Washington DC

It goes without saying that our nation’s capital is also one of the most recognizable cities in the world.
The red, white and blue symbols of patriotism and pride line the streets while Washington DC is home to a dizzying array of incredible monuments, museums and historical sights. From the towering heights of the Washington Monument to the grandiosity of the Lincoln Memorial, the Capital stands as the cornerstone of all that is American. But beyond these popular attractions, the city itself remains a charming Northeastern town – even amid all the pomp and circumstance that comes with being home to one of the most powerful people on the planet – the President of the United States. And while our nation’s government is the essence of this town, there’s always more than meets the eye.

Taking a look around, you might be surprised by the sheer volume of open spaces and lush landscaping. This isn’t an accident. Washington DC is what you’d call a “planned city,” dating all the way back to 1791 when basic plans for everything from broad avenues and plenty of traffic circles were drawn up to maximize space and give residents and visitors alike a friendly place to work and play. Upon visiting for the first time or returning to take it all in again, you’re always greeted with the same inviting thoroughfares and sweeping views of DC’s skyline, highlighted by those architectural wonders that have become so ingrained in our minds. Even while people may call New York City the center of the world, there’s no doubt that having Washington DC as our nation’s capital is the perfect fit. Standing for everything this country was founded upon, Washington DC endures.

DC Transportation

When you realize that Washington DC was recently ranked the #1 city in the nation for walking, you get a sense for just how easy it is to get around town. The entire city is divided into 4 quadrants, and at the middle of it all is the U.S. Capital Building. And while walking is definitely one of the best ways to experience the historic monuments and museums of the city, the Metrorail subway system and the Metrobus line offer some of the nation’s cleanest and most efficient public transportation. Likewise, taxi service is also top notch, with DC having one of the highest ratios of taxis per citizen in the nation.

Airports
Dulles International Airport
Reagan National Airport

Ground Transportation
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Taxis

Traffic
Washington DC Traffic

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DC Attractions

Washington DC offers a dizzying array of attractions and things to do. The National Mall is perhaps most recognized as the epicenter for all of the city’s main historical sights and monuments, but many other of the Capital area’s most famous attractions are actually located nearby in Northern Virginia, just across the famed Potomac River (we hear the kayaking is world-class here). You’ll also find sites dating all the way back to the colonial period. East of the Potomac, you’ll find yourself in Maryland, and not far from well-known destinations, Baltimore and Annapolis. But beyond these more popular activities and places, the city also reveals itself in places like the laid-back Georgetown.

The White House
U.S. Capitol
Lincoln Memorial
Washington Monument
Arlington National Cemetery
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Smithsonian Institution
National Gallery of Art
National Mall & Memorial Parks
Potomac Paddle Sports
Annapolis Tours

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DC Shopping

While there’s no shortage of red, white and blue goods on every street corner, Washington DC is home to many cozy antique shops and trendy boutiques alike. And for every larger-than-life monument you visit, you can be sure you can take home your experience with a miniaturized life-like creation too. Many of the city’s best shopping isn’t just found in the elaborate gift shops though, and you’ll have quite the time discovering
all of it.

Union Station
Gallery Place
The Old Post Office Pavilion
Washington Harbour
Shops at National Place
Eastern Market
The Shops at Georgetown Park

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DC Nightlife

Like any big city, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy music, dancing, cocktails and plenty of networking in the nation’s capital. Washington DC is especially popular for its jazz heritage. Hot spots like Georgetown (modern) and the illustrious Kennedy Center (classical) are always cranking out the tunes. The 9:30 Club is another must-see for any music lover. But apart from the music, trendy bars and nightclubs are everywhere in and around the city. Many of these locations are broken up into different districts, all easy to navigate. Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan and Penn Quarter all provide upscale nightlife.

District of Columbia
Dupont Circle
Alexandria District
Adams Morgan District
Penn Quarter
Northeast Virginia nightlife
9:30 Club

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DC Healthcare Facilities

From some of the nation’s oldest hospitals and healthcare facilities to some of nation’s newest, and most cutting-edge facilities, Washington DC offers healthcare professionals of all skills sets and experience levels the perfect opportunity to learn and grow across all specialties. World-renowned hospitals and teaching facilities sit alongside stalwarts like Walter Reed Army Medical Center, offering healthcare professionals unique care environments for the young and old alike.

Children’s National Medical Center
Georgetown University Hospital
Georgetown University Medical Center
George Washington University Hospital
George Washington University Medical Center
Howard University Hospital
National Rehabilitation Hospital
Providence Hospital
Sibley Memorial Hospital
Walter Reed Army Medical Center
Washington Hospital Center

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DC Nursing Resources

District of Columbia Nurses Association
District of Columbia Board of Nursing
District of Columbia Online Nursing Licensure Renewal
District of Columbia Department of Health
District of Columbia Nurse Practitioners

DC Weather

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