A Natural Treasure: Great Falls Park

Before immersing myself in the historic heart of Washington, D.C., I took a short detour to Great Falls Park—a breathtaking natural escape that felt worlds away from the urban pulse. Nestled along the Potomac River, the park greeted me with roaring cascades and jagged cliffs, their beauty both raw and serene. As I stood at the overlook, the sound of rushing water drowned out every trace of city noise. The trails wove through rugged terrain, each step offering a deeper connection to the landscape. It was the perfect prelude—a moment of wild tranquility before diving into the monumental energy of the capital.

Political Acumen: Congress and the Supreme Court

No trip to Washington, D.C., is complete without standing at the heart of American democracy. Thanks to passes arranged by Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, I had the incredible opportunity to tour the U.S. Capitol—a rare, up-close look at where laws are shaped and history is written. Walking the marbled halls of Congress, I could feel the weight of decisions that have influenced generations.

Just steps away, the Library of Congress took my breath away. The grandeur of its architecture, paired with the sheer depth of knowledge housed within, made it feel like a temple to human achievement. And then, standing on the steps of the Supreme Court, I was struck by its powerful presence—a place where justice is interpreted and the Constitution finds its voice. Each stop was more than just sightseeing; it was witnessing the living pillars of American democracy in action.

A Tribute to Heroes: Arlington National Cemetery

The dignified majesty of Arlington National Cemetery left a deep and lasting impression on me. As I walked among the endless rows of white headstones, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of history and sacrifice etched into every stone. Each grave told a silent story of service, of lives given in defense of something greater than themselves.

The highlight was witnessing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—a solemn, precise ritual that speaks volumes without a single word. The silent steps, the reverent stillness of the crowd, and the unspoken honor shared in that moment served as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom. It was humbling and unforgettable.

Remembering the Past: The Holocaust Museum

A visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum was one of the most profound and emotional experiences of my journey. Walking through its somber halls, I was immersed in stories of unfathomable suffering and resilience—told through photographs, personal artifacts, diary entries, and deeply moving survivor testimonies. Each exhibit painted a vivid picture of the horrors of the Holocaust, yet also the strength of the human spirit amidst darkness.

It wasn’t easy to witness, but it felt necessary. The museum doesn’t just preserve the memory of those who perished—it challenges every visitor to confront the consequences of hatred and indifference. It left me with a heavy heart, but also a renewed sense of responsibility: to remember, to educate, and to stand against injustice wherever it exists.

Iconic Landmarks: The Memorials and Monuments

A stroll down the National Mall felt like a quiet yet powerful journey through the soul of America. Standing at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial, reading the Gettysburg Address etched into stone, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of those immortal words. Each memorial along the way—the somber black granite of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the haunting stillness of the Korean War Memorial, and the expansive tribute of the World War II Memorial—spoke volumes in silence, honoring sacrifice and service.

The towering Washington Monument stood sentinel over the Mall, a timeless symbol of leadership and unity. The Jefferson Memorial, with its domed elegance and thoughtful inscriptions, echoed the ideals on which this country was founded. But it was the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial that left the deepest mark on me. Wandering past cascading waterfalls and granite walls carved with his words, I felt a deep sense of connection to the hope, struggle, and resilience that defined his presidency. It was a place not just to remember—but to reflect.

The Tranquility of the Tidal Basin

A serene stroll around the Tidal Basin was the perfect counterbalance to the energy of the National Mall. The path curved gently along the water, framed by weeping cherry trees that whispered in the breeze. Though already peaceful, I could only imagine how magical this place must be during cherry blossom season—when the trees explode into a dreamscape of pink and white petals. It’s no wonder people flock here year after year. The quiet ripples on the water, the soft scent of blossoms in the air, and the silhouettes of monuments in the distance—all of it felt like Washington DC’s softer, more poetic side revealing itself.

Culinary Adventures: Amsterdam Falafel & Big Bowl Reston

Visiting DC wouldn’t be complete without diving into its rich and diverse culinary scene. One of my favorite stops was the Amsterdam Falafelshop—a quirky little place where crispy, golden falafel meets a vibrant lineup of fresh toppings. The build-it-yourself setup made the whole experience fun and personal, like crafting the perfect bite every time. Later, I ventured out to Big Bowl in Reston for dinner, where bold Asian flavors took center stage. The stir-fries, packed with fresh ingredients and customizable to my spice tolerance, were both comforting and exciting—a fitting finale to a trip filled with culture, history, and flavor.