Spend your first visit to Washington D.C., America's political heart, gazing at
the historical monuments along the National Mall. Then take in world-class art
and American history at the Smithsonian Institute's 19 museums.
You'll soon see that there are plenty of reasons to return – dine
with politicians in Penn Quarter, pick up one-off boutique fashion in
Georgetown, or dance in the Adams Morgan area's trendy urban
clubs.
Background
The winding Potomac River borders Washington D.C. to the south-west. If you
head towards the river you'll see the National Mall's most famous
landmark and symbol of American politics, the White House. Carry a map and a subway
pass to explore the rest of Washington D.C.. Head west for upscale Georgetown
and the university city of Foggy Bottom. Or go south for Arlington
National Cemetery, where soldiers from the American Revolution to Iraq war rest in
peace.
First-time visit
Arrive early at the Lincoln Memorial, when the morning sun bathes the
sculpture of the Civil War-era president in golden light. Then wander down the
National Mall, past the 56 pillars of the National World War II
Monument and the white Washington Monument obelisk. Both are mirrored
in the serene Reflecting Pool. Take your pick from the collection of museums
that form the Smithsonian Institute - the National Archives houses the
Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Finally, rub shoulders with
politicians over dinner in Penn Quarter.
Return visit
Save up for a shopping trip to Georgetown, popular for boutique clothing,
antiques and fine art. You'll find it's an easy subway ride to
Woodley Park, home to the Gothic-style Washington National
Cathedral and kids' favourite, the National Zoo. For
authentic Ethiopian and African-American cuisine or edgy, urban boutiques go to U
Street. Visit Washington D.C.'s Newseum to explore the role
of free press in a democratic society.
A 1960s design classic, Washington Dulles International Airport flies almost 24
million passengers a year from its signature Eero Saarinen–designed main
terminal. The airport is in the state of Virginia, 26 miles (41 km) west of downtown
Washington DC and a 50-minute trip by bus.
Hop on a quaintly old-fashioned mobile lounge to move between the main
terminal and concourses, or a plane mate to connect directly with your plane
on the tarmac. The shuttles depart every five minutes during the day, every ten
minutes at other times; allow ten minutes to make the trip. A moving walkway
connects the main terminal with Concourse B.
Airport parking
The airport has hourly, daily, long-term and valet parking. Access to the main
terminal from the hourly and daily car parks is via covered pedestrian bridges and
moving walkways. Free 24-hour shuttles make the trip from the daily and long-term
car parks every ten to 15 minutes. Parking is free in all lots, except valet, if you
exit within 20 minutes of entrance. Payment is by cash or credit card via ticketing
machines.
Time zone
GMT -5 (-4 in summer).
Useful tips
Allow at least three hours for check-in and security. Since September 11 security is
tight in Washington and queues can become long.
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