Southwest Travel Guide
Washington
Popular places to visit
National Mall
Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.
National Air and Space Museum
Heaven for aviation enthusiasts, this museum takes you on an uplifting journey through the history of flight and space travel.
Museum of the Bible
You can study the exhibits at Museum of the Bible, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Washington. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.
International Spy Museum
The shadowy world of espionage comes under the spotlight in a museum where nothing is quite as it seems.
The Anthem
You can get tickets for a performance at The Anthem on your trip to Washington. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this walkable area.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
You can study the exhibits at United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Washington. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.
Things to do
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate
Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Walking Tour
Top hotels in Southwest
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Parking felt safe but was very expensive. Rooms were amazing, clean and cozy and the staff was very friendly.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf by IHG
Had a wonderful day at the intercontinental room was lovely. It even had a nice balcony overlooking the Potomac river although we did have the door open for quite some time. It did allow mosquitoes to get in but while we were away for dinner, the hotel staff removed them and we were able to have ...
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Salamander Washington DC
Rooms over rail tracks would benefit from additional sound-proofing but otherwise fantastic stay
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Great location off the pier by restaurant. Beautiful view of courtyard and marina. The rooms were modern, clean, and spacious,
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
Everything was sooo clean well maintainenced the only down fall is the restaurants closed too early
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG
Breakfast on weekends is 26.95 per adult but up to two kids eat free with each adult meal, so it’s somewhat affordable for families that can take advantage of the free kids buffet.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southwest
The Wharf
You'll enjoy the restaurants and riverfront in The Wharf. You might want to make time for a stop at The Anthem or Gangplank Marina.
Southwest Waterfront
While you're in Southwest Waterfront, take in top sights like Arena Stage and jump on the metro at Waterfront Station to see more of the city.
Southwest Federal Center
While you're in Southwest Federal Center, take in top sights like Smithsonian Institution or L'Enfant Plaza, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at L'Enfant Plaza Station or Federal Center Station.
Navy Yard
While you're in Navy Yard, take in top sights like Nationals Park and jump on the metro at Navy Yard Station to see more of the city.
Crystal City
Visitors to Crystal City love its popular shops, and you can check out Bowlero Arlington and Synetic Theater. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Crystal City Station.
Capitol Hill
Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Capitol Hill. Check out top attractions like United States Capitol and Folger Shakespeare Library, and jump on the metro at Capitol South Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the city.
