John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The national cultural centre and living memorial to JFK, a white marble box on the Potomac opened in 1971, home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera and a Broadway touring stage. Even without a ticket the building is worth a stop: the 190 m Grand Foyer with its Kennedy bust and crystal chandeliers is open daily, and the rooftop terrace offers a free panorama over the Potomac, Georgetown, Arlington and the Lincoln Memorial, best at sunset. A free performance takes place on the Millennium Stage most evenings at 6 pm. The REACH annex adds outdoor lawns and a pedestrian bridge to the riverfront. Paid parking under the building; a free shuttle runs from Foggy Bottom metro.