Lured by the history and power of DC
SURE, we’ve all seen The West Wing. But there’s more to a stay in Capital Region USA than the White House.
Washington DC’s mega-size monuments, terrific museums and world-class restaurants have got to be seen to be believed – and make America’s powerhouse a fabulous alternative to New York.
And don’t forget to fit in a look at the surrounding states – Maryland and Virginia – that make up this intriguing region. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to Chesapeake Bay, you’ll find jaw-dropping scenery to set against the politics and history.
ONE FOR THE BUCKET LIST
START by feeling the power in America’s seat of government. Definitely one for the bucket list, this!
DC is a place overflowing with history, best experienced on a tour of the National Mall (no, not a shopping centre but an extensive park of hot sightseeing attractions), where entry to almost everything is free.
Ride the lift up the 555ft Washington Monument and look down at the great dome of the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial and the White House, where you just might spot Michelle Obama pottering around her vegetable patch.
Time it well and you’ll hear a clatter of helicopter blades as Marine One drops on to the White House lawn to pick up the President.
Yet the truth is that Obama is fast becoming yesterday’s man.
With elections due next year, will Hillary Clinton finally lead America from the big house at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, as she has long aspired, or will she be thwarted by a swing to the Republicans?
Whatever happens, this is going to be a fascinating year to visit.
Beyond the political hothouse, there’s so much you can see and do in DC for free. Make a pilgrimage to the famous Arlington Cemetery, where John F. Kennedy, his wife Jacqueline and veterans of every war since the Revolution are buried. And the Smithsonian museums are outstanding, covering everything from air and space to history, art and spying. There’s even a zoo.
Best of all, they won’t cost you a dime.
Don’t miss out on the city’s toprated restaurant scene. The First Family has embraced it for date nights, birthdays and meetings – so you never know who you might be seated next to.
A ROAD TRIP?
A SHORT drive from the capital and you’re in laid-back Virginia or Maryland, each chock full of colonial-era towns, magnificent estates and reminders of the Revolutionary and Civil War conflicts.
For a great American road trip and stupendous views, drive along a National Scenic Byway to the quaint fishing villages of the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. Alternatively, stand entranced by the quiet solitude and stunning waterfalls of Shenandoah National Park.
Soak up American heritage in the historic triangle of colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown, experiencing 18th Century life in America’s first English colony and discovering famous battle sites.
You’ll also find more than 300 wineries to explore. Sip a local merlot, perhaps, while savouring Rappahannock oysters to the sound of waves at Virginia Beach.
And at the Assateague Island National Seashore, near Ocean City, Maryland, you can commune with nature in the company of 300 wild ponies, ranged along 37 miles of pristine beach.
Come to Capital Region USA to feel the power – and take an insightful road trip through the nation’s past and some of its loveliest natural splendours.
WILDER SIDE
IF A wilder side of America entices, consider a small group adventure off the beaten track, under the capable wing of an experienced leader.
In a manageable band of likeminded souls, you could take an epic journey through the national parks of the west, celebrate the music and history of the south, delve into cowboy life while staying on a range, or raft the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.
Small group tours will often blend activities, culture, wildlife and sightseeing. Alternatively they might focus more specifically on walking, family discovery, rail journeys and rafting. So choose whether you camp in the great outdoors or sleep with a roof over your head.
It’s a wonderful way to see America’s untamed secret gems and try something a little bit different.