Tried & True Classic
Washington D.C. Attractions

The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most inspiring monuments in Washington. Inside the Greek-styled structure is Daniel Chester French's statue of  Lincoln overlooking the reflecting pool, with The Gettysburg Address and Lincoln's second inaugural  speech  inscribed on the walls. This moving site has been the setting for numerous rallies including Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech.  One of the best views of the National Mall and Capitol is from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

One of  the most recognized structures in the world, the White House should be a part of any Washington itinerary. Tuesday through Saturday, the White House tourguides take you through five rooms of the Presidents home.  Even if you don' t get the chance to go inside, visiting the White House is fun. Tourists and political activists perennially surround the White House, and it is not unusual to see White House correspondents recording their "stand-ups".

As author of the Declaration of Independence, President, Secretary of State, and designer of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson proved himself an accomplished architect of both buildings and nations. The Jefferson Memorial pays tribute to him by having a statue of Jefferson in the center of a colonnaded monument with excerpts of his writings engraved on the walls. Since it overlooks the Tidal Basin, in warmer weather visitors can view the monument from a paddleboat. One of the best views of the White House can be seen from the Jefferson Memorial.

The Washington Monument, the tallest free standing masonry structure in the world,  is a 555-ft obelisk that dominates the Washington Skyline. Tours are available to take the 72-second elevator ride to the top, and then walk down the stairs to see the 193 stones and plaques donated to the monument. The Washington Monument is undergoing repairs, so it could be swathed in a blue tarp by the time of your visit. Check out the view from the top of the Monument, it's incredible.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, nestled between the Potomac and the infamous Watergate Hotel, is the cultural center of Washington. It houses the National symphony Orchestra, the Washington Opera, Washington Ballet and the American Film Institute. Besides these events, the JFK Center has free performances, restaurants, gift shops and great views of the city. Sunday brunch at the JFK Center is very popular among Washingtonians.

Spread out over three buildings, the Library of Congress is one of the largest libraries in the world. Although the stacks are not open to the public, one can sit and read at the Main Reading Room's mahogany desks. (only members of Congress can check books out). Books are only part of the attraction, because the Library of Congress also has exhibits and free films for the public. Check out the Great Hall decorated with paintings and murals for scholarly inspiration.