One Day in D.C.

As a tourist, you’ll find PLENTY to do in Washington, D.C., especially if you’re into history. Get up bright and early to avoid crowds, and head over to the National Mall. This park links the Washington Monument and the Capitol building, and is very close to many other memorials, such as the National World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Albert Einstein Memorial. There is also the Lincoln Memorial, but check this one out after dark. Once you’ve walked all you can walk, head over to the Le Bon Café, 210 2nd St. SE, where you can grab a cheap but tasty meal.

Feel like seeing more sites? At some point in the day, it is imperative that you see the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery. It occurs every half hour in the summer during the day, every hour in the winter, and every two hours at night in all seasons. It’s a ghostly feeling to be in the silent presence of the unknown soldiers interred in the tomb, hearing only the guard’s steps as he walks 21 paces, and the click of his heels as he turns to walk 21 more. It’s definitely something you won’t forget. While you’re in the cemetery, head over to former President John F. Kennedy’s grave. The eternal flame is very moving.

At some point during your stay, you might consider heading over to the Kennedy Center, (800)444-1324, at 6 pm. Here, musicians of all kind come to play a free (yes, totally free) hour-long concert. Who could resist free music?

This is all just a taste of what lies in D.C. There still remains the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian, and so much more. See what time permits, but don’t overdo the tourism thing either. Enjoy Washington D.C. as the Washingtonians do. Explore a little outside of the tourist spots – walk around, ride the metro. Just make sure no to ride it during rush hour, or you’ll see Washingtonians not-so-enjoying D.C.


By Melissa Freeland