Washington Monument

It is testament to its greatness that in a city defined by its stunning national monuments, the iconic Washington Monument stands head and shoulders above the rest. Built to commemorate the first president of the United States, this eye-catching classical monument stands stark against the city skyline at the west end of the National Mall. A striking symbol of national pride, this is one of the most popular visitor attractions in the capital and indeed, in the country.Construction of this landmark monument began in 1848 but halted in 1854 due to financial difficulties. Work resumed in earnest in 1876 and the structure was completed by 1884. It’s interesting to note how this historical timeline has been written into the exterior architecture. Walk around the outside and see if you can spot the subtle differences in the quality and shade of the marble that was used during this period.Punching 169 metres into the clouds, this impressive obelisk is the tallest free-standing stone structure in the world and as expected, offers a unique vantage point from its observation deck. When you step out of the lift on the top floor, drink in the sweeping views of the White House, the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building as they are laid out before you.Happily, entrance to this historic building is free but it’s always a good idea to reserve tickets in advance. Alternatively, you can pick them up from the Washington Monument Lodge on a first-come, first-served basis.Back on terra firma, make your way over to the Sylvan Theatre which is just southeast of the monument. This outdoor amphitheatre holds an exciting array of concerts, shows and films and is the perfect spot to unwind.Unfortunately, the Washington Monument was damaged as a result of an earthquake in 2011 and since then, this attraction has been under repair. It is due to re-open sometime in 2014 and visitors are advised to check the official website for exact details.