Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city steeped in history and culture. While it’s renowned for its iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Washington Monument, there’s so much more to D.C. than meets the eye.
Whether you’re a tourist or a long-time resident, here are some intriguing facts about Washington D.C. that might surprise you.
1. A City Without a State
Unlike any other major city in the United States, Washington D.C. is not part of any state. It’s a federal district created specifically to be the seat of the U.S. government. This unique status is the reason residents of D.C. do not have voting representation in Congress.
2. Home to the Largest Library in the World
The Library of Congress, located in Washington, D.C., is the largest library in the world. With over 160 million items in its collection, including books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts, it’s a treasure trove of knowledge.
3. The Smithsonian Institution: A Gift from an Englishman
The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research institutions in D.C., was founded thanks to a bequest from James Smithson, a British scientist who had never visited the United States. He left his entire estate to the U.S. to establish an “increase and diffusion of knowledge.”
4. An Underground City of Tunnels
Beneath the bustling streets of Washington D.C. lies a network of tunnels connecting government buildings, Metro stations, and more. Some of these tunnels are open to the public, such as those under the Capitol Complex, while others remain secret.
5. D.C.’s Symbolic Street Design
Pierre Charles L’Enfant, the French engineer who designed Washington D.C., envisioned a grand, European-style city with broad avenues and public spaces. The layout includes a mix of diagonal avenues intersecting a grid of streets, creating a unique and symbolic design.
6. The White House Wasn’t Always White
The official residence of the President of the United States wasn’t always white. Originally built with grayish sandstone, it was first painted white in 1798 to protect the porous stone from freezing.
7. The Cherry Blossoms Come From Japan
Every spring, Washington D.C. transforms into a pink wonderland as the cherry blossoms bloom around the Tidal Basin. These beautiful trees were a gift from Japan in 1912 as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this natural spectacle.
8. D.C. Has a Height Limit
Unlike other major cities, Washington D.C. has a height limit for buildings. The Heights of Buildings Act of 1910 restricts the height of buildings to ensure that no structure overshadows the Capitol and other monuments.
9. A City of Festivals
Washington, D.C. is home to a wide variety of festivals throughout the year, reflecting its culture and community spirit. From the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and the D.C. Jazz Festival to the National Book Festival and the Capital Pride Parade, there’s always something happening in D.C.
10. The Oldest Fish Market in the U.S.
The Maine Avenue Fish Market, also known as the Wharf, has been in continuous operation since 1805, making it the oldest fish market in the United States. This historic market offers a variety of fresh seafood.
11. D.C. Has a ‘Mini-Washington Monument’
Did you know there’s a smaller version of the Washington Monument hidden in plain sight? Located near the actual monument, this tiny, pyramid-shaped stone is a fun detail for keen observers to discover.
12. The Pentagon: A City Within a City
Although technically located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from D.C., the Pentagon is worth mentioning. It’s one of the world’s largest office buildings, with five sides, five floors above ground, and a massive interior courtyard. The Pentagon has its own post office and even shopping areas.
13. A City for Coffee Lovers
Washington, D.C. has a thriving coffee scene that rivals any major city. The district boasts a wide range of independent coffee shops and roasters that cater to coffee aficionados.
14. Haunted Spots and Ghost Tours
For those interested in the paranormal, Washington, D.C. offers a range of haunted sites and ghost tours. From the ghostly apparitions in Lafayette Square and the haunted halls of the Capitol Building to the eerie tales surrounding the Octagon House, the city is rich with spine-chilling stories.
15. The President’s Park is Open to All
The White House isn’t just a residence; it’s part of a larger area known as President’s Park, which includes the Ellipse and Lafayette Park. This historic area is open to the public and often hosts various events, from seasonal celebrations to political protests.
16. Home to a Hidden “Stonehenge”
Meridian Hill Park is home to a unique structure often referred to as D.C.’s “Stonehenge.” The park features a series of stone columns arranged in a circle, reminiscent of the famous prehistoric monument.
17. D.C. has a “Statue of Freedom” on the Capitol Dome
Atop the Capitol Dome stands the Statue of Freedom, a 19-foot-tall bronze statue that symbolizes liberty. What many don’t know is that the statue was cast by an enslaved African American named Philip Reid.
18. “Kilroy Was Here” at the WWII Memorial
The phrase “Kilroy Was Here” was a popular graffiti during World War II, symbolizing the presence of American soldiers. Hidden within the World War II Memorial in D.C., there’s a small depiction of this iconic graffiti, a nod to the spirit of those who served.
19. It’s Easy to Move There
Washington, D.C., is home to many different houses and apartment types. If you’re interested in moving there, check out the vast number of houses, apartments, and rooms to rent in Washington.
Conclusion
Washington, D.C., is more than just the political heart of the United States; it’s a city rich in history, culture, and unexpected surprises. There’s always something new to discover in the nation’s capital.
