Washington, D.C. Photos -- National Geographic's Ultimate City Guides

Walker Passes National Museum of the American Indian
Photograph by Karen Ballard
A walker passes the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, with the Capitol in the distance.
Young Boy at John F. Kennedy Center
Photograph by Karen Ballard
A young boy adjusts his tie in the Grand Foyer of the John F. Kennedy Center.
The Penn Quarter
Photograph by Karen Ballard
Penn Quarter is an up-and-coming D.C. neighborhood, with shops, restaurants, and the Verizon Center.
Smithsonian Institution Arts and Industries Building
Photograph by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
A Mall staple, the Smithsonian Institution Arts and Industries Building closed for renovations in 2004.
Joggers Near the Lincoln Memorial
Photograph by Theo Westenberger
The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and joggers form a classic capital tableau.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Photograph by Karen Ballard
Ben’s Chili Bowl, a D.C. mainstay since 1958, has hosted locals, tourists, and celebrities.
Miles Davis Mural
Photograph by Karen Ballard
A bigger-than-life Miles Davis graces a mural outside the Bohemian Caverns club on U Street.
Server at Rosa Mexicano Restaurant
Photograph by Karen Ballard
A server at the Rosa Mexicano gazes out of the restaurant’s huge picture windows.
Server at Bistro
Photograph by Karen Ballard
A server at Zengo, a Latin/Asian bistro and bar in the Penn Quarter, maneuvers through the crowd.