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Couple on Tidal Basin Paddleboats - National Cherry Blossom Festival - Washington, DC

Press Frequently Asked Questions

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MEDIA RELATIONS ASSISTANCE/PRESS VISITS

 

FILMING REQUIREMENTS

 

IMAGES & B-ROLL

 

RESEARCH & STATISTICS

 

MEDIA RELATIONS ASSISTANCE/PRESS VISITS

Does Destination DC assist writers with fact checking?

Yes, Destination DC’s media relations staff is happy to assist writers in completing their articles about DC. Find the appropriate contact for your questions.

Does Destination DC host group press trips? If so, can I be added to the list of invitees for future press trips?

Destination DC does not regularly host group press trips, however, we do work individually with journalists on assignment. If completing your article requires a visit to DC, please contact the appropriate member of our media relations team.

When is the best time to arrange a press visit to DC? When should I recommend that my readers visit the city?

Press visits usually work best during low season, which is traditionally during the winter and late summer. While DC is truly a year-round destination, readers can typically find lower hotel rates and fewer crowds during that time.

Where can I find DC story ideas?

Contact the appropriate member of our media relations team and we’ll be happy to discuss ideas with you.

How can I get added to your media list?

Destination DC sends out an e-mail newsletter to our media list approximately every six weeks, and press releases as applicable. Sign up for Destination DC’s media distribution list.

Can Destination DC assist me with hotel accommodations?

We handle each journalist lodging request individually, and we do not pay for hotel accommodations for journalists. We work to connect visiting press with our hotel members who may extend an attractive media rate or in some special occasions, complimentary accommodations on a case-by-case basis. Since hosting decisions are made by hotel partners, Destination DC cannot be responsible nor guarantee accommodations. We do work to match each journalist with a hotel that best suits their story. Destination DC’s priority is assisting working press. Host hotels and attractions are not always able to accommodate spouses, children and visitors accompanying media.

As a member of the media, can I receive complimentary tickets to DC attractions?

Many of DC’s major attractions are free of charge, including the monuments, memorials and many of the museums. For those that are not free, Destination DC handles media requests for complimentary admission on an individual basis. We are also sometimes able to assist journalists in bypassing lines at popular free attractions. If you need assistance with organizing a visit to a specific attraction, a member of our media relations team can connect you with the attraction directly.

Can you help me arrange a visit to the White House?

We can’t help you with a visit to the White House, as tours are only available by advance arrangement through your Representative or Senator. You can contact your Representative or Senator’s office up to six months in advance to request a tour. The tours are self-guided and will run from 7:30 am until 11:30 am Tuesday through Saturday. International journalists will need to contact their embassy in Washington, DC to inquire about tour availability. For more information, call the White House Visitors Center at (202) 456-7041 or visit www.whitehouse.gov.

 

FILMING REQUIREMENTS

What are the requirements for tripod usage in DC?

Tripods are not permitted near the U.S. Capitol without a permit from the U.S. Capitol Police. For information about filming at the U.S. Capitol, contact the U.S. Capitol Police Public Information Office at (202) 224-1677. Tripods are permitted everywhere on the National Mall, with the exception of the interior spaces of the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. Nighttime tripod use is also permitted. To request a permit application for filming on the National Mall, contact the National Park Service Public Affairs Office at (202) 619-7225. For information about filming at other Washington, DC sites, contact the DC Office of Motion Picture and TV Development at film.dc.gov or (202) 727-6608. For complete information on DC filming requirements, visit film.dc.gov.

 

IMAGES & B-ROLL

How can I obtain images of Washington, DC?

Please visit our media gallery, which can be accessed here. For specific photo requests, contact a member of the communications team.

How can I obtain b-roll footage? 

Downloadable b-roll footage can be found in our video library here.

 

RESEARCH & STATISTICS
Do you have any Washington, DC visitor research available?

Check out our Research & Statistics for more information about the Washington, DC hospitality industry.