The Nation's Capital: Washington, DC

Washington Monument: This is a towering obelisk that honors the first president of the United States, George Washington. You can admire the monument from the ground or take an elevator to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the city. The monument is made of marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss, and is the world's tallest stone structure and obelisk.

Lincoln Memorial: This is a majestic monument that honors the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. You can admire the statue of Lincoln, read his famous speeches engraved on the walls, and enjoy the view of the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.

Smithsonian Institution: This is a collection of 19 museums and galleries that showcase the art, history, culture and science of the nation and the world. You can visit the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History and more, all for free.

White House: This is the official residence and office of the president of the United States, and one of the most iconic buildings in the country. You can take a self-guided tour of the public rooms, such as the East Room, the State Dining Room and the Blue Room, with advance reservations.

National Museum of African American History and Culture: This is the newest and most popular museum of the Smithsonian Institution, that celebrates the achievements and contributions of African Americans to the nation and the world. You can learn about the history, culture and struggles of African Americans, from slavery to civil rights to arts and entertainment.

US Capitol: This is the seat of the legislative branch of the federal government and one of the most recognizable symbols of democracy. You can take a guided tour of the building, see the Rotunda, the Statuary Hall and the Crypt, and watch the Congress in session. Advanced reservation required.

National Gallery of Art: This is a world-class art museum that displays works of art from various periods and regions, from ancient to modern, from Europe to America. You can admire paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Monet, Van Gogh and more, as well as sculptures, drawings, prints and photographs.

Dupont Circle: This is a lively and cosmopolitan neighborhood that offers a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can find live music, comedy, karaoke and dancing here, as well as some of the best cocktails and cuisine in the city.

National Zoo: This is a part of the Smithsonian Institution that houses over 2,000 animals from around the world. You can see pandas, lions, tigers, elephants and more, as well as learn about the conservation and research efforts of the zoo. The zoo is free and open every day of the year, except Christmas.

Old Ebbitt Grill: This is the oldest saloon in Washington DC, just steps from the White House and museums downtown. You can enjoy American cuisine with dishes like oysters, burgers and steaks, as well as a variety of beers and wines.

Rose's Luxury: This is a cozy and eclectic restaurant that serves creative and seasonal dishes with global influences. You can enjoy dishes like pork sausage and habanero lychee salad, smoked brisket and coconut ice cream, as well as a daily changing menu that reflects the chef's inspiration.

Blue Duck Tavern: This is a sophisticated and elegant restaurant that serves regional and farm-fresh American cuisine with a modern twist. You can enjoy dishes like roasted bone marrow, duck confit and apple pie, as well as a selection of cocktails and spirits.

Le Diplomate: This is a brasserie-style restaurant that recreates the ambiance and cuisine of Paris. You can enjoy classic French dishes like onion soup, steak frites and croque monsieur, as well as pastries, coffee and wine.

Zaytinya: This is a chic and trendy restaurant that serves authentic and refined Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese flavors. You can enjoy dishes like hummus, kebabs and baklava, as well as a variety of mezze and cocktails.

Founding Farmers: This is a rustic and cozy restaurant that serves farm-to-table and sustainable American cuisine with a touch of innovation. You can enjoy dishes like chicken and waffles, mac and cheese and beignets, as well as a variety of beers and spirits.

Rasika: This is a modern and upscale restaurant that serves contemporary and sophisticated Indian cuisine with a flair. You can enjoy dishes like palak chaat, chicken tikka masala and mango cheesecake, as well as a variety of curries and breads.

Fiola: This is a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic and refined Italian cuisine with a touch of elegance. You can enjoy dishes like lobster ravioli, veal chops and tiramisu, as well as a multi-course tasting menu and a curated wine list.

Ben's Chili Bowl: This is a historic and iconic restaurant that serves classic and hearty American cuisine with a focus on chili and hot dogs. You can enjoy dishes like chili con carne, chili cheese fries and half-smokes, as well as a variety of sodas and shakes.