Kaplan City Guide: Washington, DC

Washington DC, America’s capital city, is known for it’s political history and it is it’s iconic landmarks. In a city packed with so much culture, historical significance, and popular sightseeing destinations, it's now wonder that so many students decide to study English in Washington DC. Here are a handful of our students' tips on the best things that Washington has to offer. 

Take a tour of the White House 

"It is the most important city in America as it has lots of historic places, like the White House." 

Tip provided by: 

Martha Ceicilia Parra, Colombia 

Built in 1792, the White House is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. Housing 42 presidents since it’s completion in 1800, the White House is America’s greatest historical building, and is the emblem of the United States. Unlike many of the other famous buildings in the world, the White House offers visitors private tours, which includes an insight into areas including the Blue, Red, and Green rooms, the State Dining Room, the China room, the library, and the Oval Office. Since 2015, guests are even permitted to take photos within the White House, so you can grab pictures of yourself hanging out in Obama’s home.

Visit the Washington Monument 

"I enjoyed visiting the Washington Monument."

Tip provided by: 

Abdulrahman Hassounah, Jordan 

Featured on many postcards across Washington, the Washington Monument is one of the most famous and popular monuments in America. Shaped as an obelisk, it was built to honour America’s first president, George Washington, and is the tallest obelisk stone structure in the world.

The memorial is free to visit all day and all night, but for those who want to enjoy a higher view of the city, the monument also features an observation deck, which offers visitors a panoramic view, 500 feet in the air.

See the Washington Nationals in action

"Go to a baseball game."

Tip provided by: 

Mathieu Landais, France 

While Washington is known for it’s historical monuments and landmarks, it’s also home to the Washington Nationals baseball team, who play at Washington’s National Park. I know what you’re thinking – "What if I don't know a thing about sports?" Well you don't have to be a sports fan to enjoy a day here. With reasonable ticket prices, a variety of food options, and a good group of friends, a trip to a baseball game is a great experience, and is very popular amongst our students! Grab yourself a foam finger, some cheese fries, and soak up the all American atmosphere. 

Learn something new at the Smithsonian Museum 

"There are plenty of museums to visit – particularly the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum."

Tip provided by: 

Mathieu Landais, France 

For those that are interested in flying and space, a trip to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a must visit. Home to the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world, the museum boasts a collection of aviation and space artifacts, such as the 1903 Wright Flyer and pieces of moon rock, as well as engines, uniforms, and trophies. Aside from artifacts, the museum also features an IMAX theatre, a solar telescope, and a planetarium, where visitors can enjoy the sensation of zooming through the solar system.

If space and science isn't your thing, then perhaps you should try the National Gallery of Art. Located on the National Mall, the museum boasts an impressive collection, with art ranging from paintings and sculptures, to drawings, prints, and photographs.

Grab a bite to eat at Mama Ayesha 

"For food, I recommend the restaurant Mama Ayesha."

Tip provided by: 

Umut Tutug, Turkey

If you’re looking for somewhere good to eat in Washington, Zaid recommends a restaurant called Mama Ayesha. Specialising in Middle Eastern cuisine, this Lebanese restaurant provides authentic Middle Eastern food, serving popular dishes such as falafel, tabbouleh, hummus, and mixed grills. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply want to try something new, plenty of our students recommend this restaurant.

Cross the river into Georgetown 

"You should go to Georgetown because it is near Potomac, where there are lots of bars and restaurants."

Tip provided by: 

Zaid Abusheikha, Jordan 

If you’d prefer to spend your free time eating out and drinking, Turkish student Unut recommends visiting Georgetown, where he says there are lots of bars and restaurants. Located along the Potomac River, Georgetown is a historic and fashionable town, known as the entertainment neighborhood of Washington. Want to try some of the local restaurants? Then head towards the Georgetown Waterfront, where you’ll have your pick of casual eateries and fine dining restaurants. Fancy browsing the shops? Then hit M Street, which has a great selection of shops and designer boutiques. If shopping isn’t your thing there are plenty of other things to keep you occupied, including kayaking on the Potomac River, exploring the historic canal, and visiting the Old Stone House.

Do you like the idea of studying in Washington? Here’s how you can find out more about studying English in the USA. Or maybe you have visited Washington and have some tips to add? Then come forward, we’d love to hear your comments!