District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States. It is a planned city, designed specifically to house the federal government, and is not part of any state. Its history, beautiful architecture, and excellent cultural centers attract millions of visitors each year. Washington, D.C. is bordered by the states of Virginia and Maryland. Virtually all of D.C.'s tourists flock to the Mall — a long, beautiful stretch of parkland that comprises many of the city's monuments and museums — but the city itself is a vibrant metropolis. The Smithsonian is a can't-miss.