Attractions

Category: Museum
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Madison Dr, NW & 15th St, NW , Washington, DC 20001 US

A stroll along D.C.'s National Mall is beautiful: the grass, the cherry blossoms, the reflecting pools. Though you are always aware of the world-famous monuments along her two-mile length. The Mall is a wide-open rectangle of land in the middle of the capitol city. Made up of gardens, trees, museums, statues and memorials, it's a place you can relax outdoors and celebrate the country's proud origins. From the huge monuments dedicated to Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson, to the war memorials honoring those who fought for their country's beliefs, the Mall is pure history. The Queen of England recently visited the new World War II memorial, a magnificent "must-see," and fitting tribute to its heroes. I sat on a hotel balcony not far from the Mall on the fourth of July one year. The fireworks in the night sky broke brightly over the Washington Monument, while we sipped beers, ooh-ing and aah-ing in time with the show. What a sight: it captured the essence of the U.S.A.

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Category: Library
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
101 Independence Ave Sw, Washington, DC 20024 US
www.loc.gov

When Congressional leaders require research or documentation on a certain subject, they head straight to the Library of Congress. Luckily for us, this priviledge is not only available for the chose few. Those of us who love wonderful buildings and amazing collections, can find quite a bit to see. It is the largest library in the world, and acts to, in the words of the Head Librarian, "sustain and preserve a universal collection of knowledge and creativity for future generations." Three gigantic old buildings boast over 130 million cataloged items, including 29 million books, more than 58 million manuscripts, a huge rare book collection, original sound recordings, and the legal documents which formed and still govern the country. This library is suited to any nerd who needs to find anything, but it is also the location for many displays, exhibitions, and events--a draft of the Declaration of Independence is included in a Creating the United States exhibition. Remember, this is an official library, if you bump into the Poet Laureate, offer regards.

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Category: Museum
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
1000 Jefferson Dr Sw, Washington, DC 20560 US
www.si.edu

To ensure we would embrace knowledge, (less X-Box, more museums) James Smithsonian gave all his property to the nation; the Smithsonian Institute formed in the early 1800's. Barely 200 years later, his gift lives in 19 museums, nine research centers, a zoo, and affiliate museums worldwide. We don't just have the right to visit the Smithsonian's structures, we have an obligation to. Museums are always a hotspot for the traveler, but the Smithsonian offers so much—to not visit is something of a tragedy. The National Aeronautic and Space Administration (N.A.S.A) Museum is my personal favorite, bringing out the inner little boy with rockets, planes, and spaceships. I also love the fine collections of art at the National Portrait Gallery, and the National Museum of the American Indian is outright educational. The point is this: with so many museums dotted conveniently through D.C.'s locale, visitors are very lucky indeed.

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Category: Animal Park
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
3001 Connecticut Ave Nw, Washington, DC 20008 US
www.nationalzoo.si.edu

C'mon, who doesn't love the zoo? It's great for the kids and you get your exercise by walking. Washington D.C's National Zoo (part of the Smithsonian Institute) houses over 400 species of animal, and is made up of the zoological gardens in the city and a conservation center in Virginia. The D.C. Zoo is lovely: large, well-manicured and friendly, with some really amazing wildlife on exhibit. The bird house is one of the best I have been to, there is something about watching New Zealand's ridiculous-looking kiwis in the dark, and the flamingos are ever-amusing. The marine mammals exhibit is always a treat; what zoo visit would be complete without watching the seals? However, the main attractions are the giant panda bears. So rare are these creatures, and so brilliant this zoo's attempts to save the species, that you can't help but be impressed. And they are pretty cute...

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Category: Church / Cathedral
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
3101 Wisconsin Ave Nw, Washington, DC 20016 US
http://www.cathedral.org/

A cathedral defines a city, and the Washington National Cathedral is a beauty. It was envisioned along with the plans laid down by George Washington while designing a capitol worthy of its nation. Actual construction began in 1907, and we are left with a marvelous, modern example, of a towering gothic cathedral. I suppose that is the biggest draw for me: how beautifully this building fits in with the architecture city-wide, while still providing majesty and stature. As a building, it is impressive, standing fourth tallest in D.C. As a monument, its 100-year history is deep. The funerals of presidents and the memorials for countless events continue in its multi-faith halls. The Tomb of President Woodrow Wilson is a popular attraction, as well as stained-glass tributes to national figures and leaders. I find cathedrals fascinating—touring this one is no different. It’s impressive how such a young structure can boast such rich history.

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Morning Worship Service

Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
To Be Determined, Washington, DC

Since Franklin D. Roosevelt, the majority of previous President’s have chosen to attend a morning worship service at the church of their choice. After the service, the Obamas head over to the White House where they will be joined by President Bush and then zipped over to the Capitol Building for the actual Inaugural Ceremony.

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Procession to The Capitol

Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Washington, DC US

President-elect Barack Obama and soon to be First Lady Michelle Obama head to the White House in style, accompanied by members of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. Upon arrival at the White House they will be joined by President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush. Together, the current and soon-to-be President will take off to The Capitol Building for the Swearing In Ceremony.

