Washington DC Tours

What A Tourist Should Know About Washington DC

2008-10-27T17:06:00.001-07:00

Author: Andrew Gibson
Washington DC lies in the middle of the eastern seaboard of America and is nearly 90 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. It sits on the northern banks of the Potomac River and the city spreads across the side of the river up to the hills in the north.

Washington DC's highest point is 390 feet above sea level in the Northwest of the city. Rock Creek is a tributary of the Potomac and it flows through the middle of the city running from north to south.

Spring is the most popular season for tourists to visit Washington DC as it has mild temperatures. The cherry trees also blossom at this time of the year and many tourists come especially to see this spectacular site. It is estimated that over twenty million visitors a year visit this world famous city.

Due to the ever growing number of tourists, there has been a growth in the number of holiday homes available for rental direct from their owners. Many visitors now find that the concept of renting a holiday home is far more appealing than staying in an impersonal hotel. These holiday lets are ideal for families and enable them to sample the true culture of the local area.

In the summer it is hot and humid and can be quite tiring for the first time visitor who has a long list of attractions that they want to visit. In order to help overcome the hot weather, many attractions now operate for longer hours during the summer months.

In recent years Fall has become a popular time to visit the city. Temperatures are far more agreeable and there are not as many crowds as during the summer. Many visitors are stunned by the elegant beauty of the foliage dropping of the trees.

Winter months can be very unpredictable weather wise. Temperatures can fluctuate from the high 40s and then drop well below freezing. However sever snow storms do not occur very often.

The city itself is shaped like a diamond and is separated from Virginia by the Potomac. It covers an area of 67 square miles and is divided into four areas.

Most tourists come to Washington DC to visit the White House. It has been home to America's First Families for over two centuries. Every year in the first week of December, the president carries out the lighting of the National Christmas Tree. Tourists flock to Washington DC for this event and during the rest of the month of December gather on the Ellipse.

The White House organises a series of public annual events which draw huge crowds each year. A popular event is the annual Easter Egg Roll which is held on the Monday after Easter on the White House lawn.

There are also guided tours of the famous gardens in April and October. Probably the most popular event is the Christmas candlelight tours that are held over three evenings in late December. All of these events are free and as a result are extremely popular. It is advisable to get there well in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Best Educational Experiences in Washington, DC

2008-10-27T17:05:00.000-07:00

Author: Ann Knapp

Educational travel can give teachers and administrators a boost in exciting many students about their academic lessons. Travel brings curriculum to life while teaching lessons that students will need throughout their lives. As a former middle school principal I found that educational travel goes hand-in-hand with offering a total educational program to young adolescents. This is even more important today as teachers and principals are facing increased pressure to prepare students to pass mandated academic tests.

During my years teaching in middle school, I learned that young adolescents can gain a multitude of invaluable experiences from travel, learning both the information they will be able to apply in the classroom and skills that will help them develop personally. Unfortunately, some young people will never be able to take educational tours without involvement with their school. So, middle school educators can contribute to a young adolescent's complete education when they include education travel in their program.

Once you've decided to include travel in your student's education, there are important plans and decisions that will affect the overall success of their travel experience. This article focuses on selecting the best educational venues in Washington, DC for a class or grade level trip.

The best time to consider such a trip is during seventh or eighth grade when the middle school social studies curriculum focuses on U.S. history. An educational trip to Washington, DC coinciding with this year can provide substantial benefits to both the individual and the school as a whole.

All student groups that visit Washington, DC should tour the White House and the US Capitol. Their educational links to the classroom are countless. It's important to note that the popularity of these two sites coupled with the recent increase in national security now require that an appointment must be prescheduled by a Senator or State Representative.

Next, I recommend visiting as many of the following as possible:

- Ford's Theater and the Peterson House
- Arlington National Cemetery
- Smithsonian Museums
- Washington Monument
- Lincoln Monument
- Jefferson Memorial
- Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial
- Iwo Jima Memorial
- Korean War Memorial
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- World War II Memorial

All of these sites have strong ties to the social studies curriculum and, best of all do not charge an admissions fee. Once you have decided to include them in a travel itinerary, the key is to make sure the students receive the strongest possible educational connections during the actual visit.

