|
|
ever and where ever you like. My first day was just spent going around the city a couple of times making sure I knew where everything was that I wanted to see and planning how I would do that over the next few days. No matter wher you go on tour around the city there are two three things that stand out. The first is of course Capitol Hill, the second is the Washington Memorial and the third is just how easy it is to get around without getting lost. And while on the subject of ease of travel, what ever you do, don't miss out on using the subway system, it is just so easy and a day trip ticket of $5 is just so inexpensive. Another quick point to make is that if you were planning to go to the main tourist attractions remember that some will have huge lineups and it may take up to three hours to get into some places. Ask the Old Town Trolley guides for advice on possible alternatives if the crowds look huge. Our perception of having to line up |
| for shows and attractions in australia is nothing compared to america and can just become a nightmare if your not prepared for it. The same applies to some of the museums as I for example thought I'd see the Smithsonian Institute only to find out that there are four or five in town. One place that is a must see is the Vietnam Wall and the new Korean War Veterans Memorial War. Sad as it may seem it is something that is a must see. A very sombre sight but at least a glorious memorial to all the americans who lost their lives in these two harsh conflicts of war. So lets get down to touring the best spots and the place to start is where all the tours commence from and that is at Union Station. Its a huge building that was once the largest railway station in the world but now it has been renovated to include the subway and its a mini city in itself. Plenty to see here and |
|
|
if you feel like lunch, a snack or a quiet sit down there are two great spots. The first is Thunder Grill a restaurant that caters for all tastes and finances. The second is the Union Cafe & Bar that is right inside the entrance. Both provide good food and service. After a look around the station its time to jump on a trolley tour. At $24 a ticket all day, get on and off where it suits you, this is great value. Swinging out of Union Station and the view is dominated by the New World Memorial to Christopher Columbus. Then its a view of Capitol Hill through the tree lined avenue as we head off to the Old Office Pavilion. The heritage act has ensured that buildings are not just ripped down and replaced with those that would be out of character in the city. From here its a short ride to Museum of Womens Arts and then on to the Ford Theatre where Abe Lincoln was assassinated. Here the long line of tourists eager to visit the famous spot |
| if this is a must see for you, then expect a long wait. Around the corner is the White House where there are even more line up for a brief glimpse of americas most famous building. then its on to the National Geographic Society building and Dupont Circle. If by now you feel like lunch or are planning dinner, this is the spot to come to. There are an array of good quality restaurants here to satisfy anyones needs. From The Polo Club with Indian cuisine to the famous Anna Marias Italian restaurant where all the big stars and famous people dine. I found eating here a real treat with prices starting from $9 up(plus tax). Right around the corner is Xandu a great place for coffee plus food. Their variety in coffes and tea is superb. This was one of only two places I found where the coffee was as good as my favourite spot back home. Its a very relaxing spot too and sitting outside right on the avenue was pretty good. Talking coffee, I've been spoilt rotten here in Adelaide by some great places, the best being |
|
|
Ange's Coffee & Specialteas at Westfield Marion, and I found little pleasure in drinking coffee in the states. In fact I would go so far as to say that except for Joe G's and Xandu, most of the time the coffee was absolute crap, and expensive crap at that. From here my next stop would be Georgetown and along the way Embassy Row with all the worlds nations here in various states of splendor and security. Georgetown is also well known for shopping and food and is very popular but not as crowded as the inner city was. The best spot here is the Canal Walk Cafes at trolley stop #14. These are just a few of the many wonderful things to see and do in Washington DC. Its not a place to rush around in the hope of seeing as much as you can in a short space of time. Rather this is a place to come to, relax and really enjoy. Theres is nothing worse than getting home and wishing you'd taken the time to see more. Here are a few more tempting and |
| worthwhile places to visit. Washington DC has great Zoo, there is the National Cathederal, Georgetown University, the Childrens Museum, Holocaust Museum, China Town to add a few. Cafe` La Ruche at Georgetown, the FBI building and Arlington Cemetery. When it comes to tours then try the Monuments by Moonlight tour, its terrific. For the more adventourous there is Capitol Helicopters flights over the city which are stunning. Then there is the relaxing Bike the Sites tours at $35, fully escorted and they fit you to the right bike. Just getting back to night time tours, its worth taking a cruise on the river that includes dinner and these can be booked in advance. If your not sure of anything ask at your hotel, place of stay or at the Visitor Information Centre which is located at 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW. I hope you have enjoyed reading Tour America and it excites you to make a trip to the USA so that you can discover for yourselves just what a |
|