A Traveler's Perspective: Museums, Memorials, and Motorcades

J- Tree - LADC - DC: Day 5

Most of Monday consisted pretty typical touristy things; Tidal Basin, Roosevelt Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, war memorials, Holocaust Museum... but I won't bore you with the intricate details. :)

One highlight of the day was a private tour of the Capitol Building! My friend's roommate works for a congressman and when he heard that I wasn't able to schedule a tour he offered to get me in and show me around. I met him at his office, got a special ID badge, and walked with him through the underground tunnels to the Capitol Building. I've never felt more like a VIP in my life! Most of what he showed me was also part of the official tour (which he was also able to get me a ticket for.), but he took me to the old Supreme Court Room, the Speakers Balcony, and the House Chamber, which are typically to be visited for "Official Business Only." It was amazing, and a little mind boggling, to be in these places where such important people gather and where such significant decisions are made regarding our nation.

The absolute highlight of the day was seeing Obama drive by in the presidential motorcade!! It was a total fluke too because I just happened to be on my way to the Holocaust Museum while he was making his way to throw the first pitch at the Caps game that afternoon. Ahhh! It was so amazing!