All 31 Countries in NATO (and What to Do in Each)

Here's a look at each country in NATO and the must-see places to enjoy when you visit.

All 31 Countries in NATO (and What to Do in Each)

Formed on Aug. 24, 1949, as a collection of countries united to counterweigh Soviet-occupied nations in Europe after the devastating effects of World War II, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is considered to be a safeguard to the continent and its allies, with a mission of promoting peace. The original group of nations that established the treaty consisted of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Since its inception, 19 additional countries have elected to join the esteemed group of nations, with Finland being the most recent to join. Sweden could soon be added into the mix as well, with Ukraine also interested in joining the mix. While not every nation must be a democratic one, each does have to have stable law systems and military and stand united in protecting one another. As a united force for stability in Europe, its countries are considered the most welcoming to travelers and are filled with friendly citizens.

They are also filled with historical attractions and beautiful surroundings. Here, we provide a peek into each country in NATO and the must-see places to enjoy when you visit.

Albania

Population: 2.84 million

Capital city: Tirana

Year joining NATO: 2009

Best Thing to Do in Albania: Bunk’Art 1

Albania’s storied history and young status in NATO make it one of the smaller and lesser-visited of the group’s members. But that doesn’t mean it should be skipped. Located north of Greece and hugging the Adriatic Sea, visitors will encounter a mountainous country filled with deep river valleys and coastal plains.

Its most-visited attraction is Bunk’Art 1, a five-floor underground anti-nuclear palace/bunker found in the capital city of Tirana. Built by the communist government during the Cold War and only recently opened to the public in 2014, visitors can explore a portion of the massive palace’s 106 rooms and walk through its cave-like passageways.

Belgium

Population: 11.56 million

Capital city: Brussels

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Belgium: Grand Palace

Grand palace in the centre of Brussels Belgium

This Western European nation and its capital serve at the headquarters of NATO. Nestled between France, Germany, the Netherlands and the North Sea, Belgium did not receive its independence until 1830. Since then, it has been a strong force for democracy.

Although the country may be shy of 200 years, the Grand Place in Brussels has served as the city’s main gathering place and market for a century. Surrounding the medieval square are ornate Gothic buildings constructed in the 17th century for a fairytale-like presence. Visit during the summer Flower Carpet festival when the entire square is transformed into an artfully designed carpet of colorful flowers.

Bulgaria

Population: 6.93 million

Capital city: Sofia

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Bulgaria: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria

Bulgaria earned its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1908 but was closely aligned with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Applying to NATO as part of its Partnership for Peace in 1994, the country was invited to officially become a member in 2002. It took two more years to become an official member, making it one of seven former Soviet countries to join the organization.

The impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is the symbol of the capital as well as the country. Built in 1912 as a memorial to more than 200,000 Russian soldiers who perished during the Russo-Turkish Liberation War of the late 1800s, the active church welcomes worshippers daily and is free to visit.

Canada

Canadian flag flying over Old Quebec City

Population: 38.01 million

Capital city: Ottawa

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Canada: Niagara Falls

The United States wasn’t the only North American country to send troops to fight in Europe during the Second World War. Canada waged its own air, sea and land battles with more than a million soldiers. As such, Canada was one of 12 founding members of NATO.

In a large nation with distinct personalities and attractions found in each province, selecting the top attraction truly depends on which area of the country you find yourself. It could be Mount Royal Park in Montreal, Quebec; Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia; or the Parliament Hill and Buildings in Ottawa, Ontario. However, if there were only one thing to see in Canada, head to one of the world’s best natural wonders: Niagara Falls. More than 6 million cubic feet of water flow over the falls every minute, making them the falls with the world’s greatest flow rate.

Croatia

Population: 4.05 million

Capital city: Zagreb

Year joining NATO: 2009

Best Thing to Do in Croatia: Walls of Dubrovnik

Like Bulgaria, this small Eastern European country first worked with NATO when it entered into a Partnership for Peace in 2000. Prior to its independence in 1991, Croatia was collectively included in the former Yugoslavia, a socialist state created following World War II. Croatia is one of six republics that made up the former country and was invited to join NATO in 2008.

