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.
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 fascinating museums and shops.
International Spy Museum
The shadowy world of espionage comes under the spotlight in a museum where nothing is quite as it seems.
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.
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
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Walking Tour
U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts
Washington Capitals Ice Hockey Game at Capital One Arena
Top hotels in Southwest
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Great location, great price, clean, super friendly staff. Small rooms. No blanket on bed, just a comforter, no wash towels in room. Otherwise, great!
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Strong paint smell in the room (this is a health concern for our child) Room phone is not working No milk available for our toddler The room is not the river view we specifically booked
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
Salamander Washington DC
Room and bathroom lovely. But dining is limited. No true dining area. off the lobby
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
For the price point, this place was well below average. The floor was barely vacuumed, bed was hard as a rock, shower smelled like mildew every time we turned it on, outlets were loose or missing covers, they didn’t refresh our linens or take our trash away, and the TV kept cutting in and out. The ...
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
Yes, friendly, helpful staff, clean room and the food was also veey good. The gym was well equipped. This hotel is in a great location as well. I will definitely stay there again and highly recommend it!
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
The Intercontinental was amazing! It is a beautiful hotel and very clean. Staff was wonderful as well, they were very attentive to our needs!
Reviewed on 8 Apr 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 Long Bridge Park. 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.
