1. Old Stone House
The Old Stone House is the oldest building in DC. It was built in 1765 and has remained relatively unchanged ever since. It’s one of the few places to see pre-Revolutionary war architecture and has been operated by the National Park Service since 1960.
2. Union Station
Union Station opened in 1908. While the station has been renovated over the years, it still remains as the bustling hub of transportation it was when it began.
3. The Lock Keeper’s House
There is a small house on the corner of Constitution Avenue and 17th that has been there since the mid-1800s. There was once a canal that flowed from the Anacostia River to the Capitol crossing the Mall. The lock keeper lived in this house collecting tolls between 1835 and 1855. The canal was filled in 1872 but the house has stood in the same spot ever since.
4. Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States. It’s also one of the most breathtaking buildings in the district. Today, it’s home to millions of books, photographs, manuscripts, maps and photographs.
5. Willard Intercontinental Hotel
The Willard has over 200 years of history. Sit at their Round Robin Bar at the same place that Mark Twain, Walt Whitman and other legendary figures have sat and enjoyed the gorgeous interior.
6. Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln really is one of the most iconic structures in DC and for good reason. The beautiful marble temple featuring a seated sculpture of the 16th President never seems to change and no matter when you visit or how many times you’ve seen it, you will still be in awe of its beauty.
7. Meridian Hill Park
Meridian Hill is a beloved beautiful park that has the heartbeat of the community. Whether you are admiring the beautiful architecture from the 1800s or are enjoying the drum circle that has been a tradition for decades, you’ll love spending time in this timeless park.
8. Jefferson Memorial
The Jefferson Memorial and the surrounding Tidal Basis has been a centerpiece of downtown DC since the 1940s. The Jefferson is a beautiful spot to watch a sunrise or a sunset and if you come during Cherry Blossom season, you will get a spectacular view.
9. Capitol Building
It’s hard to imagine DC with the Capitol Building. It’s probably one of the most well-known buildings in DC and although the people who serve in the Capitol is regularly changing, the building itself does not. It sits in the center of DC collecting stories and history, as it has been for years.
10. Ben’s Chili Bowl
Since 1958, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been the spot to enjoy a delicious half smoke and some cheese fries. The landmark has been a integral part of DC since the1950s. In fact, during the 1968 riots, the restaurant was a welcome spot for both police officers and activists and remained relatively unscathed during the riots that destroyed the neighborhood.
11. Tune Inn Restaurant
Tune Inn Restaurant has been a regular favorite of politicians and DC locals for over 60 years. The most incredible thing about Tune Inn is that it was restored to almost perfect condition following a widespread fire in 2011. Today, it still feels like the dive bar that opened in 1947.
If you ever feel frustrated with how much has changed in DC, stop by one of these places and enjoy nostalgia!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.