Lonely Planet Washington, DC

Tradition and innovation are twin pillars in America's captial city, where grand monuments beckon, memorials inspire and power browkers cut deals in Downtown bistros and Georgetown bars. Washington, DC appeals with attractions as diverse as the nation's population. Our savvy authors scour the city, pinpointing the best experiences in DC.

EXPLORE THE NATIONAL MALL - experience America's front yard your own way with our special full-color National Mall chapter.

TOUR THE CITY - sample the corridors of power before savoring daily life in DC's energetic, vibrant neighborhoods.

EAT OUT - indulge in Ethiopian pancakes, olive martinis, overstuffed Tex-Mex, oysters and mimosas, and all-American ice cream.

GO ALL NIGHT - cut loose like the locals in DC's relentless nightlife scene by downing rooftop drinks, catching shows at the 9:30 Club or clubbing in Dupont till dawn.

HIT THE ROAD - see the best of the Capital Region's varied attractions, from Atlantic beaches to Civil War battlegrounds to the full pallet of colors at Shenandoah National Park.