Washington DC's Top Historical Gems: A Guide to Exploring the City's Rich Heritage

Let's start with some important dates. The peak season to visit the many Washington DC historical sites is roughly from about mid-September to November, and from mid-January to June. The off season is from the end of August up to mid-September, and from Thanksgiving up to mid-January. The cherry blossoms are in bloom from mid-March through May.

Museums

The best time to go to museums are on weekdays since the locals are busy working, hence less crowds. There are plenty of museums to satisfy a variety of interests.

The most popular ones are the International Spy Museum, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, National Gallery of Art, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian National American History Museum, and the Library of Congress.

My favorite is the International Spy Museum. Just a tip, the Holocaust Museum can get emotionally intense, so make sure you give yourself some time afterward to decompress.

Monuments

National Mall: Ideally you can visit the National Mall, a must-see historical site in Washington DC, during the day and night, but if you only have time to visit once, take my advice and visit at night. You won’t regret it. Don’t forget to stand in the footprints of MLK Jr., at the Lincoln Memorial.

Arlington National Cemetery: The cemetery covers over 600 acres and contains the graves of over 400,000 people, including some of America's most famous leaders and heroes. Always a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served. Also visit the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial and pay respect to the Victims of 9/11.

George Washington’s Mt. Vernon: From the Pentagon Memorial you can take a boat ride to George Washington’s Mt. Vernon for a tour. The estate was the plantation home of George Washington, the first President of the United States, and his wife, Martha Washington. Along with the mansion. it has over 20 different garden areas, including a fruit garden, a kitchen garden, a greenhouse and a botanical garden. It also has a working farm to depict life from back then. I enjoy this tour every time I do it!

Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour: This your lets you relive Lincoln's life through various places. This is also a good tour just to see the city in general. It will take you to places like the Ford's Theatre, Lincoln Cottage, Peterson House, the National Museum of American History and of course the Lincoln Memorial.

Daughters of the American Revolution Museum: If you are looking to do something unique, visit this museum, which takes you to an American home with objects that existed from the 17th century to the early 20th century.

Pro Tip: If you plan ahead, you can check with your local congressman's office for free tickets to a White House tour, plus a few other things.

Mama Ayesha’s Restaurant: This place was started by a Palestinian immigrant in the 1960s, so If you feel like having something Middle Eastern, go here. Make sure to order the lamb chops. After your meal, take a picture against the mural for Instagram.

Florida Avenue Grill: If you are a fan of House of Cards or The West Wing, you probably know this place. It opened in 1944 and has hosted many politicians and celebrities. You can go here for breakfast for some pancakes, or go for lunch to get some soul food.

Osman and Joe's Steak n' Egg Kitchen: This breakfast and brunch spot has been a local favorite since the 1970s. It does tend to get crowded, but you’ll be glad you waited. Try the classic steak and egg breakfast.

Ben’s Chili Bowl: This institution started in 1958 and has been named one of the "Top 10 Best Chili Dishes in America" by USA Today. Try their chili dogs and half smokes.

Old Ebbitt Grill: Steps away from the White House, this place has been serving customers since 1856. Considered to be one of the oldest restaurants in DC, it is a worth a visit for the history buffs. It has an extensive collection of political memorabilia and has hosted numerous presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant and Theodore Roosevelt, as well as other prominent figures such as Mark Twain and Buffalo Bill Cody. Try the oysters on the half shell and crab cakes.

Cedar Knoll: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this restaurant sits on a picturesque setting along the Potomac River. You will have to venture out to Alexandria for this, but for someone who is passionate about history, it's worth the drive. It’s known for its grilled swordfish, seared scallops and slow-cooked short ribs.

1789 Restaurant & Bar: Located in Georgetown, this restaurant is named after the opening date of Georgetown University. Go here for some lobster bisque, filet mignon and roasted duck breast with a side of history.

The Occidental Grill & Seafood: Considered one of the favorite dining destination for presidents and other political leaders, this restaurant sits right inside the Willard InterContinental hotel. Go here for their seafood.

If you have time and want to venture out of the city….

Manasses National Battlefield Park: This is about a 50-minute drive outside DC, toward Virginia. You can book a driving or walking tour here.

Old Town Alexandria: I love going here. This place is hustling and bustling with people, restaurants and shops. The best part is, it all sits right at the Potomac River.

This is definitely not an all-inclusive list of what a history buff can find in Washington DC, but it's a good start.