Stuff To Do in D. C.

[Basquo]

It's my roomie from Montreal!! Good to see you! Thanks for the tip on The Addams Family...I think I would like to see that. I've been all over DC but never to the Kennedy Center.

[phildinftlaudy]

Don't forget to plan a trip to Arlington National Cemetery - the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is really something to see (especially when they change the guard), also the Challenger astronaut burial site, and the JFK and RFK grave sites - check out the list of burial sites, memorials, and monuments:

http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/VisitorInformation/MonumentMemorials.aspx

Everything at the Tomb of the Unknowns is paced at 21 seconds and timed meticulously.

I used to jog through Arlington National every evening after work when stationed at Fort Myer VA, which borders the cemetery.

Really something to see. Iowa Jima Memorial is also close by
 

[denb45]

Don't forget to plan a trip to Arlington National Cemetery - the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is really something to see (especially when they change the guard), also the Challenger astronaut burial site, and the JFK and RFK grave sites - check out the list of burial sites, memorials, and monuments:

http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/VisitorInformation/MonumentMemorials.aspx

Everything at the Tomb of the Unknowns is paced at 21 seconds and timed meticulously.

I used to jog through Arlington National every evening after work when stationed at Fort Myer VA, which borders the cemetery.

Really something to see. Iowa Jima Memorial is also close by

Phil,  both Hubby Bob & I would love to go see this, let's see if we can get a few people ( those who would like to see this) @ AMG D.C. 2012, if not we'd be more than happy to accompany you @ the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier  I think all US service Vets past & present , as well as anyone else should see this 

[phildinftlaudy]

Phil,  both Hubby Bob & I would love to go see this, let's see if we can get a few people ( those who would like to see this) @ AMG D.C. 2012, if not we'd be more than happy to accompany you @ the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier  I think all US service Vets past & present , as well as anyone else should see this 

No problem Dennis -
We can probably let people know a day and time we will be going - the Metro actually has a stop at Arlington Cemetery.

[Miss Philicia]

I grew up there and don't even remember ever going to ANC, but then I hate America.  I'm sure my parents took me as a kid and I just don't remember it.

If the weather is nice you can probably just as easily walk from your hotel instead of taking the subway -- you'd only be taking the subway one stop anyway and then still have to walk a ways to get to the eternal flame location. The walk from the hotel to the eternal flame is probably 1.25 miles. Plus by walking you'll get to see the Iwo Jima Memorial.

fyi: Robert E. Lee's mansion is located there, as originally this was his family estate. I know some of our Southern members that still cling to the Lost Cause might find some masturbatory satisfaction in making a pilgrimage. But just remember the view across the river looks North.

[Miss Philicia]

Don't know if this has been mentioned but it might be a fun day outing:

http://potomacriverboatco.com/mount-vernon-cruise.php

There are also nice mule-drawn boat rides that (I think) depart from Georgetown and go up the old Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. Period costumes are optional.

[Jody]

I think riding on the river is a great idea by Miss Philly...Being on the water on ferries or boats in such places as Seattle and San Francisco and the river ride in Mexico City were all a lot of fun and a great, interesting way to see all the sites.  I'll also never forget the boat ride to Greenwich on the River Thames when visiting London.  So that is one thing I'd like to do in Washington.

Jody  

[Miss Philicia]

Here's something else -- for a non-touristy thing to do, go to the Fish Market for fresh crabs w/Old Bay seasoning (if you don't know what that is look it up -- very Chesapeake/Mid-Atlantic region culinary item). You can get them by the bag and just eat them there at an outdoor table -- you order them by gender and though the females are pricier you should try some of both as females have some shad in the innards. This is the kind of thing that if you don't eat it you've not really experienced the local food:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maine_Avenue_Fish_Market

This is a doable walk from the Smithsonian Castle on the south side of The Mall, just go south down 10th St and when you get to the little park where the street ends you'll see the market on the other side of the road on the water.

Afterwards, if you use google-maps on your phone to guide you or you will get slightly lost, you should be able to walk to the Jefferson Memorial if you wish to. The Holocaust Museum isn't that far away either.

