The nation's capital is full of history, politics and sight-seeing, but with a city so rich in culture, it can be difficult to decide what you want to visit. Here are five places I recently visited in Washington that a tourist won't want to miss.

National Gallery of Art — The National Gallery might seem like a regular art museum at first glance, but it's actually full of art that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. The only De Vinci in the United States is in this museum, along with Van Gogh's famous self portrait and many Monet paintings. If you love admiring art, like myself, this is the best museum you could visit.

Congress chambers in The Capitol — A tour of The Capitol Building is great, but with a few extra steps you can also see the Senate and House chambers. It requires an email to one of your states senators or representatives, but it's really worth it. I saw the beautiful House chambers and where the president gives his State of the Union address. To be able to see rooms where so many historical events have happened is worth the extra effort.

Local restaurants — One of my favorite parts of traveling is trying local food. To my surprise, a Popsicle shop I stopped in the Obama's had recently visited. My best advice I can provide is to try to visit local businesses because they might surprise you. Try new things while traveling and be adventurous.

Georgetown — Georgetown has some of the best shopping in Washington. Not only is the area gorgeous and historical, but there is tons of shopping. There are also two cupcake shops, Georgetown Cupcakes and Baked and Wired, that both have gourmet cupcakes that don't compare to anything I have ever eaten.

Newseum — The Newseum is a museum dedicated to how news has affected history and the history of news itself. This was by far one of my favorite museums I have ever visited. Their 9/11 exhibit was breathtaking and heartbreaking, and they even have part of the Berlin Wall. Newseum is right by the Smithsonian and is a must-see in D.C.

The White House The White House seems like a very obvious sight to see, but a tour of this iconic house is a must-do. You have to plan ahead for a tour, but it is worth it. Even though you don't see where the first family lives on a day-to-day basis, it is still fascinating to see rooms that so many presidents have been in.