<p>For history/political buffs, the Newseum is now in downtown DC and is very cool. It is not free, though. [Newseum</a> | Newseum Home](<a href=“Homepage - Freedom Forum”>http://www.newseum.org/) If you have a car, the Air and Space Museum annex is out near Dulles Airport. (This opened only a couple of years ago. There is a shuttle from Air & Space in DC to the Annex which runs several times daily.) Lots of large planes, the space shuttle Enterprise, etc. Admission is free, parking is $12.</p>
<p>The Philips Museum is a hidden gem. [The</a> Phillips Collection](<a href=“http://www.phillipscollection.org/]The”>http://www.phillipscollection.org/) The Kennedy Center has free events at the Millennium Stage. [Kennedy</a> Center: Millennium Stage](<a href=“http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/millennium/schedule.html]Kennedy”>http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/millennium/schedule.html)</p>
<p>Agree with Marian that the joy of the Smithsonian museums being free is that one is not compelled to walk til you drop.</p>
<p>In the spring, expect many school tours to be visiting. The cherry blossoms are generally the last week of March – first week of April. If you get there early in the am, the crowds are much smaller.</p>
<p>You need to get (free) tickets for the Mint. Is very popular with our out-of-town visitors. We did the Memorials early in the AM with a teenage niece and pre-teen nephew and they really liked it. I was surprised. Same niece did the Memorials at twilight when her HS band came to town and found it very moving. Listen to Bullet’s advice.</p>
<p>White House and Congressional tours must be booked through your Congressperson in advance. White House tours severely limit what you can being into the building with you, plan accordingly. There is no place to store your stuff. Have seen people who had to leave one member outside holding backpacks, umbrellas, etc. because the items weren’t allowed inside. Read the restrictions on the website because they may change from time to time.</p>
<p>Parking/driving in DC is beastly. Use Metro. Starting in August 2010, cash fares are going up, but not if you use a Smart Trip card. </p>
<p>It should go without saying, but folks should be respectful at the memorials; no climbing on the statues, loud talking, etc. Many who visit are coming to honor loved ones who lost their lives in war and it is sacred ground.</p>