Throngs of tourists descend upon Croatia after the popularity of “Game of Thrones,” the HBO series that ran from 2011 through 2019. Setting its King’s Landing in the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, fans were introduced to the charming city overlooking the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia, one of the most recognizable places in the country. Constructed in the 12th century, the ancient walls and fortresses are some of the most intact in the world.

Czech Republic

Population: 10.7 million

Capital city: Prague

Year joining NATO: 1999

Best Thing to Do in Czech Republic: Prague Zoological Garden

It wasn’t WWII but, actually, the First World War that combined regions of the fallen Austro-Hungarian Empire into one country known as Czechoslovakia, now the Czech Republic or simply Czechia. A democratic country until 1948, it fell to Communists and remained behind the Iron Curtain until its collapse in 1989. Four years later, the country peacefully split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Within the decade, the Czech Republic was invited to join NATO.

One of the world’s best zoos can be found in the heart of the Czech Republic’s magical capital of Prague. First opened in 1931, the 111-acre zoo is home to and breeds the endangered Przewalski's horse. More than 650 species and 4,000 animals call the zoo home.

Denmark

Population: 5.831 million

Capital city: Copenhagen

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Denmark: Nyhavn

Although westerners may think of Scandinavia as only the three countries found on the aptly named peninsula in Northern Europe, it actually includes its southern neighbor, Denmark. Bordering Germany and connected to the peninsula by the 5-mile Øresund Bridge to Sweden, the Danes declared themselves neutral during WWII but were invaded by the Germans without much force. The country took sides when the war ended and became a founding member of NATO.

Copenhagen’s iconic and colorful port, Nyhavn has been a bustling area of the capital since the 17th century. The likes of Denmark’s most prominent figures, including Hans Christian Anderson, roamed along these canals, which are today still filled with wooden ships. A visit to the “New Harbour” is particularly charming during warmer months, as it is mainly filled with restaurants spilling onto the cobbled streets lining the waterways and beckons travelers to sit back and people-watch while sitting in the sun.

Estonia

Population: 1.33 million

Capital city: Tallinn

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Estonia: Tallinn's Old Town

Directly bordering Russia with much of its border flanking the Baltic Sea, this former Baltic State of the Soviet Union was tucked behind the Iron Curtain until 1991. From the moment it was independent, Estonia’s leaders attempted to gain an invitation into NATO, but it took more than a decade for the ascension to come to fruition.

One of Europe’s lesser-traversed countries, Estonia is a hidden gem. Visit its capital city’s Old Town, and stroll along streets that have lined the walled city since the 14th century. The charming area is filled with historical museums and attractions such as the House of the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, where single merchants could gather in the 14th century, and a former monk’s passage that now serves as an artisan area known as St. Catherine's Passage.

Finland

Population: 5.54 million

Capital city: Helsinki

Year joining NATO: 2023

Best Thing to Do in Finland: Lapland

Finland's northernmost region is also what makes it famous. In Lapland, visitors can explore the otherworldly subarctic wilderness, which is the perfect spot to get a look at the northern lights.

It's truly a nature lover's playground, with national parks and ski resorts galore.

France

Population: 67.39 million

Capital city: Paris

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in France: Musée d’Orsay

Historically renowned for its fight for democracy (think: the Storming of the Bastille), France was quick to become a founding member of NATO. But some may be surprised to find the country left NATO in 1966 and remained on the outs for more than 40 years due to disagreements with organization policies on controlled armed forces and nuclear deterrents. It rejoined in 2009.

Of course, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see when visiting France, but the piece de la resistance is a visit to the former train station turned art museum, the Musée d’Orsay. Home to the most extensive collection of Impressionist art globally, visitors can see priceless works by renowned artists like Claude Monet, Edgar Degas and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Germany

Population: 83.24 million

Capital city: Berlin

Year joining NATO: 1955

Best Thing to Do in Germany: Marienplatz

Panorama of Marienplatz square with New Town Hall and Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Lady).