You can easily increase the educational value of the visit by using a reputable student tour provider that specializes in educational travel to plan your trip. To begin with, their experience will help prepare an itinerary that sequences the stops so that the students are not overwhelmed with information. Their experience will also present you with strategies for planning effective group visits. I strongly recommend you ask the travel provider about adding Washington, DC guides when visiting the monuments and memorials. Their historical knowledge base will only enhance the educational experience.

Another outstanding educational venue is Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to visiting the John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Challenger Astronaut Memorials, your student tour provider can schedule a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns. This ceremony adds depth to the educational value of the visit and allows those students selected for the ceremony the rare opportunity of interacting with an Army Honor Guard member.

A visit to the U.S. Holocaust Museum can be extremely educational especially if the students have studied this era in American history and/or read The Diary of Anne Frank in English class. The museum is self-guided. The emotional impact of the tour, coupled with their collection of newsprint, historical video and news reporting provides an outstanding educational experience for all visitors.

A student trip to Washington, DC should also include a visit to Mount Vernon - the estate of George Washington. The new Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, and a tour of the beautifully restored estate, outer buildings and the grounds have strong educational value.

Finally, I recommend that student groups traveling to Washington, D.C. schedule a cultural activity. Exposing young people to the arts and culture is invaluable to the overall development of the individual. One of the most popular activities is attending a theatrical performance at one of the area dinner theaters or a performance at the Kennedy Center. The theaters schedule age appropriate productions like "Beauty and the Beast or Fiddler on the Roof" to help make this opportunity both educational and entertaining.

In summary, educational travel to Washington, DC can add an important dimension to the total learning program at your school. I strongly recommend that you consider adding travel to the curriculum and visiting as many of the aforementioned venues as possible for the best educational value.

National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC - a Visitor's Guide

2008-10-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

Author: Mark Traston
Every person has a gift of art, and some have mastered this gift and created paintings, sculptures, and other brilliant masterpieces. The only way to preserve these works of genius is to house them in a special place called an art gallery.

That is how Mr. Andrew W. Mellon thought before his interest led him to the construction of the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC.

A brief history of the museum:
After purchasing several art works from Soviet officials, the Secretary of Treasury Andrew M. Melon, presented the idea to put up a museum that will house preserve the masterpieces he considered priceless. And in the year 1937, his dreams began to come true as Congress passed a legislation that established the National Gallery of Art as an independent bureau. The construction took almost three years to complete, and it was opened to public in 1941 after US President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated it in March 17 of the same year.

After news of Melon’s ideas to build a magnificent house of art spread all over the nation, a number of followers of fine arts started to donate other masterworks to furnish the museum’s empty spaces. Some of these kind donors are Samuel H. Kress, Joseph Widener, Lessing J. Rosenwald, and William and Bernice Chrysler Garbish.

These individuals have bequeathed more than a thousand paintings of different mediums. Some are the works of world-renowned artists.

The idea of Mr. Melon wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t through the support of both public and private funding and contributions. In fact, aside from Mr. Melon’s own foundation, several other charities and organizations have been very generous by giving financial support for this wonderful dream.

At present, the museum welcomes visitors who want to explore the wealth and wonders of art, and it is free of charge. They also welcome an excursion for educational and research purposes, and they also offer more art events for everyone to enjoy.

Famous artworks in the museum:
When on tour inside the museum, different works of art are making a breathtaking impact on every visitor. Some of these include the paintings of Jean-Baptiste Oudry, which are the Misse and Luttine and The Marquis De Beringhen. In addition some of the greatest works of a French artist, Francois Boucher, can also be found here that includes his paintings and drawings entitled The Allegory of Music, Allegory of Painting, Madame Bergeret, The Love Letter, Venus Consoling Love, Cupid’s Competing at Archery, Aurora, and Faith and Charity.

