Explore the Area

Create your own tour of Washington prior to the Reunion

Washington, D.C. offers many memorable attractions that are free or budget-friendly. Most major museums and monuments are easy to reach by Metro, taxi, or rideshare. For the best experience, check official web sites before you go for current hours, timed-entry requirements, and security information.

Prices, hours, and reservation requirements may change. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included unless specifically noted. For public transportation, the nearest Metro station to the Churchill Hotel is Dupont Circle, about an 8-minute walk.

Planning Resources

See our Step by Step Directions for getting to most of the places listed below using the Metro. Reunion host Jessica has grouped places to visit by where to exit Metro stations.
Walking Google map
WMATA Trip Planner to plan your route on Metro, it will tell you which stops to use and lines to transfer to.
WMATA Metro Maps
Official Washington, D.C. Visitor Information

Top Free and Low-Cost Highlights

National Mall and Memorials
Explore iconic landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and more. [ National Park Service ]
Smithsonian Museums
Washington is home to many free Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, National Portrait Gallery, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, and others.
U.S. Capitol
Guided tours are available. Reservations are recommended. [ Visitor Information ]
The White House
Exterior viewing is easy to combine with a walk through Lafayette Square. Public tours require advance arrangements through a Member of Congress. [ Tour Information ]
U.S. Supreme Court
Visitor information, exhibits, and courtroom lecture opportunities vary by day. [ Visitor Information ]
National Archives
See the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. Timed entry is recommended. [ Visitor Information ]
Library of Congress
The Jefferson Building is especially worth a visit. Timed-entry passes may be required. [ Plan Your Visit ]
National Museum of African American History and Culture
One of Washington’s most popular museums. Check ahead for timed-entry requirements.
National Portrait Gallery
A favorite for portraits of presidents, artists, and other notable Americans.

Attractions Requiring Advance Planning

Some of the most popular attractions may require timed-entry passes or advance reservations. Check ahead before leaving the hotel.

National Museum of African American History and Culture
National Air and Space Museum
Library of Congress
Washington Monument
National Zoo
U.S. Capitol tours
White House tours

Near the Hotel

These nearby options are good choices for a lighter sightseeing day or for anyone who prefers to stay close to the hotel.

Embassy Row – about a 6-minute walk
The Phillips Collection – about a 6-minute walk
Dupont Circle – about a 9-minute walk
National Zoo – about an 18-minute walk

Money-Saving Tips

Use Metro instead of taxis when practical.
Consider a SmarTrip card for easy fare payment. Credit cards are also accepted.
Look for food trucks, museum cafés, and casual neighborhood restaurants.
Group attractions by area to reduce travel time and cost.
Reserve timed-entry passes as early as possible for popular free sites.

Ideas Beyond the Monuments

Self-guided neighborhood walks in Georgetown or Capitol Hill
Eastern Market on weekends
Rock Creek Park for walking, biking, or relaxing outdoors
Optional bus, trolley, dinner cruise, and specialty museum experiences for those who want paid activities

Safety and Practical Advice

Travel during daylight when possible.
Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Carry identification and only the essentials you need for the day.
When in doubt, travel with a companion.