Washington, D.C. (also known as simply Washington or D.C., and officially as the District of Columbia) is the capital city of the United States of America. It is a federal district. Guide to the best hotels and things to do in Washington, D.C. Maps, travel tips and more. Eat your way through DC with a Top Chef contestant, bounce to DC's signature beats with the Front Porch creator or trace DC's history and heroes with a local historian. We The People videos and itineraries spotlight locals who reflect the city's culture, creativity and community, helping you discover more local-friendly, travel-worthy experiences. An aerial photo of Washington, D.C. in 2007 The history of Washington, D.C., is tied to its role as the capital of the United States. The site of the District of Columbia along the Potomac River was first selected by President George Washington. The city came under attack during the War of 1812. Upon the government's return to the capital, it had to manage the reconstruction of numerous public. You don’t have to experience these in any order, but you do have to experience them all. Each activity illustrates how There’s Only One DC and many can be enjoyed for free. What’d we leave out? Does your DC Bucket List differ? Follow us on Instagram & TikTok and let us know your favorite activities in the District. Washington, DC DPR Weekly Veggie Giveaways Free produce at DPR urban gardens: Weekly through November 25 (weather permitting) At Edgewood Rooftop Farm, Lederer Gardens and Powell Communal Farm. Find out more. Welcome to Washington, DC From services to neighborhood news, DC.gov is your official and trusted source for what's happening in the District. Washington, D.C., is the capitol of the United States and a vibrant, culturally rich city that is historically, geographically, economically, and socially tied to the federal government that calls it home and the states of Maryland and Virginia that are its neighbors. Washington, D.C., officially the District of Columbia and commonly known as Washington, is the federal capital city of the United States, and its only federal district. [a] The city stands on the north-east bank of the Potomac River, across from the state of Virginia, surrounded by Maryland to its north, east, and south. Things to Do in Washington DC, District of Columbia: See Tripadvisor's 904,664 traveler reviews and photos of Washington DC tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in September. We have reviews of the best places to see in Washington DC. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.