Things to do in Ashburn
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Top 10 attractions in Ashburn
Washington Monument
The Washington Monument stands in the center of the National Mall. Built to commemorate George Washington, the first president of the United States, it is an obelisk approximately 169 meters tall, standing out prominently in the predominantly low-rise urban landscape of Washington, D.C. Construction began in 1848, but was halted for over twenty years due to funding shortages. The federal government then took over the project, and construction was finally completed in 1884. Because the two sections of stone were sourced from different periods and locations, their varying degrees of weathering have resulted in a distinct color dividing line on the monument, a clear marker of this turbulent construction history. The monument is entirely simple, devoid of elaborate carvings, and tapers to a four-sided pyramidal apex at the top. The tower is hollow inside, with nearly two hundred commemorative stones embedded in its inner walls, donated by various states, cities, organizations, and countries across the United States. One particularly special stone is a Chinese inscription donated by a person from Ningbo during the Qing Dynasty. The inscription is taken from a passage praising Washington in *Yinghuan Zhilue*, a work by Xu Jiyu, a renowned official of the late Qing Dynasty, and is the only Chinese inscription among these commemorative stones. Inside the tower, there are nearly nine hundred spiral steps, but these are not open to visitors. The only way to reach the top is by elevator, which takes about 70 seconds to reach the observation deck at a height of approximately 150 meters. While downhill ride the elevator, pay attention to the commemorative stones flashing by on the inner walls. The observation deck has two viewing windows in each of the four directions: east to the U.S. Capitol Building, west to the Lincoln Memorial, south to the Jefferson Memorial and the Tidal Basin, and north to the White House. Daily access to the tower is limited, so advance reservations are recommended.Washington D.C. · 42.8 km from Ashburn
The White House
The White House is the office and residence of every U.S. president, and since John Adams became its first resident in 1800, the building has been closely linked to the executive power of the United States. It was designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban in a neoclassical style, partially inspired by Leinster House in Dublin. The first president, Washington, personally participated in the selection of the architectural design and chose the final plan. The exterior walls were built of sandstone, and in 1798, craftsmen applied a lime-based white wash to the exterior walls to protect the porous sandstone from moisture erosion. During the conflict between Britain and the United States in 1814, British troops set fire to the interior of the building, leaving only the exterior walls standing, and post-war reconstruction began immediately. Today, the complex includes the main building, the West Wing, and the East Wing, with the Oval Office located in the West Wing. The building features an Ionic portico on the north side and a semicircular portico on the south side. It has a representative long-standing tradition of public tours — a tradition that began during the term of the third president, Jefferson, and has continued ever since, except during special periods such as wars. Visitors can enter the East Wing and some of the state floors.Washington D.C. · 42.3 km from Ashburn
United States Capitol
United States Capitol is an iconic building in Washington D.C. The iconic cast-iron dome was designed by architect Thomas U. Walter, and atop it stands the bronze Statue of Freedom created by Thomas Crawford. The entire building features a neoclassical style. Its core interior spaces include the Rotunda, the Crypt, and the National Statuary Hall. The Rotunda is located directly beneath the dome. At the center of the dome is the fresco "The Apotheosis of Washington," created by Italian-American painter Constantino Brumidi in 1865. The painting hangs approximately 55m above the ground, featuring a grand composition of allegorical figures surrounding George Washington. Above the walls of the hall is a "Frieze of American History," which presents important historical scenes from the colonial era to modern times in a continuous sequence. Directly below the Rotunda is the Crypt, which displays some of the statues from the state collections. Next is the National Statuary Hall, a semi-domed hall that once served as the meeting place for the House of Representatives. Its unique arched structure creates a distinct acoustic effect where a whisper on one side can be clearly heard on the other, known as the "Whispering Gallery." Today, the hall displays statues of historical figures sent by each state, with two from each state. The visitor entrance is located at The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, where Emancipation Hall displays the original plaster model of the Statue of Freedom, and the exhibition hall features interactive exhibits that tell the history of Congress and the building.Washington D.C. · 44.8 km from Ashburn
National Mall
The National Mall is a green park in the center of Washington D.C., stretching approx. 3 km east to west, extending from the Lincoln Memorial in the west to the United States Capitol in the east, and is often called America's Front Yard. This rectangular area is lined with numerous Smithsonian museums, as well as cultural institutions such as the National Gallery of Art and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The most iconic structure on the mall is the Washington Monument, standing in the center. To the west of the monument, a long reflecting pool leads to the Lincoln Memorial, and to the east is the dome of the United States Capitol. The World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and many other commemorative facilities are scattered throughout, which, together with hundreds of monuments and sculptures in the surrounding area, form a memorial axis that encapsulates the historical memory of the United States.Washington D.C. · 42.8 km from Ashburn
Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls and rich natural scenery. The waterfalls are the main highlight, and visitors can walk along the trails to admire their majesty up close. The park features vast forests and grasslands that provide habitats for wildlife, where visitors may have the chance to spot deer, elk, and more. Multiple viewing points are perfect for photography enthusiasts to capture the natural beauty. Hiking is an ideal way to explore the area, with trails of varying difficulty suitable for visitors of all fitness levels. Camping facilities are available, allowing visitors to stay overnight in nature and enjoy the tranquility under the stars. The visitor center provides maps and assistance with inquiries to help plan your itinerary. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing plenty of water and sunscreen. The park is open year-round, with spring and summer being the recommended seasons to visit due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Whether you are a nature lover or traveling with family, the park offers a wealth of experiences and unforgettable memories.Great Falls · 20.8 km from Ashburn
Lincoln Memorial
Lincoln Memorialis located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., United States. The entire building features a Greek temple-style design, with a solemn and elegant exterior built from white granite and marble, creating a dignified, solemn, and open commemorative atmosphere. The interior space of the memorial is simple and solemn, with the central hall serving as the core area of the building. The striking view in the hall is the seated statue of Lincoln, created by renowned sculptor Daniel Chester French. The massive white marble statue sits in the center of the hall; Lincoln's expression is calm, his gaze firm, and his hands rest naturally on the armrests of the chair. The statue is tall and solemn, complementing the open space around it, allowing visitors to feel a strong sense of historical impact as they approach. In terms of architectural details, the interior of the memorial continues the classical architectural style of the exterior. The tall stone columns, orderly structural layout, and soft natural light work together to create a quiet and solemn environment for visitors.Washington D.C. · 41.6 km from Ashburn
Volcano Island Waterpark
Loudoun County · 8.7 km from Ashburn
The Golf Club at Lansdowne
Loudoun County · 4.5 km from Ashburn
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hillis one of the historic neighborhoods in Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, and an important place for travelers to learn about the history and culture of Washington D.C. The streets are lined with trees and neatly arranged with many historic residential buildings, including typical Federal-style architecture and Victorian row houses. The old brick walls, exquisite door and window designs, and the well-laid-out street layout give the entire neighborhood a rich historical atmosphere. Upon entering the attraction, you can see open lawns, neatly arranged trees, and beautiful garden views. Strolling along the garden paths, travelers can appreciate the solemn beauty of the architecture while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere provided by the natural environment.Washington D.C. · 45.7 km from Ashburn
Georgetown
Georgetownis one of the historic neighborhoods in Washington D.C., United States. It retains the historical character of an early port town while blending modern commercial, leisure, and cultural elements. The entire neighborhood stretches along the banks of the Potomac River, where narrow roads, old cobblestone streets, and neatly arranged red-brick row houses create a rich historical atmosphere. The neighborhood features many buildings from different eras, including typical Federal-style residences, Greek Revival architecture, and Italianate mansions. The streets throughout the area are lined with various brand stores, boutique shops, bookstores, restaurants, and cafes.Washington D.C. · 39.5 km from Ashburn
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Free things to do in Ashburn
Washington Monument
Washington D.C. · 42.8 km from AshburnThe White House
Washington D.C. · 42.3 km from AshburnUnited States Capitol
Washington D.C. · 44.8 km from AshburnNational Mall
Washington D.C. · 42.8 km from AshburnGreat Falls Park
Great Falls · 20.8 km from AshburnLincoln Memorial
Washington D.C. · 41.6 km from AshburnVolcano Island Waterpark
Loudoun County · 8.7 km from AshburnThe Golf Club at Lansdowne
Loudoun County · 4.5 km from AshburnCapitol Hill
Washington D.C. · 45.7 km from AshburnGeorgetown
Washington D.C. · 39.5 km from Ashburn
What travelers say about Ashburn
YoYo_1I8Q7O5OJuly 1, 2026
5.0
The Washington Monument looked like a giant pencil stuck in the ground, blindingly white. We queued to go in and take the elevator; my ears were ringing as I went up. Looking out the window, the plaza's pool and Lincoln Hall looked like tiny squares. An old lady pointed into the distance, saying that was her state, but I couldn't really see anything. My legs were a little weak as I came down; walking around the base, I noticed the stone's color varied from top to bottom, darker above the waist. People were lying on the lawn sunbathing, and kites floated gently in the sky.
