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1. George Washington's Home at Mt. Vernon
Explore George Washington's estate overlooking the Potomac River. Recently undergoing a $110 million renovation, the historic home unveiled new museum spaces, complete with interactive elements and prized artifacts on October 27, 2006. Open daily. 703-780-2000.
2. The United States Air Force Memorial
The United States Air Force Memorial honors the services and sacrifices of the men and women in the United States Air Force. The memorial officially opened to the public on October 16. www.airforcememorial.org
3. National Museum of the American Indian
Opened in September 2004, this museum features, arts, culture and history of the native peoples of the Western Hemisphere. Open daily. 202-633-1000.
4. Hillwood Museum
Featuring French antiques, art collections, and gardens, this was the home of Marjorie Merriweather Post. Open April 11 through September 16, Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 am – 5 pm. For further information and registration, call 202-686-8500.
5. National Geographic Society
Explorers Hall, the Society's museum, offers free educational, interactive and visually stimulating exhibits on a broad variety of topics. Open Monday through Friday. 202-857-7588.
6. The Renwick Gallery
Permanent collection of American crafts from the 19th to the 21st centuries. Located in a historic building just steps from the White House. Open daily. 202-357-2531.
7. National Air and Space Museum (on the Mall)
The world's busiest museum houses the Wright Brothers' 1903 flyer, Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, Apollo 11 lunar command module and an incredible collection of aviation and space treasures. The onsite IMAX theater shows spectacular films daily. Open daily. 202-357-2700.

8. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (near Dulles Airport)
This "annex" of the Air and Space museum displays larger items than the Museum itself can hold – including the Lockheed SR-71 "Blackbird" spy plane, the Boeing B-29 Superfortress, the "Enola Gay," and the Space Shuttle "Enterprise". The Mall museum provides transportation between both facilities. Go to www.nasm.si.edu/visit to view the shuttle schedule and for detailed exhibit information. Open daily. 202-633-1000.
9. The Spirit of Washington Cruises
Enjoy bountiful buffet, live music and dancing while cruising on the Potomac River. For cruise availability, call 1-866-211-3811.
10. C & O Canal Barge Ride
Travel back in time to the 1870s. Enjoy a one-hour narrated trip on a replica canal boat pulled by mules! Day and evening trips available. Call for information and reservations, seasonal. 301-739-4200.
11. National Museum of Natural History
This museum houses the 45.5 carat Hope Diamond, dinosaur fossils, insect zoo and the world's largest African bush elephant. Open Monday through Friday. 202-357-1650.
12. Bureau of Engraving and Printing
See currency printed at the rate of 8,000 sheets per hour during a 35-minute guided tour. Call for times. Open daily. 202-874-2330.
13. Albert Einstein Memorial
A 12-foot sculpture of Albert Einstein is seated on a bench in front of the National Academy of Sciences. The sculpture, by Robert Berk, is done in the same style as the artist's famous bust of President John F. Kennedy in the Kennedy Center. The monument is across the street from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Constitution Avenue.
14. Dumbarton Oaks and Gardens
Dumbarton Oaks is worth an afternoon visit, with its beautiful and large English, French and Italian gardens. Open daily. 202-339-6400.
15. DC Ducks — Land and Sea Tours
One of the most unusual tours of DC—onboard an authentic, fully restored 1942 'Duck'. Waddle from Union Station down to the mall where you'll see the monuments and Smithsonian Museums. Then at the Potomac River you'll splash into the water for a tour by boat—all in the same vehicle. For more information, call 202-966-3825.
16. National Museum of American History
Home of the flag that inspired "The Star Spangled Banner," and a wealth of other Americana. Open daily. 202-633-1000.
17. The White House and the White House Visitors Center
Public tours of the White House are available only for groups of 10 or more. Requests must be submitted through one's Member of Congress and are accepted up to six months in advance. These self-guided tours are available from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. All tours subject to last minute cancellation. The visitor's center features exhibits on many aspects of the White House, including its architecture, furnishings, first families, social events, and relations with the press and world leaders, as well as a thirty-minute video. Allow 20 minutes to one hour to explore the exhibits. Open daily. Call 202-456-2200.
18. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum
This internationally acclaimed museum tells the story of the Holocaust through artifacts, films, photos, and oral histories. Open daily. 202-488-0400.
