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| Arlington National Cemetery |
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Set on over 600 acres, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for Presidents Taft and Kennedy, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and over 260,000 war dead, veterans and their dependents. Highlights include the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns, the Hall of Honor and the Custis Lee Mansion. Open daily 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in summer; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. in winter. (703) 607-8000. |
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| FDR Memorial |
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One of newest and most popular memorials, the FDR opened in 1997. The memorial, on a 7 1/2-acre site, is divided into four open galleries representing Franklin Roosevelt’s four terms as president. The FDR, like most of the memorials, is very dramatic at night. Open 8 a.m. - midnight daily. 1850 W. Basin Dr. SW; (202) 426-6841. |
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| Ford's Theater |
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It was at Ford’s Theatre that Abraham Lincoln was shot in 1865. It is still used as a theater today. In the basement is the Lincoln Museum with displays about the assassination. 517 10th St. NW; (202) 426-6924. |
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| George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens |
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Tour George Washington's home and grounds, preserved as it was, explore the gift shop, and enjoy a genuine 18th century American dinner. George Washington Parkway, South End; (703) 780-2000. |
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| Holocaust Memorial Museum |
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The museum serves as a memorial to the millions of people who were murdered during the Holocaust. Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday, except Yom Kippur and Christmas Day. Timed passes are distributed on a first–come first–served basis. 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, SW. |
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| International Spy Museum |
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See the largest collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to spies and espionage in the world, housed in one of the older buildings in Washington, D.C. where the American Communist Party was originally headquartered. The kids will love this museum, as many of the exhibits are interactive. 800 F Street; (202) EYE-SPY-U. |
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| Jefferson Memorial |
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Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, this memorial to our nation’s third president and the author of the Declaration of Independence is built on the Tidal Basin, south of the Washington Monument on Ohio Dr. The 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson is located on the Tidal Basin, surrounded by a grove of trees making it especially beautiful during Cherry Blossom season in the spring. Hours are 8 a.m. to midnight daily. 15th Street, SW; (202) 426-6841 |
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| Korean War Memorial |
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This memorial honors the men and women who served in the three-year conflict. The 19 life size infantrymen are especially impressive to see illuminated at night. Open daily 8 a.m. - midnight. Across from the Lincoln Memorial; (202) 426-6841 |
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| Library of Congress |
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Take a tour of Congress's own library. The Library of Congress preserves a repository of copyrighted works, the federal administrative arm of U.S. copyright laws, and more. The place holds information and documents on fascinating events, places and people in American and world history. 101 Independence Avenue, SE. Phone; (202) 707-5000. |
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| Lincoln Memorial |
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This memorial was dedicated in 1922 to honor President Abraham Lincoln. Thirty-eight Grecian columns surround a statue of Lincoln seated on a ten-foot high marble base. This impressive statue is surrounded by engraved readings of the Gettysburg address, his Second Inaugural address and murals by French painter Jules Guerin. Hours are 8 a.m. to midnight. 23rd Street between Constitution and Independence Avenues, NW. |
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| Museum of Natural History |
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The museum is the most visited of the all of the Smithsonian Museums and is home to the Hope Diamond, the Orkin Bug Zoo, and wonderful exhibits including the hands on Discovery Room and Johnson IMAX theater. Open daily 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. On the National Mall; 10th Street and Constitution Ave. NW; (202) 633-1000. |
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| Museum of the American Indian |
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This is a living exhibition focused on Native Americans, and it happens to be the newest Smithsonian museum. Open 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily. 6th St. at Independence Ave. SW; (202) 633-1000. |
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| National Air and Space Museum |
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Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Air and Space Museum houses the largest collection of air and spacecraft in the world and chronicles man’s fascination with flight. IMAX theater. 7th and Independence Avenue, NW; (202) 357-1400. |
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| National Gallery of Art |
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The vast collection of America's outstanding art museum and internationally famous Sculpture Garden includes paintings, sculpture and graphics by notable artists from Medieval times to the present. Between 3rd and 9th Streets at Constitution Avenue, NW, in the National Mall; (202) 737-4215. |
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| National Geographic Society Explorers' Hall |
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Numerous cultural programs and exhibitions are presented at the Society's museum and travelogs and other lectures are presented in the museum's Grosvenor Auditorium throughout the year. Call to see what is happening while you are in town. 17th and M Streets, NW; (202) 857-7588. |
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| National Mall |
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The center of American government and culture is symbolized and celebrated by this national park commissioned originally by George Washington and on the itineraries of all who visit the nation's capital. Between Independence and Constitution Avenues; (202) 485-9880. |
