Washington DC – Architecture & Landmarks

Washington DC has seen various styles of architecture throughout its development. Much of the buildings and structures are based on a style known as Classicism, although Modernism began to influence design and construction of new buildings from the mid-20th century. Additionally, the city has various heigh restrictions which were enacted starting in 1899 to ensure the beauty of the buildings and landscape would not be blocked. As a result, the city does not offer the large skyscrapers traditionally seen in “downtown” locations across the United States.

Both the United States Capital building and the White House showcase some of the earliest Classical styles utilized by the city in its initial design. Many other government buildings are also designed in this traditional conservative style. Neo-classical styles can also be seen in various famous institutions such as The Pentagon. The Modernist movement of the 20th century saw the development of a new style which offered less decoration and more simplified designs and builds. To the city’s credit, many of the older buildings including those in historical neighborhoods such as Red Lion Row were maintained, with their facades integrated into modernized buildings for continued use.

Washington DC is world-renown for its many monuments, statues and historical relics. The city is filled with hundreds of sculptures, paintings, murals and other dedicated pieces that give homage to the United States relatively young history. The very first sculpture to adorn the city was the Tripoli Memorial which has since been moved to the Naval Academy located in Annapolis, Maryland. The city attracts visitors from around the world looking to explore its easily navigable landscape in search of some of America’s most famous landmarks.

Architecture & Landmarks Details

United States Capitol
Address: First St SE, Washington, DC 20004, United States
Phone: +1 202-226-8000
Business Hours:
– Temporarily closed due to COVID-19
Admission cost:
– FREE
Website

Washington Monument
Address: 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, United States
Phone: +1 202-426-6841
Business Hours:
– Temporarily closed due to COVID-19
Admission cost:
– non-refundable reservation fee of $1.50 per ticket
Website

The Pentagon
Address: Washington, DC 22202, United States
Phone: +1 703-697-1776
Business Hours:
– Temporarily closed due to COVID-19
Website