Washington, D.C.

The District of Columbia is the capital city of the United States. As of the 2020 census, the resident population was 689,545. Because D.C. has no voting representation in Congress, its statehood is contested, but with nearly 700,000 people it is larger than Wyoming. Including daily commuters from Maryland and Virginia, the daytime population swells well above one million. The broader Washington metropolitan area (the DC metro plus suburbs) is about 6.3 million (2023 estimate), making it the nation’s 6th or 7th largest metro region.

Washington is richly diverse. According to the 2020 Census, approximately 41.4% of residents identify as Black/African American, 39.6% as White (37.9% non-Hispanic White), 11.3% as Hispanic or Latino, and 4.9% as Asian. (Smaller numbers of Native American, Pacific Islanders and multiracial individuals complete the picture.) Historically, D.C. had a Black majority (reaching 70% by 1970), but demographic shifts since 2000 have increased the White and Hispanic populations. The result today is one of the most balanced racial mixes of any American city. The median age is relatively young (around 34 years) because of the influx of young professionals and students, but families and older residents remain significant.

D.C. has a huge economy (GDP ~$176.5 billion in 2023). By per-capita measures it ranks among the very top of U.S. cities. Much of this wealth comes from the federal government: 25% of city jobs are federal, and thousands more work for government contractors, think tanks, law firms, and NGOs. If one counts the region, it is the nation’s eighth-largest metro economy.

Median household income is high – around $92,000 (2019 figure) – though citywide incomes vary greatly (some affluent neighborhoods vs. lower-income areas). The poverty rate is lower than many large cities. Sectors: In addition to government, key industries include legal services (many big law firms are based here), international finance, education (numerous universities), healthcare, and tourism. Indeed, tourism is the city’s second-largest industry. In 2019, about 24.6 million visitors (including 1.8 million foreigners) came to D.C., spending $8.15 billion. This tourist spending supports hotels, restaurants, tours, and entertainment businesses across the city.

Washington, D.C. is on the east coast of the United States, geographically in the Mid-Atlantic. It is situated on the north bank of the Potomac River, bordering Virginia to the southwest and surrounded by Maryland on other sides. The city is a federal district (District of Columbia), not part of any state. It is roughly 40 miles from the Atlantic Ocean (via the Chesapeake Bay) and sits about 15 miles south of Baltimore, MD, forming a large combined metro area with it.

The broader region is the Piedmont Plateau rolling into the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Terrain in the city itself is relatively flat (especially around the National Mall and downtown), with elevations generally between 30 and 400 feet. To the northwest, the land rises into forested hills (e.g. Rock Creek Park). Cherry Hill (home to top racetracks) is one of the higher natural points (~425 ft). The climate is humid subtropical: hot, humid summers and cool winters (average highs 87°F in July, 43°F in January). Snow falls several times a year (often shutting the city until cleared). Spring and fall are mild and windy (spring cherry blossoms are world-famous).

Apart from the Potomac, the city has several creeks and parks. Rock Creek runs through a large urban forest park in Northwest D.C. The Anacostia River divides northeast and southeast quadrants. In summer, the tree canopy in older neighborhoods provides shade from the sun. Overall, despite being a dense city, greenspace covers a surprisingly large fraction (about 22% of the district is parks or natural areas).

Washington, D.C. has a layered history from colonial times to the present. Pre-1790s: The area was originally inhabited by Algonquian-speaking tribes (Piscataway, Nacotchtank) when the English colonized Virginia and Maryland in the 17th century. It remained largely rural and sparsely settled through the 18th century.

The U.S. Constitution called for a federal district; in 1790 Congress approved the location along the Potomac. President George Washington chose the site (between the existing settlements of Georgetown and Alexandria, and part of Maryland and Virginia). French engineer Pierre L’Enfant laid out the city’s grand plan in 1791. The government officially moved there in 1800. Washington himself helped design some early layouts, including the National Mall and Capitol Hill.

D.C. grew slowly; it had no railroad until after 1830 and no banking center. Key early landmarks date to this period: the Capitol was completed in the early 1800s, the President’s House (White House) was built in 1800, and Georgetown became a shipping port. The city was burned by the British in 1814 (War of 1812) but rebuilt. By 1871, Congress merged the city’s separate city government and the wider District into one unified government (today’s single municipality). By late 19th century, monuments like the Washington Monument (erected 1848–1884) began to appear.