19. Fletcher's Boat House
Located on the Potomac River and the C & O Canal National Historical Park. Fletcher's Boat House, open from early March through the Fall, offers rental boats, canoes and bicycles, for an enjoyable and picturesque outing. Call for schedule and reservations. 202-244-0461.
20. Smithsonian Institution "Castle"
The "Castle," built in 1855, is the oldest of 14 Smithsonian museums in Washington; houses the crypt of founder James Smithson; and provides information on all Smithsonian museums. Tours daily. 202-633-1000.
21. The Textile Museum
This museum features exhibits of historical and contemporary textiles and a textile learning center that explores textile techniques, makers and their cultures. Open daily. 202-667-0441.
22. Women in Military Service for America Memorial
Located at the Ceremonial Entrance to Arlington National Cemetery and honors all women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The memorial was designed by New York architects, husband and wife, Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi; it is open daily and currently features an exhibit, "Faces of the Fallen." Call 703-533-1155 for information and scheduling.
23. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Nation's performing arts center, presenting the best music, dance, theater, and international events. Call for performances. 800-444-1234.
24. George Washington's Masonic Temple
George Washington's affiliation with the Masons is remembered at this fascinating museum in Alexandria, Virginia. But the primary draw is the trip up the 333-foot granite tower, modeled after an ancient lighthouse in Alexandria, Egypt to view the surrounding Virginia and Washington skylines. Four daily tours offered at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
25. The Phillips Collection
America's first museum of modern art showcases 650 works of art including European masters such as Degas and Cezanne. A special exhibit featuring Pierre-August Renoir's "Luncheon of the Boating Party" runs April 15 to July 30. Open daily. 202-387-2151.
26. The Washington Design Center
More than 70 showrooms of the finest home furnishing fabrics, floor coverings and accessories for the interior design trade. Open daily for consumer browsing. 202-646-6118.
27. Pope Leighy House
Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighy House was built in 1945 to provide affordable housing for people of moderate means. It was relocated to the grounds of Woodlawn (in Alexandria) in the 1960s to prevent its destruction. Tours are provided every thirty minutes with the last tour at 4:30. Open Tuesday through Sunday. 703-780-4000.
28. Great Falls Park Tours
Great day excursion: join "Doc Roc" (geologist/author) to learn about spectacular local geology and native American history. Call for pricing and times. 703-963-1008.
29. Smithsonian National Postal Museum
Unique collection of airmail planes, stage coaches, rare stamps and letters, and a Pony Express exhibit. Open daily. 202-633-1000.
30. Freer Gallery and Sackler Gallery of Art
The Freer and Sackler galleries of the Smithsonian form the National Museum of Asian Art. The Sackler Gallery is connected to the Freer by an underground exhibition space. A highlight of the Freer, the Peacock Room designed by James Whistler, was once part of a fashionable London townhouse. Open daily. 202-633-1000.
31. Corcoran Gallery of Art
Washington's oldest art museum features Dutch and Flemish masterpieces, French impressionists, Post-impressionists and American art from colonial times to present. The Museum is Open Wednesday through Sunday. 202-639-1700.
32. National Gallery of Art
Houses one of the finest collections in the world. The West Wing has classic European and American work; East Wing concentrates on 20th century art, with frequent gallery talks, art films, and movie classics. Open daily. 202-737-4215.
33. International Spy Museum
Featuring a large collection of international espionage-related artifacts and exhibits. The museum chronicles the history of spying throughout the ages and has a special exhibit on the Cold War. Open daily. 202-393-7797.
34. Kreeger Museum
Showcases the art collection of Carmen and David Lloyd Kreeger, including works by Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, Miro. Reservations required. 202-337-3050.
35. The Supreme Court Building
Witness justice in action when court is in session and hear lectures on the judicial system when it's not. Lectures take place in court C, every hour on the half hour. Closed Saturdays and Sundays. 202-479-3211.
36. National Archives of the United States
On public exhibit are the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights and more. Not to be missed! Open daily. 202-501-5000.
37. The Pentagon
Headquarters of the world's most powerful military force. Tours available only when scheduled in advance. 703-697-1776.
38. Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building
Exhibit of 19th century mechanical marvels and industrial ingenuity. Open daily. 202-357-2700.
39. Washington Navy Yard
The U.S. Navy's oldest shore establishment in operation since the 19th century. Home to the Chief of Naval Operations and headquarters for the Naval Historical Center, the Marine Corps Historical Center, and numerous naval commands. Closed Saturdays and Sundays. 202-433-4882.