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Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
East Capitol Street, NE and 1st Street , Washington, DC 20002 US

No ticket? No problem. If you don’t have one of the only 250,000 highly coveted Swearing In Ceremony tickets, you can still be a part of the action. TIP: Join the huddled masses at The National Mall. Dress warm, pack snacks, and shimmy your way into the thick of the crowd so you get a good view of the Jumbo Tron television, where the entire inauguration will be broadcasted to non-ticket holders in high def. Be sure to wait for high noon, when Barack Obama takes his oath of office.

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Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
East Capitol Street, NE and 1st , Washington, DC 20002 US

Yes, We Can! Directly following the swearing in of President-elect Obama, the world will know the new President’s vision and aspiration for the country (although we already know most of his moving forward plan from the long campaign, the debates and his victory speech). A long speech or a short one, Viscape knows one thing for sure: Barack Obama is a spectacular speaker and we can‘t wait to hear more!

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Departure of The Outgoing President

Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
East Capitol Street, NE and 1st , Washington, DC 20002 US

Out with the old - The new President and Vice President will respectfully escort the President Bush and Vice Presidet Cheney out of The Capitol Building almost immediately after the Swearing In Ceremony and Inaugural Address. It’s a quiet, reserved sendoff, probably the only part of the day without any fanfare! The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies will come together on the stairs, surrounded by sharply dressed military, as the new President and Vice President take turns escorting the families out of The Capitol Building where they will be sent off in style via helicopter.

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Presidential Luncheon

Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
East Capitol Street, NE and 1st , Washington, DC 20002 US

Reservations won’t get you in because this lunch is by invitation only. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies hosts this VIP event for the big dogs of the political scene. This event calls for toasts, lots and lots of toasts, with some speeches and of course, gifts from the Inaugural Committee which are thrown in for good measure. Traditionally, these elaborate affairs combine the inaugural theme as well as food dishes from the president’s home state. Viscape wonders if we will be seeing President Obama’s Hawaiian faves like Plate Lunch or Zip Min on the menu? If you want a “taste of the action,” your best bet is to head to a local pub (with a television) because the television news will be sure to cover all the action.

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Category: Inaugural Procession
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
1000 Pennsylvania Ave Se, Washington, DC 20003 US

Up and at ‘em! Line up early along Pennsylvania Avenue because you can guarantee the line to see the parade will be close to ten people BACK. Arrive before dawn to secure front row seats. If you are not an early riser, you can always splurge on bleacher seats for a couple thousand dollars, but this is an event not to be missed. President Obama and Vice President Biden will lead the parade to The White House. Following behind will be hundreds of carefully screened marching bands, decked out military, and other performers – basically, the best of the best from all over the nation!

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Georgetown

Category: Shopping
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Georgetown, Washington, DC, DC US

When some hear the word Georgetown they think Hoyas, University and probably college. But, why not think shopping, entertainment, eating and people watching? Georgetown is perhaps the most “happening” place in all of Washington, D.C. Of course, it is an epicenter of higher-learning, but for most it is a place to see and be seen. Stroll down M Street in search of the perfect pair of shoes or walk up Wisconsin and grab some great Italian. Find the secret spots (Hint: Cady’s Ally) for a night filled with dancing, drinking and celeb sightings. Georgetown is a close walk to the White House, Pennsylvania Avenue and even the Capitol (but be sure to wear your most comfortable shoes or you could just buy some along the way).

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Adams Morgan

Category: Nightlife / Bars / Restaurants
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC, DC US

Shhhh…So, you can’t score a ticket to the inaugural balls or just don’t want to dress-up in black-tie? That doesn’t mean you should miss out on the late night celebration, does it? Partying Tip: Grab a cab and head straight to Adams Morgan. In this small celebration Mecca, explore and find fabulous roof top bars, small “underground” music houses, dance clubs and five start restaurants. Don’t be fooled by dingy looking entrances, large bouncers or long lines. Adams Morgan has a partying place for everyone, so get your groove on without the pomp and circumstance!

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Official Balls

Washington, District of Columbia, United States
DC Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, Washington, DC, 20001 USA

That's gonna hurt! Eventually tickets will be made available for the Official Inaugural Balls and you can bet that ticket prices will not only be steep but they will also sell like hot cakes on a cold January morning! Remember 2005? Well, tickets ranged from around $75 to $600 bucks. Viscape expects prices to double for sure! Consider yourself warned! Commander in Chief Ball for Military Personnel Only Constitution Ball for AR, CT, GA, IN, ME, MN, MS, MT, NV, NM, OK, OR, PR, VI, WI WV and the Pacific Territories. Democracy Ball for AZ, CA, KY, NC, ND, SD, TN and UT Freedom Ball for AK, AL, IL, KS, LA, MI and the Diplomatic Corps Independence Ball for CO, DE, DC, HI, ID, IA, MD, MA, MO, NE, NH, RI, SC, VT, VA and WA Liberty Ball for FL Patriot Ball for OH Stars & Stripes Ball for NY, NJ and PA Texas Wyoming Ball for TX and WY

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Reviews(Average Rating: 83% for 21 reviews)

Have you been here? Write a review!

