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First Timer's Guide to Washington DC
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Paige Minds The Gap
Planning your first visit to Washington DC? Make it the best trip ever with my helpful tips for first-timers!
Sections
5
 
Planning Resources
 
Must-Do
 
Where to Stay
 
Uniquely DC
 
DC Budget Guides

Planning Resources

Use these resources to help plan your first trip to Washington DC!

 
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Everything you need to know about visiting Washington DC
Washington DC Travel Guide
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All the best things to do in DC
45 Best Things to Do in Washington DC
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The best things to do in DC - in book form!
100 Things to Do in Washington, DC
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Secret and obscure things to look for in DC
Secret Washington DC: A Guide to the Weird
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A deep dive into DC's foodie scene
Unique Eats & Eateries of Washington, DC
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Must-Do

These are Washington DC's must-see attractions. You won't want to miss out!

 
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DC's top museum
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
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Iconic memorial towering over the Reflecting Pool
Lincoln Memorial (U.S. National Park Service)
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A wide, pedestrian-friendly, and tree-lined boulevard
National Mall and Memorial Parks - National Park Service
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Art from around the Western world
National Gallery of Art
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Learn about the US government
United States Capitol
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World's largest library
Library of Congress: Home
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Ride to the top to see nearly 25 miles in every direction
Washington Monument
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Animals from all over the world
Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
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Iconic memorial along the Tidal Basin
Thomas Jefferson Memorial (U.S. National Park Service)
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Where to Stay

Find the best place to rest your head on your trip to DC.

 
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Great location within walking distance from major attractions
Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center - Hilton
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Great option for staying at The Wharf
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf Hotel
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Historic upscale hotel with views of the White Hosue
The Hay-Adams
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Classic hotel that's a great value
Phoenix Park Hotel
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A unique stay in DC
Unique DC Row House Near Historic H Street! - Washington | Vrbo
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Uniquely DC

These one-of-a-kind attractions can only be found in Washington DC.

 
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See DC's famed cherry blossoms in the spring
Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
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Learn about the secret world of spies
International Spy Museum - Washington DC
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Unique museum all about language
Planet Word Museum
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Have a picnic with surprises along the way
Mystery Picnic Date - Georgetown & Foggy Bottom | AmazingCo
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Attend events at international embassies
International Club of DC -
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The best way to experience the Bard
Drunk Shakespeare Washington DC
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DC Budget Guides

See Washington DC on a budget with these helpful tips.

 
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All the best free things to do in DC
27 Free Things to Do in Washington DC
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Save up to 60% on DC's top attractions
Washington DC Sightseeing Pass | Washington DC Attraction Pass | Washington DC FLEX Pass
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