DC Sightseeing
 

We'll only be in Dc for a couple of days. What are must sees? Thanks.

Spend at least a day on the Mall doing the various Smithsonian museums. "Must sees" include the American History, Aerospace, and the renovated Gemstones exhibit in the Natural History Museum. <BR> <BR>Georgetown is great for walking and looking at a wonderful (living) neighborhood of historic homes, an espresso at a little cafe, and the rest of the day going through the shops and trying out the restaurants.

"Must sees" really depend on your interests. There is so much to do and see in DC, that a couple of days will never cover it. Spend a bit of time determining what is important to you. Some things to consider (I will sound like a broken record on this, since I have posted this information before - SORRY FOLKS!): <BR> <BR>White House tours - If you are planning your visit far enough in advance, contact your congressman or senator for White House passes (they suggest at least 10-12 weeks in advance). The congressional tour of the WH is much better than the regular - it is guided, and a bit less crowded. If you can't get those passes, you can pick up free, timed, same day passes at the White House Visitor Center on 15th and E Sts, NW. Tours are given Tuesday through Saturday, 10-12pm. These tours are not guided. <BR> <BR>Smithsonian - The Smithsonian has approximately 14 attractions in DC, including the National Zoo; most of which are on the Mall. Which are you most interested in? It is virtually impossible to spend only one day doing the museums, and really get a feel for them. I give guided tours at the Air and Space Museum, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask. <BR> <BR>Capitol - If you visit when Congress is in session, you will need passes to get into the House and Senate galleries. You can request these from your congressman or senator's office. YOu may want to ask if someone from that office can give you a personal tour of the Capitol. If they have time, they will. <BR> <BR>Monuments - I personally believe the monuments are best seen at night. THey are breathtaking. The Washington Monument, however, is not worth the visit, especially since it is covered with scaffolding and your view will be partially obstructed. <BR> <BR>Transportation - Metro is the most convenient way to get around DC. Don't even think about using a car. <BR> <BR>There is so much more to say, I don't know where to begin. Email me if you want more detailed information. <BR>

When? If you are here at cherry blossom time, there will be throngs of people, but it is quite magic. When I moved down here, it was night when I arrived. My friends took me for a drive around the tidal basin to see the monuments, and there were floodlights lighting up the cherryblossoms. <BR> <BR>It is an easy city to see. If you want to see Georgetown (and not shop) you may want to visit Dumbarton Oaks' gardens. Have lunch at "Martins" an old institution right in the center of G'town.

I was most impresed by my visit to Arlington National Cemetery while I was in DC. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns is very moving, and JFK's grave is very awe-inspiring. I think all Americans should visit Arlington to see what their ancestors did for our freedoms...