A visit to Washington, D.C., after President-elect Donald Trump’s swearing-in is an opportunity to explore the nation’s storied capital.
According to Destination DC, the city welcomed nearly 26 million visitors in 2023, setting a new record.
Kristin Petersen, a travel advisor with Travelmation, told Fox News Digital that if visitors are looking for indoor activities, there are plenty of options around Washington, D.C.
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“Obviously, while you’re in town, you want to go to the Smithsonian Institution on the Mall or the National Museum of American History, where you can see the American flag and the First Lady’s gown,” Petersen said.
Melania Trump’s 2017 inaugural ball gown is on display in the First Ladies exhibit at the National Museum of American History. (Smithsonian Institution)
First lady Melania Trump’s 2017 inaugural ball gown is on display in the First Ladies exhibit at the National Museum of American History.
Visitors can admire the cream off-the-shoulder dresses designed by Hervé Pierre with free admission and no tickets required.
History buffs can check out the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights at the National Archives.
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This is the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, which states that the term of each elected President of the United States begins at noon on January 20th of the year following the presidential election.


Travelers can view the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights at the National Archives. (St. Petersburg)
“[Visitors]must make an appointment at the National Archives,” advises Petersen.
The family-friendly International Spy Museum welcomes all ages.
Petersen said it’s a fun museum.
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We recommend pre-purchasing timed tickets. General admission prices start at $30.69.


Washington DC welcomed nearly 26 million visitors in 2023. (St. Petersburg)
For travelers looking to get outside, Petersen recommends the National Botanical Garden.
“It’s another place we enjoy touring for the warmth and beauty… it’s the perfect destination in winter when everything outside is wild,” she said.
The National Mall includes the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial. There is a monument.
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“Please note that all monuments are outdoors, but if you are appropriately dressed, they are definitely worth a visit,” Petersen said.


The inauguration will be held at the U.S. Capitol on January 20th. (Andrew Haller/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Petersen added that Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, is a “must-see.”
President-elect Trump will attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery on Sunday, FOX56 reported.
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The inauguration ceremony will be held at the U.S. Capitol on January 20th.