Time Places Tour information Ticket, Hours, Security, Transportation

Eastern Market
Housed in a 19th-century brick building, Eastern Market
hosts a busy farmers' market and flea market. On weekends,
artisans and antique dealers also station themselves just
outside. It’s all located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of
Washington, too, which makes it an easy spot to visit while
exploring the many nearby monuments, memorials and
parks. 

Eastern Market is now on the National Register of Historic

Places. With the exception of a two-year renovation project Hours of Operation
due to a devastating fire in 2007, the market has been in Tuesday to Friday – 7am – 7pm
constant operation since 1873. In fact, it was the first city- Saturday – 7am – 6pm
owned market aimed to help urbanize Washington and is now Sunday – 9am – 5pm
the lone surviving one as well. Grocery store chains nearly Monday – CLOSED
forced Eastern Market to board its windows, but local
residents fought to keep the market open. 

Practical Info

Eastern Market is located just a few blocks east of Capital

Buildings and the National Mall. Both the B and O line
metros stop at the Eastern Market Station. 
Address:225 Seventh Street, SE, Washington, D.C., USA
Hours:Tuesday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6
p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Day 1 Washington
– 1st Monument and
Sat the National
Mall

The White SECURITY AND PROHIBITED ITEMS: HOW TO SUBMIT A REQUEST FOR
House WHITE HOUSE TOUR TICKETS

There is no cost to tour the White House, but you

Security is a concern everywhere in Washington, but nowhere
will need to apply for free tickets. Both U.S.
more than the White House.
nationals and foreign visitors can tour the White
You will need a valid government issued ID or passport to House.
gain entry into the White House for every member of your
group.
You will have to stand in line for security, so make sure to
arrive at least half an hour before your tour time. (longer in
peak seasons, or with a group).  
There is no dress code to tour the White House, but due to the
importance of the building, you should want to dress neatly.
The list of what you can’t bring into the White House is
extensive:
 no video cameras; video cameras including any action
camcorders, cameras with detachable lenses, tablets, tripods,
monopods and camera sticks are not permitted.
 no strollers.
 no food, beverages, tobacco products, liquids, gels,
lotions.
 no guns, firearms, knives, other sharp objects, martial
arts equipment, etc.
 no purses, backpacks, handbags, etc.  *If you need a
place to store these kinds of items, some nearby hotel
concierges may be willing to store the bags for a small fee.
The list of things you can bring to the White House is not
extensive:
 keys
 wallets
 cellphones
 umbrellas 
To visit the White House, it’s important to know
that you must reserve your tickets in
advance, MONTHS in advance. 
You can submit a request for White House tours
up to 6 months in advance and must do so no later
than 3 weeks.
If you are coming during peak tourism seasons of
March-April or June-August, we recommend at
least 3 months or more in advance to request the
tickets. 
If you are from a foreign country, you are advised
to go through your embassy in Washington D.C.
Not all embassies will be interested or helpful in
the request.
However, nothing stops you from requesting a tour
through any Member of Congress.  
There is no real requirement that you be a resident
of their district or state to do so. Therefore, it’s
worth a try.  
Most will ask you for contact information at home
and during your stay in DC, dates available for
tours and total persons in your group.
You’ll also be required to provide information for
security clearance, including:
 Cameras are now permitted on tour!  Full Name
 Date of Birth
Smartphones and compact cameras with a lens no longer than Social Security Number (only U.S.
3 inches (stills only) are permitted on the public tour route as residents 18 and older)
long as their use does not interfere with other guests’  Citizenship
enjoyment of the tour.   Gender
 City, State of Residence
Flash photography or live stream as well as talking or texting
Tours of the White House are available from 7:30
on cellular phones is not permitted while on the tour.
a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday,
7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
(excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise
noted).
Where can I leave the rest of my belongings while I tour the
White House?

If you can’t leave your belongings at your hotel, then consider

a storage service.

For $6/bag for up to 24 hours, you can store your bags in

nearby stores, souvenir shops, even other hotels.

Once you are inside, the tour is self-guided and will take
about half an hour. Though the White House has 135 rooms
in total, you are only shown through several rooms that they
use for entertaining. 

You will NOT see the family living quarters, the Oval Office

or the West Wing. 

Small tip: there are secret service agents in every room, you

can interact with them and ask them questions, they are
usually really nice and very informative.