[Miss Philicia]

Oh, this is also fun in that Jefferson Memorial/Tidal Basin area -- in fact it was one of my favorite things as a kid:

Tidal Basin Paddle Boats

[RAB]

One thing I need to do is visit the Vietnam Memorial.

My brothers name is on that wall.  He was only 19, had served less than 6 months before he was killed.

I was in 5th grade at that time.  It was a warm autumn morning (Oct 2nd, 1967) when the doorbell rang.

I was on the couch cleaning my clarinet getting ready for school.  My mother was sitting across the room.

I went to the door and let the young soldier in.  He stood at attention and started to say:  "On behalf of the President of the United States".

He got no further.  My mom stopped him and said:  "Don't give me any speeches.  Just tell me if he's alright."

The soldiers shoulders sagged, he looked down to the floor, and then at my mother.

"No mam I'm sorry he's not.  He was shot by a sniper and didn't survive."

It was so many years ago, but to this day the memory is still very vivid in my mind.

Thank you for allowing me to put this out there.  It took me a couple of days to decide whether it was appropriate or not. 

I'm so looking forward to AMG and all of it's wonderful and positive memories.
But this is something I must do.

RAB   

[Jody]

 

[WillyWump]

"No mam I'm sorry he's not.  He was shot by a sniper and didn't survive."

It was so many years ago, but to this day the memory is still very vivid in my mind.

Thank you for allowing me to put this out there.  It took me a couple of days to decide whether it was appropriate or not. 

I'm so looking forward to AMG and all of it's wonderful and positive memories.
But this is something I must do.

RAB   

Very touching, and such a tragedy.

Yes. You will need to go and do an outline of his name on a piece of paper ( I forget what they call that).

I would like to see the wall also.

-W

[bocker3]

RAB,

A sad story, indeed. 
I was amazed at the powerful emotions that the Vietnam Memorial brought out in me -- and I didn't lose anyone close in that war.  It brought me to tears during my first visit.
I'm sure that the Wall will be even more emotional and meaningful to you.

Hugs,
M

[wolfter]

Thank you for allowing me to put this out there.  It took me a couple of days to decide whether it was appropriate or not. 

I'm so looking forward to AMG and all of it's wonderful and positive memories.
But this is something I must do.

RAB   

Of course it's appropriate for this post.  I'll gladly accompany you as I would love to visit the memorial. 

Take care and best wishes.

Wolfie

[RAB]

Thanks everyone for your support.  This will be my 2nd visit to the memorial.  I sense my emotional response this time will not be so much about grieving but about disbelief/anger over what that war brought about. 

Now back to the bright side, there's so many things to do and see in DC.  Heck we could spend our entire time in the Smithsonian and still not see everything.

I think someone should email President Obama and see if he'd issue a proclamation that DC welcomes AMG.   

RAB 

[J.R.E.]

Thanks everyone for your support.  This will be my 2nd visit to the memorial.  I sense my emotional response this time will not be so much about grieving but about disbelief/anger over what that war brought about. 

   

RAB

I know exactly,  believe me. 

I would like to see the Vietnam Memorial also.  I only saw the miniature one, that travels around the country.

I was 19 years old, when I received my "Greetings, you are hereby ordered for induction" into the Armed Forces" from uncle Sam, Vietnam was still going on, And I was certain that I was going to end up there, but I was fortunate enough to go to Germany.

less than 5 months after I received this letter, I was officially in the Army.  And looking back now, with no regrets.







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Also, On a lighter note,  I would like to do the cruse in the Potomac !



Ray

[denb45]

I know exactly,  believe me. 

I would like to see the Vietnam Memorial also.  I only saw the miniature one, that travels around the country.

Also, On a lighter note,  I would like to do the cruse in the Potomac !



Ray

 Something all Vets should see, and all you non-vets out there as well 

[WillyWump]

Has this been mentioned? If not, why not? 

 
http://www.secretsdc.com/

"All nude men, all night long."

and it looks like Thursday is military night.