Moreover, there are other furniture and carvings crafted by famous French and German artists that can be discovered in Washington DC’s National Gallery of Art. Some of these include the works that are centuries old like that of Bernard Van Risamburgh II, Jean-Francois Oeben, and Jean Desforges.

Other activities to enjoy:
Aside from sightseeing adventures inside the museum, there are other special places a visitor can enjoy like art workshops, jazz programs, concerts, film programs, foreign language tours, videos and pod casts, and gallery talks.

Moreover there are new art acquisitions in store for aficionados and new spots to have some leisure time like in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, education studio, and a large sculpture made by Andy Goldsworthy, called Roof.

Surely, one will enjoy his or her time while visiting this superb art gallery.

Washington DC Limo Thrill Rides

2008-10-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

Author: IC
It has been said that cars are part of the "American culture" from the mid 60's until today, futuristic looking cars have been developed to satisfy not only people's transportation needs but also to provide a way for the consumer to show just how well they are doing in society. Limousines are the cars designed to do just that, they send a message to people who watch the passengers riding on such luxurious vehicles.

Limousines have been modified in order to fit every occasion, the exterior designs and chassis vary, some people may use these vehicles for simple transportation which is the case of business owners and operators but in the other hand, people have also been using limousines with the purpose to recreate, celebrate and have memorable times.

Limousines are not what they used to be, 80's movies showed different types of limos but they all had something in common, while their exterior looked extremely formal their interior was not very inviting, the seats did not look very comfortable and there were not many "extras" which people could use for recreation. One of the places were limousines are most frequently used is the great city of Washington DC, this city is best known for its landmarks, classy environment and festivities.

People who live in this city are often in need of Washington DC limo services in order to assist their social events, while you may think of this city as serious and unappealing to young people, the fact is that many use Washington DC limo transportation to celebrate and have thrill rides with their family and friends. It is common knowledge that we shouldn't drink and drive at the same time, not only will you put yourself in danger but you would endanger the lives of many innocent people, this is why it is important to have designated driver during such occasions.

Today's Washington DC limo services have adapted their fleet to serve business people as well as others who need this type of transportation for special events, some have futuristic interior designs which create an inviting atmosphere for those who have just closed a business deal and want to celebrate on the road, or for wedding occasions. Special events is what triggers these thrill rides, they can fit between 18-22 people who can enjoy the ride to their destination or an exciting tour throughout town. Some popular Washington DC limo makes used during these occasions are: the Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, the Jaguar S-Series, and the Limousine Bus, etc. Whatever the occasion may be, when renting a limo in Washington DC make sure the company provides special services for such events because some will not let you party inside their vehicles.

Washington Dc Airport Limousine: an Ideal Wedding Car Tips

2008-10-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

Author: DCA Limousine

The momentum that might want to seize admiration and high esteem don’t start at the outset of the bride’s ascending the stairs and how she could possibly pose on that day in a wedding place.

Sharing a special moment in a big, fancy professionally driven car can be extraordinary. Most people might want to experience toasting champagne glasses in a chauffeured Washington DC Airport Limousine that had long ago established the symbol of comfort, power, and wealth inside and out of the United States. Fantasists, who can hardly afford to own one, go for a Washington DC Airport Limousine rental service which is fairly within their means. Most people who have tasted being treated like celebrities or royalties could mark such experience as one of their unforgettable encounters.

Washington DC Airport Limousine offers limousine service in Washington DC and surrounding areas. Washington DC is one of the most visited cities in the world and our Limousine service do whatever it takes to make our client happy. We are providing the best kind of service which is simple and affordable. We offer our limousines at extremely low rates to allow everyone to make a comfortable journey. Our fleet consists of Luxury Sedans, limousines and passenger Vans.

Once a particular preference is had, the client must book the vehicle with the company of his choice, so that wealth-icon Washington DC Airport Limousine car could now be reserved in his favor. At least three hours before experiencing the much awaited remarkable ride with a luxurious Washington DC Airport Limousine service, call the company again to ensure promptness of service.

