3 Ways to Experience American History in Washington D.C. This Year
Delve into the past this election year by adding these sights and exhibits to your itinerary.
By Patricia Harrison
Every year, crowds of visitors from around the world flock to Washington, D.C., to see the museums, monuments, memorials, and other historic attractions. With the 2024 presidential election happening this November, this year is a particularly timely one to delve into America’s past in our nation’s capital. To help you plan the perfect itinerary, we rounded up some of our favorite ways to experience history in Washington with some tried-and-true ideas for where to stay.
Tour the sights of the National Mall
Washington’s National Mall and Memorial Parks attract more than 25 million visitors every year and is the most visited National Park Service site in the United States. While it’s impossible to see all the monuments and memorials (there are over 100 scattered amid 1,000 acres of green space), several are within close walking distance. For example, you can cross seven off your list on this two-hour self-guided walking tour, including the Lincoln Memorial, where 36 columns represent every state in America at the time of the president’s death; Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which is etched with the names of 58,318 Americans who gave their lives to serve our country; and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, where 22 quotes from the leader’s presidency are engraved into granite walls.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Check out these impactful exhibits
The Smithsonian Institution encompasses 21 museums, which house some of the country’s most treasured artifacts. If you’re interested in learning more about the most powerful office in the world, stroll through The American Presidency exhibit in the National Museum of American History. There, you can see more than 900 items, such as Abraham Lincoln’s iconic top hat, gowns worn by the First Ladies, and Bill Clinton’s saxophone. At the National Museum of African American History and Culture, investigate some of the darkest periods of our country’s history at the Slavery and Freedom exhibition, where powerful objects such as Harriet Tubman’s shawl and a slave cabin emphasize stories of inhumanity and resilience. Find out how American Indians are depicted in American history, popular culture, and identify at the National Museum of the American Indian’s Americans exhibit, which touches on everything from the Cleveland Indians’ mascot to the Tomahawk missile.
The Smithsonian Institution
Dine at these legendary restaurants
Washington, D.C.’s dining scene brims with historical hangouts. Pop into the original Ben’s Chili Bowl in the U-Street Corridor for a half-smoke, a grilled dog served on a steamed bun and topped with spicy chili, mustard, and onions. The casual joint, established in 1958, has served the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Martin Luther King, Jr., and former President Barack Obama. Pair a dozen oysters with the jumbo-shrimp-garnished Bloody Maryland cocktail at Old Ebbitt Grill near the White House, lauded as Washington’s oldest saloon. You may even run into politicians feasting on steak and seafood at The Monocle Restaurant, a nearly 45-year-old fine-dining institution that is frequented by members of Congress.
Where to Stay
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
Housed in the former post office building, this property blends historic charm with elegant touches and amenities. Savor exquisite Japanese cuisine at Michelin-starred Sushi Nakazawa, and don’t miss the 360-degree views from the 270-foot deck of the clock tower.
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf
This waterfront hotel opened in 2017 in The Wharf neighborhood, home to tons of shops, restaurants, and events. Guests rave about InterContinental’s rooftop pool with gorgeous panoramas of the Potomac River and the pampering treatments at the luxury spa.
The Hay Adams Hotel
The Hay Adams, located downtown on Lafayette Square near the White House, is housed in an Italian Renaissance–style mansion. Grab a cocktail at the Off the Record Lounge, a swanky drink den decked out with red booths and caricatures of the city’s political elite.
Riggs Washington DC
This boutique property was formerly Riggs National Bank, which managed the finances of 23 presidents and their families. Look for features honoring its past life, including the bar housed in the original bank vault and rooms and suites with touches inspired by safety deposit boxes.
The Royal Sonesta Washington, DC Capitol Hill
While the Royal Sonesta is the newest hotel on our list—the property debuted in fall 2023—it has already earned rave reviews. Popular perks for guests include a great pet policy (all well-mannered four-legged friends stay for free) and a convenient work suite for professionals.
Lyle
Whether you’re in town with colleagues, family or visiting solo, Lyle caters to all types of travelers. Ask about amenities such as fresh-baked treats for pets, rooms equipped with kitchenettes and children’s books and toys, and the 24-hour fitness center with a Peloton Bike.
Book these hotels, and more, using the TSA rate code in the GDS. Non-GDS users can book these hotels using tripXpress.
Banner photo: Lincoln Memorial
