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 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 notable monuments in this walkable area.
Things to do
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
George Washington's Mount Vernon Gardens & Grounds Admission
One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York
Top hotels in Southwest
Salamander Washington DC
The room was fantastic, service was exceptional and all staff went above and beyond my expectations.
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Great stay in DC for myself and son to g
Reviewed on 21 Feb 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
Thev
Reviewed on 21 Feb 2026
Placemakr Buzzard Point
Nice apartment, helpful staff. Gym and co-working space were a bonus. However, if you bring a car daily parking rate is pricey.
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
The hotel needs some TLC. Two of the four elevators were out of order. There is masking tape on the seems of the carpet. The climate control in our room was not working and the duvet had what I believe to be gum on the top. There is not a fan in the bathroom therefore when you shower it steams up ...
Reviewed on 9 Feb 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
The rooms are a nice size and very clean (I am very picky). The staff is helpful. We had a small issue with our room and the staff took care of it quickly. It is a 15 minute walk to the Mall/Smithsonian. A 2 minute walk to the Spy museum. There is a food court and some restaurants across the driveway ...
Reviewed on 16 Feb 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 The Municipal Fish Market at The Wharf.
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 Sidney Harman Hall and jump on the metro at Archives Station to see more of the city.