Washington DC Airport Limousine is a company which provides all types of ground transportation services in Washington DC and surrounding areas.

Renting a Washington DC Airport Limousine for some special occasions like wedding, birthday, spots tour, victory ball, and other parties of sort, is one; and choosing the right Washington DC Airport Limousine to cater certain needs is another. The price or cost of the rental is on top of the list to consider; second is the kind of service offered. Are there any things to contemplate on before finally calling your favorite car rental service? There are concerns equally important to mull over.

What can a Washington DC Airport Limousine do to exude all the beauty of Venus or Aphrodite? Using a Washington DC Airport Limousine as a bridal car does not alone connote as an added spice, but a completion of the much awaited occasion of life - the wedding. Initially from taking the step board of the Washington DC Airport Limousine car, the bride is given the queen- like treatment by the distinctive decorations and amenities the luxury car has to offer. The bliss has started flowing until the bridal coupe eventually stops; and the tuxedoed chauffer, whose hands are neatly covered by white gloves, gently opens the back door for the bride.

What an introductory ceremony it is to have such a luxurious experience! One might not need to own a Washington DC Airport Limousine to go through this. There are Washington DC Airport Limousine service companies that offer an excellent service for a reasonable price. The partners need only to think of what color would match their motif. There are varieties of Washington DC Airport Limousine cars that someone could choose from- whether he wants one with a hot tub or a simple arrogance to squeeze up the wedding moment.

There are varieties of Washington DC Airport Limousines for hire in the online and offline market. Identifying specific need shall perfectly lead to pinning down the genre to suit one’s choice. Determine what kind of occasion the Washington DC Airport Limousine will be used for. Would it be for airport transport service, weddings, friends’ night outs, birthday parties, tine tours in the County, holiday trips, concerts, promenades, meetings with colleagues or clients, and particular dealings?

Few tips might be considered in looking for a Washington DC Airport Limousine car. Choose the company that can guarantee an outstanding service that deserves the fee one has to pay. Some Washington DC Airport Limousine services offer rolling out of a carpet to maximize the royal treatment. Make sure the vehicle looks properly maintained as if brand new; the chauffer fully attired and trained; and the pick up time be punctual. With all these, the wedding can be hailed one of the best things that one could ever imagine for the rest of her life.

Don’t forget to find out how many persons are going for the trip, and for how many hours the service is to be rendered by the car transportation company. If a car rental firm would charge for hours of use, customer must have a concrete outline of the length of time within which he might need the vehicle. Being determinate about the number of passengers to take pleasure in the magnificent Washington DC Airport Limousine experience shall help a customer in deciding whether a six passenger Washington DC Airport Limousine would cater to the occasion, or an eight, ten, or twelve-seater Washington DC Airport Limousine would do otherwise. For huge number of passengers, settling for a small or coach Washington DC Airport Limousine bus would suffice comfortably. For some rough excursion or navigation undertakings, an SUV Washington DC Airport Limousine can accommodate the splendid activity.

Washington DC Airport Limousine USA - Luxury Sedan, Limousine and Van Service Provider - We offers washington dc airport limousine services, limousine hire services and luxury limo rental at extremely low rates: http://www.dcalimo.com

Washington DC Sight Seeing

2008-10-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

Author: Omar Mahmood

Washington DC, the capital of United States is one of the best places to visit from tourist point of view. This city is example of 18th century planned city, especially for purpose of capital of United States, and named over the first president of United States, late George Washington. Washington DC is situated on the bank of Potomac River and bordered by Virginia to the southwest and Maryland to the northwest, northeast, and southeast.

The Capital of United States

This City houses all three branches of the U.S. Government, along with Headquarters of several global organizations including The World Bank, International Monetary Fund, the Organization of American States, Inter-American Development Bank along with several national and International Institutions. The city is not only of political importance for United States. It is also one of the best places of illustration for rich American history and culture.

