Journey back to the days of the Pony Express and see first-hand how the mail was delivered in colonial America, through times of war and into the present day. At the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, visitors learn about the amazing history of the American postal service and how it evolved to become what it is today. Located on the lower level of the old Post Office Building just next door to Union Station, the building was constructed in 1914 and served as the Washington DC post office until 1986.

A grand symbol of the United States Government, the Capitol Building on Capitol Hill is recognized across the world as one of our country’s most prominent icons of Democracy. The striking white dome acts as a focal point to the building which welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Both a working legislative building and a national monument, guided tours are offered all day long and provide an inside look into how our United States government works.

Upon arrival at the Supreme Court, visitors are often struck by the imposing marble building. Architecturally magnificent, the neoclassical structure was built in 1935 to become the permanent home to the Supreme Court. Walking along the hallway towards the Courtroom, guests are greeted by busts of all the former Chief Justices. The Supreme Court is the highest judiciary authority in the United States and hears about 100 cases each year, although more than 7,000 are submitted before them. Visitors can tour the Supreme Court building, hear lectures on the history of the court and how it works, sit in on sessions on specified days and times and view various exhibits throughout the year.

The Library of Congress is unlike any other library in the world. The world’s largest library, it is home to more than 100 million books, maps, recordings, manuscripts, films and photos including items from Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection. Former President Jefferson stepped in to help the new Library after the War of 1812. In 1814, the British burned the small congressional library’s north wing. Jefferson offered to sell his extensive library of 6,487 books to “recommence” its own library.

Visitors will explore the history and many facets of American law enforcement in an experience you won’t find anywhere else!

Journey back to the days of the Pony Express and see first-hand how the mail was delivered in colonial America, through times of war and into the present day. At the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, visitors learn about the amazing history of the American postal service and how it evolved to become what it is today. Located on the lower level of the old Post Office Building just next door to Union Station, the building was constructed in 1914 and served as the Washington DC post office until 1986.

Welcome to Washington DC! The spectacular Union Station was originally designed to be the gateway to the city and since it opened over 90 years ago, has become the most visited site in DC. Its unique architecture makes it popular for photos. Locals, tourists and even presidents make it a point to visit this magnificent historic mall and train station.

Upon arrival at the Supreme Court, visitors are often struck by the imposing marble building. Architecturally magnificent, the neoclassical structure was built in 1935 to become the permanent home to the Supreme Court. Walking along the hallway towards the Courtroom, guests are greeted by busts of all the former Chief Justices. The Supreme Court is the highest judiciary authority in the United States and hears about 100 cases each year, although more than 7,000 are submitted before them. Visitors can tour the Supreme Court building, hear lectures on the history of the court and how it works, sit in on sessions on specified days and times and view various exhibits throughout the year.

The Library of Congress is unlike any other library in the world. The world’s largest library, it is home to more than 100 million books, maps, recordings, manuscripts, films and photos including items from Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection. Former President Jefferson stepped in to help the new Library after the War of 1812. In 1814, the British burned the small congressional library’s north wing. Jefferson offered to sell his extensive library of 6,487 books to “recommence” its own library.

No matter what time of year it is, the lush greenery and gorgeous plants are always thriving at the United States Botanic Garden. Located just next door to the Museum of the American Indian at the foot of the Capitol, the Botanic Garden is an oasis of beautiful plant life and flowers and home to 4,000 living species. The conservatory houses exhibits that focus on the importance of plants to people and on the ecology and evolution of plants.

The Museum of the American Indian is the only museum solely dedicated to the history, study and preservation of the American Indians. You’ll be instantly captivated by its masterful architecture. The curved limestone building appears to be a natural rock formation facing towards the sun and is surrounded by acres of authentic crops of the American Indian. Its very design stands out among the many granite and marble neoclassical structures in the National Mall. Once inside, you’ll be treated to an up-close look at the life, languages, history, art and traditions of the Native Americans.

