It costs $30 and allows for unlimited Metro and Metrobus rides for 3 consecutive days.

Navigating & Riding the DC Metro

The Metro is made up of six different lines, each of them color coded. In several portions of the Metro system, two or more lines run parallel to each other, making it convenient to pop on any of the lines. We used the Orange/Silver/Blue lines for pretty much everything on our last trip, as we stayed in the National Mall area.

If you are flying into DC, we suggest looking into catching a flight in and out of Reagan National Airport since there is a Metro stop directly in the airport. The Silver Line services Dulles International Airport, but you’ll have to do a little more walking.

Once you’re at the Metro, be sure to use the signs throughout the station to ensure you’re in the proper location. Find the platform with the corresponding final stop, that will let you know which side of the platform you need to be on.

After you’ve boarded the train, pay attention to the maps located at the middle of each car. Although the train operators will announce the stops, they are often difficult to understand or hear. Count the stops on the map (posted on the train or at the station) and keep an eye out for your stop. The Metro stop’s names are also posted on the walls of the Metro stations, so you can look out the window to see where you are.

The Metro Lines

Red: serves the northern part of the city. The main stations are Union Station, Metro Center, Chinatown, and Dupont Circle.

Blue: runs east-west through the city and then cuts south. The main stations are Capitol South, Smithsonian, McPherson Square (White House), Arlington National Cemetery, National Airport.

Silver: runs east-west through the city. It offers the closest access to Dulles Airport that you can get to using public transportation.

Orange: runs east-west through the city. The orange/silver/blue lines follow the same tracks inside downtown.

Green: runs north-south. Take the Green line to get to Navy-Yard/Nationals Park Baseball Stadium.

Yellow: runs north-south. The yellow line shares a track with Green for most of downtown. Both lines visit L’Enfant Plaza. The Yellow line continues south into Virginia to the Pentagon, Ronald Reagan National Airport and King Street for Old Town Alexandria.

Tips for Riding the DC Metro

Each Metro station has ticket kiosks where you can use cash or a credit card to purchase or reload a prepaid card. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance in picking which option is best for you.
To locate the Metro stations, look for tall brown signs with the letter “M” and the station name. The name of the stop and the color lines that service the station will be noted on the top of the post. See our example above in the “Navigating the DC Metro” section.

There are also maps strategically located around the tourist areas which make it easy to locate where the Metro entrances are. Some of them can be hidden behind bushes (we’re looking at you Smithsonian Station!), between buildings, or even accessed via the first floor of a building. Again, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Once you know what you’re looking for, they are easy to spot.

3. Most of the stations in downtown Washington, DC are deep underground. These stations are accessed via a long escalator ride. Stand on the right side of the escalator, and pass on the left. Never block the way of other passengers. Many locals use the Metro for commuting too and from work and have the timing down to a science. If you block them, they could potentially miss their ride

4. Be sure to check the color coded maps to make sure you are getting on the right train and where to transfer, if needed. Don’t be shy- even the locals refer to the map. If you’d rather be less obvious about it, you can download the app to help you navigate.

5. Before you board a train, check the color band on the digital marquee on the side of the train, this color will indicate what line you are boarding.

6. Be sure not to stand directly in front of the doors. Be sure to stand back and let passengers get off before you board.

7. There is a map of the Metro posted in each of the cars, for you to refer to.

8. Do not eat or drink while you are riding.

9. Marijuana has been legalized in DC, this head led to use on the Metro system. If the smell bothers you, switch cars at the next available stop.

10. Keep your ticket/pass in your right hand for a fast exit. Remember, people are on tight schedules. It’s never okay to stand in front of the exit gate to locate your ticket.

Riding the DC Metro is efficient, reliable, convenient, and easy. If you find yourself in Washington, DC, don’t be afraid to ride the Metro. It sure beats walking everywhere!

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National Museum of American History- Iconic Treasures from America’s Past

Elle MacRae — Sat, 06 May 2023 15:59:21 +0000

The National Museum of American History houses some of the most important artifacts from America’s past. The collection features more than 3 million historical objects from colonial times to modern day.

The museum focuses on more than just history, you’ll find several relics from pop culture, scientific discovers, and more. Where else are you going to find the Star-Spangled Banner, C3P0, Alexander Grand Bells’ Large Box Telephone and Prince’s Yellow Cloud Electric Guitar, all under one roof?