[Miss Philicia]

There's a good reason they keep Ziegfield's a secret:



btw, that place has been there for over 30 years. That whole district in the SW quadrant was the gay zone until they tore most places down to build the new stadium.

[bocker3]

Hey gang,

I have 6 Priority Entry passes to the Holocaust Museum in DC.  While the museum is a fairly "heavy" experience, it is a fantastic one.  These passes are available to anyone who wants them -- just let me know.

Mike

[WillyWump]

Hey gang,

I have 6 Priority Entry passes to the Holocaust Museum in DC.  While the museum is a fairly "heavy" experience, it is a fantastic one.  These passes are available to anyone who wants them -- just let me know.

Mike

I'd be interested in seeing that.

-Will

[Miss Philicia]

BEEN THERE ALREADY

ps: it's really an exceptional place. I interviewed with the NYC firm that did all of the exhibition design though never ended up working for them directly. They worked with my previous office as a consultant hence the connection.

[phildinftlaudy]

Not sure which night I will be going... but, I plan on having at least one meal (probably a lunch as it is a bit on the pricey side) at The Monacle (mentioned previously in this thread).

It is a DC staple - near The Capital complex and is where many Congressmen and Senators mingle. It is on the Senate side of the Capital.

http://www.themonocle.com/index.html

Luncheon at the bar menu:
LUNCHEON
at the Bar ...

11:30 AM to 3 PM

TO SHARE
White Beans, tossed with pesto and tomatoes, crostini / $4
Atlantic Salmon Mousse served with flatbread crackers / 7.5
Mediterranean Salad, feta, Euro cucumbers, Kalamata olives / 6
Roasted Blue Point Oysters, curried chardonnay sauce, three for / 7
French Fries with spicy mayo / 3.5

LUNCH PLATES
Twin Angus Burgers with cheddar and bacon $6.5
Filet Mignon sliced, caramelized onions and peppers, red wine reduction $12
Gulf Shrimp seared, with rocket salad, roasted red pepper dressing $11
Chicken Caesar Salad, with shaved parmigiano reggiano $12
Panzanella Salad with fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers $8

The food is out of this world.
Dinner is doubly delicious.

If anyone is interested in joining me for lunch, let me know - we can work out a day to go. Maybe before or after walking through the Capital building - checking out the Rotunda - and maybe stopping by the office of a representative or two.

30 days from today, I will be in DC - Can't wait!

[bocker3]

I'd be interested in seeing that.

-Will

OK -- li'l Willy gets one of them......

M

[anniebc]

Hey gang,

I have 6 Priority Entry passes to the Holocaust Museum in DC.  While the museum is a fairly "heavy" experience, it is a fantastic one.  These passes are available to anyone who wants them -- just let me know.

Mike

Hi Mike, I sent you a PM.

Aroha
Jan

[Ann]

Hey gang,

I have 6 Priority Entry passes to the Holocaust Museum in DC.  While the museum is a fairly "heavy" experience, it is a fantastic one.  These passes are available to anyone who wants them -- just let me know.

Mike

If I were going to DC, I'd get in on this for sure. I've been to the Holocaust museum in Amsterdam as well as Anne Frank's house. Both were experiences not to be missed. I got chills up my spine in Anne Frank's bedroom and I teared up too. Her diary was the first "serious" book I read as a child and I've re-read it many times since. To actually stand there in the physical space she occupied was moving beyond words. We must never forget.

[Jody]

Thanks Mike, if I can get a ticket to the museum as well that would be good.

Jody

[bocker3]

You got one Jody.

4 tickets gone so far.  2 remaining.

Mike

[WillyWump]

Boo. We are missing the AIDS quilt on the National Mall by one day

[Lou-ah-vull]

Also the Larry Kramer play "The Normal Heart" will be at the Arena stage (Kennedy Center) through Sunday night of AMG week.  Extraordinary drama (rivals Angels in America) about AIDS in the early days.  I am seriously considering it on either Saturday or Sunday (there is a 2 pm matinee and an 8 pm evening performance both days.)