ConfusingPhilosophyReviews: 4
Posts: 0
A Vibrant City of History and Culture
04/15/2009
Rating
80%
Washington, DC, USA
My first experience with this city was back when I was a grade school kid and I had the chance to attend a trip to the nation’s capital. The city struck a chord with me and I was inspired to come back. Now age 19, I am attending the George Washington University as a student and I can still find that same passion and love for this town. The monuments and political atmosphere of this city still give me a patriotic sense of pride and strikes me with awe every time I step out for a stroll. While the Foggy Bottom area is limited in it’s attractions (outside the National Mall), popular areas like Gallery Place and U Street still offer unique restaurants and attractions for everyone to enjoy. It is a bit isolated at times and not for everyone, but an enjoyable place to live.
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Carlin Cwik
- Top member
Reviews: 9
Posts: 32
Fringe Fun: DC Street
10/27/2008
Rating
98%
Washington, DC, USA
I'm a bit hesitant about offering my foremost opinion on this city. I think DC is disproportionately attended to by tourists eager to temporary tattoo an American Flag to their buttocks rather than cultural enthusiasts vying for a look at east coast art, food and media. But the city offers a bounty of entertainment outside landmark stops and sod-padded lawns. This is easy to overlook and difficult to truly grasp whilst surrounded by mile-high monuments. My advice is to get that over with in the first leg of your trip, and then venture further. In truth, during my most recent visit I was lucky enough to have a tour guide that's a native of the city. I was introduced to the “other DC," or rather the “real DC”: the part that’s a bit more attuned to real, urban America, whether I wanted to or not. In the 90s, the streets of DC were notoriously crime ridden, and certainly, the social disparity between the Georgetown cocktail crowd and go-go clubs is still present if not a prominent characteristic of the city. Just stick to a plan and know where you’re headed. You won't be sorry you did. We wandered H street one night for a generous helping of bars and live music and clubs. The place is a packed-sardine-tin of youth, hipsters and locals. Look up show listings and get there early if you want to make it in before there’s a line. The music scene, in general, is happening. The Washington Post and beethere.net/dc kept us in the loop for catching fresh bands and timeless names. Soul, funk, House, Hardcore and Punk, and Garage Rock Revival is so not government landmark. Everyone I knew there, however, preferred a lo-fi scene around and near the North West corner. There was ping-pong, pizza, and Pabst at a place called Comet on Connecticut Ave, and Politics + Prose, the famed bookstore was a few store fronts down. I also traversed parks and forest preserves in the area: Rock Creek Park is beautiful and more than twice the size of NYC’s Central Park. And of course, I cracked open the head of a Maryland Crab. While I was semi-grossed out by the yellow brains and prickly limbs I encountered at a crab shack just outside Chevy Chase, I was thoroughly entertained by the local life that surrounded me. The pint of Sam Adams took the edge off as well, as it usually does when you play at the fringe. If needed, drink one in DC and take a break from the never-ending trail of Smithsonians.
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jkotanko
- Top member
Reviews: 9
Posts: 5
I got museumed out...
10/16/2008
Rating
85%
Washington, DC, USA
D.C. is a big city. I like that. There are so many things to do there - it never gets boring. I was there a few months ago and hit up a bunch of the museums and tourist attractions. I had been there a few times before, but this time, I wanted to do it right. I checked out the Natural History Museum...they have some huge cockroaches! Also, their photography is amazing. Seriously, check it out. I went to the Holocaust Museum, which was haunting. I was glad I went though. It's a life-altering experience. I went to the aquarium and the National Zoo too. I love animals, and they have a lot. I looked at the White House and the National Monument, etc. They are something worth seeing at least once. I traveled cheaply via the Metro and ate in a great hole in the wall place. There are lots of coffee shops and a great bar scene too. There is a little too much traffic for me, but visiting was great!
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AnnaCDReviews: 4
Posts: 0
Tasty Town!
08/27/2008
Rating
91%
Washington, DC, USA
When I want to show family and friends around my current home-town of DC, I always let my tummy lead us. Sure, your great-aunt may have come to town to glimpse the White House, but what she'll really remember is that perfect Sabret hot dog she ate on the mall. I've become an expert at achieving the perfect food/tourist attraction combo. In Chinatown, spend a Saturday morning at the portrait gallery, then fill up on the excellent dim sum at Tony Cheng's. On U Street, experience an authentic Ethiopian meal at Dukem followed by an evening of Jazz at Twins. In Cleveland Park, sample Vietnamese grilled dishes at Nam Viet, then walk it off in an afternoon at the National Zoo. It's a great way to experience DC at its fullest: get patriotic at the attractions, then satisfy your other appetites by eating your way around the world!
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cynthialeighReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Don't cut the cherry trees down!
08/21/2008
Rating
90%
Washington, DC, USA
Despite all the pompous politics, venturing to our nations capital can be a very refreshing experience. Our nation's capital boasts numerous museums that pay respects to our nation's history--however colorful it maybe. It's also home to many historical landmarks, and various Government Buildings that a horde of ninja could not penetrate. It's also one of the only places where you can say, "I flew into Ronald Regan!"
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Q27Reviews: 4
Posts: 2
The Night Life
08/19/2008