40. Washington Photo Safari
Washington's only regularly scheduled photo safari offering instruction in landmark photography by professional photographer E. David Luria. Half and full-day workshops. Call in advance for schedule and price. 202-537-0937.
41. Vietnam Veteran's Memorial
The most visited monument in the city honors the men and women who died in the Vietnam War. A black granite wall bears the names of 58,196 who gave their lives for our country. Open daily. 202-634-1568.
42. The Woodrow Wilson House
Former home of President Woodrow Wilson and his wife following their White House years features original furnishings and presidential memorabilia. Closed Mondays. 202-387-4062.
43. The Society of Cincinnati Headquarters, Museum and Library
Located within the late 19th Century historic winter residence of Larz Anderson III and his wife Isabel Weld Perkins, the Society of Cincinnati Headquarters, Museum and Library is a rich storehouse of materials thematically centered upon the American Revolution. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 1 pm-4 pm. 202-785-2040.
44. The U.S. Botanic Garden
Located at the foot of Capitol Hill, the U.S. Botanic Garden contain greenhouses and gardens, with four yearly flower shows. Open daily. 202-225-8333.
45. The National Arboretum
The Department of Agriculture's 444-acre "living museum" and research facility is a must see for garden enthusiasts. On weekends, a tram will take you on a tour of the 14 gardens. Open daily. 202-245-2726.
46. Theodore Roosevelt Island
This serene island was designated by congress as a memorial to President Roosevelt and includes a memorial plaza with a 17-foot statue of Roosevelt. 703-289-2500.
47. Folger Shakespeare Library
Home to the largest collection of Shakespeare materials as well as magnificent collection of rare Renaissance books and manuscripts. Open daily. 202-544-7077.
48. Eastern Market
Eastern Market is the last of Washington's 19th century markets to remain in continuous operation. It is easily accessible by metro and adjacent to numerous restaurants and shops on Capitol Hill. Open Sunday through Tuesday.
49. Dupont Circle
This area is filled with Victorian row houses and Beaux-Arts mansions with quaint shops and lively restaurants.
50. Korean War Veterans Memorial
Features sculptured column of 19-foot soldiers entering combat. Open daily. 202-619-7222.
51. Chevy Chase Shopping District
On the DC city limits, in Chevy Chase, Maryland, you can find great shopping. including two high end malls with upscale stores. Open daily.
52. Union Station and Shops
For more than 100 years, Union Station has been the railroad gateway to the nation's capital. Beautifully restored and renovated, 23.4 million visitors annually enjoy shopping, entertainment, and a variety of food in this Beaux Arts transportation hub. Open daily. 202-289-1908.
53. Georgetown Park
Centered at Wisconsin and M Streets in Washington's oldest community, this indoor mall offers a variety of attractive shops.
54. Shops at National Place
Avid shoppers consider the Shops at National Place, a favorite retail complex of 60 "uncommon" shops, boutiques and eating establishments. Open daily. 202-622-1250.
55. Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial
Spanning 7.5 acres near the Jefferson Memorial, this new and highly acclaimed memorial depicts the 12 pivotal years of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's presidency through a series of outdoor gallery rooms. Open daily. 202-376-6704.
56. Thomas Jefferson Memorial
The 19-foot statue of the third president lies beneath a marble rotunda and is surrounded by passages from the Declaration of Independence and other famous Jefferson writings. Open daily. 202-426-6841.
57. The Washington Monument
One of the tallest masonry structures in the world, this majestic obelisk was dedicated in 1885 to the memory of the first U.S. president. Open daily. 202-426-6841.
58. The Lincoln Memorial
A 19-foot marble statue of the 16th president is flanked by inscriptions of his Second Inaugural Address and the Gettysburg Address. Open daily. 202-426-6841.
59. The U.S. Capitol
Under the magnificent white dome, senators and representatives meet to shape U.S. laws. Tours daily. 202-224-3121.
60. The Reflecting Pool
Reflections of the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial can be seen from either end of the long, three-foot deep pool flanked by pedestrian paths. Open daily. 202-426-6841.
61. National World War II Memorial
Located between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, this stunning new memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served during WWII. Open daily. 202-619-7222.
62. Iwo Jima Memorial
The 78-foot memorial commemorates the marines who have died in battle since 1775. Open daily. 703-289-2500.
63. National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
The largest Catholic Church in the U.S. displays the coronation crown of Pope John Paul VI Open daily. 202-526-4433.
