What Sight Seeing Can I Do In Washington DC?

Like politics, Washington has many faces. On the surface, there is history – past and present – power and wealth, but beneath the veneer, Washington, in common with other major US cities, has its problems. Crime, unemployment, drug abuse and poverty are stark realities for many of DC's half million or so city residents.

For the visitor, though, there's more than enough to see and do in DC. And, best of all, the must-see attractions are virtually all free admission.

Here are the ones you shouldn't miss.

The White House – A special pass from the UK embassy is required. The White House is a working headquarters, so certain areas have access restrictions

Lincoln Memorial - No one leaves without being impressed

National Mall - Relax in America's premier public space


Washington is well served with three major airports, so reaching the American capital should not pose a problem. The three airports are:

• Washington Dulles International Airport situated 26 miles west of the city.
• Baltimore/Washington International Airport is less than 35 miles from downtown
• and Ronald Reagan National Airport, just three miles from the city, handles domestic, Canadian and Caribbean air traffic.