Rating
97%
Washington, DC, USA
This is true that DC has just as many museums as Paris and New York, but it's night life is just as great as Miami and New York. Whether you prefer to hit a brewery, a dive bar, a salsa lounge, or loose yourself in the international scene; DC has it all. My friends and I sometimes find ourself in Adam's Morgan. Remember that long string of infamous bars in your college town, well this is just like that. Except you have money and there are people from everywhere on the planet. I have met people from Jamaica, Spain, Peru, Belgium and even Montana. Madam's Organ is the mainstay, but Grand Central is where the crowd tends to be. TomTom is really quiet in the beginning of the night and the bartender's are always nice. They were even kind enough to put up with friends' special drink order. Another famous part of town, Georgetown. There are mostly college kids there, since Georgetown University is up the street and its not as diverse as other areas in DC. The summer time calls for a hang out at the Waterfront area right down the street from there. If you are the type of person that need some international flair, then head over to Constitution and M. From places that host trance, latin, purely international to the all familiar hip hop this area is great. My personal favorite spot 14 & K. New York has Downtown, Miami has South Beach and DC has 14 & K. It's blocks away from the monuments and all the museums and has the single best lounges in DC. My favorite is LIMA. All the slick, cool people are hanging out here. There is never a cover charge and the drinks are affordable. However, if you're not big on international music, then I suggest staying over at Adam's Morgan or the Verizon Center area. Once you're done visiting the museums and the great tourist sights I highly suggest stopping over this night life spots to truly experience the DC life. The places doesn't stay open as long as NYC and Miami, but it can hold it's own.
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Marti-FontReviews: 1
Posts: 1
The rain in Spain...
08/15/2008
Rating
92%
Washington, DC, USA
If you've lived in Europe the circles in DC will remind you of cities like Madrid. They're miniature circles but fun to drive around. Dupont Circle is carefully marked with a circle within a circle but even I've found myself in the wrong lane having to take another "chakkar." When I lived in Madrid traffic around the huge plazas with imposing stone statues was just an unchecked mass of honking cars. Ofcourse the designer who designed DC in 1791, Pierre L'Enfant, was from France. The National Gallery of Art always has major exhibitions with art on loan from all over the world supplementing its stellar collection. I've seen the most complete and exhaustive collection of Whistler's paintings here. Some of the American painter's art is permanently housed at the National Portrait Gallery which is in Chinatown. If you follow 7th Street up from the National Gallery to Chinatown, a pleasant walk, you'll pass small galleries that carry avant garde sculpture - tactile sculpture that one can walk through - all for sale. Chinatown still has small New York bodega style groceries offering hot cellophaned scallion pancakes and bottles of fish sauce. It has a low skyline as most of Washington and is always sunny and walkable. Since it gentrified this decade there are many Internet based IT companies along with Starbucks on the corner. We moved to Washington DC for its temperate climate and it's true it doesn't rain much here with only 3 inches average per year. Almost any season is a heartening time to be here. Christmas in winter, spring for its Cherry Blossoms, summer for fantastic warmth, and fall for tree leaves in every hue of red, orange and yellow. The Cherry Blossoms extend out to the Washington suburbs with probably more trees covered in flowers than anywhere in the US.
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DenayReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Washington, DC, USA
08/13/2008
Rating
85%
Washington, DC, USA
Washington, DC is one of those unusual cities mixing politics and poise with exquisite beauty. As a visitor it is difficult to believe at first site that our nation’s leaders are tucked away addressing the issues of the day. An initial glance across the National Mall can overwhelm even a returning visitor; and it is easy for a tourist to become star struck once they view the stunning springtime Cherry Blossoms, feast their eyes on the dynamic Dogwoods that dot the hillside of Arlington Cemetery and view the occasional line of limousines that whisk down Embassy Row. Washington, DC prides itself on being this nation’s capitol, a city for the people, designed to charm, and enlighten. If the marble monuments don’t leave you beguiled, the enlightening stories told by tour guides with exceptional memories about our forefathers will amaze and educate, leaving you ready to plan a return trip.
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erinannieReviews: 8
Posts: 0
What's Not to Love?
08/12/2008
Rating
98%
Washington, DC, USA
When you think of Washington, DC, you usually picture politicians and news makers in marble halls and stuffy government buildings. But I'm here to tell you, it is really the U.S. City of Love and one of the most romantic US cities. The marble steps of the U.S. Capitol Building overlook a stunning reflecting pool, leading down to the National Mall, creating a sense of peace and romance in a powerful world. It isn't uncommon to see a young man down on one knee proposing to an excited young woman late in the evening on the Capitol steps. The unique (and often overlooked) purple DC skyline as seen from the soft grass under the cherry blossoms by the Tidal Basin provides a lovers' getaway that basks in the glow of the Jefferson Monument, with the gentle sound of the FDR Memorial waterfalls right behind. Couples will find an equal number of weekend and night activities with the museums, clubs, and sporting events. The Nation's Capital also hosts the biggest musical and theatrical shows in its various theaters from the small art house Wooly Mammoth theater to the world famous Kennedy Center. For couples looking for a romantic dinner, the city boasts hundreds of restaurants covering nearly every cuisine imaginable. But for couples looking for a truly personal and quiet night, nothing beats Sequoia's Restaurant on the Georgetown Waterfront. Enjoy the raw bar or a steak while overlooking the Potomac River. Then take a stroll together down past the Kennedy Center, and along the River, ending up under those famed Tidal Basin Cherry Blossoms. Washington, DC really is a city for lovers, so take someone special with you!
