Our nation’s capital is one of those places every American must visit at least once in their lifetime. History abounds on every corner and an abundance of interesting attractions and sights offer something for people of all ages. Here is some of what’s open Memorial Day in Washington DC.
Attractions Open Memorial Day Weekend
Open on Memorial Day weekend, this attraction is a great way to see all the sights. The Old Town Trolley Tour will take you to more than 100 of the city’s most popular attractions. Along the way, you will be entertained by the onboard conductor and have no need to worry about finding parking around the city. Hop on and off as often as you wish and check out all that Washington DC has to offer.
A lasting tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation, Arlington National Cemetery is visited by millions of people each year. These hallowed grounds are where more than 400,000 service men and women and their family members are laid to rest. There are nearly 30 funerals held each day, honoring those who have given their life to defend the values and ideals of America. If you’re planning a vacation to Washington DC this Memorial Day weekend, a visit to Arlington is something you must do.
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. Open this Memorial Day, 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.
The Lincoln Memorial was opened on Memorial Day in 1922, 57 years after Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was assassinated. The immense Greek Temple stands in front of a gleaming reflecting pool and is a stunning spectacle during the day and especially at night.
Open Memorial Day, a tribute to the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, the Jefferson 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.
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. Open on Memorial Day, 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.
Since 1800, the White House has been a symbol of the United States government, the president and the people of America. It has also served as the home of every U.S. president except George Washington. Remodeled and restored many times over the years, the White House Vistor center is recognized around the world as an emblem of American democracy. For many, the most famous room in the residence is the Oval Office where the president conducts business and meets with his advisers. Maintaining a stately presence in the nation’s capital, the White House is one of most significant landmarks in Washington, D.C.
There are more than 19 Smithsonian museums in Washington DC and several others that are must do’s this Memorial Day weekend. That’s enough to keep you and your family busy and out of the summer heat for days on end. From the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, to the National Museum of the American Indian, the American Art Museum and more, there is a museum to browse through on practically every corner.
Set your Bond fantasies free in this amazing museum dedicated to the art of espionage. The International Spy Museum has more than 200 spy gadgets, weapons, bugs, cameras, vehicles, technologies and more. There are interactive exhibits, special collections, lectures, events and even a whole exhibit showcasing 50 years of James Bond Villains. Spend an Memorial Day discovering the secrets that only spies know; it’s fun for the whole family.
Restaurants and Places to Eat Open Memorial Day Weekend
Like the venerable pizza, tacos, also portable and delicious, are having a gastronomic moment in America and one of the best places to get them this Memorial Day is at Taqueria Habanero. The glorious and bold flavors of Puebla, Mexico have found their way to the Nation’s capital with freshly made tortillas, fiery salsas, and eye-pleasing plates to please your spice-loving palate.
Looking for an old-school deli in the heart of Washington DC? Then, you better call mom. Rated by Eater as one of the 16 best new restaurants in America, Call Your Mother Deli has got all your favorites and a few secrets as well. Enjoy your Memorial Day afternoon trying the smoked brisket and pastrami sub on a challah roll or their unique spin on a pizza bagel!