Southwest Travel Guide
Washington
Popular places to visit
National Mall
Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.
National Air and Space Museum
Heaven for aviation enthusiasts, this museum takes you on an uplifting journey through the history of flight and space travel.
Tidal Basin
Embellished by the pink hues of cherry blossoms in spring, this scenic reservoir is surrounded by memorials to important figures in the development of the nation.
Museum of the Bible
You can study the exhibits at Museum of the Bible, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Washington. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.
International Spy Museum
The shadowy world of espionage comes under the spotlight in a museum where nothing is quite as it seems.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
You can study the exhibits at United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Washington. Discover the area's acclaimed art galleries and notable monuments.
Things to do
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
Capitol Hill Tour with US Capitol & Library of Congress Admission
City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Brunch Cruise
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Southwest
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
This is a unique hotel with a lot of fun, funky character. PROS: The ambiance was unique and enjoyable throughout the stay. The technology in the rooms is impressive. The bed was spacious and comfortable. Fun design and a very different room layout than at most hotels. Sushi restaurant and bar were ...
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
I always stay at this hotel when I’m in DC. Staff is very friendly. Hotel bar staff makes a great margarita. I’ll be back.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Salamander Washington DC
This hotel was amazing! Everything from location, service and rooms! We would absolutely stay here again!
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
My husband and I stayed for 7 nights between Christmas and Net Years. The staff were all extremely professional and very kind! The concierge was so friendly I felt like we had made a new friend. The rooms were clean and well stocked. The hotel was in the perfect Place to walk to the Smithsonian museums. ...
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026
Placemakr Buzzard Point
I genuinely enjoyed the room and view but the service, top notch. I needed an iron, brand new one provided. I needed suggestions for parking, multiple given. The staff were funny and I enjoyed talking to the ladies and young man in the office. I stayed in 623 and would have no problem coming back ...
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
Great location with an endless number of bars bd restaurants near the property.
Reviewed on 20 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southwest
The Wharf
You'll enjoy the restaurants and riverfront in The Wharf. You might want to make time for a stop at The Anthem or Gangplank Marina.
Southwest Waterfront
While you're in Southwest Waterfront, take in top sights like Arena Stage and jump on the metro at Waterfront Station to see more of the city.
Southwest Federal Center
While you're in Southwest Federal Center, take in top sights like Smithsonian Institution or L'Enfant Plaza, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at L'Enfant Plaza Station or Federal Center Station.
Navy Yard
While you're in Navy Yard, take in top sights like Washington Navy Yard and jump on the metro at Navy Yard Station to see more of the city.
Crystal City
Visitors to Crystal City love its popular shops, and you can check out Bowlero Arlington and Synetic Theater. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Crystal City Station.
Penn Quarter
While you're in Penn Quarter, take in top sights like United States Navy Memorial and jump on the metro at Archives Station to see more of the city.