Diversity in Places of Interests

Washington D.C. attracts tourists from all over the world. Abundance of numerous landmarks, monuments, cultural centers, museums, and theatres and entertainment centers makes it an ideal place for sightseeing tourist lovers. The City is also rich in terms of natural heritage. National Parks situated along with the banks of Potomac and Anacostia River, Rock Creek Park, and the Theodore Roosevelt Island situated in the Potomac River are favorites among tourists.

Popular Landmarks of Washington DC

It's tough to mention landmarks in Washington DC, because one cannot set a priority among so much famous places. The National Mall is a large Open park area spread over lavish several acres area in the City that features several monuments to leaders of America. It also connects White House and United States Capitol Building. The National Mall features Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, National World War II Memorial, United States Navy Memorial, and Albert Einstein Memorial are to name a few.

The world famous Smithsonian Institution is also located in Washington D.C., which is a collection of several world famous free museums. Major museums inside Smithsonian Institution are the Anacostia Museum, Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Hirshhorn Museum, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, National Museum of the American Indian, National Museum of Natural History, National Portrait Gallery, National Postal Museum, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Renwick Gallery, and National Zoo

The City also offers several other attractions, it's better to discuss one by one. The best way to be a spectator of the historical, political, cultural and natural diversity of Washington DC is a sightseeing tour, and if the sightseeing tour could be inside an Open Top Double Decker Bus with all the luxuries then it'll be like added pleasure of visiting this one of the most famous American City.

Article from: articlesbase.com

Washington Dc Vacation Condos: Homely Aura in the Majestic City

2008-10-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Author: Sylvestor Johnson
Feeling blue over the sights of white house is the most common thing among visitors. But, besides the phenomenal white house, there are a number of other places too, which spark off the vibrant colors of Washington DC. And, to see all these, you are to be there in the city, the Washington DC. And who’s there who does not want a homely atmosphere? Everyone wants to feel at home while staying abroad and Washington is the city where feeling at home is the most possible thing, because of at least the Washington DC vacation condos.

The seat of the national capital is traversed by the river Potomac and is the ultimate pleasure of senses. And, around every landmark in the Washington DC, there are Washington DC vacation condos with their homely services. After the whole day’s tour of the city you must take abode in a pleasant place and these are ideal for that. You can stay with the whole of your family or the group in Washington DC vacation condos. Washington DC vacation condos are the homely abode and are having as many bedrooms as you need. And, these nests also provide you the kitchen as well as cooking facility so that you don’t need go out for dining. You can cook whatever you want and don’t feel deprived of your favorite dish. Kitchens are fully equipped with all the latest appliances. You won’t be missing even your favorite show on the TV because everything is there, TV, DVD and anything that amuses. However, one must remember that any damage caused during the stay to the appliances or property in the vacation condos will be paid for by those who are staying.

Amusement is in its full spirit in Washington DC area and there are abundant sights to see there. Consider a tour to the white house, the famous museums or the war memorials. And, when you are back for a retreat after the whole day’s spirited tour, you may get exhausted and need a rest. This is available with its full facilities in Washington DC vacation condos which are filled with only homely aura. There is so much of refreshing spirit here that you may at times forget that you are not in your home. To feel free in the air of Washington DC area and to see the magnificent monuments around, hardly any other abode can give you better service than the Washington DC vacation condos give.

Article from articlesbase.com

Washington DC Tours

2008-10-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

Looking for the best Washington DC Tour? Well, I've compiled a list of websites that offer many wonderful tours of the DC area.

viator

trolley tours

dc tours

washington dc party shuttle

grayline dc

historic tours

washington dc

Washington DC Digital Tour

2008-10-24T16:43:00.001-07:00

Student Tours of Washington D.C. Require Knowledge of Security Procedures

2008-10-23T22:34:00.000-07:00

Following is a question and answer session with Ann Greenwald, Tour Director, and Licensed Washington D.C. Guide.

As a student tour travel consultant for many years, it has become necessary to prepare groups for security procedures and protocols of certain U.S. government buildings in this post 9-11 era. In a brief interview with an affiliated Tour Director in Washington D.C., I have detailed the many requirements for security that are necessary to visit some of the more common sites within Washington D.C.