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zieak
- Top member
Reviews: 7
Posts: 5
Drink in D.C.
08/12/2008
Rating
95%
Washington, DC, USA
Sure, there are the museums and monuments. In the five trips that I have made to D.C. I make sure to hit a few of them. But I also make sure that I hit some of the small breweries in the area too. Just up the hill from downtown, near the convention center and across from boarded up buildings is one of the good microbreweries -- the Old Dominion Pub. Inexpensive but tasty appetizers are served along with their excellent brews. Try the Oak Barrel Stout for a chocolately but smooth dark beer. If you're in D.C. for the cherry blossoms try their Spring Brew for a floral, light, headless beer. Or if you're brave try the Millenium. The high alcohol content will assure the rest of your time in the pub will be fantastic!
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mollycrismondReviews: 2
Posts: 2
Nationals Park - Baseball in Washington DC
08/06/2008
Rating
70%
Washington, DC, USA
A good place to take your kids to catch a game? It’s a toss up! My husband and I love baseball. My husband loves it because he played in college and is a huge sports fan. That song “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen could have been written about Bobby. He critiques every play and takes his team losing as a personal slight. He loves to be out there, in the action, watching at a major league game. I love baseball, too, but for different reasons. My first reason is “Field of Dreams”. With out question my favorite movie ever. And if you love “Field of Dreams” then you must love baseball. And what better way to enjoy baseball than outside with friends in a beautiful stadium while eating salted in shell peanuts (YUM!) and drinking ice cold beer (Double Yum!). That’s how my husband and I enjoyed baseball before we had kids. But things have changed now that we have two little guys and we didn’t want to give up our passion completely so we figured, let’s take Mac (he’s 3) to his first MBL game. Bobby and I have always been Baltimore Orioles fans and we love ourselves some Camden Yards. I even filmed a 5 minute pilot for a tv show that I wanted my former employer to buy at Camden Yards once. Bobby was the star. It was totally awesome, but it didn’t get picked up. That’s another story, though. My point is that there are two kinds of people in the tri-state area – Orioles people and Nationals people. We’ve always been Orioles people but this year that Nats got a brand new stadium and since we live closer to DC than Baltimore we figured we give it a shot. So on a Saturday afternoon, we got a sitter for our 5 month old, and headed into DC with Mac. He was very excited about going to the game. Mac loves sports. Even so, we were a little nervous about taking him because the attention span of a three year old is not high. I had talked to some other friends who had already been to the stadium ahead of time, though, and they had assured me that it was super kid friendly and we’d all have a great time. Part of that advice was true. Nationals Park IS super kid friendly. And two out of the three of us did have a good time. The third person, however, didn’t really get to enjoy himself. Sorry Bobby! Let me explain what happened. When you enter Nationals Park from the main entrance, if you head to the left you walk right into kid heaven. There is a really cool playground area with tunnels and climbing walls and a giant slide with 3 lanes. There is also an arcade and a build-a-bear! Ballparks with their cotton candy and soft pretzels and giant sodas are pretty kid friendly as a rule, but this place takes it to a whole new level. When we walked in and saw the kid wonderland we thought, this is fantastic! Mac ran to the playground area and started with the fun at record speed. Bobby and I watched him and smiled and thought this place is great. Then reality set in. A half hour passed and we had seen none of the game. We finally dragged Mac kicking and screaming from the playground and took him to our seats. Bobby went to get us hot dogs and peanuts while I watched Mac. He wanted a soft pretzel. He wanted a big “#1!” foam finger. He wanted to jump over our seats and touch people in front of us. He did not want to sit still and wait for a hot dog. Not after the most thrilling playground experience of his life. As soon as Bobby returned with the food, Mac started whining about going back to the playground. Bobby couldn’t take it and gave in to his demands, leaving me with a hot dog, a bag of peanuts, a beer and no child. Add in the fact that my girlfriend April was sitting next to me and suddenly my day got a lot better. For a whole 45 minutes I was having the best time ever! Then I remembered that my poor husband was probably having the worst time ever and if I didn’t give him a break things were going to get ugly with him and Mac. So I headed over to the dreaded playground, found my family, evaluated the situation (exhausted sweaty child waiting in line for the now super over-crowded playground, exasperated father feeling gypped out of his fun day) and decided to take my boys and head home. As I said, we’re O’s fans so leaving a Nats game early was not the end of the world. Long story short – yes, Nationals Park, does everything it can to appeal to the toddler set, but sometimes that can end up being more of negative than a positive. If you’re in DC and you want to see a ball game with your child, either avoid the play area like the plague or be prepared to miss most of the game. Better yet, get a babysitter, a bag of nuts, and a cold beer and enjoy the game the way you deserve to enjoy it. That’s what I plan to do next time.
