Washington, D.C. is full of entertainment, beauty, and interesting history. You can easily fill an entire weekend getaway with the many enjoyable activities in the nation’s capital. Enjoy an exceptional weekend with these D.C. tips.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time for the National Mall
The National Mall is often on the list of things to do when visiting D.C. However, most visitors do not realize how big the National Mall really is, until they are standing on the lawn. The National Mall is a must-visit when in D.C. and is home to the Constitution Gardens, Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site, the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and many other important historical structures. Make sure you bring a comfortable pair of shoes because the best way to visit each of these memorials is on foot.
Learn the Transportation System
There are many ways to get around the city of D.C. but driving your own car is not a recommended one. Even if you find a hotel that offers affordable parking, you will find it difficult to find parking when visiting the many attractions of the city. You can go with a rechargeable SmarTrip card which allows you to refill cash on your card to use the many transportation systems in the city. This includes bus, light rail, and transit lines.
You will also find electric-powered bikes and scooters around the city. You simply download the app, input the number, and enjoy the break from walking for a few.
Learn from the Locals
You will find both tourists and locals on the city streets in D.C. Many of the locals are friendly and are more than willing to share tips or insider information about the city they call home. You can also sign up for a guided tour to explore the best historical attractions, restaurants, or museums. DC Walkabout is a sightseeing walking tour. Free Tours by Foot is another great option that is completely free.
Take Advantage of the Free Museums
Parking might be expensive in D.C. but you will find that many of the museums offer free admission. This can be a great way to offset the costs of travel. Just a few of the free museums include the National Gallery of Art, the U.S. Botanic Garden, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Plan to Be Hungry
After you explore the city of D.C. by foot, you are going to work up a big appetite. It can be helpful to look up restaurants that you want to check out before getting to D.C. Otherwise, you might be overwhelmed at the many available options. For a good pizza, try Ghibellina. If you enjoy hamburgers, then you are sure to enjoy Lucky Buns. Whatever your preferred cuisine is, you are sure to find it in D.C.
D.C. is jam-packed with educational fun, memorable sights, and delicious food. Take a quick road trip over to D.C. this weekend and enjoy one of the most vibrant and active cities you will find in the country.
Image via Flickr by Doug Kerr. Used with permission via CC by 2.0 / cropped from original
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