White House tour:
Q. What items can you bring with you on the White House tour?
A. You must bring a valid photo I.D. Students may bring a wallet if it fits in a pocket. Women cannot bring purses. Nothing else is permitted: no cameras, no breath mints, no chapstick, no bottled water, no gum – nothing. These items will be taken at the gate and students probably won’t get them back. They go into a trash bin.

Q. How does a student tour group get permission to attend a White House tour?
A. A list of student and adult travelers, along with their Social Security numbers, are submitted to a congressman or senator well in advance of the trip. All names are subject to a background check. Without permission to do a background check, an individual cannot get into the White House. Groups must line up in alphabetical order. For any additional security information concerning a student travel tour of the White House, please consult this site : http://www.whitehouse.gov/history/tours/

United States Capitol tour:
Q. What personal items are prohibited inside the U.S. Capitol?
A. No oversized backpacks are allowed, though purse backpacks are permissible. All permissible bags are subject to a security search. Depending upon where you start the tour there may be up to three security checkpoints, and three checks on your purse. Other prohibited items include: water, nothing that can be construed as a weapon such as a metal file, no hairspray, no hand sanitizer. No liquids of any kind are permitted. No food is permitted.

Q. What personal items are allowed inside the U.S. Capitol?
A. Cameras are permitted but not inside the galleries (House and Senate chambers). Also permitted on the general tour but not in the galleries is any video recording devices, electronic devices and baby strollers.

Q. When is the Capitol tour open to the public?
A. The Capitol is open to the public for guided tours Monday through Saturday with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas days. Ticket holders will be directed to the South Visitor Receiving Facility and proceed to the Capitol to begin their tour. Maximum tour size is 40 people. A student tour company can make arrangements through the U.S. Senator or Congressman to schedule a special tour for educational travel groups and avoid the public line (and wait). If student tour groups need additional information concerning visiting the U.S. Capitol please consult their official website: http://www.aoc.gov/cc/visit/

The Smithsonian:
Q. What security procedures should students and chaperones expect when visiting the Smithsonian as part of a tour?
A. At most museums, security personnel will conduct a thorough but speedy hand check of all bags, briefcases, purses, and containers. All visitors are subject to bag checks with special electronic devices. There are walk through security bag checkpoints at all Smithsonian Museums and students will go through a metal detector. For those unable to walk through the metal detector such as those in wheelchairs, security personnel will screen these visitors individually. No food or drink is allowed in any of the Smithsonian Museums.

Q. What items are allowed in the Smithsonian?
A. Backpacks and purses are allowed in the Smithsonian, and they are subject to search. For any additional security questions concerning a student tour of the Smithsonian, please consult the following site : http://www.smithsonian.org/visit/security_and_policies.htm.

General Tips to Student travelers coming to Washington D.C.
Q. Are there any suggestions you would make to students traveling to Washington D.C. for tours of the various sites?
A. The lighter students travel, the quicker they get through security. Leave ipods or other metal devices in rooms or on the bus. The lighter students go the more comfortable they will be. My advice is if it doesn’t fit in your pocket or wallet or purse, leave it. This will mean the student will not have to get into a bag check line. As a rule, don’t bring food or drink anywhere. In most cases the student can bring water with them (but, not the Capital or White House).

In a typical day of touring with a group, Ann says her groups will visit five to eight sites and go through security an average of three to ten times per day depending upon the site visited.

About the Author: Howard Clemens founded Educational Travel Consultants in 1984. Over the last 24 years, Mr. Clemens has organized student travel tours for thousands of high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. His company also specializes in performance tours to Washington D.C., New York City, and Orlando, Florida. Email him at info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.

Washington D.C.: Popular Places to Dine, Entertain, and Shop With Student Travel Groups

2008-10-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

Students traveling to Washington D.C. on tour are more likely to enjoy themselves when the educational experience is coupled with dining and entertainment experiences they find exciting. An educational travel company and the tour guide working in the Washington D.C. area can work together to add some age appropriate experiences to student travel that will be well remembered. The good news for parents, teachers, and administrators is that it is not necessary to depart from the educational objectives of the student trip to satisfy the student group’s yearning for something different.

