Attractions

The White House

The official residence of the President of the United States, the White House is a key part our nation’s heritage and one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Irish architect James Hoban was awarded the design of the President’s House in 1792 after winning a blind competition that included a design submitted anonymously by Thomas Jefferson. The cornerstone was laid on October 12, 1792, making it the first federal building to be erected in Washington. Numerous alterations and additions were made to the house during the 18th century, including an extensive rebuilding campaign after the house was torched by British during the War of 1812. After the war, President Madison brought back Hoban to oversee restoration of the house.

Tours are available to the public and must be arranged through one’s Member of Congress. Tours can be booked up to six months in advance, but require no less than 21 days’ notice.

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National Geographic Museum

Explore the world and all that’s in it at the National Geographic Museum. The museum features a wide range of changing exhibitions, from interactive experiences to stunning photography exhibitions.

The museum is centrally located in downtown Washington, DC, just a few blocks from the White House. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the museum. The Museum is located at 1145 17th Street, NW. 

Open daily: 10:00 am—6:00 pm

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Daughters of the American Revolution

A philanthropic service organization, the Daughters of the American Revolution is headquartered at 1776 D Street, NW, fronting 17th Street. The building houses an extensive genealogical library, Americana collection, and museum. The museum is comprised of a collection of period rooms, sponsored by state chapters of the organization.

Each room in the museum includes an extensive collection of period furniture, textiles, and appropriate furnishings to help illustrate the historical era. Rooms include a seventeenth century council chamber, Victorian parlor, and tavern hall. Both docent lead and self guided tours are available.

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American Red Cross

Founded in 1881 by Clara Barton, the American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization dedicated to helping people in need, responding to crisis situations including natural disasters and acts of war. The historic Red Cross Headquarters building was designed by Trowbridge & Livingston in the classical revival style and was completed in 1917. Notably, the building includes a large triptych of Tiffany windows, depicting scenes related to the history of the Red Cross.

Free guided tours of the American Red Cross Headquarters at 430 17th Street, NW, are offered Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm by reservation only.

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National Academy of Sciences

Founded in 1863 to “investigate, examine, experiment, and report upon any subject of science or art” when called upon by the government, the National Academy of Sciences was created by an Act of Incorporation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Today, NAS members are selected based on contributions and accomplishments in their fields and serve as subject matter experts and “advisors to the nation.”

The National Academy of Sciences offers a series of free rotating exhibits to the public at their headquarters building at 2101 Constitution Avenue throughout the year. Exhibits focus on the relationships between the arts and sciences, engineering, and medicine. Open: Weekdays, 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

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U.S. Department of State Diplomacy Center

The United States Diplomacy Center has been conceived in order to promote better understanding of the history and importance of U.S. diplomacy. The museum will include exhibits, hands-on activities, and innovative classroom space; revealing how diplomacy has shaped our nation’s history while paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of U.S. diplomats, past and present.

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