In our country’s capital there is a tremendous amount of history, artifacts and beautiful sites to see. The countless colonial buildings and historic encounters provides you with a overwhelming comfort of how our country came to be and what it has done for its citizens. Last week, my family traveled to Washington, D.C. and, although I would suggest seeing everything because it is all so amazing, these are the five that really stuck out to me the most.

Arlington Cemetery

This is definitely a sobering sight to see when visiting Washington D.C. With over 400,000 headstones, this cemetery recognizes those who have served our country honorably. Not only do you see headstones, but you also get to visit “The Tomb of the Unknown” and watch the changing of the guard each hour which is very moving. There are also two beautiful amphitheaters that are placed in the cemetery. One special memorial is the “Eternal Flame” where John F. Kennedy is buried. Overall, this cemetery creates an appreciation for the sacrifices both men and women have given to our country.

Korean War Memorial

This memorial has got to be the most life-like one in D.C. The artist took real soldiers faces from the war to be placed on the statues. When walking past these soldiers, you truly feel like you are walking in the terrain with them. The whole set up is very unique and different than any of the other memorials. It certainly caught my eye and opened my eyes to the struggles of these soldiers, as well.

U.S. Capitol Building

Before coming to the Capitol, I didn’t think there was much to see except some offices, but this was one of my favorite buildings to tour. It is filled with statues of important people from each state and an absolutely beautiful rotunda with murals placed on the walls. It was breathtaking to see the amount of detail put into this gigantic building. Not only can you take a tour, but you also can sit in on a discussion in the House of Representatives and the Senate. In order to watch the Senate you need to schedule request online a few weeks in advance.  It is fascinating to be in the exact place where officials discuss laws or bills that could be placed soon.

Lincoln Memorial

This memorial might be obvious to most, but it truly is a sight to see. When walking up the steps into the echoing space and the huge Lincoln sitting up front, it truly seems sacred and empowering. When walking toward this massive memorial it almost doesn’t even seem real. This very well deserving president is the last section in the National Mall, which is a wonderful view of the line of monuments.

George Washington’s Mt. Vernon

Taking a visit to the absolutely stunning 8,000 acres of George Washington’s estates is worth your time. Not only do you get to see his beautiful mansion and gardens, but you learn so much more about Washington as a person. He had such a specific way of making things and how his farming was done. It is fascinating to walk around and see all his accomplishments on the farm. In the backyard of his mansion, you can sit back, relax and take in the amazing view of the Potomac River. Another astounding area is where George Washington himself is buried. This is certainly a great place to visit to learn more about Washington and how our first president lived.

*Bonus*

One thing that is definitely a must-do is a night tour of Washington D.C. This tour allows you to see D.C. with everything lit up. It’s an amazing sightseeing lights illuminating every monument. You get to see everything in a different way rather than just during the day. Taking a trolly allows a tour guide to explain everything in a fun, interesting way that ties into the nightlife of these places.

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