Obscure Freemasons still live in D.C.’s largest private residence.

This imposing Masonic temple a mile from the White House was the first public library in Washington, D.C.

Home to a vast and influential collection of Shakespeareana.

When it opened during the final years of the embargo, all the drinks and cigars were free.

A museum cafe showcases Native American dishes and indigenous ingredients from across the Western Hemisphere.

This stunning blue and gold room changed cities twice before becoming part of the Smithsonian.

The Byzantine, pre-Columbian, and medieval art at this stately mansion are some of the most under-appreciated collections in D.C.

The winding route passes through an enclosed alleyway, two tunnels, and leads to the White House basement.

A three-story tower of books about Abraham Lincoln is one of the more unusual monuments to the president.

Fittingly, America's museum of architecture is itself a magnificently designed old building.

During the Industrial Revolution this “Temple of Invention” was full of intricate miniature machines and gadgets.

A wondrous old library overlooking the nation's capital.

This grand gothic brewery has been pumping out suds for over a hundred years.

A historic neighborhood church is reborn as a psychedelic arts collective.

With over 100 jam-packed rooms to explore plus elaborate tea services and events, the Mansion on O Street is a hidden treasure.

Franciscan monks created a facsimile of the Holy Land for North Americans who couldn’t afford the trip overseas.

This homegrown adoption center offers a wonderland of feline companionship.

The juke joint where legendary soul artists ate, drank, and made merry.

A reclusive Memphis neighborhood is home to decades worth of misunderstood Masonic folk art.

Elvis's own personal tropical hideaway.

Every day a troupe of pampered water fowl walk the red carpet to their favorite fountain.

This Memphis recording studio launched the careers of Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley.

The world's longest bridge fountain has hundreds of nozzles that create a beautiful, illuminated spectacle.

Buy your fish and have it cooked to order in this bustling, eight-floor seafood market.