The Movers and Shakers of Washington, DC

Inauguration of President Barack Obama by sneakerdog (CC BY 2.0)

Bordered between Maryland, Virginia, and the Potomac River, Washington DC is full of today’s movers and shakers. From Congress to NGOs, from college students to residential households, and from one of the best public transportation systems to some of the finest museums in the world, DC remains a popular destination for many. Here are five reasons why “The District” remains such a popular destination for millions each year:

The memorials of DC remain one of the most popular attractions the city has to offer. While most of the memorials line the National Mall, many more are scattered throughout the district whether in the middle of traffic circles or in the Arlington Cemetery. To get the most awe-inspiring pictures of the historical architecture, view the monuments at night! You won’t be sorry!

World War II Memorial at night; Photo by Rachel Jacobs

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year from the end of March until early April. The two-week festival celebrates the numerous trees that were given to the US by Japan in 1912. The trees surround the Tidal Basin with Thomas Jefferson’s memorial in the distance.

Cherry Blossom Festival 2010; Photo by Rachel Jacobs

The Smithsonian Institution contains 19 museums and 9 research centers in “The District.” Some of the most famous include the National Museum of American History, the National Zoo, the Air and Space Museum, and the Natural History Museum. The best part about all of these is that they are completely free to enter! Other free admission amusements in DC include the Library of Congress, the Capitol, and the White House… just be sure to book your tickets in advance!

Pandas at the National Zoo; Photo by Rachel Jacobs

College students make up about one-sixth of all residents in the District of Columbia. Georgetown, George Washington, Catholic, and American are just some of the many universities that hold DC’s future generation. Campuses are constantly hosting some of the world’s best-known movers and shakers!

View from the Newseum, Washington D.C.’s most interactive muesum; Photo by Rachel Jacobs

DC Culture is one of the most distinctive in the country! Dupont, U Street, and Chinatown hold just some of the many diverse communities within the Nation’s Capital. You’ll never run out of restaurants to try and farmer’s markets to attend. There’s always something happening at the World famous Kennedy Center or at the highly acclaimed Verizon Center.

Adams Morgan during the Fall; Photo by Rachel Jacobs

I’ve just hit the surface of what DC has to offer. For a real insider’s look check out places like:

–Georgetown Cupcake – DC insiders know all about the cupcake wars that occur within the city, but Georgetown Cupcake takes the cake! They even have a reality show on TLC called DC Cupcakes.

Ben’s Chili Bowl – One of DC’s gems, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been around for 52 years! Located on the famous U street, Ben’s serves some of the most authentic chili around. They are also a green company! Ben’s runs off of 100% Wind Power as its electricity!

Eastern Market – Located right near Capitol Hill, Eastern Market holds a farmer’s market and flea markets every weekend.

–Embassy Row – Embassy Row holds many of the world’s embassies in the United States. Stroll along and view the architecture specific to each country. If your in DC during Halloween trick-or-treat at the embassies!!

It’s hard to fit nearly everything into one blog post about the Nation’s capital. It’s so culturally diverse, contemporary, and historical! Definitely a place that can offer something to all the movers and shakers out there.

Interested in taking a virtual stroll through other cities around the country? Check out our past City Snapshots!