The addition of pop culture relics helps make this museum fun and entertaining for all ages! The museum is a part of the Smithsonian Institution and is located on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

The History of the National Museum of American History

The museum opened in 1964 as the Museum of History and Technology. It was renamed in 1980 to reflect the ever-growing collection of objects that reflect the experience of the American people.

Layout of the National Museum of American History

The museum has three exhibition floors that is anchored by a landmark object that highlights the theme of the wing.

275 feet of glass-fronted cases serve as artifact walls lining the first and second floor core. The artifact walls are organized around themes such as pop culture, business, work and economy, arts, home and family, community, land and natural resources, American people, politics and political reform, science, medicine, technology, and the US’s role in the world.

Please note that the following information is correct as of the publication date. The museum is constantly growing, evolving, and swapping out exhibits.

Lower Level

The lower level features a museum store, locker room, cafeteria, cafe, restrooms, and lactation room. You’ll also find ride simulators here.

First Floor

On the first floor’s 1 East Wing, you’ll find exhibits that feature transportation and technology. They include America on the Move, Lighting A Revolution, Power Machinery, On the Water, and more. It is here you’ll find The John Bull 1831 locomotive, Southern Railway locomotive no. 1401 which pulled Franklin D. Roosevelt’s funeral train,, Santa Cruz Railroad no. 3, and a 1926 Ford Model T Roadster.

In the 2 West Wing, is the Archives Center, The Value of Money, Inventive Minds Places of Invention, Wonderplace, Spark!Lab, and more. Spark!Lab is a hands-on exhibit inspired by invention and innovations. The Vassar Telescope is the anchoring artifact.

Second Floor

The galleries in 2 East are rotating exhibits.

Located in the center of the second floor (2 Center) is the original Star Spangled Banner Flag which inspired Francis Scott Key’s iconic poem.

2 West houses relics important to the American Democracy. The signature piece is the George Washington statue, sculpted by Horatio Greenough in celebration of the centennial of Washington’s birth. Also on this floor, you’ll find an entire colonial house (circa 1710/1760) from Ipswich, Massachusetts located in the “Within These Walls” exhibit.

Third Floor

3 East exhibits are focused on the military history of the United States. The exhibits include “The Price of Freedom” and “Gunboat Philadelphia“. This gunboat was constructed in 1776 for service in the Revolutionary War. It was part of a fleet under the command of General Benedict Arnold. The vessel was sunk during battle on October 11, 1776.

The center of the third floor, 3 Center, features “The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden” which explores the public and personal lives of the men who have held that office. It also features a very popular exhibit, “First Ladies of America” which highlights these women’s contributions to our society, their changing roles, and displays their dresses.

3 West has exhibits that reflect American Popular Culture.

FAQ About the National Museum of American History

How long does it take to walk through the National Museum of American History?

The museum houses a magnificent collection of historical American relics and memorabilia from the nation’s found to present times. The exhibits cover 3 whole floors! We suggest that you plan on spending at least 3 hours in the museum. Even with 3 hours, you may not be able to see everything.

What can you see at the National Museum of American History?

The museum’s collection houses everything from gowns of America’s First Ladies, the hat Abraham Lincoln was wearing when he was assassinated, and Dorothy’s Ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz. Whether you’re a history fan or a pop culture fanatic, you’ll find something there that will interest you!

Do you need tickets for the National Museum of American History?

You do not need tickets to enter the museum. Admission is free.

Plan Your Visit the National Museum of American History

The museum is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas. The typical hours are from 10 am until 5:30 pm.

The museum is located on the National Mall at Constitution Avenue, N.W., between 12th and 14th Streets in Washington, DC.

The museum entrances are located on Constitution Avenue on the first floor, and Madison Drive (National Mall) on the second floor.

The nearest Metro stop to the museum is Federal Triangle.

Refer to the official website for exhibit closures and special notices.

What is there to do nearby?

