With so much to see and do, it\’s important to have a plan when visiting the nation's capital. A vacation can be built on any mixture of art, architecture, politics or history. An outstanding public transportation network will take you within a few minutes walk of destinations, and good eats can be found on nearly every street. And, better yet almost all of the attractions in Washington DC are free to the general public.

National Mall

The surprising size of the U.S. Capitol and the quiet finesse of the Lincoln Memorial bookend one of the most noted public green spaces globally. The National Mall is ringed by administration buildings, Smithsonian galleries and the National Archives, which displays the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution. No trip to Washington is completed without seeing the memorials to the fallen heroes of World War II and Vietnam. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial embodies the strength shown by the civil rights leader.

White House

Every step through the Executive Mansion will be both familiar and new, as TV images can only relay most of what is on show vis art, furniture and decorations. From the East Colonnade to the State Dining Room, a visit to the White House merits the top spot on a catalogue of things to do in Washington DC. Tours must be prepared ahead through an affiliate of Congress.

Arlington National Cemetery

Rolling acres of white markers remind visitors of the sacrifices manufactured by great US people. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns happens with solemnity, and the Kennedy graves supply a place a quiet reflection and a breathtaking view of the Mall.

National Zoo

Bears, elephants, apes and a pride of lions are on view at this Smithsonian park, and folks get to experience first hand the environmental requirements of animals by walking through a rain forest and bird refuge. Of course, the famed giant pandas are the zoo\’s featured guest. Folks will find this one of the most family-friendly things to do in Washington DC.

National Cathedral

While not one of the more discussed attractions in Washington DC, the Cathedral has hosted countless state funerals, non secular dignitaries and first events under its electrifying limestone towers. Visitors are asked to make a contribution to the Cathedral, especially crucial given the structural damage sustained during a 2011 tremor. Worship services are open to the general public.

International Spy Museum

One of the latest, privately operated museums is this homage to those who wish not to be known. The Spy Museum follows espionage from its raw beginnings to the highly advanced technology used during the War on Terror. GPS-aided tasks also allow newbies to test their spying capabilities on the streets of DC. Paid admission is necessary.

Ford\’s Theater

Just days following the surrender of the South to finish the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln was killed while attending a play just a few blocks from the White House. A museum devoted to the sad event is located in the lower level, and the Petersen House across the street where Lincoln died illustrates how Washingtonians lived during that time. While sightseers can visit for free , patrons wanting to attend a performance should be expecting to pay for tickets.