Gary

[bocker3]

Also the Larry Kramer play "The Normal Heart" will be at the Arena stage (Kennedy Center) through Sunday night of AMG week.  Extraordinary drama (rivals Angels in America) about AIDS in the early days.  I am seriously considering it on either Saturday or Sunday (there is a 2 pm matinee and an 8 pm evening performance both days.)

Gary

Hey Gary,

I'd be up for that -- never seen the show OR been to the Kennedy Center.  Of course, I'm still trying to figure out when / if Sid will be able to make it up.

Mike

[WillyWump]

Also the Larry Kramer play "The Normal Heart" will be at the Arena stage (Kennedy Center) through Sunday night of AMG week.  Extraordinary drama (rivals Angels in America) about AIDS in the early days.  I am seriously considering it on either Saturday or Sunday (there is a 2 pm matinee and an 8 pm evening performance both days.)

Gary

I would love to see that as well.

[Buckmark]

Unfortunately, we're going to miss the chance to see the AIDS Memorial Quilt, which will be on display until July 25 (dammit!).

http://www.aidsquilt.org/

Jan, since you'll be there for the IAC, if you get a chance to see the quilt, you should try to do so.  But be prepared and bring a tissue / handkerchief -- it's very moving.

[denb45]

Not sure which night I will be going... but, I plan on having at least one meal (probably a lunch as it is a bit on the pricey side) at The Monacle (mentioned previously in this thread).

It is a DC staple - near The Capital complex and is where many Congressmen and Senators mingle. It is on the Senate side of the Capital.

http://www.themonocle.com/index.html


30 days from today, I will be in DC - Can't wait!

Phil that sounds very good, but I want seafood with Old Bay Seasoning..........come now all you easterners take  me to where I can find some real good east-coast seafood, I'd be real happy 

[Miss Philicia]

come now all you easterners take  me to where I can find some real good east-coast seafood, I'd be real happy 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maine_Avenue_Fish_Market

It's a market, not a restaurant, but most stands also cook your product there with Old Bay. It's on the waterfront and there are picnic tables there where you can go and eat it.

It's also a walkable distance from the south side of The Mall. However, make sure to either use a map or write directions down in advance as you have to walk under or over a huge freeway, and then over another 4-lane parkway.

[denb45]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maine_Avenue_Fish_Market

It's a market, not a restaurant, but most stands also cook your product there with Old Bay. It's on the waterfront and there are picnic tables there where you can go and eat it.

It's also a walkable distance from the south side of The Mall. However, make sure to either use a map or write directions down in advance as you have to walk under or over a huge freeway, and then over another 4-lane parkway.

Thanks Miss P  I'm sure Bob & I will figure it out and find our way around.......He HATES seafood 

[phildinftlaudy]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maine_Avenue_Fish_Market

It's a market, not a restaurant, but most stands also cook your product there with Old Bay. It's on the waterfront and there are picnic tables there where you can go and eat it.

It's also a walkable distance from the south side of The Mall. However, make sure to either use a map or write directions down in advance as you have to walk under or over a huge freeway, and then over another 4-lane parkway.

There is actually a Metro stop pretty close to it..... I think it is the Maine Avenue stop.... I used to work near there when I lived in DC....I worked in the SW quadrant, near DC Tracks (Trax) which was in SE quadrant.... at Buzzard's Point (which is gone now, as the stadium is in that area).

The Town Danceboutique is now DC's largest gay dance club....  I will be there, most definitely.
http://www.towndc.com/

[bocker3]

Phil that sounds very good, but I want seafood with Old Bay Seasoning..........come now all you easterners take  me to where I can find some real good east-coast seafood, I'd be real happy 

Why on earth would you want to ruin perfectly good seafood with Old Bay??  Seafood should taste like seafood -- maybe with some melted butter, but not that horrid "seasoning".

Mike

[Miss Philicia]

There is actually a Metro stop pretty close to it..... I think it is the Maine Avenue stop....

Yes, I know that stop but it's not that end of Maine, it's actually closer to the Smithsonian Metro by about 2 blocks.

[denb45]

Why on earth would you want to ruin perfectly good seafood with Old Bay??  Seafood should taste like seafood -- maybe with some melted butter, but not that horrid "seasoning".