The Lincoln Memorial (1922–22) and other national shrines were built on the Mall. The city expanded after 1940, with suburbs in Maryland/Virginia growing more rapidly than the federal core. African-Americans, many migrating from the South, became a large demographic portion by the 20th century’s mid-decade; D.C. was often called “Chocolate City” for being majority Black. In 1973, D.C. gained home rule with an elected mayor and council (before that, Congress ran the city). Today, nearly every building of national significance is in Washington: the White House, Capitol, Supreme Court, and all the executive departments are here. The city also grew as an international center: the World Bank, IMF, OAS headquarters, and 177 embassies are located in town.

Washington, D.C. is a cosmopolitan and politically vibrant city, yet it retains neighborhood coziness. Local Character: English is the universal language, but you will hear many tongues – Spanish widely, plus languages from every corner of the globe (reflecting the diplomatic community and immigration). The cultural influences are eclectic: you will find gospel choirs, jazz clubs, Ethiopian eateries, and ultra-modern museums all in one city. Politically, D.C. is progressive and diverse, as evidenced by its “blue” voting patterns and community activism. It is sometimes described as a city of “suburbanized sophistication” where every neighborhood has a distinct identity (e.g. Georgetown’s colonial charm, Chinatown’s muraled walls, the hip cafes of Columbia Heights, the rowhouses of Shaw).

D.C.’s calendar is packed with events. Each spring it celebrates Cherry Blossom Festival around the Tidal Basin, drawing locals and tourists to see thousands of blossoming Yoshino cherry trees. Independence Day on the Mall is nationally famous for fireworks over the monuments. There are also cultural festivals (Smithsonian Folklife Festival), art and music events (DC Jazz Festival, H Street Festival), and international celebrations (Mexico Independence Day parade, etc.). Sports matter too: D.C. cheers for the Nationals (MLB), Redskins/Football Team (NFL), Wizards (NBA), and Capitals (NHL); game days fill certain neighborhoods (like Navy Yard for baseball).

Parts of D.C. are highly formal and ceremonial (e.g. the Mall, federal buildings, Georgetown’s upscale shops). In those areas people may walk quickly, talk business, and dress smartly. However, just a few blocks away in mixed neighborhoods, the vibe can be relaxed and artsy. It’s common to see suited consultants and skateboarders on the same street. There is always an undercurrent of civic purpose – perhaps a result of being the nation’s capital – but casualness is not absent: you may spot t-shirts bearing witty political slogans, or outdoor yoga sessions on the waterfront. The rhythm of life can be both busily professional in the daytime (with the hum of government work) and surprisingly pedestrian-friendly by night (lowkey bars, food trucks, night markets). Above all, D.C. has an aura of history and gravitas – every direction offers a view of a famous memorial or stately building. But it also embraces spontaneity, from pop-up jazz on the National Mall to farmers markets in Anacostia. The result is a city that feels globally significant, yet surprisingly intimate at the same time.

Washington, D.C. is packed with world-class sights. Major attractions include:

• National Mall and Monuments: This green, linear park is the heart of D.C. Walking along it, one can visit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and others. The view up the Mall from the Lincoln Memorial towards the Capitol (with the Reflecting Pool) is an iconic American panorama. Nearly all are free to visit. By day or night, these outdoor monuments (often lit up after dark) dominate the experience of the city.

• Smithsonian Museums: The Mall is flanked by a constellation of Smithsonian Institution museums. Highlights include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of American History. Each is free of charge. Additional Smithsonian sites include the National Portrait Gallery, Hirshhorn (modern art), and the National Zoo (on Connecticut Avenue). Together they make D.C. the most museum-rich city in the U.S.

• Capitol Hill: Tours of the U.S. Capitol Building (the seat of Congress) are available via advance reservation, including visits to the Rotunda, Statuary Hall, and galleries. Nearby is the Library of Congress (the main reading room is stunning) and the Supreme Court (visitable from public galleries). These are the actual center of American legislative power.

• The White House: The executive mansion is an absolute must-see from the outside. Public tours inside are possible but require months of advance planning through a Member of Congress. However, the White House Visitor Center (just north of the Ellipse) offers an excellent exhibition about the history of the presidency.