The founder of the Hirschhorn Gallery and Sculpture Garden, Joseph Hirschhorn left an impressive legacy of art and inspiration to the American People. He had an immense passion for art. So much so that at one time he had more than 6,000 pieces in his collection housed at several private locations. It was Hirschhorn’s adoration for the arts that inspired a new museum of art in Washington DC in the late 1960’s. The Hirschhorn Gallery and Sculpture Garden opened its doors in 1974, featuring Joseph Hirschhorn’s personal collection of paintings and sculpture, which he generously donated so that all of the American people could enjoy it as much as he did.

The museum serves as a memorial to the millions of people who were murdered during the Holocaust. Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday, except Yom Kippur and Christmas Day. Timed passes are distributed on a first–come first–served basis.

See where millions of dollars are printed every day. Discover all of the steps to producing currency from the blank sheet of paper to a crisp bill. As the security printer for the US Government, the Bureau is responsible for the design, printing and engraving for all US currency.

Located near the National Mall, the Smithsonian Institution Building was completed in 1855. Designed by James Renwick, Jr., the red Seneca sandstone edifice features a faux Norman architectural style that incorporates late-Romanesque and early-Gothic details. Although slaves were not used in the construction, they were used to quarry the stone. Colloquially known as the Smithsonian Castle, the building initially held the institution’s entire collection of art and other objects. Designated a National Landmark in 1965, its Victorian arched windows, dark woodwork and terrazzo floor evokes the serene ambiance of a house of worship. The 4.2-acre Enid Haupt Garden is situated adjacent to the Castle.

What many folks don’t know about George Mason, they can learn while visiting his memorial right next to the Jefferson Memorial. Known for his authorship of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, George Mason’s work and beliefs were a major influence into the writing of the United States Bill of Rights. He earned the nickname, the reluctant statesman, after refusing to sign the United States Constitution because it did not abolish slavery.

The Tidal Basin is a beautiful part of the National Mall in Washington DC. Bordering monuments and memorials, the Tidal Basin is home to thousands of Cherry Trees that were given as a gift to the United States by Japan. Luring visitors to take a stroll or rent a paddle-boat for a tranquil break from sightseeing, the Tidal Basin is a favorite spot to many tourists throughout the year.

The FDR Memorial is located along the Western edge of the Tidal Basin, between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. Built in 1997, the memorial is known for its unique design, its tribute to our 32nd President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and for the fact that it tells the story of America during the years of FDR’s Presidency. Four outdoor rooms portray the President’s terms in office, each with different statues and quotes. Beginning with a likeness of him riding in a car during his first inaugural speech and ending with him seated in a wheelchair, the memorial traces his twelve years of office as well as the many changes our country went through during that era.

Tours in Washington DC are not complete without a stop at the Jefferson Memorial. A tribute to the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, the memorial is a recognized symbol of democracy and independence. As one of the founding fathers of our country and the author of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson’s significant impact on the shaping of our government is known throughout the world.

The Tidal Basin is a beautiful part of the National Mall in Washington DC. Bordering monuments and memorials, the Tidal Basin is home to thousands of Cherry Trees that were given as a gift to the United States by Japan. Luring visitors to take a stroll or rent a paddle-boat for a tranquil break from sightseeing, the Tidal Basin is a favorite spot to many tourists throughout the year.

Opened in August of 2011, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is located on four acres in the West Potomac Park and is part of the National Park Service. Its official address, 1964 Independence Avenue, is in reference to the year the Civil Rights Act became Law.

Often referred to as the wall that heals, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial beckons visitors of all ages, races and nationalities. It was created to honor and remember the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and to help our country heal after the controversial, emotional conflict ended. The enormous black wall lists 58,209 names of those who are missing or were killed during the war.

To remember those who fought in the Korean War, The United States Congress approved a Korean War Memorial to be constructed in the National Mall. The memorial has several interesting aspects to it including the “Field Of Service” which has 19, larger-than-life-size stainless steel statues of servicemen from all four of the armed forces. The men appear to be a squad on patrol and are dressed in full combat gear. 

