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 Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
DC Night Tour: 10+ National Mall Monuments, Entry Ticket Upgrades
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, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets
Top hotels in Southwest
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Front-desk staff was so friendly and helpful! Loved the amenities available in case you've forgotten something. The hotel is a great efficient and inexpensive option for business travel. Breakfast buffet is an excellent deal for the money as well. All of my basic needs were thoughtfully met. Francisca ...
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
Beautiful hotel in a great area!
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Salamander Washington DC
Front desk service was excellent. Had a great time. Will definitely return.
Reviewed on 4 May 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Great Breakfast!
Reviewed on 4 May 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
It was a great experience
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
The staff was wonderful especially the concierge. The rooms are a bit dated and the shower did not drain. The toilet tank cover was cracked and difficult to flush. You could see the dust around the edges of the room and behind and under the furniture. Parking was outrageously expensive. There should ...
Reviewed on 5 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.
