Fodor's Washington, D.C. 2014: with Mount Vernon, Alexandria & Annapolis

With history around every corner, Washington, D.C. is a city that magically blends yesterday and today. This updated guide----often among our top domestic best-sellers ---lets travelers discover the myriad, charms of the nation's capital, from its stately monuments to the trendiest restaurants.
 
Expanded Coverage:  World-class museums, shady parks, and an important arts scene make Washington, D.C. an ever-changing American showcase: more than 15 million tourists head here every year. Plus, brand-new hotel, restaurant, shop, and bar reviews in this annual update offer fresh tips for staying, and playing, in such top hotspots as Dupont Circle and Georgetown.
 
Illustrated Features: Features in glowing color propel visitors to the awe-inspiring Capitol Building, the eye-popping sights of the National Air and Space Museum, and the nation's most revered resting-place, Arlington Cemetery. Thumbnail sketches highlight the stunning museums along the Mall.
 
Indispensable Trip Planning Tools:  The "Experience" chapter includes a variety of super-useful sections, such as "D.C With Kids," "Free in D.C.," and "Top Attractions," and the "Neighborhoods" chapter describes fascinating walks to key off-the-beaten-path sights. Each neighborhood section opens with a "Top Reasons to Go" map, supported by other essential information designed to help in planning and scheduling visits to attractions. For those with a taste for the more serious goings-on that drive the city's pulse, we've added special features such as "Scandalous Washington" and "How Laws are Made." All this, plus exhaustively detailed chapters on "Nightlife," the "Performing Arts," "Sports," "Shopping," and "Side Trips" makes it easy for readers to custom-plan an exciting vacation.
 
Discerning Recommendations: Fodor's Washington, D.C. 2014 offers savvy advice and recommendations from local writers to help travelers make the most of their time. Fodor's Choice designates our best picks, from hotels to nightlife. "Word of Mouth" quotes from fellow travelers provide valuable insights.
 
Pullout Map: A handy take-along map provides added value, giving travelers essential information about top attractions, walking tours, and nearby dining so they can travel with confidence.
 
ABOUT FODOR'S AUTHORS: Each Fodor's Travel Guide is researched and written by local experts.