Honoring the 16 million people who served in the United States Military during the war, the more than 400,000 who died and the countless others who supported our troops from home, the World War II Memorial is a stunning tribute to the sacrifices that were made.

Explore the Rich History from the Comfort of our Tour Vehicles. Arlington National Cemetery is an enduring tribute to those who’ve dedicated their lives to defending the ideals of our nation. A visit here will leave an indelible impression on your spirit. There are more than 624 acres of hallowed ground and they’re best explored aboard Arlington National Cemetery Tours.

One can only imagine the exhilaration that Neil Armstrong felt as he took the very first steps on the moon in 1969 or the incredible thrill that the Wright brothers experienced as they took that first flight in 1903. At the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, you can get an idea of how they felt when you see first-hand the original Wright 1903 Flyer and the Apollo 11 Command Module which carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins and Buzz Aldrin on their mission to the moon. These historic air and spacecrafts are among a collection of more than 30,000 artifacts at the Air and Space Museum.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture chronicles America’s journey toward enshrining freedom, equality and democracy for all citizens. The museum houses a collection of more than 37,000 pieces related to a variety of areas, including slavery, segregation and civil rights as well as family, religion and the performing arts.

The museum serves as a memorial to the millions of people who were murdered during the Holocaust. Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday, except Yom Kippur and Christmas Day. Timed passes are distributed on a first–come first–served basis.

Honoring the 16 million people who served in the United States Military during the war, the more than 400,000 who died and the countless others who supported our troops from home, the World War II Memorial is a stunning tribute to the sacrifices that were made.

One of the most celebrated and spectacular sights on the National Mall, the Washington Monument, stands as a grand tribute to our nation’s first President, George Washington. The 555 foot obelisk is also one of the oldest and most recognizable memorials in the City. While construction began in 1848, the monument was not completed until 1884 because of financial difficulties during the Civil War.

Get MORE out of your summer in DC aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley and see the best first!

Ever wonder if there’s any truth to the curse of the famous Hope Diamond? Or wish you could see for yourself the fossils of an ancient mammal or a dinosaur? Then step inside the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Millions of people come each year to get a close look at some of the world’s most intriguing, beguiling specimens that the Museum has on display.

One of the country’s first institutions dedicated solely to artistic expression on the African continent, the National Museum of African Art opened to the public in 1987. The attraction boasts a collection of more than 9,000 pieces in a variety of media spanning from ancient times through the modern era. In addition to textiles and jewelry, the museum has sculptures, pottery and paintings representing nearly every country in Africa, including Arab North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Although it is one of the Smithsonian’s smallest museums, the institution has the largest single collection of African art in the United States.

The chilling story of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination comes to life in the very place he was mortally shot on April 14, 1865. After being closed for 103 years, Ford’s Theater was restored and reopened in 1968. Serving as a tribute to Abraham Lincoln and his love of the performing arts, the Theater is a live, working theater that plays host to a variety of plays by some of the country’s most talented playwrights, actors and artists. Ford’s Theater is also home to The Lincoln Museum, which gives visitors a look at the elaborate conspiracy planned by actor John Wilkes Booth, a supporter of the Confederate States of America, to assassinate the President, the Vice President and the Secretary of State.

After a visit to Ford’s Theater, a stop at the Petersen House is most definitely in order. It is in this house that Abraham Lincoln died after frantic doctors worked to save him throughout the night. The house, now a National Historic Site, has been restored to its original condition and even the bed on which Lincoln passed away is much like the actual one. Now furnished with period pieces, guests can see the front parlor where Mary Todd Lincoln spent the night with her son, Robert and the back parlor where Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton held a cabinet meeting and questioned witnesses. Visitors can take self-guided tours to see the solemn, yet intriguing Petersen House.

When you visit Madame Tussauds, take a remarkable interactive journey through American history! You will be able to stand next to each of the US Presidents. From the shortest, President Madison to the tallest… President Lincoln and President L. B. Johnson.