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| National Zoo |
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the National Zoo is home to the pandas Tian Tian and Mei Ziang as well as hundreds of other species. The National Zoo, which is part of the Smithsonian Institution, is the the best veterinary hospital and endangered species research field station in the entire country. 3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW; (202) 673-4800. |
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| Supreme Court |
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The Supreme Court is the highest court in the US. When court is in session, you may hear cases for three minutes. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is also an exhibit which is available for viewing any time. Open 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 1st St. and Maryland Ave. NE. |
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| Union Station |
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In addition to being one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, Union Station offers the visitor something for everyone... the Metro, over 100 shops, 40 restaurants, and even a movie theater. 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE; (202) 371-9441 |
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| U.S. Capitol |
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The U.S. Capitol is home to the senators and representatives who create the laws that govern America. Tours are available by obtaining a free timed entry ticket from the kiosk located at 1st and Independence Ave. SW. Tickets are distributed one per person on a first-come, first-serve basis for that day’s tours only. The ticket kiosk opens at 9 a.m. Mon.-Sat; closed Sundays. |
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| Vietnam Memorial |
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A V-shaped granite wall is inscribed with the names of the 58,209 Americans missing or killed in the Vietnam War. Across the lawn is a life-size bronze sculpture of three young servicemen. Hours are 8 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Constitution Avenue and Henry Bacon Drive, NW. |
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| World War II Memorial |
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This beautiful structure serves as a peaceful place to remember those who served our country during World War II. The memorial is open 24 hours a day. 17th Street, between Constitution and Independence Avenues. |
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| Washington Monument |
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Explore the Washington Monument, which can be seen from every corner of Washington, D.C., that stands in tribute to George Washington. The "Father of His Country" helped determine how America's three branches of government would work together. 900 Ohio Drive SW; (202) 426-6841. |
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| Washington National Cathedral |
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The Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Washington National Cathedral is an Episcopalian Church but welcomes people of all faiths. The foundation for the church was laid in 1907, and the church was completed in September of 1990. Open daily 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tours available daily. Massachusetts & Wisconsin Aves. NW; (202) 537-6200. |
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| White House Visitor Center |
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A museum of American history as well as the Presidential residence, the White House tour is highly recommended on your next visit to the nation's capital. 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW; (202) 456-1414. |
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| Basilica – National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception |
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Each year, hundreds of thousands from all over the world visit the country's patronal church and Marian Shrine to attend mass and confession, or just to see the magnificent 150-year-old shrine and national treasure. 400 Michigan Avenue, NE; (202) 526-8300. |
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| B'nai B'rith Klutznick National Jewish Museum |
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Numerous cultural programs and exhibitions are presented at the B'nai B'rith national museum; open every day except Saturday. 2020 K Street, NW; (202) 857-6513. |
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| Bureau of Printing and Engraving |
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See where millions of dollars are printed every day. Discover all of the steps to producing currency from the blank sheet of paper to crisp bill. As the security printer for the US Government, the Bureau is responsible for the design, printing and engraving for all US currency. 14th and C Streets, SW; (202) 874-2330 |
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| The Capital Children's Museum |
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Children can learn how to make Mexican cocoa, see science presentations, learn animation techniques and experience exhibits designed to expand the five senses and provide a deeper appreciation of the world in which we live. 800 3rd Street, NE; (202) 675-4120. |
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| Corcoran Gallery |
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The Corcoran Gallery is Washington’s first art gallery and features mostly American art. Open Wednesday to Sunday10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open Thursday (extended hours) until 9 p.m. Closed all Mondays and Tuesdays except holidays. 500 17th St. NW; (202) 639-1700 |
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| Eastern Market |
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The Eastern Market is one of the country's largest indoor/outdoor markets in the world. It has three halls- Central, North and South- as well as the Market 5 Gallery for artists to display their crafts and children and adults of all ages can learn sculpture, painting and dance. 7th and C Street (North Carolina Avenue), SE; (202) 544-0083 |
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| Hillwood Museum and Gardens |
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Explore the largest collection of 18th and 19th century Russian art outside of Russia, a beautiful collection of 18th century French art and the azalea and orchid collections of the gardens preserved, as they were when Marjorie Post first founded the museum. 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW; (202) 686-5807. |
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| Hirshhorn Gallery |
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Museum highlights modern and contemporary art.
