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.
International Spy Museum
The shadowy world of espionage comes under the spotlight in a museum where nothing is quite as it seems.
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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Night Tour: 10+ Monuments, Cherry Blossom, National Mall, Tickets
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Washington DC Hop On-Off Trolley Tour
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Cherry Blossoms, Boat Cruise, Tickets
Top hotels in Southwest
Salamander Washington DC
Salamander dc was absolutely stunning. Staff was warm, welcoming and helpful. Spa- was heavenly! Highly recommend and would stay here again in a heartbeat.
Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Excellent front desk staff from the minute we entered they took care of us till the day we left. Customer service was impeccable. Additionally, the bar tender was so nice and friendly- took time to know us and just made our stay at hotel wonderful. Will be back for sure
Reviewed on 25 Apr 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
The location is great, especially the rooftop pool. Get a fantastic view at dusk. Room is quiet and soundproof, which is good for a light sleeper. Though breakfast buffet is no longer offered, the order menu is still good. Overall an amazing experience.
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
yes
Reviewed on 25 Apr 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
Clean room, very nice hotel and staff
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
Very helpful staff. Nicely positioned hotel just a little annoying hearing the trains roll by all night. A little frustrating to wait in a line for breakfast each morning but very grateful for the buffet when we got in. Warmest regards!
Reviewed on 25 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 Synetic Theater. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Crystal City Station.
Capitol Hill
Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Capitol Hill. Check out top attractions like United States Capitol and Folger Shakespeare Library, and jump on the metro at Capitol South Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the city.
