by Leigh Goessl

Created on: December 03, 2010

If you want to make a quick weekend getaway, there are many terrific destinations in the U.S., however if you're looking for someplace that is exciting and full of things to do, Washington DC may just be the city you're looking for when considering a location to visit for a quick getaway. The weekend can be as relaxing or fast paced as you want it to be.

A destination made for all seasons, there is plenty to do and much to see in this grand city. Not only is DC the hub of the U.S. government and home to many amazing landmarks and historic events, the metro area is full of art and culture.

•Transportation

If you are traveling from afar, there are two major airports in the Washington DC Metro Region, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport which is the closest to DC proper and Washington Dulles International Airport which is located a bit further west in Loudoun County, Virginia. A third airport, Baltimore/Washington International Airport is in the vicinity but a bit further of a ride.

For rail travel, Amtrak also comes into Union Station, which is a landmark in itself to visit, and there is also the city's Metro system, which is a convenient way to travel between DC, Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland.

• Accommodations

Accommodations in Washington DC are aplenty and visitors can select a range of star rated hotels. For those who are willing to pay more for convenience, it is probably best to stay in the District itself, however you are likely to get some good rates in Northern Virginia and Maryland, where getting into the city is a relatively quick Metro ride away.

• Entertainment and Cultural Events

There is plenty of entertainment in Washington DC. The city houses the Verizon center which houses many sports and concert events. Additionally, sports lovers can take in a Redskins (football) or Nationals (baseball) game at their respective stadiums, depending on the season.

There is also the historic Ford's Theatre which is open for tours and is also a working theatre, which is open seasonally from November until usually sometime in late spring. Visitors can catch a professional production in the same theatre that was popular in the 19th century.

Other venues of entertainment are the Kennedy Center which hosts multiple events such as symphonies, opera, jazz, ballet, theater and comedy shows. There is even a free show in the evenings at 6 pm on the Millennium stage.

• History and Art

If you love history, DC is the place to be. Visitors can visit the National Mall and view the beautiful architecture of the monuments. The Smithsonian Institution houses multiple museums in the city, all of which have a different focus on history or art. Admission to all Smithsonian Museums are free of charge.

One of the other terrific aspects of visiting Washington D.C. is its proximity to other historic and amazing landmarks in nearby Northern Virginia, such as the cities of Alexandria and Arlington. Many of these places of interest can easily by seen in the course of a weekend if the interest strikes, or even to have dinner in one of the quaint or elegant restaurants in Old Town Alexandra - it's all only a short Metro ride away.

Washington DC makes a great weekend destination for either a family fun getaway or a romantic escapade. Or simply just for fun.

It is nearly impossible to fit everything in to one weekend, however by carefully choosing what you want to see, it is possible to see a good amount of the city over a two or three day holiday. One thing is for sure, when visiting the U.S. capital city, there is never a shortage of places to see or things to do.

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