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The monuments, monumental buildings, memorials, parks, fountains, and flowers make Washington a stunning city to look at. If you flew down the Potomac River into National Airport, you've already seen the most impressive view. Here are ten others. Don't forget your camera.
Washington Monument
It's pretty widely agreed that the best view of Washington — that doesn't come from a flying machine — comes from the top of the Washington Monument. You take the fast elevator to the top, wander from window to window to get a panoramic view, then ride down more slowly so you can take a gander at the monument's interior. The elevator runs daily 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. The monument's closed December 25.
Old Post Office Tower
Ride the elevator to the top of the Old Post Office Tower (Pennsylvania Avenue NW at 11th Street). From the observation deck, 270 feet above the street, you can see a view of downtown and beyond. Many people think this view is second only to the vista from the Washington Monument.
While you're here, take a look at the interior workings of the tower clock and bells and visit the ninth-floor exhibit room. The tower is open daily (hours vary), but because the observation deck is exposed to the elements, the tower may close in bad weather.
Arlington National Cemetery
 | When you ride the Tourmobile through Arlington National Cemetery, be sure to get off at Arlington House and walk around. One of the best panoramas of Washington is viewed from the lawn here or from Pierre L'Enfant's grave below the house. |
Washington National Cathedral
Washington's highest points above sea level are the towers of the Washington National Cathedral (Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW), so the views from those spots are among the best in the city. Unfortunately, tourists can't go all the way to the top. But the view from the Pilgrim Observation Gallery is still pretty cool. One way to partake of that view is to have tea in the gallery.
Lincoln Memorial
Take a break from reading the Gettysburg Address on the wall and gaze at the Reflecting Pool, the Mall, the World War II Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Capitol from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Then walk around to the back of Lincoln's place for a view across the Potomac River of Arlington National Cemetery and the eternal flame marking John F. Kennedy's grave. The Lincoln Memorial is always open, and the view is particularly impressive after dark.
Jefferson Memorial
One of the reasons the Jefferson Memorial (East Basin Drive SW, on southeast side of Tidal Basin) is a favorite is the marvelous view here in spring, when the cherry blossoms color the land around the Tidal Basin, and after dark year-round, when Washington's many alabaster buildings and monuments gleam in their floodlights. Especially prominent is the White House, where Jefferson once lived, and the monument to his fellow revolutionary and president, George Washington.
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