The White House Visitor Center
The White House
Ford’s Theatre
National Children’s Museum
National Archives Museum
National Portrait Gallery
National Museum of African American History
Museum of Natural History
National Gallery of Art
National Museum of the American Indian
Library of Congress
National Air and Space Museum
US Holocaust Memorial Museum
Washington Monument
World War II Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial

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For future reference, be sure to save our post: National Museum of American History- Iconic Treasures from America’s Past. Pin one of the images below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Visiting the National Museum of American History will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip to DC! While you’re at the museum, you won’t want to miss these highlights! Be sure to check out our family-friendly 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary and our Ultimate Guide to the National Mall and Beyond to help you plan your trip. We’ll also show you how to score a tour of the White House.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

10 Must See Things at the National Museum of American History

Elle MacRae — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 12:07:19 +0000

With nearly 3 million objects, it’s hard to narrow it down to just 10 Must See Things at the National Museum of American History! We’ve hand-selected our 10 favorite relics that represent American culture. If you’re looking to maximize your time at the museum, we recommend hitting these highlights during your visit.

Here is a full list of exhibitions (http://americanhistory.si.edu/exhibitions), and we’ve listed some of our favorites below.

Please note that the museum does sometimes close exhibitions or remove objections for preservation work.

This list barely scratches the surface of all of the incredible must see things at the National Museum of American History. The museum is a treasure trove of items that represent and celebrate the American culture. However, if you’re pressed for time, you’ll definitely want to try to check out these must see things at the National Museum of American History.

10 Must See Things at the National Museum of American History

1. Abraham Lincolns Top Hat

Abraham Lincoln stood a whopping 6’4″ tall and towered over most of his contemporaries. Despite of this, he was known for his love of wearing top hats.

Lincoln added the black silk mourning band in honor of his son Willie who died of typhoid fever in 1862. The last time he wore this hat was the evening of April 14, 1865 when he attended the play Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theater.

It was on that fateful night that he was assassinated by actor John Wilkes Booth. After Lincoln’s assassination, the US War Department preserved his hat and other material left at the theater. The hat remained hidden, in storage, until 1893 when the excitement of his death started to die down. Today, the hat is one of the Smithsonian’s most treasured objects.

You can also view his life mask, pocket watch, and a model submitted with a patent application for a devise to make riverboats more buoyant. This item is on most people’s list of must see things at the National Museum of American History.

2. Dorothy's Ruby Slippers from Wizard of Oz

These iconic shoes are recognized world-wide and are one of the most popular objects in the Smithsonian’s collection. They were worn by sixteen-year-old Judy Garland in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. In the original book by L. Frank Baum, the magic slippers were actually silver. The costume designers for the movie chose to change the shoes to ruby red so that they would stand out more against the yellow-brick road.

Although several pairs of shoes were created for the character Dorothy, these seem to be the primary pair used for dance sequences since they are well-worn.

3. A Piece of the Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall was a guarded concrete barrier that divided the city of Berlin from 1961 until 1989. On November 9, 1989 the Berlin Wall came tumbling down to signify the collapse of Communism. Once the wall was torn down, portions of the wall were cut into memorial-size chunks of concrete which were sold in shops and even flea markets.

The piece of the Berlin Wall that is housed in the National Museum of American History was purchased by a Canadian student who purchased it in a Berlin flea market. He then sold the fragment on an Internet auction site.

You might ask, how does a chunk of concrete from Europe qualify as American history? Several Americans were posted at a crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin known as Checkpoint Charlie. The United States played a critical role in bringing Communism to an end and reuniting the German People.

4. The 9/11 Collection

The date September 11, 2001 will forever be engrained in our generation’s memory as one of the most traumatizing events of our lifetime. In the September 11th attacks, four coordinated suicide terrorist attacks were carried out against the United States by the terrorist network al-Qaeda. That morning, nineteen terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners. The first two planes were crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. A third plane barreled into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The final plane was meant to hit another federal building in Washington, DC but it crashed in a field following a passenger revolt.

Items in this collection include pieces of the airplanes used in the attacks, rescuer’s uniforms, Mayor Giuliani’s boots and coat, fragments of the Pentagon and World Trade Center, and much more. The collection is extremely moving and is definitely one of the must see things at the National Museum of American History.

This collection of pieces should be on your list of must see things at the National Museum of American History. They serve as a reminder for those that lost their lives on 9/11.

5. The First Ladies Dresses

The First Ladies exhibition has always been one of my favorites in the museum. Although these relics may seem like they’re just a collection of dresses worn by First Ladies, they actually represent how these women have changed the country in both small and profound ways.

