Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Tips for Seeing the DC Memorials and Monuments





When visiting our nation's capital, there's lots to see and do that won't cost you any money. Memorials to great leaders of our country rise above the landscape to honor those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country.

However, a free afternoon of touring DC can be hindered by limited parking in the city or running back to the car to feed the meter.

A perfectly fun day can be had starting from the National Parks parking lots just south of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial (see map above), which has free, all day parking for visitors, and a perfect place to start your day.

Start by heading to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and then follow the path along the Tidal Basin to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial (one of my favorite memorials), which follows along the Tidal Basin in a beautiful, serene memorial.

Follow the Tidal Basin up to Independence Ave. for the new Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, which is a beautiful, touching memorial. While we were visiting, we saw many visitors at this memorial crying or wiping away tears.

Across the street is the Korean War Veterans Memorial and then follow the path to the Lincoln Memorial. Following around the Reflecting Pool is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a touching memorial, that is very simplistic compared to others, but the items left in front of the memorial and letters, cards, photographs and more makes it one of the most touching memorials in DC (I think).

As you continue around the Reflecting Pool, you can walk along side it (when the path is open, it is currently under construction) or walk through Constitution Gardens. Both paths will connect you to the World War II Memorial.

From the WWII Memorial you can access the Washington Monument, which is currently closed since the recent August 2011 earthquake.

From here, if you're ready to head back, catch 15th Street SW, which winds around the Washington Monument and past the Holocaust Museum (which, I've been told is a very moving museum), and also has free admission.

Ta-da! An entirely free day in a city that has topped the 2011 list of "shopaholic" cities.




Tuesday, November 15, 2011

African American Museum in Philadelphia


Only 2 blocks from the Independence Visitor's Center is the African American Museum in Philadelphia.  This small, but unique museum allows visitors to learn about the history of African Americans in this country, but more specifically in the Philadelphia region.  On the 2nd floor there is an exhibit where actors portraying various historical figures on video screens give you an idea about what life was like in their day.  There is also a section that showcases art created by various African Americans.

Admission is $10/person, but it is free on the first weekend of each month with a Bank of America credit or debit card.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Second Bank of the United States


The building of the Second Bank of the United States has a proper historical feel.  However, it has been converted from being a bank into an art museum.  The theme of the art is "People of Independence" and there are approximately 185 paintings in the building.  While it wasn't anything special to me, depending on your taste in art and history, it might just appeal to you.

With free admission, you can't go wrong with giving the museum a shot when in Old City.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Liberty 360


There's much to do in the historic Old City area of Philadelphia.  The Liberty 360 show gives a unique, modern spin on this historical area.  Located at the corner of Chestnut and 6th Street, you'll find an ample gift shop with an indoor 3D theater.  

The host of the show is a virtual Ben Franklin who walks you through the history of Philadelphia and how it has affected Liberty in America.  Each person gets a pair of 3D glasses to watch the show, which does add a little more depth to the show, but really doesn't add anything spectacular.  The show is mostly standing room only, although there is a bench for anyone with physical disabilities (or if the theater is just empty besides you).

We'd recommend this show to most people, if only to get inside out of the cold (or heat in the summer).  

The show is $7 admission, or only $5 if you make a purchase in the gift shop first.