Washington DC in Photos — juliahurst.com

Over the past week, I visited the Capitol of the United States, Washington DC. Washington DC is home to the White House, the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and many more historical sites that were built during the start of the nation. I have always been interested in American History and it was a trip that I feel everyone should make. Not only did I visit one of the most special museums I have ever seen, I also got to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and endless amounts of documents and artifacts that dated back to the start of the United States.

I stayed at the Sofitel on 15th street which was conveniently located just a few blocks away from the White House, and walking distance to great restaurants and the Mall, which is essentially a row of museums.

Julia Friedman and her family in front of the White House in Washington DC.

The Smithsonian Museum of American History was one of the most unique and impressive museums I have visited. Although most of the items the museum had were very impressive, a few really stood out to me and are worth seeing for yourself. President Lincoln's top hat, Muhammad Ali's signed gloves, notable First Lady's Inauguration Ball gowns and accessories, World War II artifacts, and Thomas Edison's lightbulb are some among many special items.

Some food places that stood out to me were, Old Ebbitt Grill, the oldest dining saloon in DC, and Founding Farmers, a restaurant owned by over 40,000 American farming families. Old Ebbitt Grill was opening in 1896 and it is just steps away from the White House. It has a very old feel inside and is definitely somewhere you should go to enjoy an American meal before or after viewing the White House! Founding Farmers has a really cool vibe inside and it is best known for their great Cornbread with Seasalt Honey Butter and their Fried Chicken and Waffles. We also visited DC's most recommended bakery, Paul. They have beautiful pastries and some strong coffee! Paul would be another place that I would recommend if you visit the DC area!

I spent my last day shopping and walking around the absolutely stunning Georgetown area. I loved the beautiful houses and picturesque streets. When I'm traveling, I love to see where people live and where are the most desirable places to live. I find it so interesting to see how much bang you can get for your buck in different places of the world!

At the end of my last day in DC, my dad and I walked down to the Capitol Building which was just stunning. The architecture is astonishing and it is truly a surreal feeling to be standing at the heart of the American Government. Since we went during the holidays, the Christmas tree was lit up and it was just perfect. Not a bad way to end a fascinating trip with my beautiful family!