Washington reminds me of an artistically carved chess set: its multiple and impressive monuments and historic buildings are like great “pieces” displayed everywhere on its big urban “board” – ideal for a traveler’s exploration.

The U.S. capital is, undoubtedly, one of the world’s great cities, attracting more than 20 million visitors each year, who come to see its more than 100 historic sites and world-class attractions –the majority of which are free.

What To See: The not-to-be-missed sights are many in Washington D.C. and include these 10 must-sees:

Jefferson Memorial

Located in the Tidal Basin area, 15th Street, S.W., and surrounded by cherry trees that bloom gorgeously each spring, this is one of the most beautiful monuments in the capital, in classical style. Under a marble cupola, it boasts a 19 ft. bronze of the third president of the U.S., surrounded by phrases from the Declaration of Independence, which he wrote. Admission is free and the monument is open every day except Dec. 25.

Washington Monument

A great white obelisk pointing to the sky –simbolizing the highest democratic ideals – It has a free elevator that goes to a small observatory 555 feet. high with views all around. “Divine,” said Rebeca Torres of New York, enjoying the view of the National Mall from one of the windows at the top of the monument. “When it comes to views, this one is unrivaled.”

Lincoln Memorial

This great monument looks over to the Washington Monument and Capitol Hill. Inside it has a 19 feet. marble statue of Lincoln, the Great Emancipator and famous writings of the president who liberated the slaves. Admission is free and it is open every day except Christmas.

National Mall

Located between Constitution and Independence, Avenued this splendid green zone extends for two miles from the Capitol to the Washington Monument. Near the Capitol, there are beautiful 200-year-old-plus elms. Here are several Smithsonian Institution Museums (including the popular National Air & Space Museum, with its collection of airplanes, rockets and space ships); and the National Archives where the Declaration of Independence may be viewed as well as other important documents.

The Capitol

The Senate and the House of Representatives meet under its famous white cupola on Capitol Hill. It offers free guided tours that take in Statuary Hall, with statues from all 50 states.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

This monument, consisting of a black granite wall with the names of 58,209 people who died (or are missing in action) during the Vietnam War is a very moving place – many visitors leave flowers, teddy bears and other objects. It’s located on Constitution Avenue and Henry Bacon Drive, N.W. Admission is free and it’s always open.

The White House

This has been the residence of U.S. presidents since John Adams in 1800. The mansion typically attracted some 4,500 visitors per day but after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, for security reasons only groups of 10 or more people are admitted, who have requested entry through their congressman ahead of time. The free, self-guided tours are Tuesday-Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and can be canceled at the last minute. Call 202-456-7041. Most visitors have to be content with views of the exterior of the White House and its gardens.

The Library of Congress

It is considered the biggest library in the world with more than 110 million books and objects in its three buildings. Free tours are offered Monday-Saturday leaving from the Great Hall of the Thomas Jefferson Building.

The National Cathedral

On Massachusetts and Wisconsin Avenues N.W., this Episcopalian Cathedral welcomes visitors of all faiths. In Gothic style, it is the sixth largest cathedral in the world. President Woodrow Wilson is buried there. There’s a wonderful view of the city from the observation gallery. Admission is by donation.

The Newseum

This museum just opened this spring on Pennsylvania Avenue and it’s dedicated to celebrate the free press. Designed to be fun with activities, interactive quiosks and exhibits (there are 14 galleries and 15 theaters).

Among the interesting exhibits in its seven floors are all the photographs that have won the Pulitzer Prize exhibited together in one gallery. A theater with special effects including moving seats and air and wind sensations, offers a 3D movie about big news events in the last 150 years.

Interactive quiosks allow visitors to try various press roles: photographer, editor and broadcaster. And one gallery is dedicated to honor those members of the press who died covering the news.

“Often we don’t think too much about the press –and its crucial role as defender of freedom and we simply buy the paper and read it with our morning coffee as if it were an everyday type of thing,” said Jessica Walters, a visitor from Fairfax, Virginia.

“This museum is ideal to think about the work and sacrifices of the members of the press and to celebrate our democracy.”

The museum is at 555 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., and has a restaurant by chef Wolfgang Puck and two television studios, one of which is used for ABC’s “This Week with George Stephanopoulos.” It opens every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s). Tickets are $20 for adults and $13 for children. Visit www.newseum.org.


Where To Eat: Try 14K Restaurant (1001 14th Street Northwest), with an alfresco café and American specialties. Prices are moderate. For a light, quick and economic lunch go to the cafeterias in Smithsonian Museums –the National Air & Space Museum, for example, has one with beautiful views of the Capitol.

Where To Sleep: The Capital Hilton is centrally located, only two blocks from the White House. A Bed & Breakfast package is priced from $199 per night. Visit www.hilton.com.

Information: Visit www.washington.org.

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