Following WWII, Germany was divided into four occupied zones, with Great Britain, France and the United States overseeing the formation of the German Federal Republic (FRG) in the west and the Soviet Union controlling the east. The FRG, more commonly referred to as West Germany, joined NATO in 1955, although East Germany remained under Soviet control until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1990.

The largest square in Munich, Marienplatz is southwest Germany’s storybook center and dates back to the Middle Ages. As the central marketplace, Marienplatz is a pedestrian zone that still welcomes markets, specifically its renowned Christkindlmarkt each December. Surrounded by restaurants and shops, the square’s main feature is the whimsical Glockenspiel. The dancing clock re-enacts stories from the 16th century and features 32 life-sized figures and 43 bells. It begins its dance every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., lasting 12 to 15 minutes.

Greece

Population: 10.72 million

Capital city: Athens

Year joining NATO: 1952

Best Thing to Do in Greece: Acropolis

Acropolis Hill, Parthenon, Athens, Greece

While much of the Balkan Peninsula became members of the Soviet bloc, Greece received protection from the west following a Civil War occurring during the end of WWII. Greece and its Aegean Sea neighbor, Turkey, were the first countries invited to join the allegiance after its formation.

A visit to Greece isn’t complete without visiting the ancient ruins known as the Acropolis. The hilltop area overlooking Athens has evidence of human life dating back to 5000 B.C. with ruins from the 400s. Visitors will see the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the Greek Goddess Athena, for which the city was named, as well as ruins of additional temples, shrines and gates in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hungary

Population: 9.75 million

Capital city: Budapest

Year joining NATO: 1999

Best Thing to Do in Hungary: Cruise along the Danube

Budapest city skyline and Danube river photo, Hungary

Also trapped behind the Iron Curtain until 1989, Hungary was eager to shed its Soviet ties and began a campaign to remove the barbed-wire fence that separated its border from Austria. Ten years later, it was welcomed into the alliance.

Dividing the city of Budapest, which was originally two separate cities known as Buda and Pest, the Danube River is the best place to see the illuminated views of Hungary’s capital. Situated along the river are the Hungarian Parliament Building, Halaszbastya, Buda Castle and Gresham Palace. All are lit in the evenings to showcase the magic of this romantic city.

Iceland

Population: 366,425

Capital city: Reykjavik

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Iceland: Perlan Museum

Fearing it would be taken by Nazi Germany after it took Denmark, Britain used its Navy to take control of the neutral island kingdom in WWII. Allies, including the U.S., soon followed. During this occupation, Icelanders decided to become a republic, achieving its independence from a sovereign ruler and the Allies on June 17, 1944. Because of its four years with the Allies, it was offered a place in NATO from its onset.

Would-be visitors now have visions of swimming in the Blue Lagoon and witnessing geysers and waterfalls in the surreal landscape that makes Iceland so popular for travelers. But the stop not to miss is the Perlan Museum. This Nature Exploratorium showcases Iceland’s nature in a building that blends right in. Learn how this tiny island uses its natural resources to be one of the most sustainable countries in NATO.

Italy

Population: 59.55 million

Capital city: Rome

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Italy: St. Peter’s Basilica

Benito Mussolini, a socialist/fascist/communist, seized control of Italy well before WWII, but his goals of seizing more power and areas of Europe had him setting an alliance with Adolf Hitler, becoming a member of the Axis powers. Yet, in late 1943, after witnessing the horrors taking place under Nazi regime, Italy’s people rallied and voted Mussolini out of power, then declared war on Germany. This helped the Allies arrive in Italy and played an important role in the war, which is why the country was invited to join forces with NATO at its inception.

Depending on the Italian region visited, the locals will provide their favorite site all tourists should see. Still, the entire country will agree that Vatican City’s St. Peter’s Basilica is the heart and soul of the nation. Within the papal enclave, the famously domed ceiling of the church dedicated to St. Peter is the largest in the world and was constructed and completed under the watchful eyes of popes between 1506 and 1615.

