How do you picture Washington, DC? Even if you've never set foot in the capital city, a whole album of familiar images undoubtedly flashes through your head: the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial. The Washington Monument, cherry blossoms, the Potomac River, the National Mall. Americans envision Washington as a core of our heritage as well as our government. The nation's capital has witnessed historic battles, groundbreaking legislation and massive civil rights demonstrations; it's the site of revered monuments and poignant memorials. Its rich history lures visitors from across the country — in 2001, the city drew 18.1 million visitors, from every region of the United States.