Recently, I interviewed Ann Greenwald, a Tour Director and a licensed Washington D.C. guide who has been working in the profession for eight years. Greenwald has given knowledgeable and insightful guided tours to many student travel groups in and around Washington D.C. and has a real feel for the types of dining, entertainment and shopping experiences students enjoy. The selections discussed are popular and economic choices for student travel tour itineraries.

Student Travel Groups: Shopping in Washington D.C.
When students shop, they do so to purchase souvenirs, or small gifts for their families and friends. A shopping experience for a student on tour in Washington D.C. can be as simple as visiting the National Archives and picking up a replica of the Declaration of Independence in the gift shop. “At the Air and Space Center, students get a kick out of buying the freeze dried ice cream that astronauts eat,” says Ann Greenwald.

Student travel groups often gravitate toward the more economical choices for shopping – such as a souvenir store. Ann Greenwald says there are two very popular stores among student groups in downtown Washington D.C.: “Students love Souvenir City & Joes. Both stores offer reasonably priced t-shirts and sweatshirts. FBI and Secret Service hats are popular among student travel groups and can be purchased at either store. Any shopping experience tied into the educational experience can be rewarding and fun.”

Combine Dining and Entertainment in Washington D.C.: Student Favorites
There are several great restaurants in the Washington D.C. area that combine dining and entertainment and are well loved by student travel groups. “McGill’s Pizza in Annandale, Virginia is a student favorite,” said Greenwald. “McGill’s has an arcade with a game room, so students can win things when they purchase tickets,” she added.
The ESPN Zone, in downtown Washington D.C. is also popular among student travel groups. It’s conveniently located around the corner from Ford’s Theater in Washington D.C. Greenwald says, “Student groups can have a meal, and if it’s included in their tour they receive a $10 card that may be used in the downstairs arcade.”
Another popular eatery for student groups on tour of Washington D.C. is the Hard Rock CafÈ. “Student travel groups just think it’s cool to go into the Hard Rock CafÈ,” says Greenwald. “There’s the memorabilia, pictures, and rock music playing all the time,” she continued, “and all of this adds to the appeal for student travelers.”
Consider combining food and entertainment on a student travel tour of Washington D.C. one evening to lighten the student group’s spirits and put them in a great mood for touring the next day.

Entertainment for Student Travel Groups
There are numerous choices for entertainment in Washington D.C. that will captivate student travel groups. Greenwald says that if it’s in the student travel budget, attending “Sheer Madness” at the Kennedy Center is an evening that student travelers enjoy immensely. The interactive murder mystery dinner theater format gets students involved with the theater production and outcome of the ‘whodunit’ plot.

Finally, an evening illuminated tour of the monuments in Washington D.C. can be a great way to draw student travelers into the experience of history. Greenwald commented, “ As the symbolism is explained at the various monuments, kids gain a better understanding of history. Instead of just staring at an inanimate object, I explain why the monument is there, and what the symbolism signifies. They come away with a greater understanding of U.S. history, and the permanent mark it has left on Washington D.C.” An evening walk around Washington D.C. in the spring or fall adds an outdoor dimension to touring that is appreciated by all. Students should plan accordingly by brining appropriate clothing for Washington D.C. weather during the time of year they visit.

These recommended choices for dining, entertainment and shopping for student travel are by no means a comprehensive list of the possibilities. The suggestions Greenwald makes for student groups on tour of Washington D.C. are simple and cost effective so they make great additions to a trip itinerary. For the student traveler, a tour of Washington D.C. is an intense four to five day learning experience which needs to be balanced with some good old fashioned fun. For a well-rounded student travel experience visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.

About the Author: Howard Clemens founded Educational Travel Consultants in 1984. Over the last 24 years, Mr. Clemens has organized student travel tours for thousands of high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. His company also specializes in performance tours to Washington D.C., New York City, and Orlando, Florida. Email him at info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.