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TheRachelCrazeReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Washington D.C.: Not Just for the Stiffs
07/31/2008
Rating
50%
Washington, DC, USA
It’s a thrilling surprise to discover that our nation’s capital Washington D.C. is not all about the business. Though first glances of the district reveal cold, white-bricked monuments, stiff-backed political hounds and Green-Peacers interrupting morning commutes, after-hours D.C. is dedicated to pure unwinding. The dance clubs and niche cafes of Adams Morgan lure anyone from European jet-setters and mini-skirted sorority girls to buttoned-up congressman and those who aspire to become them. Dupont Circle is where the district’s gay crowd dances and drinks and the up-and-coming U. Street is a dance haven for D.C.’s Ethiopian population. But of course there are gems to be found during the day as well. One can delight in historic Georgetown’s charming boutique shops or tour the long roll of Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the fun-for-all National Air and Space Museum. And even if you are not a history buff, it would be a shame to leave D.C. without checking out what all the guidebooks have been talking about: the White House, the neoclassical Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln memorial, the Washington National Cathedral (the sixth largest cathedral in the world), The National Mall and the district’s tallest structure, The Washington Monument.
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Jacqueline SullivanReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Washington, DC: A Off the Beaten Path
07/30/2008
Rating
100%
Washington, DC, USA
So you visited the Nation's capital already? Washington, DC may be worth visiting again. A world-class city housing people from all over the world, the District has a unique flavor like no other. Get off the usual "beaten path" of the National Mall area to discover seven of the Washington area's most hidden gems—hidden to tourists, that is. Let's go where the locals go! *Take in the spectacular interior views of the 316-foot Great Hall in the National Building Museum (www.nbm.org) located right across the street from the Judiciary Square Metro Station on the red line. Formerly the headquarters of the U.S . Pension Bureau, this little-known museum features hands-on activities for the kids, an acclaimed souvenir shop, and exhibits for the design aficionados of the family. *Whether you're checking out an independent film over at the AFI Silver Theater (www.afi.com/silver), sampling baklava at Lebanese Taverna (www.lebanesetaverna.com), or shooting some pool at the local billiards facility, the hip, downtown Silver Spring (www.silversprung.com) area has a little something for everyone. Did I mention it's in Maryland? Sitting right on the border of Northwest Washington and Montgomery County, Maryland, this bustling downtown vicinity is easily accessible via Metro's red line. *There’s no need to spend wads of cash while on vacation in Washington. The Kennedy Center's (www.kennedy-center.org) Millennium Stage hosts a free show at 6:00 p.m. every single day of the year. Rain or shine. From traditional Japanese dancers to down-home blues guitarists, the Kennedy Center features an eclectic mix of performers sure to hold the kids' attention (and yours) for about an hour. While you're in the area, check out the classy digs over at the 600 Restaurant at the Watergate (www.600restaurant.com) located on the grounds of the now-infamous Watergate Hotel (it's a favorite among State Department power players). After dinner, cross New Hampshire Avenue to take in the amazing view of the Potomac river as the sun goes down. *Grab a bite at the Zagat-rated Florida Avenue Grill located near the historic U Street Corridor on the corner of Florida Avenue and 11th Street, NW. Featured in John Grisham's "The Street Lawyer," the grill will give you a taste of some of the most authentic and inexpensive soul food in the Washington area. And hey, you may even spot a celebrity! *Catch some scenic views on the Potomac by taking a water taxi ride from the Old Town Alexandria (www.visitalexandriava.com) Marina in Virginia to the North Pier at the new National Harbor (www.nationalharor.com) located in Fort Washington, MD. With a round trip ticket costing about 12 bucks and running seven days a week, this water ride will give you an up-close and personal look of the all the waterfront development popping up around the river. *If you're on your way to the popular Spy Museum located about a block from the Verizon Center you could easily miss the National Portrait Gallery (www.npg.si.edu) which features portraitures of people both famous and unknown. After being closed for several years for renovations, the National Portrait Gallery has reemerged with portraits hanging on the walls ranging from Presidents to pop stars, and even poets. Schedule enough time to see all the exhibits, and make sure not to miss the Portrait Competition where you'll take a glimpse into pure humanity portrayed on canvas. *Score some bargains at Capitol Hill’s most historic outdoor shopping establishment. Since 1873, Eastern Market (www.easternmarket.net) has been “the” place to purchase artwork, jewelry, antiques, and all sorts of wares. Open every day excluding Mondays, Eastern Market is located at 7th and C St., SE, across from the Eastern Market Metro Station on the blue and orange lines.
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crowe
- Top member
Reviews: 7
Posts: 25
Love D.C. for what it can be
07/30/2008
Rating
90%
Washington, DC, USA
