National geographic traveler : Washington, D.C. / John Thompson.

Contents: History & culture, Capitol hill, National Mall, White House & around, Downtown, Georgetown, Dupont Circle & Adams Morgan, Cleveland Park & beyond, East of the Capitol, Across the Potomac, Excursions, Travelwise.

Anacostia & Northeast Washington

and Arlington & Alexandria. An excursions chapter covers the nearby Potomac River plantations (including Mount Vernon)

and Frederick Douglass's former residence. Guided walks help you get to know different areas, including a brick sidewalk tour of stately Georgetown and a spin around the President's neighborhood. You'll find 3D art depicting the U.S. Capitol and the White House, plus one of the majestic National Cathedral, as well as detailed museum floor plans. Extensive features help explain some of the undercurrents of this fascinating place, including insights into the political machine and how the Old Guard Washington works. Organized into nine different neighborhoods, the guide begins in the heart of the nation, on Capitol Hill

and historic Annapolis. An informative chapter on Washington's history and culture kicks off the guide and a Travelwise with detailed practical information, including an extensive hotel and restaurant listing, rounds out the book.

and moves on to the Mall

bustling Eastern Market, a popular weekend brunch stop

Cleveland Park

Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan

Georgetown

the up-and-coming downtown

the White House & around

Detailed, informative entries on the city's main sites-including the Capitol, White House, and museum-laden National Mall with the new Museum of the American Indian-provide background information on each place, along with tips on how best to visit. Included, too, are lesser known sites such as Dumbarton Oaks and its gorgeous gardens