64. Washington National Cathedral
The largest cathedral in the U.S. (and 6th largest in the world), offers worship, tours, gardens, views of the city, magnificent stained glass, dramatic Gothic architecture and three on-premise shops. Open daily. 202-537-6200.
65. Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is a vast and beautiful sacred shrine to our nation's war dead. Points of special interest include the Kennedy Eternal Flame, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Custis-Lee Mansion (which was Robert E. Lee's home). Open daily. 703-607-8000.
66. A Day at the Spa
The Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salons & Spas in D.C. was voted one of the city's "Best Day Spas." Make an appointment, relax and get pampered. Call for pricing and times. 202-362-9890.
67. Library of Congress
This is the largest library in the world, where nearly 128 million items are on approximately 530 miles of bookshelves. Collections include more than 29 million books and other printed materials, 2.7 million recordings, 12 million photographs, 4.8 million maps, 5 million music items and 57 million manuscripts. Closed Sundays. 202-707-8000.
68. Ford's Theatre
As a living tribute to Abraham Lincoln's love of the performing arts, Ford's Theatre (where Lincoln was assassinated) presents plays and musicals highlighting the eclectic character of American life. For performances and times call 202-347-4833.
69. National Museum of Women in the Arts
A museum dedicated to celebrating the artistic achievements of women, it includes a collection of more than 2,500 works by artists from around the world. Open daily. 202-783-5000.
70. National Building Museum
Step inside this former Pension Building, now housing exhibits on the buildings trade. Its Corinthian columns are the tallest in the world, 75 ft. tall, 8ft. in diameter, 25 ft. in circumference, built of 70,000 bricks. As you enjoy the beautiful architecture, visit their temporary exhibit The Green House: New Directions in Sustainable Architecture and Design, on view through June 3. Call 202-272-2448 for additional information.
71. FBI Headquarters
The FBI building has an exhibit that includes assault rifles, pipe bombs, confiscated drugs, posters of the Ten Most-Wanted criminals and a shooting gallery. Open daily except Federal holidays. 202-324-3447.
72. Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
This 1816 neoclassical house displays six generations of family furnishings and has five and a half acres of gardens. Open daily. 202-965-0400.
73. Frederick Douglas National Historic Site
Former residence of Frederick Douglas, famed African-American abolitionist, orator, diplomat, essayist and auditor of the U.S. Treasury. Open daily. 202-544-6130.
74. The Decatur House
The Decatur House is one of only three remaining residential buildings in the country designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, the father of American architecture. A wonderful gift shop adjoins. Closed Mondays. 202-842-0920.
75. Daughters of the American Revolution Headquarters
The museum of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution features 31 period rooms with a superb collection of pre-1840s furnishings and changing exhibits. Closed Sundays. 202-879-3241.
76. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Collection of 19th and 20th century modern and abstractpaintings and sculptures in a striking cylindrical museum and outdoor garden. Open daily. 202-633-1000.
77. Pavilion at the Old Post Office Building
This former main post office on Pennsylvania Avenue houses shops and restaurants, daily entertainment, and a dramatic view of the city from the 315-foot clock tower. The Tower Tour is open daily. 202-289-4224.
78. The Verizon Center
The Verizon Center, home to the NHL Washington Capitals and NBA Washington Wizards, hosts several sporting and musical events throughout the year. Call for schedule and listings. 202-628-3200.
79. The Shops at Tyson's Corner
Fifteen minutes from the Nation's capital, Tyson's Corner Center, Virginia is one of the premier shopping malls on the East Coast with more than 250 department and specialty stores. Open daily. 703-780-4000.
80. Shopping at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City
Four levels of light-filled shopping with more than 160 specialty stores, including Nordstrom and Macy's, food court, and 7 sit-down restaurants. Open daily. 703-415-2400.
81. Rock Creek Park
Rustic expanse of 1,754 acres surrounding Rock Creek with riding stables, tennis courts, 30 picnic areas, golf course, art gallery, nature center, and network of trails. Open daily. 202-895-6000.
82. Adams Morgan Neighborhood
An array of ethnic restaurants and quaint shops. After dinner, check out a band at one of the live music venues or grab a nightcap in a trendy bar.
83. The National Aquarium
Historic, small aquarium, located in the Commerce Department. Open daily. 202-482-4946.
84. The National Zoo
One of the world's great zoos, the National Zoological Park, only minutes from downtown Washington is home to thousands of exotic animals, including two giant pandas and a new baby panda, Tai-Shan! Open daily. 202-673-4717.
