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.
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.
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
US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Southwest
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Had breakfast, Monday to Friday, at the Atrium Cafe just down the road. Far more reasonable, great selection available.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
Staff was amazing, room was nice, area is prime
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
Salamander Washington DC
Rooms over rail tracks would benefit from additional sound-proofing but otherwise fantastic stay
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Good place to stay
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
The hotel was clean, rooms and beds were very comfortable. The A/C in our room wasn’t working properly, but was fixed within 30 minutes once we notified the front desk. Check in/out was fast and easy, and valet service was fast and easy as well. Overall, we had a great stay!
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
Great location for walking the National Mall. Staff was very friendly but the restaurant service for dinner was terrible both nights. The food trucks down the block where excellent. The room was nice and comfortable. The parking garage and Starbucks were very convienent. I would stay here again.
Reviewed on 8 May 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 Nationals Park 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.
