Also known as "America's attic," for its spectacular collection of nearly 154 million artifacts, the Smithsonian Institution is one of the the world's largest museum complexes and research organizations. The administrative office of the esteemed institution is housed in a magnificent red sandstone 'castle', that also houses a visitor information area and research chambers. Within this building is also the final resting place of the Smithsonian Institution's founder, James Smithson, with his tomb being preserved in the crypt in the north entrance. Apart from the main building, the institution features as many as 17 museums and galleries within its sprawling complex that represent exhibits across the myriad fields of science, history, zoology, and art. Some of the most notable Smithsonian landmarks include the Natural History Museum and the African American Museum.
A popular outdoor destination for children, college students and nature lovers, this park lies north of Georgetown. Woodlands surround a recreation area with tennis courts, picnic tables, and a playground. A gorgeous green expanse filled with pretty tree-lined pathways, shaded areas, and lush, well-maintained gardens, it is fantastic for all kinds of visitors as they can indulge in outdoor activities, serene strolls, or picnics. Special features include a boxwood maze, and Lovers Lane, a cobblestone walkway on the western portion of the park. To explore more elaborately designed grounds and an elegant estate, visit Dumbarton Oaks next door. Admission is free.
L'assassinat de Président Abraham Lincoln ici le 14 avril 1865 a éclipsé le théâtre pour la plupart de son histoire. Ford's s'est ouvert que quatre ans avant le soir fatidique. Restauré à son apparence de 1865, Ford's est encore un lieu de spectacle. Au sous-sol, un musée de Lincoln montre des objets de l'assassinat, y compris le fusil utilisé par John Wilkes Booth lorsqu'il a tué Lincoln. Des souvenirs de la vie de Lincoln y sont aussi étalés. Des garde forestiers du National Park Service donnent des exposés tous les heures. En face du théâtre est la Maison Petersen, où Lincoln est mort. Allez au site Internet pour le programme des spectacles.
The eight-sided, 19th-century home of John Tayloe III, a wealthy contemporary of early US presidents, offers an interesting glimpse into both history and architecture. President Madison resided here after the White House was burned in the War of 1812. The Treaty of Ghent was signed in the Octagon's study at the war's end. Architectural exhibits are integrated into the fine house with its period furnishings. The building itself is a masterpiece, designed by William Thornton, the architect of the U.S. Capitol and other high points of Federal-era Washington.
Located in a secluded area, the Robinson Nature Center is an ideal recreational area for your entire family. The state-of-the-art nature center building is equipped with solar panels, planetarium, auditorium apart from other amenities.
President Abraham Lincoln lived at this charming Gothic Revival cottage, located on the grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home, for thirteen months in total during the years of 1862, 1863, and 1864. It was here that he developed the Emancipation Proclamation. The day before his assassination, Lincoln rode out to the cottage before heading back to the White House. Today, the cottage stands as a tribute to the "Great Orator". Guests can visit the cottage by purchasing a ticket for a guided tour of the grounds and building, the entrance is through Eagle Gate of the Armed Forces Retirement Home.