Five Day Tour of Washington, DC

Mount Vernon:
The trip to Mount Vernon is going to dominate half the day but is certainly worth it. In case you didn't know, Mount Vernon is George Washington's home and 1999 marks the bicentennial of his death so a number of special programs have been added to the experience. In addition to touring the buildings and grounds, a presentation of Washington's last moments and the funeral procession is done in dramatic fashion. Also, 100 of Washington's personal effects are on display as it was during his time.

There are several ways to get to Mount Vernon and the one you choose could affect the rest of the day. Ideally, a car would be the preferred choice because Mount Vernon is over 19 miles away. Just get on the George Washington Memorial Parkway and follow it to Mount Vernon. Parking is free in their lot and it accommodates everything from a car to oversized vehicles.

Your next option would be to take one of the tour services like the Tourmobile, Gray Line Tours or Old Town Trolley (see the Getting Around section for information on these). If you decide on the Metro, get out at the Huntington station on the Yellow line then either take the Fairfax Connector (bus) or taxi to Mount Vernon. The bus runs every day on a posted schedule and only costs 50 cents. Taxis can be found outside of the station and charge around $11 for the trip.

If you want to take the scenic route, take a boat to Mount Vernon. Use the Miss Crispin from Old Town Alexandria in Virginia or the Potomac Spirit from DC's waterfront at 6th and Water Streets, SW. The fare normally includes the price of admission to Mount Vernon.

The National Postal Museum:
The National Postal Museum is in the building adjacent to Union Station. If you haven't found the time for lunch, the food court at Union Station offers plenty of options but don't take too long. The nation's mail service is sometimes taken for granted so the opportunity to get a closer look at the history of the Postal Service might provide one with a greater appreciation of it. Besides, it's free and a new addition to the Smithsonian Institution.

The National Building Museum:
Depending on time, the National Building Museum is a short walk from the Postal Museum on F street between 4th and 5th streets. Or, take the Metro from Union Station to the Judiciary Square Station and turn left on 4th street. From the outside, the building doesn't really make an impression but once you are inside it's a different story. It's got to be the most tranquil place in the city and is one big hall; that's what it is called, the Great Hall. With carpeting on the floor and a giant fountain in the center, the only sound you really hear is the water falling onto itself. Several benches surround the fountain making it a great spot to relax and view the magnificent columns.

Besides serving as an attraction, the space is used for special events like Inaugural Balls and concerts. The current featured exhibit entitled "Tools of the Imagination," magnificenetly conveys the world of design while capturing the craft of the architects. You will learn about the construction of buildings, the history of drawing tools through invention and innovation, and the design process of the architects and craftsmen. "There are no rules, only tools."

The bookstore is also worth a visit. It's an eclectic mix of art objects, unusual clocks, neat ties, books, posters and cards. If you need a snack, the coffee shop can satisfy that urge.

The National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial:
Return to the Judiciary Square station but take a moment to visit the National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial right outside the entrance to the station. The memorial consists of 2 tree lined walls containing the names of the fallen officers, a reflecting pool and central plaza. The visitor's center is a block and a half away at 6th and E streets.

The Corcoran Gallery of Art:
Take the Judiciary Square station to Farragut North station. Exit onto 17th street and turn left on 17th street. It's about 4 blocks to the Corcoran Gallery of Art. Along the way you will pass the Old Executive Building (on the left side), it's big and gray. If you don't see it, then you are heading in the wrong direction. Anyways, the main entrance is on 17th street. Technically, a donation is suggested and is worth the price of admission which varies for adults, senior citizens and students. There is an additional fee to view the featured exhibit.

The Corcoran is not only a museum that focuses on contemporary art but is the city's only accredited art school. Certain galleries are closed to the public because it is part of the school. The featured artist is Roy Lichtenstein. Many of his works are part of the regular collection so if you are having second thoughts on paying the additional fee, keep this fact in mind. Expect to see the usual collection of paintings, sketchings and sculptures but in the middle of everything is a BMW painted by some of contemporary notables like Andy Warhol. Two videos show the entire process.

Jazz concerts are held every Wednesday during lunch and Gospel brunches take place on Sundays at the Corcoran's cafe. Afterwards, consider a walk around the White House grounds if you haven't had the opportunity. It only takes a few minutes to get there because the White House is practically across the street. Many television companies like to use the White House as background for their daily broadcasts. You never know which personality may be out there. On the north side at Lafayette Square, protesters like to bring certain issues to the public's attention. It can be quite educational as well as entertaining. Have a good one!

Day Five of Self Guided Tour