Washington, D.C. Capital of the United States of America
The District of Columbia
Washington, DC, the U.S. Capital, is a compact city on the Potomac River, bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia. It’s defined by imposing neoclassical monuments and buildings – including the iconic ones that house the federal government’s 3 branches: the Capitol, White House and Supreme Court. It's also home to iconic museums and performing-arts venues such as the Kennedy Center.
Things to do in the Nation's Capital
Click the photo at the right.
History of Washington, D. C.
Pictured is Dupont Circle
Washington, D.C. was founded on July 16, 1790. Washington, D.C. is a unique and historical place among American cities because it was completely planned for the national capital and needed to be distinct from the states. President George Washington chose the specific site along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers.
Howard University in the early days
In 1801, the District of Columbia, formerly part of Maryland and Virginia and including the existing settlements of Georgetown and Alexandria, was officially recognized as the federal district; the city initially comprised only a portion of its modern territory, as a distinct entity within the larger federal district.
Free Attractions in D. C.
Click the picture on the left for a list of free attractions.