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Washington is best known for its wide array of cultural and historical attractions, and its historic monuments and memorials, most of which are free to the public and open seven days a week. Most famous are the White House, U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, National Archives, various Smithsonian museums, National Gallery of Art, National Zoo, Union Station and Arlington National Cemetery. Washington's neighborhood areas include Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Capitol Hill and Anacostia, all of which have a variety of attractions, restaurants, shopping and nightlife.

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Washington, D.C. - History and Heritage

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Washington, D.C. - Nature and Scientific Wonders

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Washington, D.C. - Music and Performing Arts

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Washington, D.C. - Landmarks and Points of Interest

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AT THE SMITHSONIAN
Scenes and Sightings from the Museums

  • Around the Mall
  • Visitor's Guide

Two Cheetah Cubs, Rescued from the Brink of Death, Arrive at the National Zoo

After a risky caesarean section and intensive care, two cheetah cubs have been nursed back to health...
By Joseph Stromberg

Capturing the Moment: A Rainbow this Morning on The National Mall

Smithsonian Institution staff photographer Eric Long captured the moment this morning on his way to ...
By Beth Py-Lieberman

Events May 22-24: Shade-Grown Coffee, Public Observatory Project, and Tot Rock

This week, try a cup of organic shade-grown coffee, see spots on the sun, and bring your toddlers to...
By Aviva Shen

Read More »

What's New

See the latest shows to open

Exhibitions and Events

Get a complete listing

Museums

Learn about all 17 Washington, D.C.-area Smithsonian museums

Maps and Floor Plans

Enjoy interactive floor plans

The Civil War at the Smithsonian

Explore the pivotal events that shaped the nation

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In The Magazine

June 2012

  • How the Chicken Conquered the World
  • The Chicken and the Egg
  • The Perfect Egg
  • The Unified Theory of Gumbo
  • Mrs. Elie's Creole Gumbo

View Table of Contents »

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Hope Diamond Collector Barbie

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Smithsonian Journeys

In the Wake of Lewis & Clark: A Voyage Along the Columbia and Snake Rivers Aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird

Retrace the western route of Lewis and Clark and discover the Pacific Northwest’s serene landscapes and culinary delights (Oct 9 - 15, 2012)

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