• Georgetown: This historic neighborhood (est. 1751, predating the federal city) is a short walk from downtown. It features cobblestone streets, 18th/19th-century architecture, upscale boutiques on M Street, and the scenic C&O Canal towpath. Georgetown University adds youthful energy. The waterfront piers offer dining and a view up the Potomac.

• U Street Corridor: Once known as “Black Broadway,” this neighborhood is now a lively nightlife and dining district. It is home to the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl and the Lincoln Theatre. Over the decades it has shifted but still retains jazz heritage (e.g., the Howard Theatre nearby and murals of Billie Holiday).

• Cultural Institutions: Besides the Smithsonians, there are unique spots like the International Spy Museum, Newseum (now closed), and the National Cathedral (8th largest in the world, though technically Episcopal not part of tourist passes). Kennedy Center is the premier performing arts venue (with free daily concerts on the terrace). The city also has numerous monumental churches, vibrant theaters (Arena Stage, Shakespeare Theatre), and seasonal outdoor concerts.

• Parks and Views: Overlooks like the Washington Monument (open-air elevator to top) and the Capitol Dome (tours avail) give 360° city views. Rock Creek Park offers hiking and horse trails. The Tidal Basin near the Jefferson Memorial is famed for its cherry blossoms in spring. These “green lungs” of the city provide respite from urban bustle.

For visitors, the National Mall area is usually top priority for a first visit. Other neighborhoods (Chinatown, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan) each have their own draws of dining and nightlife if time permits. Overall, any trip to Washington, D.C. means walking a lot: the city is designed for pedestrians (especially around the Mall) and the Metro rail covers much of the urban area.

Washington, D.C. is well-connected. It is served by three major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) – just across the Potomac in Virginia, with many domestic flights (especially USAir); Washington Dulles International (IAD) – in Virginia’s suburbs, with extensive domestic/international service; and Baltimore–Washington International (BWI) – 30 miles northeast, served by many airlines (including Southwest). From any of these airports, one can take shuttle trains or buses into the city core (e.g. Metro from Reagan, Amtrak/Marc from BWI, and the Silver Line Metro extension from Dulles). Washington is also on the Amtrak Northeast Corridor (trains from New York, Philadelphia, etc., arrive at Union Station), and on the VRE/MARC commuter rail networks. Interstate highways (I-95, I-495 beltway, I-66, etc.) give access to the wider Virginia and Maryland suburbs. For those driving, note that certain parkways (Rock Creek, George Washington) are car-only (no trucks).

Once in D.C., the Washington Metro subway is the mainstay of transit (six color-coded lines serving 91 stations). It runs roughly 5am-midnight (later on weekends). A Metrocard-based fare system applies. The Metro is clean and efficient, whisking riders downtown or into neighborhoods. DC also has extensive Metrobus and DC Circulator bus routes (the Circulator fares are flat and low-cost). Tourists often ride the Circulator on the Mall loop or from Georgetown to the Mall (it’s easy to understand). Taxis, ride-shares (Uber/Lyft), and pedicabs are plentiful in tourist areas. Biking is popular too – many streets have bike lanes and Capital Bikeshare stations. Downtown DC is very walkable (most monuments are contiguous).

The currency is USD. Standard American etiquette applies: queue for service, tip ~15–20% at restaurants and rideshares. Dress is comfortable-casual; suits and ties are common only in government/politics settings, but outdoor-coat or umbrella may be needed in winter. D.C. is generally safe in central tourist areas; major sites are well-policed. However, like any city, travelers should be cautious late at night in some neighborhoods. Keep an eye on belongings in crowded Metro cars. Traffic can be heavy (e.g. Pennsylvania Ave at rush hour), so allow extra time. Most importantly, remember that Washington is a working city – road closures can happen for parades or security events. Always check ahead for any planned events that might block streets.

Finally, Washington’s local norms: do not photograph inside most museums (only exteriors). On Metro escalators, stand on the right side. When walking through crowds at memorials, keep moving (it is customary not to block the view). And be respectful at solemn sites (e.g. Capitol Rotunda, war memorials). In essence, Washington travel is guided by a blend of formality (it is a capital after all) and friendliness (locals often give directions readily). With its pedestrian-friendly downtown, plentiful public transit, and broad sidewalks, getting around is straightforward once you’re in the city.