Washington, D.C.: The Seat of Power

By: Josef Odair

Washington, D.C. occupies a key position when it comes to nationalistic fervour. This capital city, its memorial and attractions are a living testimonial of our nation's history. All of us should visit Washington, D.C. for an enjoying and learning experiece.

The first stop on any visit to Washington, D.C. should be the capitol building itself. With Freedom perched on top of the massive dome, this building is impressive and beautiful. Be sure to take a guided tour through the building and explore the fantastic works of art located within. If Congress is in session, consider getting tickets to the visitor’s gallery and watch our government in action. Security is a high priority in the capitol building as well as any other government building in the city, so be sure to leave any banned items at home.

The National Archives helps you see American history first hand. This building houses uniquely historical items such as the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the cancelled check that paid for the purchase of Alaska from Russia! It’s an absolutely fantastic collection indeed.

The Smithsonian Institute is the place most widely visited in the entire city! It has a score of museums in its collection and each one has a lot to show. There is the legendary Wright Flyer in the Air and Space Museum, the supposedly cursed Hope Diamond in the Natural History Museum, the country’s only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the National Gallery of Art, and some uniquely American items like Dorothy’s ruby slippers and Fonzie’s leather jacket in the American History Museum. Apart from these museums, there are other museums like the fabulous museum of Native American history and many art museums.

The National Holocaust Museum is a somber place. Its exhibits are a proof of one of the worst periods in world's history. It is a place that is devoted to people who lost their life at the hands of tyrants during these turbulent times.

No one should visit Washington, D.C. without visiting the memorials. Don’t miss the famous Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Roosevelt Memorial, or Jefferson Memorial. If you are visiting during the spring months, the Jefferson Memorial is absolutely gorgeous with the blooming Japanese Cherry Trees. Also, be sure to visit the touching Vietnam Wall, Korean War Memorial, and the recently completed World War II Memorial.

White House looks gorgeous through out the year and is a place worth visiting. However, due to increased security measures you will have to write to your Congressmen or Senator so that they can arrange a special tour for you through the White House office.

Whenever you decided to visit Washington, D.C. be sure to do so on your next vacation! If you plan to visit with children, there are many family oriented places that are great for entertainment and education.

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Josef Odair is the owner of F washington, a fantastic resource for information about washington, For questions or comments about this article why not visit: www.fxwashington.com/articles
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