Latvia

Population: 1.9 million

Capital city: Riga

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Latvia: Old City Riga

Night street in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia

A Baltic land tucked between Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia’s Gulf of Riga and Baltic Sea proximity made it an important piece of land for the Soviets, which had occupied the country since 1940. It was considered one of the wealthiest areas in the Soviet Union. However, it, too, sought independence in 1990 and became a republic with a modern defense military that made it alluring to NATO countries, which extended an invitation.

Every traveler by air and cruise ship will arrive first in Latvia via its capital city, Riga. Make your way straight to Old Town, Vecriga, established in 1201. As the oldest part of the capital, the district is filled with restaurants, shops and entertainment, and visitors will love exploring the streets lined with architecture from its 1,000 years of existence.

Lithuania

Sunny Aerial Vilnius Old Town aerial view scene

Population: 2.8 million

Capital city: Vilnius

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Lithuania: Vilnius Old Town

Upper castle and aerial view of Vilnius, Lithuania

Like Latvia, Lithuania was a constituent of the Soviet Union, also gaining its independence in 1990 and joining its northern neighbor as an inducted member in 2004.

And like Riga, neighboring Lithuania’s capital city has its own charming Old Town complete with fairytale castles. From Trakai Island Castle to the tower of Gediminas Castle, the medieval town is on full display and mixed with Gothic and neoclassical buildings beckoning you inside.

Luxembourg

Population: 632,275

Capital city: Luxembourg City

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Luxembourg: Le Chenin de la Corniche

Smaller than the state of Rhode Island, Luxembourg is surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany. A Grand Duchy declaring itself neutral, Luxembourg was quickly taken hold by Germany until the Allies liberated it in 1944. Although small in size, the country was nearly unanimous in wanting to join NATO, eager to unite Western Europe, which it does unto this day.

Luxembourg’s capital is often a stop for travelers wanting to check another European nation off their list. The city’s Corniche along the fortress’s ramparts has been called the “Most Beautiful Balcony of Europe,” as it affords the best views of the Alzette Valley and The Grund, the city’s oldest neighborhood.

Montenegro

Population: 621,718

Capital city: Podgorica

Year joining NATO: 2017

Best Thing to Do in Montenegro: Kotor Old City

One of the Balkan countries grouped into Yugoslavia, Montengro’s past extends well into the early Middle Ages, although it also has a lengthy and close relationship with Russia, which it borders on the east. Only gaining its independence in 2003, it requested admission into NATO. The allies agreed its Adriatic Sea location was important, as it hinders Russia from reaching the coastline, and welcomed in the “young” member.

It’s not the capital city but the alluring waterfront city of Kotor’s Old Town that brings the crowds to Montenegro. Neighboring Croatia, the 600-year-old city has its own "Game of Thrones" vibe. It’s easy to get lost on these cobbled streets, actually built to confuse any possible invaders. But getting turned around is part of the charm, as you’ll find hidden gems at every turn.

The Netherlands

Grachten van Utrecht en architectuur in de zomer, Nederland

Population: 17.44 million

Capital city: Amsterdam

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in the Netherlands: Rijksmuseum

The Netherlands, sometimes referred to as Holland, as it was previously known, literally translates into “lower countries.” These low countries originally grouped Belgium and Luxembourg into the region, which lies along the North Sea and sits below sea level. Its strategic location in western Europe and its close ties with the Allies made it a shoo-in for NATO in 1949.

Home to the largest collection of Dutch artists in the world, visit Rijksmuseum, the world-class art museum in central Amsterdam. Here, Masters of the Golden Age and works that are more than 800 years old are on display. You won’t, however, find Dutch son Vincent Van Gogh’s collection here. His work is in a nearby museum dedicated solely to him.

Norway

Population: 5.34 million

Capital city: Oslo

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Norway: Fram Museum

Oslo Fram Museum of Polar Exploration Bygdoy Norway

The kingdom of Norway has been a unified realm since the ninth century. Its far-east location in Scandinavia couldn’t protect it during WWII and, despite declaring itself neutral, was invaded by Nazis attempting to kidnap the king. When the war came to an end, it promptly became a founding member of NATO.

