Fun Things To Do In Washington DC: 6+ Things You Cannot Miss Here (Including Free Attractions)

Washington, DC, the capital of the USA, is experiencing a massive boost in tourism these days. 2023 has been a remarkable year, with the number of footfall reaching 25.95 million. The number is not just up from 2022 by 17%, rather, it is an improvement from the visitors in 2019. 

No wonder the things to do in washington DC have an important role to play in the increased tourism. 

The spike in tourism has further yielded a positive impact on the local economy. The number of 1.95 million international visitors in 2023 has been especially beneficial, considering they stay here longer and spend more than domestic visitors. 

This is a major milestone for Washington, DC. Put simply, we are seeing the results of our increased marketing and sales efforts thanks to the tourism recovery district legislation, and the city is benefitting from increased tourism. There is still work to do, however, since international travel hasn’t fully recovered. The additional funding allows us to continue to entice international visitors who stay longer and spend more.

Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO, DDC

So, do you also want to be a part of the bustling tourism scenario in the US capital? Let’s check out the things to do in Washington DC. I have also included some free activities to make your travel itinerary more pocket-friendly. 

Fun Things To Do In Washington DC | Including The Fun Things You Can Enjoy Here

The best time to visit Washington, DC, is during the spring season. This is the season when you will find cherry blossoms in full bloom. Further, the spring months record an average temperature of 5-24 degrees Celsius. 

You can even plan a visit and explore the best things to do in Washington DC during the fall season. The fall months of September to November also record moderate temperatures ranging between 5-30 degrees Celsius. 

Irrespective of the season, if you want to visit Washington, DC, you can try the following activities. 

1. Visiting The White House And The Washington Monument

White House And The Washington Monument are two most important landmarks of Washington DC and the entire USA.

You can take an elevator to the top of the Washington Tower and explore a 360-degree view of the surroundings.

On the other hand, the White House, the official residence of the US President, has been standing proud in Washington DC for two hundred years as the symbol of American life and people. 

2. Visiting The Lincoln Memorial

Address: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington

Contact No: +1 202-426-6841

Are you traveling to Washington, DC, on a budget? You must visit the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. It is free and an ideal location for history buffs or people who want to know about Lincoln.

Read here the famous speeches of Lincoln, including the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address. Moreover,  the 38 Doric columns and other architectural features of the Memorial will grab your attention instantly.

When Lincoln Passed away, the 36 Doric columns of the Memorial used to stand for 36 states of the USA. 

3. Sightseeing At The National Mall 

Contact Number: +1 202-426-6841

A visit to the grassy expanse of The National Mall is one of the most exciting and fun things to do at The National Mall. If you want to take an end-to-end walk on this grassy expanse, you have to walk for 2.5 miles.

As you take a walk through the National Mall, you will find many important monuments of the USA. You must especially stop by the World War II Memorial and Washington Monument.

Moreover, the National Mall is one of the most popular places to visit in Washington, DC to visit with your family. 

4. Plan A Visit To Vietnam Veterans And Korean War Veterans Memorials

Address:  900 Ohio Dr. SW, Washington

Contact Number: +1 202-426-6841

Though not a fun visit, the Vietnam Veterans And Korean War Veterans Memorials are one of the best places to see in Washington, DC. “The Memorial” or “The Wall” is a popular place for dark tourism in the USA.

Today, when you visit the memorial, you will find the names of over 58000 Americans emblazoned on it. All of them lost their lives in the Vietnam War. You will also find metal sculptures of soldiers in action. 

Further, the Korean War Veterans Memorials pay tribute to 1.5 million Americans who were impacted by the “Forgotten War.” 

Tour And Travel Note:

The Korean War Memorial does not have adequate signage. So, if you already don’t know about the Korean War or for a young traveler, it may be difficult to grasp the significance fully.

Address: Sixth Street And Constitution Avenue Northwest 

If you are looking for free things to do in Washington DC, you must consider a visit to the National Gallery of Art. And all the Da Vinci Code fans, this is the museum where you will find the only oil painting of Leonardo Da Vinci on a permanent display in the USA.

