Learning And Discovering In Washington Dc
The most cost effective and efficient way to travel in the District of Columbia is the Metrorail system
. Trains come every ten to fifteen minutes and take you all over the city.Most monuments and museums downtown are walking distance from a metro station. If you grow tired of walking, you can take a taxi, for there is always one right around the corner in this city.
The largest and most famous stop on the Metrorail line is Union Station. It is a bustling station where you can not only catch a train, but enjoy fabulous shopping and delicious eating, as well.
A walk along the National Mall will introduce you to the Capitol Building, the Smithsonian Castle, The World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument. From the terrace of the Capitol building, visitors can behold a beautiful view of the mall.
Those interested in the operations of America's government would find a tour of the Capitol Building to be very engaging. On this tour, the visitor is able to see both the original Supreme Court where our founding fathers made decisions regarding the governing of our nation and the Supreme Court that is in use by our justices today.
Both the House of Representatives and the Senate meet in the Capitol building, and have done so since the 19th century. Tourists of the Capitol are able to see the exact room where those that govern the country meet.
The room is extremely aesthetically pleasing. Because of bronze plates embedded into the marble floor, you can even see where your favorite presidents' desks use to sit.
From the Capitol Building, you should travel next to see the National Archives. This building houses both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of America.
Because of the documents' age and importance, they are kept under special lighting in cases of very thick glass to protect them. Much of the writing on the parchments has faded, but you can still make out the signatures of some of America's most iconic men.
However, this is an experience you have to remember for yourself. There is no flash photography or video allowed.
The documents are also heavily guarded by security. This is to ensure that the Constitution and Declaration of Independence will be preserved and kept safe for future generations of Americans to enjoy.
There are plenty of memorials dedicated to past U.S. presidents to visit and see. One of the most majestic is the Lincoln Memorial.
Fashioned after temples in Ancient Greece, the marble monument is majestic and beautiful. It houses a marble statue of Abraham Lincoln that is almost twenty feet tall and took over four years to build.
Another fascinating memorial for visitors of Washington D.C. to behold is the Jefferson Memorial. The walls are etched with memorable and inspirational quotes of the former president.
There is also a giant bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson. If you travel behind the memorial, you will also find a gorgeous view of the Potomac River and the Washington Monument.
The Smithsonian museums are fun and interesting attractions to visit, especially for families. Along the National Mall lies the Smithsonian Castle.
Inside this institute, you are able to learn about the history of the Smithsonian museums. There are also exhibits of inspiring art and artifacts from many different ancient groups and cultures.
Some other museums that are part of the Smithsonian Institute are the Air and Space Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the American History Museum.
The Air and Space Museum is full of exhibits for both adults and children. It even houses a replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, the plane that took Charles Lindbergh across the Atlantic.
The Natural History Museum is an immense collection of artifacts, gems, and prehistoric animals. It houses larger than life dinosaur bone displays, the Hope Diamond and royal jewels, and even a giant elephant.
The American History Museum is an eclectic mix of both historical and cultural artifacts. Some of these artifacts include Abraham Lincoln's top hat, Kermit the Frog from the Muppets, and George Washington's uniform.
Other articles that you cannot miss are Dorothy's ruby red slippers, Marilyn Monroe's gloves, and Mr. Rogers' sweater. If you are an aficionado of history and culture alike, this museum is somewhere that you must visit.
There are so many more things and places to see and visit in Washington D.C. Make it your next destination, and enjoy your travels!
by: Terry Daniels Destinations For City Breaks In Europe Looking For Franchise Opportunities For Your Fantastic Australian Holiday, Stay At A Melbourne Hotel. Best Coupon Deals For Christmas Shopping Best 10 wholesale Halloween Costumes for Girls 2010 Security is a Must for All Celebrities Wholesale Halloween Costumes for Couples Distinctive Wholesale Halloween Costume for Puppies In 2010 Distinctive Wholesale Halloween Outfit for Toddler Ideas Bingo Destinations & Hope Charity Bingo Travel Around The World Comparison Of Top 5 Voip Providers Cost Effective and Attractive Wholesale Halloween outfits