15+ Interesting Fun Facts about Washington DC

Washington, D.C., is full of fun and interesting facts. I first came to this city over 10 years ago, and I’ve loved it ever since. You will too!

As the capital of the United States, this town has so much history and magic. If you plan on doing Washington, D.C. trivia, please check out this list for inspiration.

Is Washington DC a State + More Trivia

Washington DC is Not a State:

Washington, D.C. is not a state but a federal district. It was established by the Constitution of the United States to serve as the nation’s capital and is governed by Congress. There is an active movement advocating for D.C. to become the 51st state, granting its residents full voting rights in Congress.

What They Originally Wanted to Name Washington DC

Early Americans wanted to name Washington DC, Washingtonople, like Constantinople. I’m happy we skipped that idea.

The Metrobus is Free

The Metrobus is free for all trips that start within the city. The D.C. Council made this change to encourage more people to use buses, reduce traffic, and help those who can’t afford bus fares. The DC Circulator bus, which costs $1 per ride, is still an affordable option.

DC Was Designed to Confuse the British

In 1791, French engineer Pierre Charles L’Enfant designed the city, which included many roundabouts, open spaces, and a grid system intersected by diagonal streets.

DC Has No Skyscrapers

D.C.’s skyline is unique because of the Height of Buildings Act of 1910, which limits the height of buildings to ensure that no structure is taller than the Capitol.

The Smithsonian

The city is home to the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum complex, with 19 museums, 21 libraries, nine research centers, and a zoo. All of the Smithsonian museums in DC are free.

Chocolate City

DC was once called “Chocolate City” due to its rich African American history and large Black population. Due to gentrification those numbers have decreased but there is still lots of African American History.The National Museum of African American History and Culture, which opened in 2016, is the newest Smithsonian museum and highlights the contributions of African Americans to the nation’s history.

Cherry Blossoms

Every spring, D.C. hosts the National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C. in 1912.

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress, located in D.C., is the largest library in the world, with millions of books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts in its collections.

The Exorcist Steps

The writer of “The Exorcist” was written by a Georgetown alum. He decided to use the stairs as a popular scene in the movie. The stairs were originally designed as a shortcut for Georgetown students.

Georgetown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in D.C., established in 1751, and is known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant shopping and dining scene.

Embassy Row

Massachusetts Avenue, or Embassy Row, has embassies, diplomatic residences, and international organizations. There are always lots of unique embassy events. The Embassy of Austria hosted some Waltz classes. Various Caribbean embassies have hosted soca events with local foods. It’s truly a great place for people who love learning about different cultures.

Ben’s Chili Bowl

This iconic D.C. restaurant, founded in 1958, is famous for its half-smokes and has been visited by numerous celebrities and politicians. It even has vegan options.