This mysterious structure by the Washington Monument is a flood barrier designed to protect the White House against rising waters.

This seemingly out-of-place gas station by the Watergate hotel was once described as the most expensive gas station in the world.

A muscular Art Deco monument represents the struggle between regulators and unbridled markets.

Look closely and you’ll notice that the color changes a third of the way up the tower.

A tiny monument to the unsuccessful attempt by Thomas Jefferson to place the prime meridian in Washington.

Washington's iconic carousel has a nice piece of Civil Rights history.

Legend has it that President Grant’s frequent drinking in the lobby gave rise to the term “lobbyist.”

Those with a sharp eye can find the hidden image of a German Shepherd on the memorial's Mural Wall.

The "lovely red Vega" of the legendary record-settling pilot.

Light bulbs, scrap wood, and tinfoil comprise this homemade throne of the gods.

Rumor has it the uncarved lump behind the three famous suffragists is reserved for the first woman president.

The actual model from the original "Star Trek" series is now on display at the National Air and Space Museum.

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

A wondrous old library overlooking the nation's capital.

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

Tokyo’s only Vaudeville-cuckoo clock–steampunk-Victorian curio cabinet time piece.

This beautiful park on the outskirts of Rome protects the ruins of two colossal ancient aqueducts.

A Seattle oddities shop brimming with Victorian-era gems and antique curio.

Granting the right of way to ships over surface traffic since 1917.

Offering an enjoyable alternative to the standard hellacious post office trip.

Statue of Lenin, from Cold War era Czechoslovakia, now in a neighborhood of Seattle.

This Seattle store is packed with all sorts of curious creatures and creations.

A wall of chewing gum moonlights as collective art.

A giant Troll lurks under one of Seattle's oldest bridges.