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 entertainment choices and notable monuments.
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.
International Spy Museum
The shadowy world of espionage comes under the spotlight in a museum where nothing is quite as it seems.
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
Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts
Capitol Hill Stroll Walking Personalized Self-Guided App Tour
Top hotels in Southwest
Salamander Washington DC
"You are treated very well and see where your money goes!"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
"Staff is very helpful and direct me to different restaurants"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
"Excellent hotel"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
"Perfect location for our Washington DC trip. Pool was open but not heated so too cold for Adults but Kid’s had a great time. Room was nice, but we had issues with AC the entire time where it was either off or blowing super cold air. It was manageable and better than being hot but still was an issue ..."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf
"Location is perfect, on the wharfe and near the Waterfront metro station. Great rooftop bar with excellent views over the potomac river."
Reviewed on 2 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 Smithsonian Institution, 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.