Norway’s rich history goes deeper than its royal family. Viking exploration is in the blood of its people, which may have inspired Norway’s adventures into the North Pole. Learn about the 1880s explorers who were the first to set about Greenland at Oslo’s Fram Museum (Frammuseet). Located on a Peninsula, the museum is part of a collection of seafaring museums that include the Viking Ship Museum and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

Poland

Warsaw, Royal castle and old town at sunset

Population: 37.95 million

Capital city: Warsaw

Year joining NATO: 1999

Best Thing to Do in Poland: Rynek Glowny Central Square

Poland experienced much turmoil during the first half of the 20th century. After World War I, a war broke out between the Poles and the Soviets. During WWII, the country was invaded by both Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. The Soviets defeated the Nazis and kept the country behind its Iron Curtain until 1989. A decade later, it joined its western neighbors in NATO.

Due to the destruction that occurred during World War II, you may be surprised to find Old Town’s main square intact. Yet Rynek Glowny Central Square, which dates back to the 13th century, remains. Here, historic and Gothic buildings align the square, and a vibrant street life, shopping and restaurants are far removed from the ravages that occurred a century ago.

Portugal

Population: 10.31 million

Capital city: Lisbon

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in Portugal: Sintra

The westernmost country in continental Europe, Portugal was invited to become a member of the alliance from inception. This was mainly in part to its larger Iberian Peninsula neighbor, Spain, holding out. The alliance wanted to have an ally on the peninsula, and Portugal was eager to comply.

Lisbon and Porto may be the more famous cities, but less than an hour from Portugal’s capital is the romantic village of Sintra. Tuk-tuks will get you around the steep mountain town as you visit its colorful and dramatic palaces and ruins. Visit the yellow and red Palace of Sintra, delve deep into the Initiation Well of Quinta da Regaleira, and walk along the rampart of the Castle of the Moors. All are within steps of each other and make for an ideal day trip.

Republic of North Macedonia

Population: 2.1 million

Capital city: Skopje

Year joining NATO: 2020

Best Thing to Do in North Macedonia: Lake Matka

Kayaking through river in Matka canyon, Macedonia

A landlocked nation of southeastern Europe, Macedonia was incorporated into Yugoslavia and was also a socialist country. It declared its independence in 1991 and became a NATO partner four years later. In 2020, it became one of the most recent allies in NATO.

Leave behind the Old Towns and ruins in Macedonia to visit the gorge lake of Matka, outside of the capital city. Beyond the beauty of the canyon split by a river, the more than 12,000 acres of land make up what's considered the most beautiful place in the entire country. Rent a boat, explore its vibrant aquamarine colors and see the medieval monasteries and caves that surround it.

Romania

Population: 19.29 million

Capital city: Bucharest

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Romania: Herastrau Park

Occupied by Soviet troops beginning in 1944, Romania was considered a satellite of the U.S.S.R. until 1990. This was the year its communist leader was overthrown, and the people were free to hold democratic elections. It was voted into NATO in 2002, officially becoming a member in 2004.

Romania’s best feature is also an outdoor park, although this one is located in the heart of the capital city of Bucharest. The largest park in the country is also the largest city park in all of Europe, making it the Central Park of the continent. Bordering a lake and spread across almost 500 acres, it is considered a jewel in Romania’s crown.

Slovakia

Population: 5.46 million

Capital city: Bratislava

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Slovakia: Bratislava Old Town

The other half of former Czechoslovakia emerged from behind the Iron Curtain and fought hard to get into NATO. Its first attempt failed to receive enough votes in 1997, but it ascended into the peace-promoting group in 2004.

Many visitors to Slovakia arrive via the Danube River aboard an enchanting river cruise. When they disembark, they discover the quaint Old Town of its capital. Overlooking Bratislava is the Baroque-style fortress that affords the best views of the town’s winding lanes. As you stroll past restaurants and shops, you will find the numerous churches and museums celebrating Slovakia.

