Summary: Washington, D.C., capital of the United States, lies between Virginia and Maryland, resting on the banks of the Potomac River. Actually, "resting" probably isn't the right term. Here in the seat of the American government, many of the locals have important and stressful jobs, including that one guy who lives in the white house on Pennsylvania Avenue. Surprisingly, the capital city isn't that large. Of the five-and-a-half million people in the metro area, only about 600,000 live within the city limits. As a result, the city is easy to get around and rarely crowded. While Washington, D.C. is primarily home to the government, it is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The city is literally filled with historic monuments, national treasures and vast museums. About 20 million people flock to the city each year to learn about the nation's past and discover how the modern government functions. If you are traveling to D.C in the near or distant future, this guide is a great resource for helpful tips about the city.
