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 entertainment choices and notable monuments.
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.
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.
Things to do
Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
Full Day: City Tour with 10 Stops, Boat Cruise, Admission Tickets
Capitol Hill Tour with US Capitol & Library of Congress Admission
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York
Top hotels in Southwest
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Friendly helpful staff
Reviewed on 4 Feb 2026
Salamander Washington DC
My room and view was amazing, I most definitely will be returning . Very clean and staff were friendly and helpful throughout my entire visit. The pool was cold but relaxing !
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
Everything was excellent!
Reviewed on 25 Jan 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Awesome room and even better staff. Everyone was so nice and helpful. 10/10
Reviewed on 26 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
Room,
Reviewed on 25 Jan 2026
Placemakr Buzzard Point
Room was spotless and well equipped. Staff were extremely helpful. Great location!
Reviewed on 2 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 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 Sidney Harman Hall and jump on the metro at Archives Station to see more of the city.
