Washington D.C. is home to numerous attractions such as the White House and the Lincoln Memorial, attracting tourists from all over the world.
As popular tourist destinations, these famous spots are often crowded, making it difficult to fully enjoy the experience or take clear photos due to large crowds.
To avoid this, I recommend early morning sightseeing. By exploring these renowned spots during the less crowded early hours, you can have a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
Washington D.C.’s monuments are perfect for early morning sightseeing
The National Mall, which is the heart of tourism, boasts many monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
While some monuments allow interior visits and may only open around noon, most of them are outdoor memorials or structures without interiors, making it possible to cover them by simply walking around.
For instance, the iconic Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day except for the gift shop, so visiting it early in the morning allows you to explore the memorial at your leisure.
The Lincoln Memorial is a popular spot, attracting not only individual travelers but also tour groups. In the afternoon, the area around the memorial is filled with large tour buses, and the interior with Abraham Lincoln’s statue is crowded with people. However, in the early morning, the atmosphere changes completely, and you can enjoy the monument with fewer people around.
Witness the breathtaking sight of the East Front of the U.S. Capitol bathed in pink and golden hues
When visiting Washington D.C., you should definitely explore the government buildings, including the White House and the U.S. Capitol.
One of the most impressive sights is the U.S. Capitol on the eastern side of the National Mall. This building is long and runs from south to north, showcasing different facades in the morning and afternoon.
The eastern facade, in particular, features intricate decorations, with a central cast-iron dome harmoniously complementing the structure.
The East Front looks most stunning in the early morning, especially on clear days when the sun’s rays bathe it in a pink hue, creating a magnificent sight.
Moreover, the appearance of the East Front changes over time and with weather conditions, ensuring you won’t get bored watching it.
You can also visit the Visitor Center located underground on the East Front, which opens from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily except on Sundays. It’s a great place to spend some time before the opening hours.
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Treasure the precious morning hours and embrace early morning sightseeing
Washington D.C. attracts tourists from all over the world, and during the daytime and afternoon, tourist spots become crowded with people.
While some places like museums require you to visit within their opening hours, you can fully enjoy the monuments and government buildings from the outside. I highly recommend exploring these spots early in the morning.
During the early hours, the crowds are minimal, allowing you to leisurely and freely explore the attractions.