7. The Georgetown Waterfront

A captivating haven for outdoor dining, offering a panoramic view of the Potomac River and a perfect spot for indulging in people-watching. Renowned as the ultimate rendezvous spot for friends and romantic dates, this location exudes popularity.

Strolling along the waterfront pathway is a delight, enhanced by ongoing enhancements that seem to unveil new surprises with each visit. The addition of a garden adorned with diverse flower varieties stands testament to these improvements.  The waterfront walkway is bedecked with charming flower baskets that add an extra touch of beauty.  Further along, a captivating art sculpture display awaits at the Sequoias, promising an enriching visual experience.

Adjacent to this enchanting location is the illustrious Kennedy Center, serving as an exquisite complement to the ambiance.

Boats gracefully moored in front of the walkway offer a unique spectacle, allowing observers to partake in the various activities taking place. Additionally, the sight of youthful and alluring individuals sauntering along the waterfront adds an element of fascination.

A refreshing water feature provides respite from the summer heat, inviting visitors to cool down.

As night descends, the illuminated Washington Square comes alive with a captivating display of colors dancing upon the water's surface.

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Georgetown Waterfront is a picturesque area located along the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. It is part of the historic Georgetown neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. The Georgetown Waterfront has undergone significant development and transformation over the years, becoming a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

The waterfront offers stunning views of the Potomac River and the Virginia skyline on the opposite bank. This makes it a popular spot for sightseeing, taking leisurely walks, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The waterfront is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries, many of which offer outdoor seating with river views. 

6. The National Building Museum

Located in Washington, DC, The National Building Museum is dedicated to exploring the history and impact of architecture, engineering, design, and construction in the United States. The museum is housed in the historic Pension Building, which was constructed in 1887 to serve as the offices of the United States Pension Bureau.

Visitors to the museum can enjoy a diverse range of exhibits and programs that showcase various aspects of the built environment, including building design and construction, the history of architecture and engineering, urban planning, and sustainability. The museum also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities.

One of the most impressive features of the museum is its Grand Hall, a magnificent space that spans over 15,000 square feet and rises to a height of 159 feet, supported by towering columns. The Grand Hall frequently serves as a venue for special exhibitions and events, and it's a popular spot for visitors to take photos.

During my visit to the museum, I particularly enjoyed the Architecture Photography exhibit, which featured stunning images of buildings and structures from around the world.

5. US National Arboretum

The U.S. National Arboretum is a vast botanical garden and research facility located in Washington, D.C. It is operated by the United States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service. The arboretum spans over 400 acres and serves as a living museum with an impressive collection of plants, trees, and shrubs from around the world.

Established in 1927, the National Arboretum's mission is to conduct research, conservation efforts, and education related to plant life. Its extensive grounds are divided into various sections, each showcasing different plant collections and landscapes. Some of the notable features of the U.S. National Arboretum include:

National Capitol Columns: One of the most iconic features of the arboretum is the "National Capitol Columns." These Corinthian columns were originally part of the U.S. Capitol's East Portico but were replaced during a renovation in the 1950s. They now stand majestically in a beautiful setting, symbolizing the historical connection between nature and democracy.

Asian Collections: The arboretum houses a splendid collection of Asian plants and gardens, including a Japanese Garden, a Chinese Garden, and the Gotelli Conifer Collection.

National Bonsai & Penjing Museum: This museum showcases an outstanding collection of bonsai and penjing trees, some of which are centuries old. Bonsai is a traditional Japanese art of cultivating miniature trees, and penjing is the Chinese equivalent.

Azalea Collection: In the spring, the arboretum's Azalea Collection bursts into a riot of colors, attracting many visitors and photographers.

National Herb Garden: This section features various herbs, both culinary and medicinal, and serves as an educational resource for visitors.

Dogwood Collection: Home to over 80 species and hybrids of flowering dogwood, this collection offers a delightful display during the flowering season.

Fern Valley: A serene area featuring a diverse range of ferns and their allies, showcasing the beauty of these ancient plants.

In addition to these highlights, the National Arboretum also has a vast array of plant collections, including maples, hollies, magnolias, conifers, and more. It serves as an important research center, studying plant genetics, propagation techniques, and conservation efforts.

The U.S. National Arboretum is open to the public, and visitors can explore the grounds on foot, by car, or on guided tours. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the diverse plant life and horticulture. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a scenic spot to enjoy, the U.S. National Arboretum is a wonderful destination to explore in Washington, D.C.

Here are some photos from various time of my visits. 

Capital Columns*

National Bonsai & Penjing Museum

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*The decoration in front of the columns reads (see photo): These 22 Corinthian sandstone columns were among 24 that were part of the east central portico of the United States Capitol. Architect Charles Bulfinch oversaw construction of the portico using a design handed down by his predecessors. William Thornton and Benjamin Henry Latrobe. Completed in 1826, these columns provided the backdrop for presidential inaugurations from 1829 (Andrew Jackson) to 1957 (Dwight Eisenhower), and were the site of many speeches, protests and rallies. In 1958 the columns were dismantled to make way for the east front extension of the Capitol, which is adorned with marble reproductions. Restoration of the columns was made possible through the efforts of Ethel Shields Garrett and support from the Friends of the National Arboretum. Garden designer Russell Page selected and designed the new site which was completed and dedicated in 1990.

4. Mansion on O Street & O Museum

Before visiting the O Street Museum, I learned that it is a unique and creative museum that showcases the diversity and beauty of the artistic process. It is located in Washington, D.C., in five interconnected townhouses that have over 100 rooms and 32 secret doors. The museum has an ever-changing collection of architecture, paintings, photographs, sculpture, books, artifacts, memorabilia, and music from all over the world.

After my visit, I think this place is a collection of art, hats, guitars, souvenirs from other countries, etc., collected by the owner of the mansion over many years. It is also a place with each room decorated with different themes. Each room was artistically decorated with expensive stuff. It was nice to see, but I don’t think I would like to live in such a place because the rooms are overcrowded, and I would not have freedom to move around without worrying about knocking things over. Thank God, it is only a place to have fun and not to live. During our visit, we had lots of fun exploring each room and looking for secret passages and we found 4 of them. Since many items displayed can be purchased for a price, this place is truly like an expensive antique shop overcrowded with too many stuffs!!