Washington, D.C.
The Nation's Capital
Climate
Four full seasons, with hot humid summers and cool winters. Summer highs reach about 88F (31C), and winters can bring snow. Cherry trees bloom in spring.
Main industries
The main work is the federal government of the United States, along with law, lobbying, tourism, and many museums and universities.
Top places for tourists
The Smithsonian museums, which are free to enter; the White House, home of the President; the U.S. Capitol; and the Lincoln Memorial.
Places of interest
The National Mall, a long open park lined with monuments and museums, where visitors can walk from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial.
A little history
Washington, D.C. was created in 1790 as a special district to be the capital of the United States. It is named after George Washington.
Fun fact
Every spring the city fills with pink cherry blossoms from trees that Japan gave as a gift in 1912.