Washington, D.C.

By Joseph Peters

The National Mall in Washington probably has more art and history per square mile than any other three-mile strip in the world. It probably has quite a few people, too – people reading, playing soccer, selling food, or if it’s a hot day, trying to crowd into the shade. On one end of the Mall is the imposing white dome of the Capitol building; on the other is the Potomac River. This is America’s town square, and the best place to begin a visit to a city that’s part history museum and part natural park. It even has its own subway stop, ‘Smithsonian,’ which can be reached on the Blue Line from National Airport or from Union Station, a few blocks north of the Capitol.

There are nine museums on the mall; some are art galleries, some are science and technology museums, and one is devoted entirely to American history. All are free. Don’t miss the East Building of the National Art Gallery, which was designed by I.M. Pei and is a work of art in itself. Outdoors, depending on the season, there may be a folk life festival, a political demonstration, or if it’s January of an even-numbered year, even a presidential inauguration.  Towering above the scene, to the west, is the Washington Monument, a landmark that can be seen from anywhere in the city. The view from the top of the obelisk is the best there is, and will help you get your bearings.

West of the Monument the atmosphere is quieter, and all the monuments are outdoors. You can take the main through fare along the reflecting pool up the steps to the Lincoln Memorial and examine the homage to the Civil War president. If you’d prefer a slower pace, walk Constitution Gardens to see the war memorials. Take a look at the playing fields beside to the Potomac - there are often impromptu games of soccer, football or ultimate Frisbee open to all comers (or at least the fastest runners!)