85. RFK Stadium and the Washington Nationals
In 2007, Washington's major league baseball team, the Nationals, will its third season and plays ball at the RFK Stadium, accessible by Metro. For ticket availability, call 1-888-632-6287.
86. Old Town Alexandria
Twenty minutes from downtown Washington, Alexandria is known for its 18th and 19th century architecture, quaint boutiques and retail stores. It is easily accessible by Metro on either the Blue or Yellow lines to King Street Station.
87. Capitol River Cruise
Discover the most spectacular views of Washington aboard Nightingale II, Georgetown's only hourly sightseeing cruise. The 50-minute narrated tour departs daily from Georgetown Harbor. 301-460-7447.
88. City Segway Tours
A unique way to enjoy the city's history and famous monuments. Bike, helmets, water and snacks provided. Call for schedule and price. 202-842-2453.
89. Georgetown and Dupont Circle Walking Tours
Get an insiders tour of Georgetown that features scandals, spies, civil war, and underground railroad lore. On the Dupont Circle tour, you'll get an in-depth look at the stunning architecture of the Guilded Age, and World War II in Washington. Call for schedule and reservations. 301-588-8999.
90. Sewall-Belmont House and Museum
A women's history museum, located in a historic house on Capitol Hill, showcases a unique collection on the suffragist movement including banners, political cartoons, and art, portraying the story of women's fight for equal rights. 202-546-1210. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
91. Art Museum of the Americas
A unique collection of 20th-century Latin American and Caribbean art in the intimate atmosphere of a Spanish colonial style structure, it is the most important collection of its kind in the United States. Guided tours, gallery talks, lectures, and workshops. Closed Mondays. 202-458-6016.
92. Explore Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is the world's largest living history museum. It spans 300 acres about a three hour drive from Washington. Tour hundreds of restored, reconstructed, and historically furnished buildings from the 18th century, and watch how people lived during this era. Open daily. For driving directions, list of attractions and maps, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.
93. Civil War Battlegrounds in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
The National Military Park in Gettysburg, a two hour drive from D.C., is the site of the Gettysburg Address, Picket's Charge, General Robert E. Lee's headquarters, Little Round Top, and the Devil's Den. For driving directions, list of attractions and maps, visit www.gettysbg.com or call 717-334-6274.
94. Antietam National Battlefield
This Civil War battlefield is 70 miles from Washington, in Sharpsburg, Maryland. The battle claimed more than 23,000 lives – the largest single battle death toll in American history – and led to Lincoln's issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. For driving directions, attractions and maps, visit www.nps.gov/anti.
95. Washington Walks
The best way to tour any historic city is by foot. Tree-lined neighborhoods, famous (and infamous) personalities, architecture, majestic memorials, African American history, local edibles--it's all waiting for you to discover with Washington Walks! For a listing of tours and times offered please visit www.washingtonwalks.com.
96. Hike the Shenandoah
Hike up the White Oak Canyon trail in Shenandoah National Park located near Sperryville, Virginia for breathtaking views of the valley. Call 540-999-3500 or visit www.nps.gov/shen.
97. Marian Koshland Science Museum
Affiliated with the National Academies of Science, the new Marian Koshland Science Museum uses engaging, interactive exhibits to bring to life the numerous reports conducted by the prestigious National Academies every year. Open daily except Tuesdays. 202.334.1201 for information.
98. "The Awakening" Sculpture
Sculptor Seward Johnson's largest work – a 70 foot "hand" coming out of the ground is located at Hains Point, on the tip of East Potomac Park. Open daily 6 a.m. - midnight.
99. U.S. Naval Academy and Historic Town of Annapolis
Travel forty minutes outside of D.C. and experience the quaint waterfront town of Annapolis, Maryland, also home of the U.S. Naval Academy. For driving directions, attractions and maps, visit www.ci.annapolis.md.us.
100. Thomas Jefferson's Home—Monticello
Travel about two hours to Charlottesville, Virginia, to visit Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, and enjoy lunch at the historic Michie Tavern. Open daily. For driving directions, attractions and maps, visit www.monticello.org.
101. Baltimore's Inner Harbor
At Baltimore's Inner Harbor, you will find museums, shopping, and restaurants on the waterfront. Take the Marc Train right to downtown Baltimore /from Washington's Union Station. Visit www.mtmaryland.com for schedule.

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