Slovenia

Population: 2.1 million

Capital city: Ljubljana

Year joining NATO: 2004

Best Thing to Do in Slovenia: Ljubljana Old Town

Not to be confused with Slovakia, which rests above Hungary, Slovenia borders Italy, Croatia, Austria and, well, also, Hungary. As a territory within Yugoslavia, Slovenia was a Socialist nation until its independence in 1991. Before it was within Yugoslavia, it was under the control of the Austrian Habsburg family. After a decade of establishing itself on its own, it joined the alliance.

Its capital still bears a resemblance to more than its 20th-century history, however. In fact, Ljubljana was a medieval crossroads. You’ll see hints of this in Old Town. Quiet yet picturesque, the city will slowly unveil itself with a day of wandering.

Spain

Population: 84.34 million

Capital city: Madrid

Year joining NATO: 1982

Best Thing to Do in Spain: Basilica de la Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia Cathedral in spring, Barcelona, Spain

The larger of two countries occupying the Iberian Peninsula, Spain was late to join forces with NATO. Internally dealing with a struggle of democracy and separatism, even NATO officials were unsure it wanted the nation to join. When Francisco Franco, the military dictator that ruled Spain for 36 years, died in 1975, a democratic nation emerged, and by 1982, it joined the alliance.

When visiting Spain, there isn’t a more iconic structure than Antoni Gaudi’s indescribable and awe-inspiring Basilica de la Sagrada Familia. Still under construction after more than 140 years, it has become the symbol of Barcelona and is a modern marvel that must be seen to be believed.

Turkey

Population: 84.34 million

Capital city: Ankara

Year joining NATO: 1952

Best Thing to Do in Turkey: Domabache Palace

One of the entrances to the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, Turkey.

As the gatekeeping country separating the Black Sea and the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, Turkey’s proximity to Russia makes it an important alliance in NATO’s forces. It was quickly invited to join, along with Greece, in 1952, when the founding countries opened NATO to additional nations.

Istanbul, which lies on both the continents of Europe and Asia (divided by the Bosporus Strait), is more than a gateway. Home to beautiful mosques and tantalizing spice markets, visitors often make a beeline to Hagia Sophia Byzantine basilica and the Spice Bazaar. But the real crown of Istanbul is Domabache Palace. Built in the 19th century, this glamourous palace still resembles its original use as an Ottoman Empire home to Turkish sultans, giving travelers a glimpse at a world often only read about in storybooks.

United Kingdom

View across city of London from Muswell Hill

Population: 67.22 million

Capital city: London

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in the United Kingdom: Tower of London

London Tower Bridge illuminated at sunset over River Thames panorama

Great Britain was instrumental in the formation of NATO. In 1948, it and Belgium, France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands signed the precursory Brussels Treaty to create a defense system against the growing Soviet presence. British officials working in the United States worked closely with the Americans and Canadians that were in talks of creating a defense system to prevent another World War from occurring. The negotiations and combination led to NATO.

In the storied history of the United Kingdom, the royal families who have ruled England, Scotland and Ireland have occupied the interest of people around the world for generations. Five hundred years of monarchs ruled from the Tower of London, making it a top attraction in the U.S. More than a stronghold, it held prisoners, jewels and royal events. Today, visitors still can witness pomp and circumstance with Beefeaters on guard of the Crown Jewels and the belongings of royalty like Henry VIII and the current Queen Elizabeth II.

United States

Population: 329.5 million

Capital city: Washington, D.C.

Year joining NATO: 1949

Best Thing to Do in the United States: The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial and Museum New York City

America's importance to the creation of NATO is evident, as it served as the host country for the founding members to sign the treaty into effect. Representatives from 12 countries converged upon the Departmental Auditorium on April 4, 1949. The building is now called the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium and is found on Constitution Avenue in the nation's capital.

From sea to shining sea, the District of Columbia holds much of the country’s history within its numerous museums and federal buildings. But it’s the nation’s darkest day that resonates the most with citizens and visitors alike. This is why the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York is a tribute and monument that all should visit at some point in their lives. The memorial rests at the original World Trade Center site, and travelers can ride to the top of One World Trade, the first of the two towers to replace the fallen buildings as a sign of strength and rebirth.