Rent cars in Washington, DC
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Visit the historic hub of the U.S.
Home to the Capitol, the White House, the Smithsonian museums, and a host of national monuments, Washington, DC is a tourist’s dream come true. Stroll down the National Mall, take in the view from the top of the Washington Monument, and enjoy the city’s world-class restaurants.
In this historic yet ever-evolving city, there’s always something new to discover.
Washington, DC favorites
With monuments, museums, and historic buildings around every corner, you’ll have no trouble filling the time when you visit DC.
The Washington Monument
Built in the 1800s to honor George Washington, the Washington Monument rises 555 feet above the city, and is an iconic symbol of Washington, DC. Be sure to buy a ticket if you want to ride the elevator to the top.
The Smithsonians
Whether you’re a fan of art, history, culture, space, animals, or science, you’ll find something to love at the Smithsonian Museums and Galleries. Don’t miss the National Museum of African American History and Culture: the country’s largest destination for Black history and culture.
Dupont Circle
While you definitely don’t want to miss DC’s iconic sites, there’s also fun to be had in the residential Dupont Circle neighborhood. Full of great restaurants, charming bookstores, and nightlife destinations, it’s also home to the Phillips Collection: an art gallery in a Georgian mansion.
Rent cars in Washington, DC
Hit the road
Leave the city behind and tap into the DC area’s abundant history. Behind the wheel, you’re free to explore wherever your fancy takes you, whether you’re in the mood for a day trip or a nearby destination. Homes of former presidents like Washington and Jefferson, national cemeteries and battlefields like Arlington and Gettysburg, and historic American cities like family-friendly Williamsburg are all waiting to be discovered.
Rent the perfect carMount Vernon
13 miles south of Washington is Mount Vernon: George Washington’s beloved Virginian home. Located on the Potomac River, the historic plantation and mansion served as home to Washington and his wife Martha.
Arlington National Cemetery
Just across the Potomac from Washington DC is Arlington National Cemetery — where you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, the US Marine Corps War Memorial, and the final resting places of American soldiers from the Civil War onward.
Colonial Williamsburg
Visiting Williamsburg, about two hours south of Washington, DC, is like traveling back in time. The whole town has been designated as a historic area, and as you walk the streets you can expect to see historical reenactments, horse-drawn carriages, and period costumes.
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Best Washington, DC driving roads
George Washington Parkway
When you need a scenic break from the city, head to the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Starting from Arlington, this gorgeous drive takes you past beautiful views of the Potomac River to Great Falls: a picturesque town with lots of hiking and horse trails.
National Mall and Monuments
You won’t get far in a hurry, but if you want to see the DC monuments and government buildings, this drive is a must. Start at the Capitol and drive from Maryland Ave to Independence Ave, then take 17th up to the White House and circle back onto Constitution to end up at the Lincoln Memorial.
Route 211/Lee Highway
Another picturesque drive is Lee Highway, or Route 211, which you’ll reach by taking I-66 to Route 29. Driving past vineyards and pastures, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the way, there are plenty of bakeries, wineries, and distilleries to stop at.
Frequently asked questions in Washington, DC
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Do I need my own insurance?
What protection plan options are available on Turo?
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* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. Liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.
When a trip is booked in the state of Washington, physical damage to the host’s vehicle is covered by insurance purchased by Turo, but Turo’s insurance does not change the contractual responsibilities of hosts or guests with respect to physical damage to a host’s vehicle.