Visiting Washington D.C.

[Dennis]

Hi all,

I'll be D.C. this coming weekend for a convention. Unfortunately, I won't have much time for sightseeing.

For those familiar with the area...if I had to choose only 1 or 2 things to see, what would you recommend?

Ciao,
Dennis

[GNYC09]

The Holocaust Museum - it is unforgettable.  Yes, a bit of a downer so see it in the morning if you decide to go at all.  The Smithsonian is also great if you're into museums. 

[Andy Velez]

It depends what you like, Dennis. There is a huge choice of museums from Smithsonian, Holocaust and National Gallery to the Kennedy Center and many, many others. If any of what they offer is even to your taste.

There's the usual number of bars with different faces/names but same deal, especially around Dupont (Bouffant) Circle.

Any clues as to your taste when you travel to a different city?

[Dennis]

If I had more time, I'd probably do the typical things. White House, Supreme Court, Arlington Cemetary, the National Mall (Jefferson and Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument), National Gallery of Art, Smithsonian, Holocaust Museum, etc.

Since I'll only have half a day at most to do any sightseeing, I was hoping for some recommendations from those who live there or have visited about what I MUST see.

My nights are reserved for dinner functions, so the nightlife really is of no interest to me during this trip.

[Joe K]

Dennis,

I think the Lincoln Memorial is one of finest public monuments ever and you get a real sense of history standing next to Abe, as he towers over you.  The entire Mall is worth a walk as you can do it in bits.  It's hard to enjoy the major museums with so little time.  However, if you can, stop into the Smithsonian Main Museum to see the life size blue whale hanging from the ceiling.

[Assurbanipal]

I agree with Joe -- of all the monuments, I have also found the Lincoln memorial to be the most powerful -- you really feel like you have visited a giant.

[Robert]

Dennis,

I think the Lincoln Memorial is one of finest public monuments ever.

It's breathtaking.

[bocker3]

Dennis,

The US Botanic Garden is often overlooked and, I think, amazing.  It's just west of the Capitol.  Also, the Newseum on Pennsylvania Ave is fantastic, but can take up a half day all on it's own. 
The Garden is free, but not the Newseum.

Of course, strolling the Mall is great -- I find the WWII Memorial very humbling and the Vietnam War Memorial always chokes me up, and I really don't remember the war itself (was just a small child back then).

Enjoy!

Mike