Top Culture in Washington

I think checking the weather before you go is key. If it’s drizzly, you’ll want a good umbrella; some areas are covered, but you’ll still want to be prepared!

Check out the seasonal events. I stumbled upon a fresh flower festival during my visit, which was a lovely surprise and made for great photos.

I recommend bringing cash. Some vendors only accept cash, and you can often get better deals that way. My debit card was a hassle at several places.

If you want to save some time, plan your route using the maps at the entrance. I missed out on a few spots 'cause I didn't have a plan at first.

Don’t miss the outdoor glass garden, especially around sunset. The lighting is stunning and all those colors pop like crazy!

I suggest buying your tickets online in advance to skip the long lines when you get there. It saved me tons of time, and I got in right away!

I recommend visiting on a weekday if you can. I went on a Saturday and it was super crowded. Weekdays seem much quieter and you can enjoy everything better!

I suggest wearing comfortable shoes because you'll do a lot of walking. I wore sandals and my feet were killing me by the end.

Check out the Boeing 747 tour if you can! It's like stepping into aviation history. I kinda rushed it, so I recommend taking your time here.

Don’t forget to check the schedule for the lock openings beforehand. Seeing boats being raised or lowered is so fascinating!

I noticed that the exhibits can be kinda crowded on weekends. Try visiting on a weekday if you can. It’s way less hectic, and you get a better experience!

Get there right when it opens at 10 AM. The lines for popular exhibits like the planetarium can get super long later in the day! I barely waited when I got there early.