Washington, D.C. is a fun and exciting travel destination. Tourist attractions in the U.S. Capital abound -- the White House, Washington National Monument, Capitol Building, and the Jefferson and Lincoln Monuments. Tourists visit the many museums on the National Mall, including Air and Space, Smithsonian Institution Building (a.k.a. Smithsonian Castle), National Gallery of Art, and National Museum of the American Indian -- all open to the public free of charge. Opportunities are also plentiful for those who would like to take self-guided tours of Christian historic sites in Washington, D.C.
Built in 1907, the National Cathedral offers lush gardens and spectacular Gothic architecture. This Episcopal church offers a variety of self-guided tours and exhibitions. Listen to some awe-inspiring organ demonstrations in the church sanctuary, and visit the cathedral store.
The Washington National Cathedral
3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20016-5098
202-537-6200
http://www.nationalcathedral.org
Recognized as the largest Roman Catholic Church in North America, the Byzantine-Romanesque style of the National Shrine makes it unique amongst the area's historic churches. Pick up a free welcome booklet at an information desk or kiosk to obtain self-guided tour information and to read about the history of the Basilica. Be sure to visit the gift shop and bookstore before your self-guided tour ends.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
400 Michigan Avenue NE
Washington, D.C. 20017
202-526-8300
http://www.nationalshrine.com
Built between 1892 and1894, the Heurich House was home to real estate tycoon, philanthropist, and brewer Christian Heurich. This Richardsonian Romanesque architecture home features 15 fireplaces, 31 rooms, beautiful hand-carved wood including fireplace mantles, hand-crafted ceiling art, Heurich family collections, and furnished rooms that appear frozen in time. Be sure to take a stroll in the beautiful Victorian garden. Although admission is free, donations are always welcome.
Heurich House Foundation
1307 New Hampshire Ave. NW
Washingon, DC 20036
202-429-1894
http://www.brewmasterscastle.com
