Taking a trip...

Alright, so before I start packing my bags, I thought I should write-up some travel advice for anyone who is considering traveling to DC.

There are a lot of fun things to do and see in Washington!

If you vacation out here, I would recommend staying in a hotel outside of DC. Hotel prices in Washington can be pretty pricey, but it’s cheaper staying in Virginia or Maryland.

The Metro system is absolutely fantastic!!! It’s safe and convenient and can get you just about anywhere you need to go. They are pretty busy during rush hour on weekdays, but at most other times, you should have no problem getting a seat. Make sure your hotel is by a Metro station and you will be set!

Oh and remember to stand on the right side of the escalators and walk up the left side! The locals get pretty annoyed when you get in their way, and they will probably voice it!

Things to see, places to go… For younger kids, the museums are pretty cool. The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and the American Museum of Natural History are must sees (and a plus, they are free!). They are pretty interactive, especially Air and Space. The National Zoo is awesome, so if you get a chance, it’s a good way to spend some time outside!

The Holocaust Museum is really well put together, but it may be too intense for younger kids. I would definitely recommend it, but you will probably leave feeling a little depressed. I did it in two shots, only because it was too depressing to do it all at once. Again, this one is free.

The Newseum documents the history of journalism. It is really interesting, especially if you are into journalism or communication. You could easily spend five hours there. The only downside to it is that it isn’t free. I think I paid $20 for a student ticket.

Of course you have to do the “Washington” things. If you want to tour the Capitol, I would suggest contacting your Representative or Senator’s office. Their tours are much more interesting. The Monuments are gorgeous. If it is warm enough out, try to walk along the National Mall and around the Tidal Basin at night. The White House is very rarely open for tours, but it may be worth a shot. Contact your Representative or Senator’s office and they will try, but don’t count on it.

If you are looking for some evening entertainment, consider going to the Capitol Steps performance. They basically mock politicians and government, both sides of the aisle, in a musical way. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip!

You can find Ghost tours online. Tours were not going when I was out here, but I have heard they are really fun! Washington is full of angry, dead politicians.

Check out Georgetown and Eastern Market if you get a chance. Eastern Market is a fairly big farmers market, with lots of crafts and antiques. Georgetown is the hot scene on the weekends. It’s the upscale neighborhood with lots of good shopping and dining options.

Mount Vernon is a little outside the city, but it is a beautiful estate. For those of you who don’t know much about it, Mount Vernon was the home of George Washington. This isn’t free, but you could spend a day there. The house is open to tour, you can walk around the grounds and through the gardens, see his tomb, etc. It is well kept and a great way to spend a day in nice weather. You will have to go to the end of the yellow line (Huntington) and then take a bus out.

Other fun things to try: Ford’s Theater (where Lincoln was shot), the National Archives (where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence are kept), Bureau of Engraving and Printing (you can watch money roll of the press), and the Supreme Court (you can sit in on a Supreme Court case if they are in session and if you get there early enough)!

Most of the tourist-y things are free, paid for by tax dollars and donors. Privately owned things are not, and they can be a little on the pricy side, especially if you are with a big family.

If you enjoy being outside, rent bikes for a day and ride around the Mall. Or picnic on the Mall or fly a kite on the Mall.

Where to go out to eat? Remember I am fairly picky, so you might not agree with me, but here is what I have:
 Ben’s Chili Bowl
 Olive’s
 Chadwicks
 DC Coast
 Hard Rock Café

If none of those ideas work, you can usually find something good in Old Town Alexandria. There is a free trolley that will take you up and down King Street. If you want a quick bite to eat for lunch, you can always find a Cosi (think like Panera).

I also have a box of cards with planned walks you can take. They are a lot of fun, so if you would like to borrow them, feel free to ask!

The flowers are gorgeous!!! Cherry Blossom season in March/April is absolutely incredible, and shortly after that, the tulips go like gang busters!!!! Oh and if you travel in the winter: Washington does not deal with snow very well! We Minnesotans are much tougher!!! Weather-wise, expect the unexpected. I was walking outside in shorts and a tank top in February when it was 70 degrees, but it can be very cold and rainy too!

Alright, I know that was pretty long, but hopefully it was a little helpful to anyone who is planning a vacation, or looking for somewhere to go!

Over and out!