welcome WELCOME to Washington, DC Come check out Washington, DC! From monuments and memorials to vibrant neighborhoods filled with character and charm, DC promises to give visitors an experience to remember. Your attendees will enjoy all of the perks of a world-class destination: a flourishing dining scene, iconic monuments, a wide variety of entertainment and renowned cultural attractions. DC o ers unique cultural diversity, pairing its international influence with a distinct and diverse local identity. Further, as the nation’s capital and home to embassies from around the world, we o er an international metropolitan center that is the perfect backdrop for successful meetings, conventions and events. Thank you for considering Washington, DC as the host city for your next meeting or event. We look forward to welcoming you. Sincerely, A MESSAGE FROM DC’S MAYOR Muriel E. Bowser Mayor of Washington, DC BRING YOUR NEXT EVENT TO WASHINGTON, DC Today’s Washington, DC is one of the most exciting destinations in the world. It’s home to nationally acclaimed events, from top tech conferences to premier sports competitions, like the 2018 MLB All-Star Game. The city’s dining scene is hotter than ever thanks to Michelin-starred restaurants and world-class chefs. The new Wharf development has reconnected DC to its Southwest waterfront. Free attractions, like the Smithsonian collection, the new Museum of the Bible and the National Gallery of Art, world-renowned festivals and our National Mall continue to set DC apart from other destinations. There’s even more to come with highly anticipated openings in 2018. But today’s story also translates to more access. With major renovations at Ronald Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport, and a regional public transportation system, the nation’s capital is easy to navigate. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center and DC’s 130-plus hotels are great places to host attendees. And we can connect you with experts in government, cyber security, medicine, education and pharmaceuticals, to enhance your meeting. Welcome to Washington, DC, where we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable experience! Regards, Elliott L. Ferguson, II President & CEO, Destination DC 2 | EVENT PLANNING GUIDE