Southwest Travel Guide
Washington
Visit Southwest
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.
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 acclaimed theatre scene and shops.
International Spy Museum
The shadowy world of espionage comes under the spotlight in a museum where nothing is quite as it seems.
The Anthem
You can get tickets for a performance at The Anthem on your trip to Washington. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this walkable area.
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 entertainment choices and notable monuments.
Things to do
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Walking Tour
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts
Top hotels in Southwest
Salamander Washington DC
"Amazing stay. Clean room. Staff was awesome. Even though our first room had some candy wrappers on the floor and a charger they upgraded our room to a better room. The in room service was amazing as well. Would definitely stay again!? It’s close to everything."
Reviewed on 11 Jun 2026
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
"Location was great. Staff was effective and some were friendly. Room was small but worked for what was needed."
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
"Valet backed my SUV into a pillar in the parking garage. Tried to buff it out, unplugged my dash cam and do everything but be honest and tell me about it. Too late, it recorded everything I needed to know. Saw a lot of really nice expensive vehicles being left in their care, be forewarned! Their ..."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
"The hotel staff was extremely professional and welcoming. Room was clean and breakfast was great."
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
"limited pool hours are a buzzkill"
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
"Parking in underground garage with elevator access to hotel. Staff was courteous and helpful. Room was clean and comfortable."
Reviewed on 11 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Southwest
Downtown Washington D.C.
Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Washington D.C.. Check out top attractions like Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of Women in the Arts, and jump on the metro at McPherson Sq. Station or Center Station to see more of the city.
Northwest
Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Northwest. Check out top attractions like White House and National Museum of African American History and Culture, and jump on the metro at Cleveland Park Station or Van Ness-UDC Station to see more of the city.
Georgetown
Georgetown is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Georgetown Park or Washington Harbour.
Old Town Alexandria
Take time in Old Town Alexandria to visit attractions like Athenaeum and Alexandria City Hall. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at King Street Station to see more of the city.
Dupont Circle
Visitors to Dupont Circle love its fantastic nightlife, and you can check out Dupont Circle and Mansion on O Street. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Dupont Circle Station.
