Washington, D.C. History in 5 days

Stroll past manicured gardens, iconic monuments, and neoclassical government buildings. Follow your guide past the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and other celebrated landmarks while learning about the ornate architecture and rich history of Capitol Hill.

Experience this impressive street with more than 170 foreign embassies, Gilded Age mansions, and landmarks that reflect the city’s rich international heritage. Explore its grand architecture, diplomatic history, origins as “Millionaires’ Row,” and notorious espionage legacy.

Visit this beloved Gothic cathedral that welcomes all faiths and admire its Darth Vader grotesque (yes, you read that right) and historic Space Window. Explore its famous pulpit, sacred art, and symbolic decor as your guide shares stories of presidential events and Martin Luther King, Jr. sermons.

Step back in time at this restored 1860s theater where President Lincoln was assassinated, forever changing American history. Explore the recreated Presidential box, Civil War-era exhibits, and rare artifacts that tell the story of that tragic day.

Start your visit with the powerful “elevator experience,” descending into the museum’s chronological narrative. Explore African American history from slavery to the civil rights movement through reflective galleries with impactful artifacts, personal stories, and interactive exhibits.

Feel the quiet reverence of this poignant memorial, honoring the 184 lives lost in the 9/11 Pentagon attack. Discover the site’s symbolic design, where every illuminated bench, name, and reflection pool serves as lasting reminders of courage, resilience, and national unity.

Experience this vast sanctuary with lush, natural habitats for more than 2,000 animals, endangered species, and giant pandas on loan through a special agreement with China. Learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts and discover interactive exhibits on the wonders of wildlife.

Discover the evolution of flight and space travel through interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and planetarium shows. View the world’s largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft, featuring the 1903 Wright Flyer, Amelia Earhart’s plane, and the Apollo 11 command module.

Journey through centuries of American history and culture, from the first colonial settlements to modern life. Explore a wide range of thematic galleries filled with everyday artifacts, and national treasures like Lincoln’s top hat and the Star-Spangled Banner.

Discover one of the largest collections of artifacts and history exhibits on human cultures, the natural world, and universe. Explore iconic exhibits on human origins, the Hope Diamond, T. Rex, ancient Egyptian mummies, a live insect zoo, and FossiLab, where you can see paleontology in action.

Discover this renowned gallery celebrating famous Americans who’ve shaped our history and culture. Admire portraits of presidents, artists, activists, and everyday citizens, alongside sculptures, photographs, and interactive exhibits that bring their stories to life.

Gaze skyward at 3 soaring stainless steel spires honoring the courage and sacrifice of past and present U.S. Air Force members. View the Honor Guard statue, Glass Contemplation Wall for fallen airmen, and granite inscription wall with quotes and Medal of Honor recipients.

Step into 18th-century life at George Washington’s scenic estate and mansion while exploring historic buildings, gardens, and an education center. Learn about the first president’s life through interactive exhibits, tour the working farm, and visit the family tombs where he and Martha are buried.

Experience the U.S. Army’s history from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts through immersive galleries. Explore flight and tank simulators, rare artifacts, and first-hand accounts that bring battles, innovations, and personal stories to life.