Mike

Well I'm the real seafood fan ( Bob Hates it) so I'll take my Seafood - Catch of the day, however I can get it 

[phildinftlaudy]

According to Quilt2012.org, we may have some locations where sections of the quilt will be available to be seen up until a couple of days past July 25th:

http://quilt2012.org/quilt-display-locations/

AIDS 2012 Global Village
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Mount Vernon Place Northwest
Display Dates: July 22 – 27

Arena Stage
1101 6th Street SW
Display Dates: June 1 – July 26

First Congregational United Church
45 G Street NW.
Display dates: June 27 – July 26

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
2700 F Street, NW
Display Dates: June 26 – July 26

The Mayflower Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel
1127 Connecticut Ave, NW
Display Dates: June 27 – July 26

Peace Corps
1111 20th St, NW
Display Dates: May 24 – July 26

[Miss Philicia]

If you guys hit DC and the weather is anything similar to what begins tomorrow and then lasts for four days expect to stay indoors

Friday: 98F
Saturday: 98F
Sunday: 100F
Monday: 99F

[phildinftlaudy]

Also the Larry Kramer play "The Normal Heart" will be at the Arena stage (Kennedy Center) through Sunday night of AMG week.  Extraordinary drama (rivals Angels in America) about AIDS in the early days.  I am seriously considering it on either Saturday or Sunday (there is a 2 pm matinee and an 8 pm evening performance both days.)

Gary

Tickets for the matinee showing of Normal Heart (some great seats) start at $45 + $7 tax/fees = $52

I'm thinking of going either Saturday or Sunday to the 2 pm performance.

[WillyWump]

Why on earth would you want to ruin perfectly good seafood with Old Bay??  Seafood should taste like seafood -- maybe with some melted butter, but not that horrid "seasoning".

I never even heard of Old Bay until I lived in Virginia, and Tina has promised me blue crabs with Old Bay when I head to Fredericksburg right after the AMG    Although I am starting to see OB in the stores more and more in San ANtonio over the past few years. But it's always like only 2 cans up on the top shelf. Isnt there a blue can and a red can?

[klassykitty]

Willywump, yes there is other cans.  There is a lemon flavor and I think a garlic flavor also, it's about the only spice I use.

Den,  Woody's in North East MD has great seafood, I know it's not DC.  I live closer to there, and since I go to school in North East I had to check it out.

Michelle

[anniebc]

Boo. We are missing the AIDS quilt on the National Mall by one day

I'll be going to see that, I wouldn't mis it for the world.

Aroha
Jan

[denb45]

Willywump, yes there is other cans.  There is a lemon flavor and I think a garlic flavor also, it's about the only spice I use.

Den,  Woody's in North East MD has great seafood, I know it's not DC.  I live closer to there, and since I go to school in North East I had to check it out.

Michelle

Thanks Michelle..........I don't wanna speak out of turn here, and I know that most of you despise these chain eateries, but any body know where I can find a Joe's Crab Shack | Seafood Restaurants | Crab Restaurants  anywhere near where we'll all be, sorry didn't want to be tacky about the whole chain thingy, so please forgive me here 

[Miss Philicia]

Thanks Michelle..........I don't wanna speak out of turn here, and I know that most of you despise these chain eateries, but any body know where I can find a Joe's Crab Shack | Seafood Restaurants | Crab Restaurants  anywhere near where we'll all be, sorry didn't want to be tacky about the whole chain thingy, so please forgive me here 

The closest one to the hotel is 25 miles away in Gaithersburg, MD

[denb45]

The closest one to the hotel is 25 miles away in Gaithersburg, MD

Wow...I'd have to rent a car for @ least a day to go eat there  kinda not really worth it 

[Miss Philicia]

Wow...I'd have to rent a car for @ least a day to go eat there  kinda not really worth it 

Well, uh... yeah. But other than that I don't quite "get" why you think you're going to find a difficult time locating seafood in the first place by just winging it. Hello, it's on almost every menu on the east coast.

Do you eat sushi? This is your opportunity to take it raw.