Washington is a great shrine to the American heritage with its inspiring landmarks, monuments and memorials, broad avenues, sprawling parks and world-class museums and galleries. Metro Washington's population now stands at over 4.5 million people. Despite the area's growth, Washington doesn't have the sprawling metropolitan feel of other large cities. There are no skyscrapers, the streets are clean, and flowers and trees abound. The city is alive with outdoor cafes, colorful neighborhoods and inviting parks.
Visitors are more likely to compare it to Paris than New York.
Few places in the world have a more truly international mix of culture and cuisine.