Washington District of Columbia or Washington D.C. as it is better known, is not only famous for being the capital of the United States, it is also home to some of the greatest monuments, scenic spots, and a rich culture. When you visit, don’t miss the Lincoln Memorial located in the legendary National Mall. When you enter this stupendous Greek monument, you will be stepping into history. For it was here that Martin Luther King delivered his famous speech in support of civil rights for blacks, “I have a dream…”
Another must-visit is the Smithsonian Institution with its vast array of museums. Founded by the British scientist James Smithson, the Smithsonian museums include the Anacostia Community Museum, National Museum of American History, National Museum of African Art, among a host of others.

Votaries of the fine arts will never tire of soaking up the visual treats on display courtesy of the National Gallery of Art, The Philips Collection, or the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Culturally well endowed, Washington D.C. is home to the word-renowned Shakespeare Theatre Company as well as the Arena Stage, one of US’ first not-for-profit theatres. Aficionados of music might be interested to learn that the city gave rise to the genre of music known as punk rock. The city’s post-funk music called ‘go-go’ is peculiar to its ethos.

Yet the capital of the world’s number one super power is not simply known for its cultural wealth and history, it has some truly great picturesque sights. On a warm Sunday afternoon, you can go with your family on a picnic to the Constitution Gardens with its 5,000 species of crabapple, maple, dogwood, and oak trees. It is here that you will get to see the Signers of the Declaration of Independence Memorial.

If, on the other hand, you prefer a spot that is slightly more formal, you should try the Dumbarton Oak Gardens with its rose garden, an English-style country garden, and an imposing bamboo stand surrounding a grand mansion. And, of course, how can you forget US Botanic Garden with its tropical forest and its myriad variety of orchids?
Washington D.C. has some great eating-out joints too. In order to sample something truly exotic, you should visit Chinatown. Or, for some sumptuous chili dogs and great-tasting milkshakes you should go down to Ben’s Chili Bowl.

You’ll also find reasonably priced fare at family eateries such as Brasserie Les Halles, Pizzeria Paradiso, Daily Grill, etc. If you are a seafood fan, you just have to try crab cakes at Philips Seafood on the Southwest Waterfront. You must also sample, at the same time, the absolutely luscious blueberry buckwheat pancakes at the Eastern Market in Capitol Hill.

If Washington D.C. appears enticing during the day, it is no less alluring during night time. Bars in the city are truly inviting some of which include Shelly’s Backroom with its great food and Scotch selections. Other places of nightly interest include Ugly Mug with its enormous selection of beers, and the laid-back and somewhat veiled Dietie’s Tavern. So, go out there and have a great time!

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The commercial and cultural hub of the New England region, Boston’s contribution to America’s history is undeniable. It has been the scene of action for events like the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party as well as the site of battles such as the Siege of Boston and Battle of Bunker Hill.

Subsequent to the American revolution Boston became a shipping port to reckon with. It also became home to several institutions. The Boston Latin School, for example, was the first public school in America which came up in the 1635. The next year the first college in the US was built- the Harvard College. Boston also has the distinction of owning the first subway system in the country.

Steeped in history and imbued with a rich cultural tradition, maybe you’d like to commence your Boston tour with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, also known as MFA. For those sold on Impressionism, the museum is sheer paradise. It also hosts some outstanding collections on Asian and Egyptian art. In addition, you get to view films and musical shows of a high caliber at the MFA.

A great Bostonian tradition is the Freedom Trail because of which Boston has been able to maintain its reputation as a great city for walking. If you are on the Freedom Trail you will end up seeing places connected to US’ history. Before you commence your journey you might want to visit the rather picturesque Boston Common, which is among the oldest parks of the country.

One of the most fun things you can do during your stay is to go on a Boston Duck Tour in an amphibious vehicle. You will not get wet, that’s for sure, as you go past historical landmarks like Bunker Hill and State House. The views are lovely and it’s a fun-filled ride lasting up to an hour and twenty minutes. If you want to have a bird’ eye view of the city – and more – you should walk up to the Prudential Skywalk Observatory which is on the 50th floor of the Prudential office tower. If you are lucky, you might catch sight of the New Hampshire Mountains and the Cape Cod.

You can go further up two floors and dine at the Top of the Hub Restaurant and, once again, enjoy a wholesome view of the city. Or, you can take the elevator right down to the basement and make your way towards the Prudential Mall which contains a pretty versatile food court.

But, of course, if you are a foodie, then you should head off in the direction of the Taste of Beacon Hill which offers specialties at the top two levels of the New Liberty Hotel’s atrium. For a little more pampering, you might want to visit the 35+ Table Hop where you are served three-course meals, with the tables to accompany each meal.

There is a lot to do in Boston besides touring, eating, and generally having fun. If you are a serious music aficionado you’ll find yourself flocking to the Boston Symphony Hall which is always choc-a-bloc with classical music events. You might also want to check the events in the Opera House and Wang Theatre. Have fun!

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