Washington Monument
Grace_cytAugust 14, 2024
4.0
The White House is a three-story flat-roofed house. It is called the White House because the outer walls are painted white. It is where the president of the United States works and lives. If you want to visit, you need to apply to the embassy in advance, but it is said that after the 9/11 attacks, foreigners are no longer allowed to visit. When we went there, we watched from a distance through the fence and lawn outside.
The White House
Flora_GuSeptember 3, 2026
5.0
The Capitol Building is a magnificent structure with a massive white cast-iron dome topped by the Statue of Liberty. It houses the offices of the U.S. legislature (Senate and House of Representatives), and many laws that have influenced the United States and the world were enacted here. Visiting the interior requires advance booking through the official website. We found the visitor center; security was very strict, and liquids were prohibited, so we had to discard all the hot water in our thermos flasks. Inside, we first watched a 10-minute historical documentary in a small theater, then were divided into groups and given headphones for guided tours. The interior was filled with ornate paintings, exquisite reliefs, and numerous statues of historical figures. The guides enthusiastically explained the furnishings and stories of the historical figures, and we also toured the Senate and House meeting rooms and members' offices.
United States Capitol
泰迪小熊December 7, 2024
5.0
Came here on September 21, 2017.
Between Capitol Hill and the Washington Monument, there is a long and narrow green space, which is the National Mall of the United States. There are many national museums and memorials around the square. Each venue is very interesting and you can spend half a day visiting a single place.
If you don't have enough time, it's also good to take pictures. These buildings have different shapes, and taking pictures and checking in are very photogenic.
National Mall
M32***23September 6, 2022
5.0
[Scenery] The Great Falls Park is a great choice for local hiking. There are few tourists, mostly hiking and rock climbing enthusiasts, and it has a great atmosphere!
[Fun] There are not many supply stations nearby, so bring your own dry food
Great Falls Park
mrbigbearOctober 20, 2023
4.0
The Lincoln Memorial is an iconic symbol of American history and a place of profound significance. Its majestic architecture, featuring the towering statue of Abraham Lincoln, commands respect and admiration. The solemnity of the Reflecting Pool, set against the backdrop of the Washington Monument and the Capitol, creates a breathtaking vista. Visitors are immersed in the spirit of freedom, equality, and unity, making it a must-visit destination. The memorial's role in commemorating one of America's greatest leaders and his enduring message of liberty and justice for all is truly inspiring.
Lincoln Memorial
SamueljetmanOctober 2, 2023
5.0
i had the privilege of visiting the US Capitol in Washington DC back in 2019. the tour took us through the rotunda and crypt, as well as a history of the building. definitely highly recommended for anyone who visits DC!
Capitol Hill
palettes_nyOctober 31, 2021
4.0
Located in an old town in Washington, Georgetown is the main campus of Georgetown University. Walk through the old town and climb the mountain to Georgetown University. The old town is mainly a shopping district with various boutiques and restaurants on the street. The buildings on the street are also very distinctive and full of historical charm.
Georgetown