At the White House Visitor Center, people from around the world can learn about the amazing history of the White House and the United States Presidency. Discover facts about the architecture and furnishings of the White House, the first families, social events, and relations with the press and world leaders. Visitors can also watch a 30-minute video, entitled “Where History Lives” and see six historical exhibits. A gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs and mementos related to the White House and Washington DC. Park ranger talks, military concerts, and special traveling exhibits are also of interest to guests and available at different times.

The Treasury Building took 33 years to build from 1836 – 1869. It was primarily designed by the same man, Robert Mills, who was the architect of the Washington Monument. At the time of its construction, the Treasury Building was one of the largest office buildings in the world. It served as a barracks during the Civil War and a temporary White House for President Andrew Johnson after President Lincoln’s assassination. Built in the Greek Revival style, Treasury was the first Departmental building in the nation’s capital thus influencing the design of many of the others.

The National Gallery of Art DC was created in 1937. Through the generosity of Andrew W. Mellon, a financier who was also a public servant, the Museum gained its first collection. Mellon had a passion for art and his large collection of old master paintings, sculpture and other works were intended for all of America to enjoy. After his death, Congress accepted his collection and thus the National Gallery was born.

The US Navy Memorial is a truly spectacular tribute to those who served or are currently serving in the nation’s sea services. A stunning plaza paved in granite forms a 100-foot diameter of the world. Fountains, pools, flags and historic panels surround the deck of the plaza tracing the achievements of the Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines. The famous Lone Sailor statue stands as a representation of the men who joined the service to fulfill their patriotic duty; a striking sight, it is perhaps one of the most well-known aspects of the memorial.

For a spectacular view of the city and a journey back to the early 1900’s, the Old Post Office and Bell Tower is a must see. It was Washington’s first skyscraper, measuring in at around 300 feet from the ground. In its day, it was the largest and tallest government building in the city and was used as the post office for several years before plans for a newer, more modern facility were implemented. Thanks to the Great Depression, the classic building was saved from destruction and today visitors can enjoy an exhilarating ride in a glass elevator all the way to the top.

In 1921, Congress approved the burial of one unknown serviceman killed during World War I in the plaza of the newly built Memorial Amphitheater. To ensure that the choice was truly random amongst the options, four service members were exhumed from four separate cemeteries in France. Army Sergeant Edward Younger, a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, was selected to pick one of the four identical caskets. He placed a spray of white roses on the third casket from the left. While the chosen soldier was transported back from France on the USS Olympia, the others were reburied in the Meuse Argonne Cemetery.

Section Five is often referred to as the Supreme Court Justice Section because there are approximately half a dozen US Supreme Court Justices buried here. Notables include Chief Justices William H. Rehnquist and Warren Burger and Associate Justices Oliver Wendall Holmes, Potter Stewart, and Thurgood Marshall. Marshall was the first African American to serve on the Court. Prior to becoming a Justice, he argued before the Court most notably during the Brown V. Board of Education case.

Rear Admiral Peary is credited with being the first to reach the North Pole. He directed a six man team which included Matthew Henson. Henson was an African American explorer and a close companion of Admiral Peary. It was Henson who planted the U.S. flag on the North Pole.

Pershing is not the only notable you should visit at this stop. Other notables include Corporal Ira Hayes who was one of the six men to raise the flag on top of Mt. Suribachi at Iwo Jima, General Henry “Hap” Arnold who was the only person to receive a five star rank in two branches of the service, the Army and Air Force, and Corporal Frank W. Buckles who was the oldest surviving World War I veteran. He died in 2011 at the age of 110.

Section three is near the Pershing gravesite stop.  A short walk down the street will take you to the graves of astronauts Roger Chaffe and Virgil Grissom who perished aboard the Apollo I spacecraft and medical figures Jonathon Letterman, the Surgeon General of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War, and Major Walter Reed who confirmed that mosquitoes were the cause of yellow fever.