Washington, D.C. is one of my favorite American cities. I love it for everything that it does, for everything happening on the other side of the granite facades and between the stout stone columns. It’s America. It’s our livelihood. One of the most fun tours I had of the city was via foot, thanks to the Marine Corp Marathon in 2002. The race provided a breathtaking roundabout of our nation’s capital, leading us around the mall and monuments, through Rock Creek Park and the Pentagon. Since it was not long after 9/11 and just after they caught the D.C. sniper, the sense of patriotism pulsed through the crowd and fueled a palpable sense of national togetherness. It wasn’t just me running¾it was the entire city, running to re-assemble itself after tragic periods in its history. It was the city of Washington, free of confusing discourse and talking heads, once again serving as the operational framework of our country. It was the city I remember visiting as a child, wandering around the Smithsonian in awe; and looking at Mr. Lincoln, so confident and stoic, watching over us all.
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RyanHanlonReviews: 1
Posts: 0
D.C. or bust!
07/30/2008
Rating
50%
Washington, DC, USA
Recently named, "the most walkable city in the United States" Washington, D.C. is a first rate city to visit for a day, week, month or longer! D.C. offers something for everyone - and the best attractions are free. As the heart of the nation, D.C. is a must-see for all Americans and those wanting to visit the U.S. The best place to start is the U.S. Capitol Building: Free tours can be arranged through Congressional offices and are well worth the time. History lovers will have a hard time knowing where to start: The National Archives, one of the monuments or perhaps the Natural History Museum. The Air and Space Museum, numerous art museums and the National Mall are all free and easily accessible. If you still want more you can arrange a tour of the Supreme Court, the White House, the FBI or the National Cathedral. If you’re looking to relax, go for a walk along the Potomac River or go shopping in Georgetown before choosing a restaurant for the evening. If you still have energy at night, checkout the U Street corridor or one of the bars in Adams Morgan. Best of all, D.C. has world famous hotels and restaurants and enough variety to suit all tastes. There isn't a wrong time to visit - all four seasons offer something different and exciting: Cherry blossoms in the Spring, Smithsonian Festivals in the Summer, crisp autumn air in the Fall and the White House Christmas Tree in the Winter all provide a great opportunity to visit this amazing city.
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Shanimal44
- Top member
Reviews: 5
Posts: 16
DC: A Relic in Vogue
07/29/2008
Rating
97%
Washington, DC, USA
Once envisioned as an “American Paris” by Thomas Jefferson, D.C has become a place of noninvasive skylines, unpretentious architecture, and cosmopolitan ideals that combine for a uniquely European feel. Spiraling, limestone fortresses and golden, dome topped palaces come together to weave an architectural mesh that paints the city across a mural of time. Inside these breathtaking mausoleums to distant periods of architectural thought are cavernous halls that tell stories of history and science more naturally than any textbook could possibly dream. DC’s woodlands and rivers provide a nice compliment to the cityscape, snaking effortlessly through city, and giving birth to a host of recreational pastimes. While families and tourists tend to own the days, hip, young, gay-friendly twenty-somethings rule the nights. Those who crave style come to Adam’s Morgan, while those in need of substance go to U-Street. But regardless of where they go, it’s obvious that DC pulses with the vibrant energy of young professionals eager to share their ideas as well as their hormones. Since its conception, DC has endured as a cosmopolitan hub of culture, entertainment, and commerce that, though always looking towards its future, never fails to pay homage to its past.
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cseenoReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Districts aren't for Donkeys or Elephants.
07/28/2008
Rating
86%
Washington, DC, USA
Washington, D.C. can be an intimidating place. In addition to being the Grand Ol’ Seat, this slightly Southern, politically (in)correct, and unrepresented plot of federal high-rises and alarmingly high priced homes can many times scare away those looking for an eclectic east coast urban scene. But fear not. It is crucial one looks beyond the cookie cutter power suits and endless mobile phone chatter permeating the subways to a capital rife with art, music, and a culinary scene like no other. A mere pinprick of donated land, the capital of the United States consists mainly of outsiders drawn together, as Stephen Merritt put it, with the idea of “doing something real.” But is that lobbying for a new bill or finding a hole in the wall Spanish tapas restaurant in the depths of Chinatown? Taking a tour of the White House or rummaging through bins of vintage clothing and antiques in Columbia Heights? It is easy to arrive in the District and go straight to the Mall: the Museums! Monuments! Memorials! Here’s what I say: pull out some shades, turn away from the glitzy marble, throw the election pins and bumper stickers aside, and really explore the nation’s capital, hold the politics, please. Start your day with a cup of coffee in one of the various cafes in Georgetown, followed by a stroll through Georgetown University or one of the many parks located throughout the neighborhood. Hit up the designer shops on M St. NW early and head on over to Foggy Bottom for produce hunting at the Foggy Bottom Freshfarm. Take the Metro Red line to Van Ness and peruse the shelves at Politics and Prose, one of the nation’s best bookstores, and don’t forget a pastry and espresso in the basement for a light snack. Energized, hop over to Dupont Circle and visit one of the many art galleries in the area, such as America, Oh Yes! Or Conner Contemporary Art, a gallery that has featured exhibits by many young and upcoming artists from the Maryland Institute College of Art in nearby Baltimore, Maryland. Muse at the antics of out-of-town drivers attempting the Dupont Circle and make your way to Chinatown for a delicious dinner at one of several diverse restaurants, such as Marrakech, an authentic Moroccan restaurant, or Center Café in the architecturally impressive and ever bustling Union Station. Finish off the night in Adams Morgan with a drink at a popular bar or pub, such as the mellow Bossa or the out of control Pharmacy Bar. Proceed with dancing at one of the many clubs on 18th St. NW. For those eager to experience life beyond the bipartisan blue and red, and enjoy a city void of the news reports and crossword puzzle clues, Washington, D.C. is the perfect center-of-everything in which to escape.
