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

A public art jibe at one of the United States’ oldest and longest-serving senators.

The early data processor factory founded in Washington for the 1890 U.S. Census went on to become IBM.

The oldest building in the District of Columbia was preserved because of a mistaken connection to George Washington.

A Spiritualist house of worship where believers communicate with the dead in the spirit world.

This church built atop a gas station promises to "equip you for the next stage in your life’s journey."

This stately mansion, built in 1787 by America's first Secretary of the Navy, is rumored to be one of the most haunted buildings in Washington, DC.

The United States Capitol's former columns still stand.

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

Though its celestial ceiling is impressive, the true star is the vast collection of French books.

The walls are decorated with whimsical murals painted by the creator of the Madeline franchise.

Bowl in splendor, if you're lucky.

A treasure trove of artifacts, books, and artwork from the "golden age" of exploration.

A plaque immortalizes the spot where the early American spy said his famous last words: "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country."

The oldest bibliophilia club in America, with exhibitions on historic books and graphic arts.

Long the exclusive domain of birds and vagabonds, this little-known Central Park peninsula is open to the public once more.

A small peaceful park and waterfall tucked amid the urban grind of Midtown Manhattan.

Rummage through this sunken ship, but leave your scuba gear at home.

A mysterious air force base built to resemble a Long Island fishing village.

A gigantic 10-foot tall stone man.

A collection of unique outdoor sculptures surounded by the beauty of nature.

In DeWitt, New York, a blanket-wrapped gas station makes a creative statement on global dependence on oil.

This collection started by a Cornell professor once held more than 600 human brain specimens, including the one that belonged to its founder.

Celebrating the greatest pugilists the world has ever known.