Washington D.C. - things to visit

[NUBlue&Blue]

Isn't the FBI the only one you can't do anymore? But my foggy memory has me thinking that's because they are renovating the HQ.

They are stingy with White House tickets because they only let in so many per day, and once they're gone, they're gone. They (Senator's office staffers) said bus and tour groups make it more difficult for individual families trying to get tickets. I remember walking through the WH when I was a teenager--it was like Versailles in the middle of the summer. Basically it was a long line and you shuffled through, look left, look right, follow the line out the door. Our tour a couple of years ago was pretty good and we spent a lot of time in each room. The WH visitors center across the street is interesting, too. I thought so anyway, but I like museums.

[alum]

If you are willing to cross the Potomac:
Mount Vernon, Arlington National Cemetary, Old Town Alexandria (there are historic house tours).

Back to the District:
What's nice about all the Smithsonians is that there is no admissions charge. So if you only want to see one particular exhibit at a museum, you don't feel as if you are wasting money by skipping the rest.

I love the Botanical Gardens near the US Capitol and the Indian Museum (only a couple of years old). There is an Arboretum somewhere in Eastern DC that is quite nice as well.

Catch a Nationals game if you can.

I would also take a tour of Georgetown University. It's a beautiful campus.

[shinerbock]

When I was working in DC and the last time I visited, the FBI live fire exhibit was closed. Not sure if its reopened or not.

[honeychile]

You have all mentioned most of the places I'd suggest - good call on Bullfeathers, shinerbock! If you're going to Old Town Alexandria, Gadsbys Tavern is great place to have lunch. It's good for dinner, too, but it's the exact same food at double the prices. There's a small museum there, and needless to say, George Washington hung out there.

Since you're taking the kids, they would enjoy The Silver Diner.. I'm only familiar with the one at Tyson's Corners, but it's fun for the kids.

One of my favorites is The HillwoodMuseum. It was the home of Majorie Merriweather Post (heir of the Post Cereal fortune), and she designed it to be used as a museum after her death. There's lots of Faberge, incredible artwork, the Hapsburg Wedding Veil - lots of things like that. You can have High Tea on the premises. One restriction is that all children must be over six.

If you're into Lincolnalia, PM or email me - there's SO much to see on that angle, and I don't want to bore anyone. I wouldn't even bother with the White House unless you have the personal tour - you'll feel like the Griswolds in European Vacation.

And by all means, let me know how it goes - I'm in charge of a convention there next summer for a lot of people who have never been to DC, and I'd love to hear that perspective!