9 of the Best Views in Washington DC and Where To Find Them

It’s no surprise that the tallest building in Washington DC—which tops out at a whopping (and specific) 555 feet and 5 1/8 inches (169 meters and 29 centimeters)—also offers one of the best views of the nation’s capital. The Washington Monument has stood proud on the National Mall for more than 140 years. On a clear day, you can see vistas across DC, Maryland, and Virginia from the observation deck, and spot area landmarks ranging from the US Capitol and White House to the Pentagon, Tidal Basin, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Insider tip: Book a timed reservation in advance online or scoop day-of tickets; then, continue on your tour of the city’s top monuments.

The only problem with heading to the top of the Washington Monument to admire panoramic views of DC? You can’t actually see the Washington Monument while you’re up there. To solve that problem, head on over to the equally notable Lincoln Memorial, which is free for all to visit. Climbing the 87 steps up to the memorial chamber, where the large statue of President Lincoln sits, reveals a sweeping panorama of the Mall, the Capitol, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial—and the Washington Monument in prime position. Alternatively, visit after dark for especially photo-worthy views.

The second-largest cathedral in the US, the Washington National Cathedral looks like it’s been around for centuries, thanks to its High Gothic architecture. In fact, the landmark was only completed in 1990—and while its ornate carvings are one of its prime attractions (don’t miss the Darth Vader “grotesque,” among 112 gargoyles), so are its city views. After admiring it on a DC monuments and memorials tour, embark on one of the cathedral’s tower climbs, which will take you 333 steps up to its bell tower. Your workout will be rewarded with panoramic views of Washington DC from what is the city’s highest geographical point.

After the Washington Monument, the second-tallest building in the nation’s capital is the Old Post Office building, the tower of which boasts a 270-foot (82-meter) observation deck. See this grand Pennsylvania Avenue landmark, built in 1899 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, now home to the Waldorf Astoria hotel (but almost knocked down in 1934 and again in 1970 before campaigners saved it). Today, DC locals and visitors are welcome to tour it for free, with guidance from on-site National Park Service rangers. Marvel at views that stretch for up to 12 miles (19 kilometers) around and encompass landmarks like the Smithsonian museums, US Supreme Court, and the White House.

Sure, the Watergate Hotel might be better known for, ahem, political intrigue than its observation deck. Now, following a renovation, this DC complex is as much a destination for the seasonal rooftop bar with views of Washington DC as it is for its scandalous history. After a day of sightseeing stop by Top of the Gate, which is open-air and offers 360° views overlooking the Potomac River and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Little wonder it’s been ranked one of the best rooftop bars in the country. Alternatively, see the illuminated DC skyline on a sunset cruise.

West Potomac Park (which sits between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument) is a destination in its own right, and one of the top places for city views in Washington DC. That’s especially true come springtime, when DC’s thousands of cherry trees—gifted to the country by Japan in 1912—burst forth in a riot of pink blossoms around the Tidal Basin. Book a seasonal cherry blossom tour by bus or by bike to make the most of the brief but splendid season, and extend your excursion to nearby East Potomac Park if your sakura-fever hasn’t abated. A narrated boat cruise on the Potomac River is also an option.

As the nation’s busiest performing arts center, the Kennedy Center may be best-known for its packed schedule of concerts, performances, recitals, and other cultural events. But at this riverside venue, what’s outside its walls is almost as good as what’s inside. It helps that the landmark has not one but two ideal places for watching the world go by. The first is its wraparound open-air terrace, where you can admire the spire of the Washington Monument. The second is its Roof Terrace Restaurant, which has an even better vantage.

Sometimes, you need to head just outside of the city to get the best city views. Case in point: Arlington House, a historic landmark (and the former home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee) now located within Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Just a quick Metro trip away from the nation’s capital, the cemetery has long been a destination for veterans, military history buffs, and those looking to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. Once you’ve gone on a comprehensive excursion through the historic cemetery, head up to the lofty Arlington House, which offers a sweeping panorama of the city beyond.

Speaking of exploring beyond Washington DC city limits, you may also wish to set your sights on nearby Maryland, where The Capital Wheel—which overlooks the National Harbor— sits some 8 miles (13 kilometers) downriver of the capital. It's open year-round, thanks to its climate-controlled gondolas, and reaching a soaring 180 feet (55 meters) high, the supersized Ferris wheel offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still providing one of its best lookouts. Aim to visit at sunset for a truly photo-worthy experience.