Top 12 must-see attractions in Washington

7. Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and is one of the most famous natural history museums in the world. Opened in 1910, the museum is dedicated to displaying the natural history of the earth and mankind, attracting millions of visitors every year.

The museum has more than 145 million collections, including paleontological fossils, mineral gems, animal and plant specimens, and anthropological artifacts. Famous exhibits include the famous Hope Diamond, a huge blue whale model, and amazing dinosaur fossils such as Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops.

The museum features several themed exhibition halls, such as the Geology and Minerals Hall, the Ocean Hall, the Mammal Hall, and the Human Origins Hall, which vividly introduce the Earth’s natural history and biodiversity through interactive displays and exquisite exhibits.

In addition to static displays, the museum also features an IMAX theater and butterfly conservatory, providing visitors with dynamic and immersive experiences. Educational programs and lectures further enrich the visitor experience, especially providing valuable learning opportunities for students and families.

8. Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and one of the largest libraries in the world, located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1800 to provide research services to Congress, the library has now grown into a treasure trove of global knowledge and culture.

The Library of Congress consists of three main buildings: the Thomas Jefferson Building, the John Adams Building, and the James Madison Memorial Building. The Jefferson Building is famous for its magnificent architecture and decoration, and its interior decorative arts and grand reading room attract a large number of tourists.

The library has a collection of more than 170 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, photos, recordings, and films. Famous collections include the Gutenberg Bible and the draft of the Declaration of Independence. The library also has a collection of precious documents and historical materials from all over the world, providing rich resources for researchers.