Anyone Vacationed in Washington DC?

Doing some research before deciding if to plan a trip to Washington DC. Anyone done that and if so, what is a must see/do vs don't spend your money on?

So far, places on my list are (in no particular order):

1. Air and space museum
2. Museum of American History
3. Museum of Natural History
4. White House
5. Lincoln, Jefferson, Washington Memorial
6. Arlington Cemetary
7. National Mall
8. Congress and pentagon?

Depending on time spent in Washington, maybe I can swing a day or two and drive to Philly and see the liberty bell and independence hall (I've seen 'em, family hasn't). And of course get some cheesesteak sammiches

So back to original question, what are musts vs don't bother going? How much time should I dedicate to each attraction (sorry, don't mean disrespect to memorials; they are not attractions)?

What is free vs what is ? trying to gain some knowledge from the experts here before I decide if to go there or vacation somewhere else this summer. Will spend some time online too reseraching.

Let me know if you can. Thanks.

 

Great list done it all...was stationed in Newport News Va

 

I would say go to the zoo in either city if you have time. I have heard good things about the spy museum too.

 

We went to Washington, DC two years ago and before I give feedback, are you taking kids? If so, what age(s)? Asking because this will make a lot of difference in what I recommend.

 

Lived there before Denver, worked beside the White House at the Corcoran. It’s fun, Smithsonian and zoo are free admission, go to as many as you can. Air and space is at Dulles, so a bit of a hike but worth it, very nice. Downtown, if you like pizza, District of Pi. Old Ebbit grille is good as well. You will be hassled by aggressive homeless people, ignore, they are harmless. Riding the metro is fun, many sights to see. Hit me up with any specifics.

 

Oh and absolutely go to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it is one of the most powerful memories you and yours will keep.

 

Baltimore aquarium is nearby and pretty sweet. There is an MGM casino in National Harbor now. Mt. Vernon is always a good stop. Plenty of great wineries and breweries scattered around. The NRA museum is cool if you’re into guns. The Spy museum is also pretty cool. There’s a really nice old school speak easy in Alexandria called The PX.

 

I actually work downtown right now. Avoid driving on the weekdays downtown, parking is pricey. Metro, cabs or better yet, Uber is bets to get around in DC.

There is an Air & Space downtown, but if you have a car, I would recommend getting out to the A&S Udvar-Hazy. https://airandspace.si.edu/udvar-hazy-center

I found the White House tour a bit boring (make sure to get tickets ahead of time). Washington Monument is elevator is still closed so I don't think you'll be able to go up, check out their website, and also try to get tickets ahead of time if they are open.

The Capital has a new multi-million dollar visitor center. I haven't been, but I hear it is worth a visit (same theme, get tickets ahead of time).

Places that may be interesting to eat: District Taco, Tony & Joe's on the waterfront, Old Glory in Georgetown.

If you don't want to stay in a hotel downtown, check for hotels in Arlington or even the Tysons Corner area, Metro goes out to both.

Oh, and Bureau of Engraving and Printing may be of interest.

 

Yep, kids. Ages 11, 9 and 8.

 

Thanks Viz.

 

Watch out for Donald Trump

 

Noticed 2 mentions of the spy museum. Saw that online, looked cool. Might check it out as it looked fun for kids.

 

Hoping to meet him. Wife will wear a cup.

 

Spent a weekend there. Check out the Smithsonian and the African American Museum maybe

Good bars too in DC

 

And if your near the White House, and need a clear moment and good solid breakfast or lunch, the Red Cross Headquarters has the most delish cafeteria in the basement at normal pricing.

 

If you’re at the back of the White House don’t cross the low chain fence in to the road to take pics or the cops shout at you.

 

And again do this. I’ve probably seen it a dozen times, and I shed a tear every time. Allow for time to see the whole cemetery, it will be important. Skip visiting, but see the White House, Capital, Congress, etc., too much other stuff to see. I’ve spent some time in Philly setting up cellular networks, so I got around, don’t recommend.

I have so many stories, cherish my time there.

 

Guns are evil. But will check it out online.

But speaking of guns, assume I had some. Figure there is no reciprocity of CCW and because most buildings are federal, best to leave conceal carry guns at home in Denver? If I had guns of course.

 

I’m back. Had to take a shower.

 

VA is good to go with a CO permit. MD and DC are not. Don’t carry there unless you plan on staying longer and involuntarily.

 

Yes, do not even think of walking around DC with a firearm. Carry a nice knife or two. I only felt unsafe once in DC, and I worked all hours of the night, in many parts of town, and that was in the 90’s...

 

you can't have ANY guns in ANY way in DC. DO NOT even try.

Stayed at the Renaissance in Dupont Circle (might be called 'The Wink' now) and had a great evening meal across the street at the Chinese place. Great place and somewhat reasonable walking distance to the Mall.

Air and Space on the mall is plenty cool to see along with the other museums there.

as a preview to the trip watch 'Night At the Museum' movies. great fun.

 

MLK memorial park

Don’t drive as DC has the worst roads in the entire World!!!!!

Plus spending cameras are in the trees, and behind bridge pillars!!!

No joke!!!

 

You taking kids or @Sean266 ? It’ll totally change the dynamics

 

Don't know if it's already been mentioned....but if you can , go visit Jefferson's home ....and George Washington's home

 

I have to disagree .....either way , he'd be taking kids

 

Jose doesnt have any guns. ..he lost them all when his boat SANK

 

Good memory