In this collection you’ll silver services and china used by the First Ladies, along with shoes and jewelry worn at Inaugurations. Highlights included Jacqueline Kennedy’s pearl necklace, Mary Lincoln’s purse, and relics from the first Presidency held by Washington.

6. The Gunboat Philadelphia

The Gunboat Philadelphia was constructed in 1776 for service in the Revolutionary War. It was part of a fleet under the command of General Benedict Arnold. The vessel was sunk during battle on October 11, 1776.

Colonel Lorenzo Hagglund raised it out of Lake Champlain in 1935. Hagglund left the boat to his museum in his will.

Believe it or not, the boat was installed on the east side of the third floor of the museum before the exterior wall was put in place.

7. George Washington's Uniform

A uniform consisting of a coat, waistcoat, and knee breeches belonging to George Washington is another one of the must see things in the National Museum of American History. The uniform was worn by George Washington from 1789 until his death in 1799.

The clothes date from the Revolutionary Period and were often worn by Washington as he posed for life portraits.

The uniform has been in the Smithsonian’s possession since 1883 and has been on display almost continuously, since. It was taken off exhibit during World War II, along with other artifacts, for safekeeping.

Other relics from the OG George W. include his battle sword, flintlock pistol, a camp chest, and a chair that sat by his bed.

8. Thomas Jefferson's Desk

In 1776, Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence on this portable desk of his own design. The desk features a hinged writing board and a lockable drawer for pens, inkwell, and paper.

Jefferson used this desk throughout his life as a revolutionary patriot, American diplomat, and President of the United States.

Jefferson gifted the writing desk to his granddaughter, Eleanora Randolph Coolidge as a wedding gift. The desk remained in the Coolidge family until 1880.

The other object pictured (on the left) is George Washington’s document box which he used to store documents during the Constitutional Convention.

These objects can be found in the “American Democracy” gallery on the west wing of the second floor.

9. The Star-Spangled Banner Flag

One of the greatest treasures in the museum is the original Star-Spangled Banner. The flag measures 30 feet tall and 34 feet long and was commissioned for Fort McHenry. The flag bears 15 stars and 15 stripes.

The flag inspired Francis Scott Key to write a poem he originally called, “Defence of Fort M’Henry” as he watched the Battle of Fort McHenry from an enemy ship in the bay.

The poem was later set to the tune of a song and became our National Anthem. It located in the center of the second floor and is definitely one of the must see things in the National Museum of American History.

10. The Presidential Football

The nuclear football, known as the Presidential Football, is a briefcase that holds the contents/codes that are used by the president of the United States to authorize a nuclear attack if they are away from one of the fixed command centers.

The nuclear football is required to be near the president at all times. It is typically held by an aid. There have been a handful of occasions when a president has been separated from the aid manning the “football”. Presidents Ford, Carter, H.W. Bush, and Clinton have all reportedly been separated from this critical case.

In fact, President Clinton reportedly lost the nuclear codes for several months- without even knowing it! His aid always claimed to have the codes on hand, but in fact had lost them. This wasn’t discovered until it was time to replace the codes.

After this event, it became mandated that the Defense Department would need to physically see the codes, rather than taking someone’s word for it.

Plan Your Visit to See the 10 Must See Things at the National Museum of American History

The museum is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas. The typical hours are from 10 am until 5:30 pm.

The museum is located on the National Mall at Constitution Avenue, N.W., between 12th and 14th Streets in Washington, DC.

The museum entrances are located on Constitution Avenue on the first floor, and Madison Drive (National Mall) on the second floor.

The nearest Metro stop to the museum is Federal Triangle.

What is there to do Nearby?

The White House
White House Visitor’s Center
Ford’s Theatre
National Children’s Museum
National Archives Museum
National Portrait Gallery
National Museum of African American History
Museum of Natural History
National Gallery of Art
National Museum of the American Indian
Library of Congress
National Air and Space Museum
US Holocaust Memorial Museum
Washington Monument
World War II Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial

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Visiting the National Museum of American History will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip to DC! Be sure to check out our family-friendly 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary and our Ultimate Guide to the National Mall and Beyond to help you plan your trip. We’ll also show you how to score a tour of the White House.

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