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Charlotte GerberReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Experience the History
07/18/2008
Rating
50%
Washington, DC, USA
There is nothing like the thrill of walking in the footprints of the nation's Presidents, both past and present. My family has visited Washington several times by bus tour and we're always awestruck by the monuments and seeing the places where so much history has taken place. From Ford's Theater to the Smithsonian museums, there is always something for everyone in my family to enjoy. Our favorite places to visit while in town include the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument with nearby Reflecting Pool and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. While visiting the monuments is more of an adult venture, the children love watching the ducks in the Reflecting Pool and visiting the T-Rex at the museum. These places always inspire us and help us to understand history in a way that no textbook ever could. We also visit the Arlington Cemetery to see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visit some of the graves of people that have helped to shape the country we live in. We always hate leaving Washington because there is so much more to see. Our next visit will include a trip to the Smithsonian Castle and the Jefferson Memorial, which have been under renovation each time we have visited town. In the meantime, we'll remember the town bathed in soft light at night as we departed and plan our next visit to this fascinating town.
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Laura Nathan
- Top member
Reviews: 6
Posts: 72
History Free for the Taking
07/17/2008
Rating
92%
Washington, DC, USA
When three of my girlfriends and I met up for a weekend in Washington, D.C. last spring, I was a little wary. I’ve been to D.C. before, visited all of the landmarks, and didn’t really feel like doing that again since we had just two days together. But my friends and I are also not the type to shop or sit around all day, so Lisa shepherded us to some of her favorite spots, which included two places I’d managed to miss on my previous trip to D.C.: the National Zoo and the National Portrait Gallery. I was skeptical of both, thinking I’d outgrown zoos. But walking around the National Zoo and seeing the pandas thrilled me. Part of the thrill was watching the animals interact (in the snow no less), but I also loved that it was free, that anyone—rich, poor, young, old—could enjoy nature’s offerings from around the world. Ditto for the National Gallery’s Portraits of the Presidents Hall, which, like all of the Smithsonian museums is free (and worth every penny of my tax dollars!). Again, I was skeptical. Portraits of George Washington and other big-haired men of old bore me. But in a room with portraits spanning more than 200 years and 43 American Presidents, I couldn’t help but linger, feeling like I was engulfed in history. This is true all over D.C., I suppose, but looking at contemporary portraits by the likes of photographer Annie Leibovitz and a video documenting the Carter administration, I realized that history isn’t just about old men in wigs. History is always evolving, and in D.C., there’s a little piece of it to be enjoyed by all of us.
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hackmer
- Top member
Reviews: 5
Posts: 6
Sightsee DC - here I come!
07/16/2008
Rating
92%
Washington, DC, USA
There is nothing quite like Washington, DC. A couple of weeks ago my wife and I brought some friends into the city. There is no real escaping tourism in DC, because virtually everyone is a tourist. So, we brought our cameras, water and a map to help us see what we wanted to see. Our first stop was the Natural History Museum. Filled with gems, dinosaurs, and the current (as of 7/15/08) butterfly exhibit where you can interact with butterflies, we easily spent hours wandering around. Afterwards, we walked on the National Mall – snapping photos of the Capitol building. Most of the museums and the Botanical Garden are on “the Mall”, so we got plenty of exercise. Towards the end of the day we taxied to Georgetown for a late lunch on the Potomac, and then went to the Spy Museum near Chinatown, which has an incredible collection from the history of espionage. One day was not enough to see everything, but we certainly covered a lot of ground and most of it was done walking.
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MonaReviews: 2
Posts: 0
A DC Adventure
06/09/2008
Rating
50%
Washington, DC, USA
My husband and I decided we wanted to "experience Washington" and previous trips for a week or long weekend had not given us that sense of inclusion we wanted--we wanted to live like locals. So we found a place to rent (it's a shame Viscape wasn't available to us at the time) in Georgetown and moved to DC for 2 months. We both can work from anywhere, so we work all day from out tiny home office in our Georgetown carriage house, and then plan our evenings and weekends. Georgetown self-guided walking tours, drives around the city to get ourselves oriented, and exploring our Georgetown neighborhood and restaurants have kept us busy during the week. The weekends are more adventurous--a tour through Middleburg horse stables (more accurately described as luxury hotels for horses) was charming, as was brunch at the Red Fox Inn. A day at Mount Vernon (fabulous, don't miss it!), the Library of Congress, the White House (6 month waiting list, so plan ahead), Newseum, Kennedy Center perfomances and balley,and a Segway tour of the mall. We've got another few weeks to fit in the more normal stuff, but we've already agreed 2 months is not enough time to experience this magnificent city. We'll be back!
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