Further, the West Building houses some of the older works of the museum. You will find here works of the likes of Claude Monet and Sandro Botticelli. So, the happening museum in the heart of America assembles the best of Europe art scenario. 

6. Catch A Performance At The John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts 

Address: 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC

Contact No: +1 800-444-1324

The John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts is home to the National Symphony Orchestra. Throughout the year, you will find many performances, musicals and other shows taking place at the John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts. 

Even if you don’t want to spend on the tickets (which usually come at a higher price), you can watch the free performances on the Millennium Stage. 

Furthermore, don’t forget to explore the “Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy” here. It has been there at the John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts since 2022, and it ensures an immersive experience. 

7. Spend Some Moments Of Introspection At Washington National Cathedral

Address: 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington

Contact Number: +1 202-537-6200

The Washington National Cathedral is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world. The construction of this massive church started in 1907 and was completed in 1990. The cathedral is so huge that you will need at least 2 hours to explore it.

Furthermore, the gothic architecture will grab your attention instantly. Also, as you step inside the church, you will find intricate works of stained glass. 

Moreover, the surrounding garden is a nice place to take a stroll and spend your leisure. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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10+ Useful Malayalam Words To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala | Kerala Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 11, 2021

If you are planning a vacation with your family in the monsoons, there can’t be a better place than Kerala. It is one of the best tourist attraction centers all over the world.   Known as God’s own country, Kerala has several picturesque sites that are perfect backdrops for selfies. No traveler will go to this place and fail to get a selfie for himself. Add to that monsoon rain, and you are sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A few hours of rain give way to soft sunshine with the temperature never crossing the 30 degrees Celsius mark. Therefore you can be sure of enjoying the beauty of nature when you choose to visit Kerala.   When traveling to Kerala for vacation, booking a tour package is not enough for smooth sailing. You have to do a lot of research to find what will work best for you.   In Kerala, many locals are not well-versed in English and Hindi, which often results in communication problems. You must learn a few words in the regional language – Malayalam. You can get a reliable online tutor to help you go through this training session.  After all, it’s all about doing as the locals do. Here’s a list of few Malayalam words every tourist must know when traveling to Kerala. These tips will make sure that you have a comfortable stay in Kerala.   10 Useful Malayalam Words To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala Here is the list of 10 famous Malayalam words and phrases you can learn before going to Kerala. 1. Namaskaram One of the foremost words to learn in any language is the word used to greet others. In Malayalam, you say “namaskaram” whenever you meet someone. It means “hello” in the Kerala language.   Namaskaram should be at the top of your list of Kerala language words because you will use it whenever you encounter someone. It will help to establish a sense of familiarity. 2. Sukhamaano: Malayalam Words To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala It is also crucial to know the meaning of this word while traveling to Kerala. “Sukhamaano?” is Malayalam for “how are you?” So, to know how someone is doing, say Sukhamaano?   When asked the same by someone, reply with “enikku sukhamaanu,” which means “I’m fine.” It is good to learn these basic terms so that you can have a good time interacting with the locals.  3. Dayavu Cheythu or Dayavayi “Dayavu cheythu” or “dayavayi” means “please” in English. It’s an important word to know as you may have to use it often when traveling. You will use it when you want to excuse yourself or remain cautious while dealing with other people.  4. Nanni “Nanni,” pronounced as nan-n穩, is Malayalam of “thank you”. It’s a useful word to have in your vocabulary as you may often need help or assistance from locals during the trip.   You can also use it to show gratitude after you receive a gesture from the local people. 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This word will come in handy when you are facing such a situation.    To request them to use their phone, say “Njaan Ningalude Phone Upayogichotte,” which means “Can I use your phone?” You will be able to get the assistance that you deserve within a short period. The secret is knowing how to use some of these Malayalam phrases for travel. 8. Pinneedu Kaananam Thank the locals for their help and bid them goodbye by saying “pinneedu kaananam.” It is a word that you will use when exiting a particular destination.   It shows that you are thankful for your encounter with the locals. Use this phrase when bidding farewell to the locals of Kerala.  