We will finish up a conference in herndon at 3pm. Just can't imagine being this close to the nation's capital and not see the sights and the cherry blossoms - but no car. Any ideas for getting from the dulles or herndon area (embassy suites)into the city so we can grab a tour and at least see the highlights. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I would contact the hotel directly and ask if they have a shuttle to the nearest Metro station.

You could take the hotel aiport shuttle bus (if they have one) back to Dulles Airport, and then take the Washington Flyer bus to the West Falls Church Metro Station. Or you could take the Washington Flyer taxi straight into DC. Or, you could just take a cab from your hotel into town.

Here's a link to Dulles ground transport info:
http://www.metwashairports.com/dulles/ground.htm

Get a ride (co-conferee, Fairfax Connector bus, hotel shuttle bus, or taxi) to the Herndon Monroe Park and get Metrobus 5A.
You could get off in Rossyln and then take the Metro to Smithsonian station or take the bus to L'Enfant Plaza and get Metro or walk from there.

It's the Herndon Monroe Park & Ride where the Metrobus 5A stops. It is an express bus. http://www.wmata.com