I appreciate this travel guide, and I would like to see more. Washington, DC, is one of my favorite cities, and I get to travel there a few times a year, typically, because of my job. (I’m a university administrator, and I have had several meetings and workshops there.) Three of my favorite spots are the National Museum of Asian Art (Freer & Sackler galleries), National Portrait Gallery/Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the National Mall. The NMAA is a truly hidden gem, not only because of its lovely art and splendid settings, but also because much of it is underground, so it really is largely hidden from view! Even though it’s very close to the National Mall (next to the lovely gardens behind the Smithsonian Castle), most people probably don’t even know it’s there. The NPG/SAAM has a wonderful atrium, along with its enjoyable art collection, and it’s off the beaten path (a few blocks from the National Mall). Both of these museums are nice refuges from the crowds that swarm all over some of the museums on the National Mall. Finally, the NM is one of my favorite places to run in the entire country. It’s long, flat, and safe, and it’s really wonderful to see lots of diverse people enjoying themselves.
I appreciate this travel guide, and I would like to see more. Washington, DC, is one of my favorite cities, and I get to travel there a few times a year, typically, because of my job. (I’m a university administrator, and I have had several meetings and workshops there.) Three of my favorite spots are the National Museum of Asian Art (Freer & Sackler galleries), National Portrait Gallery/Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the National Mall. The NMAA is a truly hidden gem, not only because of its lovely art and splendid settings, but also because much of it is underground, so it really is largely hidden from view! Even though it’s very close to the National Mall (next to the lovely gardens behind the Smithsonian Castle), most people probably don’t even know it’s there. The NPG/SAAM has a wonderful atrium, along with its enjoyable art collection, and it’s off the beaten path (a few blocks from the National Mall). Both of these museums are nice refuges from the crowds that swarm all over some of the museums on the National Mall. Finally, the NM is one of my favorite places to run in the entire country. It’s long, flat, and safe, and it’s really wonderful to see lots of diverse people enjoying themselves.
Thanks for the feedback Mark! And all the additional DC recommendations!
We saw lots of runners along the mall not just tourists. Nothing beats running in a beautiful place!
This post is loaded with great ideas. I went to DC on an 8th grade trip, would love to go back as an adult. Thanks for sharing, Janice!
Glad to hear it was helpful!
Definitely worth a visit, but try to time it with cherry blossoms for something a bit unique