9. Engene Enikku _________ Etham? To find your way when you are lost, just ask “engene enikku _________ etham?” filling in space where you want to go, hotel, and restaurant, bus or railway station. It is Malayalam of “how do I get to _____?”  It is one of the most important terminologies especially if you are strange in the city. It will help you to get back to your destination within no time.  10. Ithinu Enthu Vila? “Ithinu enthu vila?” is a useful phrase when shopping for local goodies. It will help you know the price of commodities. It is Malayalam for “how much is this?”  Learning this phrase as one of the best Malayalam words will create a sense of familiarity. Further, you can bargain for every buy and strike a good deal. Cute Malayam Words To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala Learning this phrase as one of the best Malayalam words will create a sense of familiarity. Further, you can bargain for every buy and strike a good deal.  Cute Malayam Words To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala  So, you have learned the basics. Now, you can try some really cute Malayam words to learn before traveling to Kerala.  11. Valare Upakaram Valare Upakaram, one of the easiest Malayalam new words to learn, means “Thanks a Lot.” So, by uttering this phrase, you express your gratitude, which is important with someone helping you in a new land. 12. Suprabhaatham Suprabhaatham is very similar to Suprabhaat, which means Good Morning in Malayam. It’s a must-learn phrase, as you cannot avoid uttering this when you meet someone at the beginning of your day. Maintain positive body language and a happy expression when greeting someone, Suprabhaatham.  13. Shubha Raathri Shubha Raathri is an easy Malayam phrase to bid someone “Good Night.” You can remember this phrase to create an impression on your local guide or tour operator as you end your activities for the day.  Further, Shubha Raathri is similar to “Shubh Ratri” in Hindi. However, there is a difference in the diction, and you must try to adapt it from videos or tutorials.  14. Sahaayikkoo Sahaayikkoo should be on your list of easy Malayam words to learn because it means help. As a traveler, you will need assistance in many matters in a new city. Further, this word is easy to pronounce and similar to its Hindi counterpart, “Sahaayta.” 15. Kandathil Santhosham Kandathil Santhosham is one of the most famous Malayalam phrases meaning “Glad to Meet You.” This is a useful phrase as you will make new acquaintances and friends at the new place. Uttering this phrase will bring a smile to their lips.  Trust me! This phrase is a great conversation starter; you can even use it for formal meetings.  Malayalam Words To Learn: Taking Care Of Your Communication In addition to these useful Malayam words, you must know the directions and initial numbers in Malayalam.  Knowing Kerala essential words and phrases can help you communicate with locals, and understanding what they say can prove extremely useful during travel.   The Malayam words to learn will take care of communication. So, book a  Kerala tour package for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Whether in Delhi, Mumbai, or Ahmedabad, you can easily find several reputable tour operators who can help you with the travel package. Did You Know? The traveling meaning in Malayalam is Yaathra Cheyyunnu. Some other Malayalam names for tour are:1. Yatra2. Pariyatanam3. Deshasancharam4. Sancharam You will discover you will have an easy time interacting with these locals.  You can employ the services of an online tutor to get more insights into Malayalam words to learn.   How To Improve Your Vocabulary Of Malayalam Basic Words | A Tour And Travel Note Now, you have learned a few Malayalam phrases that will help you during a trip to Kerala. However, if you want to learn more Kerala language words, you can try the following practices. Read Books And Newspapers The first step toward increasing the Malayalam words list is reading Malayalam books and newspapers. You can even read Malayalam travel blogs online to learn famous Malayalam words and indulge in the pleasure of traveling at the same time. Interact With Native Malayalam Speakers  Conversing with native Malayalam speakers is the best way to learn Malayalam language phrases. It’s great if you have friends or family members speaking the language. Otherwise, you can join in-person or virtual language exchange groups. You will find many beginners and native speakers there helping you to learn basic Malayalam words.   Use Applications Teaching Malayalam Words For Beginners You can install apps like Ling Learn Malayalam Language or Learn Malayalam Language to learn basic Malayalam sentences.  These apps have fun activities and assignments to learn common Malayalam phrases. Further, by using these apps, you can improve your speaking power, vocabulary, grammar, and listening skills. You can even use the Shabdkosh app available on Google Play and check out Malayalam words to learn in the English Malayalam dictionary.  Find A Tutor For Learning Malayalam Words If you want to learn good Malayalam words, you must hire a language tutor. The tutor will help you one-on-one to learn Kerala basic words with a customized plan.  You can even learn cute Malayalam words from an online tutor.  Read More : Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India Things To Do In Maryland – Free Places To Visit In Maryland The Easy Way To Travel In India Best Time To Visit New York – Know All About New York Weather

