This spring, the TIPS Section Conference is being held May 7-10, 2025, in Washington, DC, at the Capital Hilton, just a few blocks from the White House. Those traveling to DC are in store for quite the adventure, as the city is said to have “a monument at every turn and a story in every stone,” an expression that sums up Washington, DC’s rich history and scenic splendor, particularly visible in the city’s temperature springtime weather.
Washington, DC, was established as the nation’s capital by the US Constitution almost 235 years ago on July 16, 1790. Many national monuments and memorials exist here today to see during your downtime. On a nice day, I would recommend a daytime (or even nighttime) bike tour around the National Mall to see, among other things, the National Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. While weaving through the Tidal Basin, you might even glimpse a few remaining candy-pink buds on the city’s famous cherry blossom trees. Unlimited Biking has several options to consider. If you would prefer to tour the National Mall on foot, consider a moonlight memorial tour, a four-mile hike that takes you from the White House to the Capitol and the Washington Monument, all shimmering in the moonlight as you walk downtown.
While in the nation’s capital, you could also take an “around the world embassy tour,” featuring 45 embassies that open their doors to visitors to experience their countries’ unique culture, art, food, music, and goods. Other outdoor activities include a trip to Georgetown, the oldest neighborhood in the city, with charming boutiques and restaurants. Or you could take a tranquil walk on the historic towpath of the C&O canal, which begins in Georgetown and follows the Potomac River. If you are traveling with children, you will not want to miss the National Zoo in the city’s Northwest section, home to 1,800 animals from roughly 300 species.
If museums are more your speed, Washington, DC, is home to 17 free-to-enter Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum, the Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Gallery of Art. Art connoisseurs also might want to visit the National Museum of Women in the Arts, including works by Frida Kahlo and Mary Cassatt, the Hillwood Estate and Museum, the Phillips Collection, or the National Portrait Gallery.
Finally, the city has revitalized neighborhoods—with new galleries, culinary delights, and energetic vibes—worth checking out, including Adams Morgan, NoMa (short for “North of Massachusetts Avenue”), The Wharf, and Southwest.
Whatever you choose to do, you will have a blast and learn a little about our nation’s history in the process. We cannot wait to see you this spring!
