Exploring Washington D.C., Washington D.C., USA

Kicking off 2017, my daughter had the opportunity to travel to Washington DC one week before the Presidential Inauguration to meet a group of people at the EPA. I asked if I could tag along with her and explore our nation’s capital while she was in her meetings. I bought two plane tickets and reserved a room for two nights at the Westin Washington D.C. Capital Center for $95 a night. I was pleased with the hotel’s location between The National Mall and DuPont Circle.

Washington DC is a city one can explore by foot, metro, bicycle, rental car or Uber. I walked over 30 miles in three days, while exploring new museums, galleries and restaurants.

My journey began after we checked in, and my daughter went to her first meeting. Walking to the White House, I noticed Secret Service men standing near security fences and American flags, as bleachers were being installed in preparation for the pomp and circumstance on January 20, 2017.

Near the White House is the White House Gifts Store. Walking inside, I noticed it’s filled with Presidential memorabilia including clothing, books, hats, postcards, coins and candy. There were two areas that had Hillary Clinton Inauguration 2017 sweatshirts, chocolate bars, pins and stickers with red discounted sale tags. Nearby were racks of Donald Trump souvenirs. (701 15th Street NW (202)737-9500). ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).