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5 Reasons to Consider Solo Travel

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 6, 2021

When one thinks of travel, one usually envisions a romantic getaway for two or perhaps a fun-filled family getaway. What most people don’t know is that solo travel can often be just as wonderful and memorable. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider jetting off to a new destination on your lonesome sometime in the near future. 1. There isn’t a need for compromise When traveling solo, there won’t be any worries about setting up an itinerary that takes other people’s preferences and interests into consideration. All that you need to think about is what you want to see, where you want to go, and what you want to do. There’s a tremendous amount of freedom in that. Be sure to check out Mr Hudson explores website for destination information, custom trip planning, and handy travel tips. 2. It’s more budget-friendly By traveling on your own, you’ll cut your travel expenses in half, at the very least. You’ll only have to book one flight ticket, you’ll be able to stay in a smaller hotel room, and you’ll only have one mouth to feed. This is great news if you’re keen to see the world but are trying to do so on a tight budget. 3. It builds confidence Traveling solo helps to build confidence no matter how old you are or how many times you’ve been abroad. By navigating your own way around and ticking off various experiences on your travel bucket list, you will instantly feel more powerful and in control of your own destiny. 4. It will teach you about yourself Have you ever wondered why those hoping to ‘find themselves’ often jet off on solo travel adventures? It’s because traveling solo is bound to teach you plenty about yourself. You’ll have plenty of chances to listen to your ‘gut’ and be alone with your thoughts. You’ll reflect on your past and contemplate your future, and you’ll probably find yourself engaging with locals and celebrating your differences and similarities. All in all, you can be sure that you’ll return from your solo journey with a lot more self-awareness than what you had when you initially departed. 5. It will teach you better self-care When at home, many people rely on their loved ones, including friends and relatives, to support them in their daily lives. Perhaps they turn to their best friend when they need a shoulder to cry on when something goes wrong in their love life, or maybe they still rely on their parents to supply them with a hot, home-cooked meal from time to time. By traveling on your own, you’ll be in a different country with nobody to rely on but yourself. This is a fantastic learning experience that will teach you just how capable you really are. From self-discovery to keeping travel costs low, there are countless reasons why solo travel is a must for everyone at least once in their lives. Now is the time to start making plans to head off somewhere new and exciting all on your own – you’ll be so glad that you did.  Read Also: A Traveler’s Guide To Lutsen The Best Tips To Travel Around The World

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How Pizza Restaurants Captured Our Hearts And Appetites

