At the far end of the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial feels even more striking when you walk up the steps and stand where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his defining “I Have a Dream” speech. Inside, Lincoln’s 19-foot statue looks out over the long Reflecting Pool toward the Washington Monument. Go at sunrise or after dark if you want a quieter moment — the view’s completely different depending on the time of day.

Tucked inside a restored 18th-century house, this small museum holds a surprisingly broad collection of decorative glass — everything from ancient pieces to Art Deco. Each room is set up with period furniture, so it feels more like walking through someone’s home than a typical museum.

Litchfield National Park is a stunning expanse of lush woodlands and crystal-clear freshwater creeks, waterfalls and swimming holes, where many come to escape the oppressive heat of the summer months. Especially impressive are the enormous termite mounds found throughout the park, as well as the Lost City, an area with rock formations of bizarre beauty.

Discover the Burgundian splendour at the site of the Gruuthuse Museum. In this luxurious 15th century city palace you can explore the 500 years of Bruges history through a rich and varied collection. Particularly eye-catching is the intimate private chapel that connects the palace with the Church of Our Lady. In this way, the lords of Gruuthuse were able to follow the religious services in comfort and privacy. The church’s showpiece is the beautiful white marble statue of the Madonna and Child by Michelangelo, which leaves no visitor unmoved.