I am visiting DC for a few days. I am hiking in West Virginia and visiting a couple of museums (Cryptology and Newseum) on two of the days.
But the first day, a Monday, I will arrive into the city itself at around 4. All the museums will be closing by then, right? I am going to go Georgetown cupcakes, but I would still like to see/do something. I am considering a lighted monuments tour, but would like to have options. Any ideas? Maybe a bike tour? Or a place open in the evening?
Also, I will have a car. Where should I park? The key for me is safe (car doesn’t get stolen) and cheap (free?). I don’t mind if it’s a long walk to my destination. I walk a lot on a daily basis.
The National Portrait Gallery - which is one of my favorite DC museums – is open until 7 pm. The other half of the building is the American Art Museum. Both free.
Doing a night tour of the monuments – they’re all lit up – is a great idea.
Check the Smithsonian Museum website for events. There are often some interesting lectures at night.
I do highly recommend the night tour of the monuments.
Anything at the Kennedy Center that appeals to you?
As fireanddrain mentioned, there are Smithsonian events at night. On the left is an “after 5” button to click to see evenings offerings.
http://www.si.edu/Events/Calendar/?trumbaEmbed=filter1%3D_35643_%26-index%26filterfield1%3D11153#/?i=2
This is fantastic! Keep the ideas coming!
For those that recommended the night tour of the monuments - there seem to be several - which one did you do?
Are you the same person who was looking for outdoorsy ideas for a trip to DC. Did you make that trip, or is this the same visit?
Is the cryptology museum in DC? I know of one near NSA, but that’s 30-40 minutes outside of DC.
Where are you staying? The C&O Canal starts in Georgetown, and you can ride from there for many many miles, but not on a racing bike. You can also ride towards Mount Vernon, through VA. You can do that on any kid of bike. You can also kayak. Check hours for the Smithsonian. In the summer I think they may have extended hours. You can walk along the National Mall and see many memorials, landmarks, etc. you may want to consult tripadvisor.