BY  Ankita Nov 30, 2023

Pizza is more than just a food, which resonates with the establishment of so many pizza restaurants around the world. It's a global sensation that has captivated the hearts and appetites of people worldwide. Its journey, from humble beginnings in Naples, Italy, to its widespread acclaim today, represents an extraordinary culinary evolution. In this comprehensive exploration, we will trace the fascinating history of how a pizza restaurant conquered our hearts and appetites. Further, we shall also examine the transformation of this delectable dish from its origins to the modern pizzerias that have made it a beloved icon. Pizza Restaurants In Melbourne Melbourne, renowned for its diverse culinary scene, has a thriving pizza culture. It caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city's pizza establishments reflect its multicultural population. Hence, it offers a variety of pizza styles influenced by Italian, American, and other international cuisines. Melburnians are particularly known for their appreciation of artisanal and gourmet pizzas, often featuring unique and high-quality toppings from local producers. Additionally, Melbourne has a significant presence of pizzerias that cater to specific dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options, making it an inclusive and accessible choice for all residents and visitors. The city also hosts various pizza festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the love for pizza and showcasing the culinary creativity of local pizzaiolos. These events allow pizza enthusiasts to explore new flavors and indulge in their favorite slices. Melbourne's love for pizza is an example of its diverse as well as inclusive food scene. Thereby offering a wide array of pizza options that go beyond traditional styles and cater to the ever-evolving tastes of its residents and tourists The Birth Of Pizza The story of pizza originates in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century when it was known as "pizza Margherita." It was a straightforward dish consisting of flatbread topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. The legend has it that it earned its name in honor of Queen Margherita of Italy, who was enchanted by this delightful amalgamation of flavors and colors. Immigration And The Spread Of Pizza In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, waves of Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, bringing their culinary traditions, including pizza, with them. Pizzaiolos (pizza makers) opened small, neighborhood pizzerias in cities like New York and Chicago, catering primarily to the growing Italian-American community. These early pizzerias served traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. These are characterized by a thin, crispy crust cooked in coal-fired ovens and sold by the slice. The Rise Of Convenience As pizza gained popularity in Australia, it underwent a transformation to meet the demands of a fast-paced society. Pizza restaurants began offering delivery services, revolutionizing the way people enjoyed pizza. The introduction of the pizza box made it even more convenient to order and transport this delicious dish. The ability to savor pizza in the comfort of one's home quickly became a cherished tradition, particularly during gatherings with family and friends. Pizza Chains And Mass Production The 1950s witnessed the emergence of the first pizza chains, such as Domino's and Pizza Hut. These chains revolutionized the pizza-making process, implementing assembly-line techniques and standardized recipes using pre-packaged ingredients. The result was consistent, affordable pizza delivered quickly to homes across the nation. This shift towards mass production played a pivotal role in cementing pizza's status as a staple of American cuisine. Variety And Innovation As pizza continued to evolve, so did its toppings. Pizzerias embraced experimentation with a diverse range of ingredients. Thus leading to the creation of a myriad of pizza styles and flavors. While the classic pepperoni and cheese combination remained a favorite, gourmet options like BBQ chicken, spinach, and feta, or prosciutto and arugula, began to grace menus. Pizza had become a canvas for culinary creativity, catering to a wide range of palates. The Advent Of The Pizzeria The concept of the pizzeria, a sit-down restaurant specializing in pizza, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. These establishments offered a more upscale dining experience, complete with a menu featuring an array of pizza options, appetizers, and desserts. Pizzerias became places where families, friends, and couples could gather for a casual yet enjoyable meal, often accompanied by a bottle of wine or a cold beer. Pizza's Global Appeal Today, pizza is not confined to the United States or Italy; it has spread to every corner of the globe. In nearly every country, you can find pizzerias offering local twists on this international favorite. In Japan, for example, you might encounter pizzas topped with unconventional ingredients like squid and mayo, while in India, a tandoori chicken pizza could tantalize your taste buds. Pizza's adaptability to local tastes and preferences has contributed to its worldwide popularity. The Role Of Social Media The rise of social media has played a substantial role in perpetuating the love affair with pizza. Instagram, in particular, has emerged as a platform for food enthusiasts. They can share their adventures in multiple pizza restaurants, showcasing mouthwatering photos of cheesy slices and perfectly charred crusts. The viral nature of these images has only served to fan the flames of pizza's popularity, cementing its status as a beloved food on a global scale. Pizza's Role In Popular Culture Beyond its culinary significance, pizza has left an indelible mark on popular culture. From iconic pizza-loving characters like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to memorable catchphrases like "Pizza, Pizza!" From the Little Caesars commercials, pizza has become a symbol of fun, indulgence, and togetherness. It often features prominently in movies, television shows, and even music, further solidifying its place in the hearts of people around the world. Conclusion Pizza restaurants have come a long way since their humble beginnings in Naples. From the streets of Italy to the bustling pizzerias of New York and the global phenomenon it is today, pizza has captured the hearts and appetites of people worldwide. Its adaptability, convenience, and sheer deliciousness have made it a timeless favorite. Moreover, it continues to bring people together! Whether it's for a casual weeknight dinner, a special celebration, or a cultural experience in a foreign land. You May Also Like:  Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try Batista Restaurant Las Vegas – Restaurant Info, Ratings & Reviews 8 Best Bachelor Party Destinations To Visit In 2021