Washington D.C. holidays take you straight to the beating heart of America's past, present and future.
The storied US capital is where the country's history comes alive through its glittering array of iconic monuments and the treasures to be found within the world-famous Smithsonian museums.
Take a guided tour of the White House to experience the home of presidents, then watch the sun set from the Washington Memorial or one of the city's picturesque parks.
Elsewhere you'll find famous jazz venues, charming neighbourhoods such as Georgetown and Columbia Heights, and a truly eclectic dining scene.
Discover it all on a holiday to Washington D.C. with Etihad.
America’s capital boasts world-renowned landmarks, a rich sense of history and a fun side along with all that heritage. Dive into the wonders of D.C.
Washington celebrates a number of festivals, including the National Cherry Blossom Tree Festival from mid-March to April, and Truckeroo, a monthly street food event in Yards Park.
Fiesta Asia in May is an evocative display of colour, dance and martial arts, while June to July sees the Smithsonian Folklife Festival hit the city – a huge exhibition complete with crafts, cooking and storytelling.
Oktoberfest celebrations have also become popular in the autumn, celebrating German food, music and dancing – a legacy of the many German settlers who arrived in the US as far back as the 17th century.
Attracting more than 25 million visitors a year and with plenty to explore along the way, the landscaped gardens of the National Mall couldn’t be located in loftier surroundings.
Lying between the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol Building, with the Washington Monument in the middle, you can take a guided tour with a park ranger or wander the two-mile route at your leisure.
Take a ride on the retro-style carousel and soak up the dramatic views across the Lincoln Reflecting Pool.
Afterwards, enjoy a bite to eat in serene surroundings, complete with panoramic views of the Sculpture Garden, from the charming Pavilion Cafe.
If you’re on a romantic holiday to Washington, be sure to venture down to the picturesque Spanish Steps in the Kalorama neighbourhood. Built in 1911, they offer a fantastic backdrop for photos.
Kogod Courtyard next to the National Portrait Gallery has a stunning steel and glass ceiling, while Rock Creek Park is a woodland oasis off the main drag, boasting idyllic scenery.
Try Hains Point for charming views of the Potomac River, pay a visit to the lush, landscaped gardens at Dumbarton Oaks, or cycle a section of the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
The impressive dome of the Capitol Building is well worth a visit – and not just to gaze at from afar.
This is where Congress meets to write the laws of the country, where presidents are inaugurated and where the nation’s leaders deliver their annual State of the Union addresses.
Inside, you’ll find a statue of George Washington – who chose the city’s location – stands beneath the remarkable Apotheosis of Washington.
This colossal ornate fresco was painted in 1865 by Greek-Italian artist Constantino Brumidi. Remarkably, the dome is not made of stone but cast iron – it took 11 years to construct and was finished in 1866. Tours to see this incredible interior can be booked online.
For those who want to take in as much of the city’s culture as possible, head on over to U Street.
This area is home to hubs of music and dancing, including the 9:30 Club, the subterranean U Street Music Hall and The Gibson lounge. At Howard Theatre, you’ll find influences ranging from gospel to pop and rhythm and blues.
Meanwhile, the historic roof deck of Restaurant Marvin on 14th Street boasts a menu inspired by Washington-born Motown legend Marvin Gaye.
Ideal for romantic holidays in Washington D.C., the quaint streets and 18th-century architecture of Georgetown also offer wonderful views of the Potomac River.
Georgetown Suites Harbour is a good option in the area, and there’s plenty nearby to see and do nearby, including great restaurants, shops and pretty parks including Book Hill and Dumbarton Oaks.
Meanwhile, Hyatt House Washington on The Wharf offers stylish accommodation and an enviable position overlooking the water.
Dupont Circle has a bohemian feel with its cosy cafes, charming townhouses and array of contemporary art galleries.
The Dupont Circle Hotel showcases a gorgeous interior decor combining the classic and the modern.
There are serene terrace suites, an impressive restaurant and panoramic views of Dupont Circle.
If you want to be right at the heart of Washington D.C. – with iconic sights such as the White House nearby – then Downtown is the destination for you.
Try the Grand Hyatt Washington for a real sense of luxury – not to mention convenience for nearby theatres, museums and upmarket dining options.
If you're wanting to unwind without compromising on location, the Morrison Clark Hotel has an outdoor pool, garden and its own on-site restaurant.
The currency in Washington D.C. is the US dollar. ATMs are widely available, and most places accept credit and debit cards.
Metrorail is Washington D.C.’s subway network. There’s also the Metrobus, coach services, taxis and bike and car hire.
English is certainly the most common language in the city, but you may well hear others including Spanish.
Public holidays include Independence Day (4 July), Labor Day (September) and Thanksgiving (November).
Washington is blessed with seemingly endless dining possibilities.
You’ll find high-end Indian cuisine at Rasika on D Street Northwest, the Michelin-starred Blue Duck Tavern in the luxury Park Hyatt hotel and authentic Japanese food at Daikaya on 6th Street.
For a unique eating experience, try Mitsitam Café on the National Mall which serves gourmet Native American cuisine.
Kith and Kin, at the InterContinental DC Wharf, dishes up exquisite Afro-Caribbean fare, while Old Ebbitt Grill has the proud distinction of being the oldest saloon in the District.
Founded in 1856, it’s known for its mussels, hot dog platters and more.
It’s no secret that Washington D.C. has a wealth of museums and monuments to explore, from the White House to the Capitol Building – but you might be surprised at just how much there is to see here.
The Smithsonian Institution alone offers a collection of 17 different venues – including the National Air and Space Museum.
The city’s wide variety of attractions explore the past through literature, women in art, geography, civil rights and much more. There’s even an International Spy Museum.
The Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, meanwhile, offer a chance to reflect and absorb the tranquillity of these popular visitors spots – and the impact made by presidents past.
For something a little different, the US National Arboretum is a peaceful oasis full of rare plants and picturesque views – ideal for a family day out.
Washington D.C.’s boldest modern attraction is probably the impressive Wharf District, a mile-long stretch along the Potomac River with a great mix of restaurants and shops – perfect to explore for families and couples alike.
It boasts The Anthem, a state-of-the-art music venue with a full calendar of events, while adventure-seekers can rent kayaks to paddle past some of the city’s most famous attractions.
Discover cafes, taverns, oyster bars, and a milk bar and shake shack. There’s even a water taxi which will take you across the Washington Channel, just in time for a round of golf or a leisurely stroll.
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