10 Reasons to Visit Washington, DC

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Discover Your World

Uncover the fascinating discoveries of the Human Origins permanent exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Gem Gallery, where you will be in awe of the stunning beauty of the authentic Hope Diamond.

National Gallery of Art: A World of Styles

Peruse a wide range of world-class art collections at the National Gallery of Art. From the American Modernism of the Shein Collection to the German Master Drawings from the Wolfgang Ratjen Collection, there is a style to suit your taste.

Newseum: Elvis Is in the House

Visit the new Elvis exhibit for some hip-shaking fun at Washington’s Newseum. Currently one of the hottest tickets in town, the exhibit runs through February 14, 2011.

Segway Tour: See the City by Night

Take in the aesthetic beauty and history that is Washington, DC, with a Segway Night Tour of Washington, DC. You’ll get a unique perspective on many of the city’s most important landmarks, such as the Smithsonian Institution, the Lincoln Memorial and the White House.

State Department: Where Diplomats Meet

See where the Department of State hosts official functions with a free, guided tour of the Diplomatic Reception Rooms. These rooms hold a premier collection of 18th-century American furniture, paintings and decorative arts. Tours are conducted Monday through Friday and must be reserved in advance.

Library of Congress: Citadel of Learning

Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, filled with millions of books, photographs, recordings, maps and manuscripts. Exhibitions, lectures and concerts are free to the public and the Thomas Jefferson Building boasts some of the most magnificent art and architecture in DC.

Night-Time Cruise: See the Monuments by Boat

A night-time cruise on the Potomac aboard the Odyssey Washington DC offers a moonlit glance at the city’s famous monuments—a truly unforgettable experience.

Washington International Horse Show: A DC Tradition

An equestrian tradition since 1958, the Washington International Horse Show runs October 26–31, 2010. Want to see more horses? If you prefer a day in the country and a beautiful, scenic drive, a trip to Middleburg is your answer. An hour from the Hotel, this one-stoplight town is filled with interesting shops and restaurants, and surrounded by horse farms, vineyards and private estates. The National Sporting Library & Museum is a must-see.

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens: See Russian Art

Housed in Marjorie Merriweather Post’s former 25-acre estate, Hillwood is home to the largest collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia, as well as some gorgeously crafted formal gardens. These outdoor “rooms” were conceived by Mrs. Post herself and can be enjoyed year-round.

Old Town Alexandria: A Walking Tour

Hop across the Potomac River and spend a day meandering the quaint historic streets of Old Town, Alexandria’s quaint, historic district that dates all the way back to 1749. See Robert E. Lee’s boyhood home; Gadsby’s Tavern, an Early-American style restaurant and museum of 18th-century antiques; and the Torpedo Factory Art Center, which now houses more than 165 visual artists producing work in a variety of mediums.

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, a luxurious retreat in prestigious Georgetown, is on legendary Pennsylvania Avenue. Classic style and flawless hospitality are the hallmarks of Washington’s only five-star, five-diamond Hotel.