The International Spy Museum opened in Washington, DC on July 19, 2002. It is the only public museum in the United States solely dedicated to espionage and the only one in the world to provide a global perspective on an all-but-invisible profession that has shaped history and continues to have a significant impact on world events. The Museum features the largest collection of international espionage artifacts ever placed on public display. Many of these objects are being seen by the public for the first time. These artifacts illuminate the work of famous spies and pivotal espionage actions as well as help bring to life the strategies and techniques of the men and women behind some of the most secretive espionage missions in world history. The mission of the International Spy Museum is to educate the public about espionage in an engaging way and to provide a context that fosters understanding of its important role in and impact on current and historic events. The Museum focuses on human intelligence and reveals the role spies have played in world events throughout history. It is committed to the apolitical presentation of the history of espionage in order to provide visitors with unbiased, accurate information.

Unique, funky, and contemporarily-hip are a few words to describe this one-of-a-kind Industry Gallery in the Northeast. With industrial materials like recycled glass, aluminum, and carbon fiber, artists from all over the world create new and innovative works to redefine the relationship between art and design. The gallery holds single-artist exhibitions to highlight the works of each international artist who is selected for his or her unique insight and ability to illuminate broad spectrums of international design. This is definitely the new destination for contemporary art connoisseurs, collectors, curators, or art lovers. Click here for more information.

Carousel rides have always been a fond childhood memory for many. Who can say no to those colorful, bright horses and fancy round cups? Just like the good old days, the Smithsonian Castle offers a charming carousel on the national mall for both children and kids-at-heart. The Smithsonian Carousel was built by Allan Herschell in 1947, with brilliantly 60 hand-carved and painted animals. If touring the National Mall with kids, taking a spin is a refreshing break for the restless kids tired of site-seeing and touring museums. At times, the line may be a bit long, but you can still enjoy the spectacular views of the monuments.

The Pentagon Memorial honors lives lost during the 9/11 terrorist attack on Washington, D.C. in 2011. Adjacent to The Pentagon in Arlington, this outdoor memorial is a beautiful tribute to the 184 men and women who died in the tragedy. With its sleek and simple designs, this memorial helps visitors remember and reflect on the appalling incident. Every year during the event’s anniversary, an American flag is hung on the section of the Pentagon hit by Flight 77. If interesting in participating to commemorate the event, check online for related events.

The National Portrait Gallery archives portraits of people who made significant contribution to American history and culture from the era of our Founding Fathers to the current political arena. Each photograph and each portrait tells an expansive story which weaves into the tides of our cultural past.

Sauntering through the exhibits and taking a glimpse into the establishment of our great nation with portraits of proud Native American chiefs and those of revolutionary generals and explorers. From studying each expression of every portrait, you get a better glimpse of those who shaped out nation.

For more inspirations, take a trip up to the second floor to see the America’s Presidents collection.

In “National Treasure,” you may remember seeing Nicolas Cage scurrying across the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress in search of the fictitious Book of Secrets. However, what Cage didn’t tell you is all the other real treasures for you to find at the Library.

The Library truly is an unparalleled world resource with a collection of more than 144 million books, prints, recordings, and manuscripts in 460 languages. You have the option of joining the tourists and be rushed in and out of the visitor areas, or registering for a Reader Identification Card at the Madison Building and having access to the beautiful library with myriad of unique reading rooms, its vast collection, and the Internet for free!

For a more cultured look at the city, take a trip to popular Dupont Circle to America’s first museum of modern art, the Phillips Collection. Opened in 1921 and housed in the former home of the collection’s founder, Duncan Phillips, the Phillips Collection combines the charm of an intimate, private art institution with awe-inspiring works found typically at larger, government-run galleries (think stumbling upon Renoir’s “Luncheon of the Boating Party” while having tea with a friend).  With priceless modern and impressionist works from both American and European artists, the Phillips Collection houses an impressive permanent collection with several works from Mark Rothko, Georgia O’Keefe, Renoir and van Gogh. The museum also includes works from contemporary, living artists to add to its diverse exhibits. Despite its size, the Phillips Collection seems to always be rotating new special exhibits to accentuate their impressive permanent collection. Insider Tip: Visit the gallery on the first Thursday of every month for their entertaining, “Phillips After 5” event from 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM. With live jazz, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, as well as gallery lectures and films, this artisanal party attracts young, cultured patrons from around the city looking to enjoy the gallery in a more social atmosphere! *Note: The Phillips Collection is closed on Mondays and holidays.