WASHINGTON D.C. IN A PRIVATE MOTORHOME
There is so much to see and do in Washington, DC that you can’t see
it all in just one visit. A well-rounded trip should include exploring the National
Mall and some other activities too! Here are some tips to help you get around
the popular attractions and some suggestions of fun and more relaxing things
to do in the region.
Photo © Smithsonian
Institution
Start at the Smithsonian Institution Building where you
can pick up a map and information on all of the museums. These national treasures
cover a wide range of subjects from art to space exploration. Plan to explore
those you are most interested in, but don’t try to see everything at
once. Be sure to save time to see an
IMAX
movie at the Natural History Museum or the National Air and Space Museum.
Photo © Rachel
Cooper
Our national monuments are truly spectacular. The best time
to see them is at night when they are illuminated, less crowded and parking
is easier. During daytime visits, take a tour bus. Listen to informative park
ranger talks and you won’t have to negotiate congested city traffic.
Photo © Architect
of the Capitol
Explore the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House and the
U.S. Supreme Court and you will gain a fuller understanding of the division
of power within our democratic government. Plan ahead and note that some tours
must be scheduled in advance through your Congressional Representative.
Photo © Rachel
Cooper
Georgetown is the capital’s historic waterfront that
today is bustling with activity. The area is a shopper’s paradise and
the streets are lined with restaurants of every nationality. Take a tour of
historic sites, do some shopping and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
Photo © Rachel
Cooper
The Washington DC region is lucky to have wonderful
bike
trails. Jump on a bicycle and you’ll quickly feel a relief from
hectic city life. Take the whole family and explore the historic C & O
Canal.
Photo © Carol
Pratt
Live theatrical productions at the John F. Kennedy Center
for Performing Arts are entertainment at its finest. Purchase tickets in advance
for performances ranging from musicals to concerts by the National Symphony
or see a free show at the Millennium Stage.
Photo © Wolf
Trap Farm Park
Listen to all types of music at this national park dedicated
to the performing arts. Outdoor concerts are featured in the summer and indoor
performances are held the rest of the year. The park is located in Vienna,
Virginia, just 20 minutes from Washington, DC.
Photo © Rachel
Cooper
Take a picnic and enjoy spectacular views of the Potomac
River at this 800 acre park, located just 14 miles from Washington DC.
Photo © Mount
Vernon Ladies Association
With the recent addition of the new museum and education
center, Mount Vernon is now a full day excursion. Explore the state of the
art galleries and theaters, visit the 500-acre estate of George Washington
and his family, tour the 14-room mansion that is beautifully restored and furnished
with original objects dating back to the 1740's. Be sure to plan enough time
to tour the outbuildings, including the kitchen, slave quarters, smokehouse,
coach house and stables. The estate is located in Northern Virginia, just minutes
from Washington, DC.
Photo © Erik
Kvalsvik/Courtesy City of Alexandria
Explore a quaint historic town just over the Potomac River
from Washington, DC. Visit colonial houses, churches, and museums and shop
for antiques.
More About Washington, DC
Looking for more Washington, DC information? Start with the Washington,
DC Home Page, where you'll find current features and an in depth guide
to everything you want to know about the DC/Capital region.