Washington

The capital of the United States is, by reputation, a city without a skyline - but this is far from the truth. A strict height limit has kept most buildings to a maximum of 13 stories, resulting in a very European appearance. In the great tradition of medieval and Renaissance cities, domes, steeples, spires, and monuments still count for something on the skyline.

Washington is blessed with an attractive natural setting, on hilly terrain (from sea level to an elevation of 400 feet) along the wide Potomac River. The government buildings are arranged around the monumental yet pastoral National Mall, and one of the best-preserved forests in the Eastern U.S. extends from Georgetown into Maryland along Rock Creek. At cherry blossom time around Easter, the parks turn pink and white, attracting thousands of awestruck tourists.

Only the largest cities in the world can rival the number of attractions DC offers, including the world's largest museum complex and largest library, several major monuments, the government buildings, and the beautiful Washington National Cathedral (The Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul).