10 Historically Significant Sites in Washington, D.C.

There are cities filled with so much history that they might as well be walking time machines, like Boston. Other cities, like Washington D.C., certainly have history but memorialize it more than anything. In fact, the nation’s capitol has over 160 memorials. So, while Boston has the past oozing out of every brick and cobblestone, D.C. is more of a testament to days gone by. That’s not to say D.C. doesn’t have sites with historical impact. Most cities have stories to be told if you know where to look, and in the Capitol, that’s in old, iconic buildings. 

The monuments and memorials of Washington, D.C., are aplenty, and frankly, you can’t throw a rock without hitting one. Unless there’s something of particular interest, you can make it through a visit with a general idea of where to look and what to look for to spot the memorials. For a trip filled with sites that have a strong tie to historical events outside of the prominent spots (ie. the White House), it takes a slightly deeper look. 

Keep reading for ten historical sites around Washington D.C.:

Capitol Building

The magnificent dome structure of the Capitol Building makes it arguably more recognizable than the White House. Like many of the main sites in Washington, The Capitol Building is a tourist hotspot. It took decades to complete after construction began in 1793 under the direction of President George Washington. After the War of 1812 brought destruction to the building, it was restored by Charles Bulfinch, a Boston architect who makes an appearance in the novel The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. There have been a significant number of impactful moments at the Capitol Building, many of which are documented on plaques throughout the space open to tours. It’s a great opportunity to dive into American history, and we’d be remiss in ignoring the architectural beauty. Book a tour in advance if this is a priority for your next trip.

Folger Shakespeare Library

With England being Shakespeare’s home country, you’d think they’d have the largest collection of his work, but alas, no! The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington is home to the world’s largest collection of its namesake’s work, including the First Folios and a collection of books, manuscripts, and art from the Renaissance. The building itself is a national monument and became the inspiration for future public buildings and libraries. The Folger Shakespeare hosts various events, from theatre to poetry. Finally, catch a play at the Elizabethan-style Folger Theatre providing as authentic an experience as you can get to Shakespearean times.

Gadsby’s Tavern

Would you give anything to dine where Washington ate? It’s possible! Gadsby’s Tavern restaurant and adjoining museum were initially opened in 1785 and 1792. Gadsby’s was a restaurant that served many historical political figures, including George Washington himself, not to mention the Marquis de Lafayette and most, if not all, of the founding fathers. The restaurant and the museum are still open for dining. Gadsby’s is in Alexandria, just over the Potomac from Washington, D.C.

Ford’s Theatre

One of the more solemn locations on this list is Ford’s Theatre, which is known for being the location where Abraham Lincoln spent some of his last moments. The theatre is still active, with regular shows throughout the season. Tours are available telling the story of Lincoln’s assassination and the theories born out of that fatal day along with Petersen House across the street where he eventually died. There’s much to learn, see, and do, and it’s a lot to take in. Both locations have a heaviness to them, even 150 years later, but the events had such an incredible impact on the course of American history. 

Library of Congress

According to its website, the Library of Congress is “the largest library in the world with millions of books, recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps, and manuscripts in its collections.” The library was originally in the capitol building until it was destroyed by a fire when the British destroyed Washington during the War of 1812. The library’s resources were restored by Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection, which he had built over 50 years. The library that we know today opened in 1897. It is considered a national monument along with being the ''largest, costliest and safest library building in the world." A visit to this building is worth it just to admire the beauty of its design.

Old Stone House

For history lovers, it doesn’t get older than the Old Stone House. Built in 1766, the building is located in Georgetown and is the oldest foundation in DC. It’s one of the only pre-Revolutionary architectural landmarks left. The National Park Service restored it to its original look and people can visit daily for a taste of pre-Revolutionary life.

Smithsonian Castle

Not to be confused with any of the museums, the Smithsonian Castle is truly remarkable. This architectural gem on the National Mall serves as the visitor’s center and is the Smithsonian’s first and oldest building. The Castle is surrounded by breathtaking gardens and before renovations began, there was a restaurant as well (which they will hopefully bring back). There’s not much to do here, but it’s worth a quick visit. Note: The Castle has been closed since early 2013 for its first renovation in over 50 years. It’s expected to be closed for a few years, but the gardens are still open, and it’s worth a glimpse from the other side of the Mall. 

Tudor Place

A gem located in the heart of Georgetown, Tudor Place “preserves the stories of six generations of descendants of Martha Washington and the enslaved and free people who lived and worked at this landmark for nearly two centuries.” Did you know that George Washington didn’t have any children of his own? He took in those of Martha Washington, one of whom had a daughter who married the original owner of Tudor Place. It’s one of the oldest mansions in an urban area and stayed in the family for six generations before being donated to a foundation to preserve the property’s history and stories. The mansion is an extraordinary design that’s well worth a tour, along with the 5.5 acres of surrounding gardens. 

Washington Monument

While this list is meant to stay away from monuments, it felt like a disservice to leave off the Washington Monument. An anchor of the National Mall, it’s one of the three most recognized images of the US capitol. As the first president, George Washington represents every American ideal and dream. He embodies patriotism, service, and strength for American ideology. Eliza Schuyler Hamilton, Dolly Madison, and Louisa Adams organized groups of women to lead fundraising efforts to build the monument. Eliza made it her mission after her husband’s death to preserve Alexander’s and Washington’s legacies – one of her many initiatives. The monument was designed after an Egyptian-style obelisk and was the tallest building in the world once completed – something that took decades due to funding issues and political shifts. 

The White House

George Washington selected the site for The White House, but it took nearly a decade to finish. John and Abigail Adams were the first presidential couple to inhabit the historical home. It has seen its fair share of war and destruction thanks to the War of 1812 but has stood strong since. Besides working as the home of US presidents, the White House has many historical items that make it a true time capsule. The White House is a great photo opportunity...from the outside. To receive a tour of the building, you must go through your member of Congress, complete lots of paperwork, and do a screening for US citizens. Non-US citizens have a bit more red tape to go through. If you can live without a tour of the White House, grab a photo of it in the background and call it a day.