Open 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily. Independence Ave. and 7th St. SW; (202) 633-1000 |
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| Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens |
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A unique member of the National Park system along the Anacostia River, the Aquatic Gardens is devoted entirely to the cultivation of aquatic plants. Started privately in the late 19th century by W.B. Shaw, a Civil War veteran, and taken over by the U.S. in the 1930s, this beautifully preserved natural marsh area is home to all kinds of flowering plants, butterflies, turtles, frogs and many other creatures, and is now in the Register of Historic Places. The adjacent Kenilworth Park is a great place to have a picnic with the kids, where they can enjoy a variety of recreational equipment and natural wide open spaces. Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, N.E., westernmost end; (202) 426-6905. |
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| Marian Koshland Science Museum |
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Operated by the National Academy of Sciences, the museum offers state-of-the-art exhibits and displays. Open 10 a.m. - 6p.m., Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays). 6th St. & E St. NW; (202) 334-1201 |
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| National Aquarium |
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The nation’s oldest aquarium, the National Aquarium features over 80 exhibits and 200 saltwater and freshwater species including sharks, piranhas and alligators. Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Department of Commerce Building on 14th Street between Pennsylvania Ave. and Constitution Ave. NW; (202) 482-2825 |
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| National Archives |
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Home to the the most important American documents - the Declaration of Independence - Bill of Rights and the Constitution - all on display. Open daily 10 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. fall and winter seasons; 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. summer season. 700 Pennsylvania Ave. NW; (202) 501-5000 |
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| National Museum of Crime & Punishment |
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Explore the technology and science behind fighting and solving crimes, discover the heroes of law enforcement, and venture into the dark side of the criminal mind through this intensely interactive experience. The museum includes a crime scene lab and the filming studios for America's Most Wanted with host John Walsh. 575 7th Street between E and F Streets Northwest; (202) 393-1099. |
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| National Museum of the Marine Corps |
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Visit state of the art interactive exhibits of technology and Marines history, and tour the 118,000 square foot museum next door to the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia. Free car and bus parking. 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, Triangle, VA; (877) 635-1775. |
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| National Museum of Women in the Arts |
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Devoted exclusively to the works of women artists, this museum also sponsors many theatrical and literary performances. Spend a few leisure hours here and have lunch in the cafe surrounded by works of art. 1250 New York Avenue, NW; (202) 783-5000. |
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| National Postal Museum |
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One of the Smithsonian’s newer museums, the National Postal Museum is located next door to Union Station. One of the most popular exhibits is Moving the Mail, depicting how mail has been delivered through the years. The National Postal Museum has also recently acquired John Lennon’s stamp collection. Open daily 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
2 Massachusetts Ave. NE; (202) 633-5555 |
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| Octagon House |
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A historic house museum focusing on architecture. 1799 New York Ave. NW; (202) 638-3105 |
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| Old Post Office Pavilion and Bell Tower |
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When built in 1899, it was the largest and tallest government office building in Washington. Today, you can take the elevator up 315 feet (for free) for fabulous views of the city. The Old Post Office also features shopping and a food court. 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW; (202) 289-4224 |
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| Petersen House |
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A mortally wounded Lincoln was brought to the Petersen House after being shot at Ford’s Theater and later died here. 516 10th St. NW; (202) 426-6924 |
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| The Phillips Collection |
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Nicknamed "America's first museum of modern art," this exceptional gallery also hosts many cultural programs, social hours with live music, refreshments and a gift shop.
1600 21st Street, NW; (202) 387-2151. |
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| Renwick Gallery |
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A Smithsonian museum, the Renwick highlights American crafts. Open daily from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 750 9th St. NW; (202) 633-1000 |
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| Sandy Spring Museum |
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This museum, just a short drive outside of Washington, D.C., has preserved the town's Quaker and early American roots in its exhibitions and in the original equipment and customs still in use throughout the town. 17901 Bentley Road, Sandy Spring, MD; (301) 774-0022. |
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| Sewall-Belmont House |
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Many famous events in American history, including the Louisiana Purchase and Equal Rights Amendment, were planned and drafted in this house, purchased by the National Woman's Party in 1929 and now a museum devoted to the artifacts and memorabilia of women's rights and suffrage. 144 Constitution Avenue, NE; (202) 546-1210. |
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| Stephen Decatur House |
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One of the lovely house museums that features Victorian and Federalist furniture. Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Lafayette Par; (202) 842-0920. Admission, donations only. |
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| Tudor Place Historic House and Gardens |
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The first mayor of Georgetown, and his wife who was the granddaughter of Martha Washington, built this neoclassic mansion. The spacious gardens and internal furnishings, artifacts and memorabilia have all been preserved faithfully. Enjoy a tour of this amazing property, and step back into old Washington, D.C. 1644 31st Street, NW; (202) 965-0400. |
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| U.S. National Arboretum |
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Many species of trees and other plants are grown and studied at this magnificent national outdoor museum where something is always in bloom. The arboretum is open every day and provides a cafe and gift shop so you can take your time and make a day of it. 3501 New York Avenue, NE; (202) 245-2726. |
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| US Navy Memorial |
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Museum and memorial honor those who have served in the sea services. Open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW; (202) 737-2000 |
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| Woodrow Wilson House |
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Visit the house in which Woodrow Wilson spent his post-presidential years and explore the art and artifacts of the 1920s era. 2340 S Street, NW;(202) 387-4062. |
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| National Museum of American History |
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Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the Museum of American History collects, preserves and displays the heritage of the United States in the areas of social, political, cultural, scientific and military history. It is here that you will find the original Star-Spangled Banner and Archie Bunker's chair, Julia Child’s Kitchen and Fonzie’s jacket.
1000 Jefferson Drive Southwest Washington D.C.,
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