In 1921, Congress approved the burial of one unknown serviceman killed during World War I in the plaza of the newly built Memorial Amphitheater. To ensure that the choice was truly random amongst the options, four service members were exhumed from four separate cemeteries in France. Army Sergeant Edward Younger, a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, was selected to pick one of the four identical caskets. He placed a spray of white roses on the third casket from the left. While the chosen soldier was transported back from France on the USS Olympia, the others were reburied in the Meuse Argonne Cemetery.

Just across the street from the Memorial Amphitheater are the memorials for the Space Shuttle Challenger and the Space Shuttle Columbia. The Challenger exploded on January 28, 1986 just a few seconds after takeoff. All seven crew members, including civilian teacher Christa McAuliffe, perished. The Columbia disintegrated during re-entry on February 1, 2003 killing all seven crew members.

He became one of the most highly decorated soldiers from World War II after being turned down by the Marine Corp for being too short and then turned down by the paratroopers. He received 28 medals, three from France and one from Belgium, all before he turned 21. His military record and good looks landed him in Hollywood. He acted in over 40 films including “To Hell and Back”, which was autobiographical. He died in a plane crash at the age of 46.

This is the actual mast from the USS Maine, which exploded off the Havana Harbor in 1898. Although the cause of the explosion was unknown, the press in the U.S. blamed the Spanish. The rally cry became “Remember the Maine.” Thus, the United States entered the Spanish- American War. Surrounding the memorial are the remains of many of the men who lost their lives on the ship.

Right across the street from Arlington House is Section One. It holds the remains of many officers from the Civil War. The headstones are for the most part extremely large and elaborate. One such marker is the white sarcophagus for Montgomery Meigs, the man responsible for turning the Custis Lee plantation into a cemetery.  Other notables include Abner Doubleday, a civil war general often falsely credited with being the inventor of baseball, and Anita Newcomb McGee, the first female Army surgeon and founder of the Army Nurse Corps. You can also find the reinterred remains of service members from the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

The first and original amphitheater on the Arlington grounds was built in 1873 for the fifth Decoration Day (known today as Memorial Day).  The celebration quickly outgrew the amphitheater and that’s why the new Memorial Amphitheater was built. The name was changed to the James Tanner Amphitheater in May of 2014 as part of the 150th anniversary of the cemetery. Tanner was a Civil War veteran and served as President Lincoln’s stenographer. He is buried in Section Two very close to the amphitheater.

The Tomb of the Civil War Unknown is located near the Arlington House. It holds the remains of 2,111 unknown soldiers from the Battle of Bull Run. The monument was erected by order of General Montgomery C. Meigs with the intent of deterring the Lees from returning to the Arlington grounds.

The bell tower, located just outside the Ord and Weitzel gate, is a gift from the Netherlands to the U.S. for liberating them from the Nazis during World War II. The tower contains 50 bells which weigh approximately 30 tons. The bells play a medley of the armed forces anthems at noon and 6 PM and they chime every 15 minutes.

The oldest section at Arlington contains the remains of nearly 4,000 former slaves; their headstones are marked by the words “citizen” and “civilian.” This section also holds the remains of approximately 1,500 United States Colored Troops (USCT), which the official designation was given to all African American units serving in the U.S. Army during the Civil War. Additionally, this section is the resting place for Private William Henry Christman. Interred on May 13th 1864, Christman was the first military burial on the Arlington grounds.

Accessible from the Columbarium stop, Section 60 holds the remains of those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is often referred to as the saddest section in the cemetery because family and friends visit regularly and leave flowers and mementos.

On September 12, 2002, a funeral service was conducted at the Memorial Amphitheater for the 184 victims of the terrorist attack on the Pentagon on 9/11. Following the service, a group burial was held in Section 64. A five-sided memorial marks the group burial. It resembles the Pentagon, which is in visible distance, although the five sides are meant to memorialize the five victims whose remains were not recovered. The names of all the victims are listed on the marker in alphabetical order.