Washington D.C. Classics
The Lincoln
Memorial is one of the most inspiring monuments in Washington. Inside the Greek-styled
structure is Daniel Chester French's statue of Lincoln overlooking the reflecting
pool, with The Gettysburg Address and Lincoln's second inaugural speech
inscribed on the walls. This moving site has been the setting for numerous rallies
including Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech. One of the best
views of the National Mall and Capitol is from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
One of the
most recognized structures in the world, the White House should be a part of any
Washington itinerary. Tuesday through Saturday, the White House tourguides take you
through five rooms of the Presidents home. Even if you don' t get the chance to go
inside, visiting the White House is fun. Tourists and political activists perennially
surround the White House, and it is not unusual to see White House correspondents
recording their "stand-ups".
As author of
the Declaration of Independence, President, Secretary of State, and designer of
Monticello, Thomas Jefferson proved himself an accomplished architect of both buildings
and nations. The Jefferson Memorial pays tribute to him by having a statue of Jefferson in
the center of a colonnaded monument with excerpts of his writings engraved on the walls.
Since it overlooks the Tidal Basin, in warmer weather visitors can view the monument
from a paddleboat. One of the best views of the White House can be seen from the Jefferson
Memorial.
The Washington
Monument, the tallest free standing masonry structure in the world, is a 555-ft
obelisk that dominates the Washington Skyline. Tours are available to take the 72-second
elevator ride to the top, and then walk down the stairs to see the 193 stones and plaques
donated to the monument. The Washington Monument is undergoing repairs, so it could be
swathed in a blue tarp by the time of your visit. Check out the view from the top of the
Monument, it's incredible.
The John F. Kennedy
Center for the Performing Arts, nestled between the Potomac and the infamous Watergate
Hotel, is the cultural center of Washington. It houses the National symphony Orchestra,
the Washington Opera, Washington Ballet and the American Film Institute. Besides these
events, the JFK Center has free performances, restaurants, gift shops and great views of
the city. Sunday brunch at the JFK Center is very popular among Washingtonians.
Spread out
over three buildings, the Library of Congress is one of the largest libraries in the
world. Although the stacks are not open to the public, one can sit and read at the Main
Reading Room's mahogany desks. (only members of Congress can check books out). Books are
only part of the attraction, because the Library of Congress also has exhibits and free
films for the public. Check out the Great Hall decorated with paintings and murals for
scholarly inspiration
WASHINGTON DC INSIDE TIPS
