There are few more patriotic places in this country than our nation's capital, Washington, D.C. Every American should make the trip to see the capital city and enjoy the wonderful memorials and attractions in order to best explore our nation's history. If you are planning a family vacation, look no further than Washington, D.C. for a fun and educational destination.



The first place to vist in Washington, D.C. is the capitol building. It is an imposing building with a massive dome. Enjoy a tour of the building and see the master pieces housed here. If a Congress session is going on, try to get a ticket to the visitors gallery and watch the course of our nation being decided. Do not carry any items that are considered a security threat as all the government buildings are heavily guarded.

National Archives is the place to get a first hand account of our nations history. From the Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, the Constitution to unique historical items like the cheque that paid for the purchase of Alaska from Russia our National Archives are home to rarest of historical must see items.

The Smithsonian Institute is by far one of the most widely visited places in the entire city! With a score of museums in its collection, there is something for everyone. Check out the legendary Wright Flyer in the Air and Space Museum, the supposedly cursed Hope Diamond in the Natural History Museum, the country's only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the National Gallery of Art, and see uniquely American items like Dorothy's ruby slippers and Fonzie's leather jacket in the American History Museum. Other museums include the new and completely fabulous museum of Native American history and a slew of art museums.

Another great museum houses a much somber exhibit, the National Holocaust Museum. With heart rendering exhibits documenting the world's most tragic period of time, this museum is dedicated to the men, women, and children who perished during this reign of terror.

Your trip to Washington is complete without a visit to memorials like Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Roosevelt Memorial, or Jefferson Memorial. The Jefferson museum looks really beautiful in spring when its Japanese Cherry trees are in full bloom. Do not miss out on the Vietnam Wall, the Korean War Memorial or the new World War II Memorial.

The White House is considered the nation's house and is lovely no matter what time of the year. With the heightened security measures that have not been instated, you can no longer directly tour the White House. Instead, write your Congressmen or Senator for a special tour that can be arranged through the White House office.

Make Washington, D.C. your next vacation stop. There are many places to take your entire family for fun and learning experience.