D.C.

Washington, DC has never been on my list of must-visit cities.  It has always intrigued me, but was not a place I'd go out of my way to see.  I always thought it was a big city full of politics, history and people dressed in business suits.  Not exactly my cup of tea. But, during my recent visit, I instantly fell in love with the city.  Proof to never judge a book by its cover, or in this case, a city by what you see in movies.

As I've gotten older, I've enjoyed learning about the history and culture of our country and of our neighbours to the south.  We could have easily spent 3 whole days in Washington, but 1.5 was all we had and we definitely made the best of it.

✓  Visit a Smithsonian Museum.  The Smithsonian Institute is the world's largest museum and research complex and includes 19 museums and galleries, as well as a zoo.  These national treasures cover a wide range of subjects from art to space exploration.  The best things about the Smithsonian is that general admission is FREE!  We chose to explore the Natural History Museum, which has exhibitions on earliest human origins, development of world cultures and ancient and modern animals. Did not disappoint.

✓  Tour the national monuments and memorials. Washington is a city of monuments and memorials, honoring politicians, poets and statements that helped shape the nation.  Although the most famous are situated on the National Mall, you will also find them on many street corners around the city.  Since it may be hard to visit them all by foot, I recommend taking the Big Bus Sightseeing Tour.  Many memorials are open late at night and their illumination makes it a bit more memorable of a time to visit. 

✓  Visit the houses of Government. Explore the US Capitol Building, the White House and even the US Supreme Court to gain a fuller understanding of the division of power within the democratic government. 

✓  Take a walk through Georgetown.  Georgetown is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Washington and once served as a major port and commercial centre during colonial times.  Today the capital's historic waterfront bustles with activity - it is a shopper's paradise and the streets are lined with a variety of different restaurants.   

✓  Check out a local restaurant or bar. If you're ever in DC, I recommend eating at Founding Farmers Restaurant.  It is easily in my top three dining experiences, which means a lot coming from this foodie.  And with a mantra as simple as "quality and natural ingredients", how can you not love it?

And now, some pictures from my visit:

Vietnam War Memorial & Washington Monument.

Lincoln Memorial.

Lincoln Memorial & Washington Monument.

Arlington National Cemetery.

White House Garden.

Smithsonian National History Museum.

Smithsonian National History Museum.

Ford's Theatre, where Lincoln was shot.

US Capitol Building.

Have you ever been to DC? What's your favorite part?