Attractions Around Washington Dulles International Airport

Washington D.C. is known around the world for being the seat of the American system of republicanism. The history of Washington is as old as the country itself, and there are many historical sights to visit while you are traversing the area. The historical importance cannot be diverted. The United States was the birthplace of liberty and it remains a beacon of freedom today.

1.The White House. The President lives in this white house that graces a long, green lawn. During the War of 1812, the White House was almost completely destroyed when British soldiers burned the edifice to the ground as the President – then James Madison and his wife Dolly – fled the city. Today it is not only a beautiful piece of architecture but a monument to the democratic nature of the head of the executive branch of office.

2. The Lincoln Memorial. There is perhaps no other monument in the world that is so widely referenced to than this memorial. The monument is beautiful with inscriptions on the wall of Lincoln’s most beloved speeches, particularly the Emancipation Proclamation and the Gettysburg Address. Its steps have also been the place for many famous rallies and protests – a clear example of democracy in action.

3. The Washington Monument. Like a spear sticking into the heavens, the Washington Monument is reminiscent of Egyptian architecture. The structure is asymmetrically flawless and majestic. It sits at the other end of the huge reflecting pool. Try walking from one side to the other. It is much longer than it looks!

4. Ford’s Theater. This is the place where Lincoln was fatally shot by the handsome yet maniacal actor John Wilkes Booth. You can tour the theater and even view the seating area where the great late President was brutally assassinated sitting next to his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln.

5. The Air and Space Museum. Renowned all over the word for its fantastic chronological rendering of the history of all that makes man a synthetically airborne creature, it is a must-see for anyone visiting the D.C. area.

6. The National Mall. No, it’s not a shopping mall. It is the most famous street in the world. The strip of asphalt famously leads up to the massive Capitol of the United States of America. It is a great place to take pictures and, more importantly, reflect on the history of the edifice.