Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, a planned federal district occupying 68 square miles on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. Home to the three branches of the U.S. federal government, world-class Smithsonian museums, iconic monuments, and a vibrant multicultural dining and arts scene, the city draws more than 24 million visitors annually. Most of the capital's major museums and memorials are free, making it one of the most accessible great cities on earth.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Constitution and Bill of Rights replicas (National Archives gift shop, 700 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
Smithsonian museum merchandise — dinosaur plush toys, space-themed gifts (National Mall Smithsonian stores)
DC-themed political memorabilia from vendors near the White House on Pennsylvania Ave NW
Local art prints from Eastern Market artists (225 7th St SE, Capitol Hill; Sat–Sun outdoor market)
Ben's Chili Bowl branded merchandise (1213 U St NW, U Street Corridor)
Books on American history from Politics and Prose Bookshop (5015 Connecticut Ave NW) or Capitol Hill Books (657 C St SE)
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Eastern Market
DC's oldest continuously operating market (since 1873); fresh produce, local meats, crafts, vintage goods, and art
Where: Capitol Hill
Hours: Indoor: Tue–Fri 7am–7pm, Sat 7am–6pm, Sun 9am–5pm; Outdoor Artisan Market: Sat–Sun
Union Market
Multi-vendor indoor market with 40+ local artisan food producers, specialty coffee, and small-batch goods
Where: NoMa / Ivy City
Hours: Daily 8am–8pm (individual vendor hours vary)
FRESHFARM Dupont Circle Market
Top-rated farmers market; local produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods from regional farms
Where: Dupont Circle
Hours: Sundays 8:30am–1:30pm (year-round)