World War II
Memorial
Korean and
Vietnam
Veterans
Memorial

Lincoln
Memorial
Thomas
Jefferson
Memorial
The U.S. Capitol How to Get to the Capitol Visitor Center
PLAN YOUR VISIT
The Capitol Visitor Center entrance is on the east
Depending on what you want to see, expect to spend at least front of the Capitol, which is the side opposite the
90 minutes to get through security and complete the tour and National Mall.
an additional 30 – 60 minutes to visit one of the voting
chambers.  Add an additional 30 – 60 minutes if you want to Security Check 
spend some time in Emancipation Hall (see highlights).
Security at the Capitol Building is pretty tight and
The Capitol Building is adjacent to both the Supreme similar to airport security (though you won’t have
Court and the Library of Congress, and many visitors choose to take off your shoes). You will need to go
to visit all three at the same time and we recommend this as through a metal detector and there are many items
well. that are not allowed into the building:
But plan 3 – 5 hours in total to do so. You can easily spend 60
 Any food or beverage including water, and
– 90 minutes at the Library and another 60 minutes at the including anything bottled or unopened.
Supreme Court.  
 Any pointed object, including knitting
needles.
CAPITOL TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
 Bag larger than 18 inches wide and 8.5
Exhibition Hall and Visitor Center Gallery inches deep.
 Mace or pepper spray, razors, box cutters.
 Any weapon of any kind, even army knives
as well as replicas/toys.
 Any liquids, gels, sprays, aerosols – like
Exhibition Hall will be closing in March 2019 for
lotions, makeup, sunscreen.
renovations. It will reopen in 2021.
You may bring in mobile phones, wallets, and
Once you get through security, you’ll find yourself in the cameras. While strollers are permitted in the
beautiful Capitol Visitor Center. This is where you’ll pick up Capitol Visitor Center, they are not in the House
your tickets if you’re taking a tour of the Capitol, but there or Senate galleries. There are subject to additional
are lots things to check out before the tour even begins. screening at the entrance as well.

The beautiful, light-filled lower level is named Emancipation

Hall, in remembrance of the slave labor that went into
constructing the Capitol building and the United States as a
whole.

Around Emancipation Hall you’ll see many statues ranging

from a native Hawaiian king to an astronaut. These are
overflow from Statuary Hall which you’ll generally see on the
Capitol tour, and we discuss a few paragraphs down.

There are two gift shops on the upper level – North and
South. There was a congressional order passed that
everything sold in these gift shops must be made in America.

In the center of Emancipation Hall is a 19.5-foot (6 m) Statue

of Freedom, the original plaster model of the allegorical
figure that sits atop the Capitol dome. She is perfect to scale,
and this allows you to get up close and notice the incredible
detail put into the work. Our favorite detail is the eagle’s head
that sits atop her helmet and is adorned with a Native
American headdress.

Just behind the statue of Freedom is the Exhibition Hall. In

this small museum, called Out of Many One, you can learn
both about the history of the U.S. Congress and its work and
the construction of the Capitol Building.

Highlights here include an 11 foot (3.5 m) tall model of

the Capitol Dome (mai vom), which you are encouraged to
touch, and live feeds of the House and the Senate when they
are in session.

The Crypt (ham mo)

It may seem odd to have a crypt in the middle of what is
basically a government office building, but there are no actual
remains interred here.

n some of the original plans of the Capitol, it was thought that

George Washington and his wife Martha might be buried
here, but the first president wished to be put to rest at his
home in Virginia, Mount Vernon, where he remains to this
day.

The Crypt does still carry great importance, as it marks the

center of Washington, D.C. Around the room are 13 statues,
important individuals from the 13 original colonies. 

Old Supreme Court

The judicial branch of the United States government met in

this room from 1810 to 1860, when it then moved to the Old
Senate Chamber which is also often included on the tour.
Generally, you enter the robing room, where the Supreme
Court Justices once all donned their black robes together
before entering the court.

At the back of the room are Justice’s desks, some of which

are original to the 19th century and were actually used by the
Justices when the Supreme Court occupied this chamber.  

One of the most remarkable aspects of the room is the vaulted

ceiling designed by Benjamin Latrobe which was inspired by
medieval engineering techniques and resembles an umbrella.

The Rotunda (mai vom)

The heart of the building and undoubtedly the most iconic

(hinh tuong)aspect of the Capitol Building is the Rotunda. It
is where honored citizens have laid in state, including
Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Rosa Parks, and most
recently, Billy Graham. 

In the original design of William Thornton’s, the rotunda was

intended to be a simple dome modeled after the Pantheon in
Rome. However, when the building was expanded in the mid-
1800s, it was clear that the dome needed to be enlarged as
well, and construction of the massive wedding cake style
dome was begun.

Around the inside of the Rotunda are many pieces of art

depicting important figures and events in American history.

At the center, there is the fresco the Apotheosis (than) of

Washington by Constantino Brumidi. It shows George
Washington sitting in the heavens, flanked by the goddesses
Liberty and Victory, and surrounded by 13 maidens (co gai
dong trinh) representing the original 13 colonies.

Lower down the dome is a ring of friezes (tru gach) depicting

(ve) American history from the landing of Columbus to the
birth of aviation.

There are also many statues around the Rotunda, including

one of Abraham Lincoln by Vinnie Ream, the first woman
artist who received a commission from the American
government.

Statuary Hall

Like so many rooms in the Capitol, Statuary Hall is heavily

influenced by ancient Greek architecture, drawing parallels
between the origin of democracy and its rebirth in America.

Originally this room was intended to be a chamber for the

House of Representatives. However, the curved ceiling
created strange acoustics, with whisper spots where someone
speaking softly could be heard many yards away. It was
distracting during sessions, and many of the members didn’t
like the idea of rivals hearing their secrets, so the House
relocated.

For many years, it was debated what to do with the room,

until it was decided to dedicate it as space for states to honor
their most eminent (loi lac) citizens. Each state is invited to
send two statues of their choosing in either marble or bronze,
depicting people who have made a significant contribution to
the history of that state.

Originally, all statues were placed in Statuary Hall, however

as more and more states began sending their statues, the hall
became was severely overcrowded. Statues had to be placed
behind each other, in some places 3 statues deep, and there
were worries that the floor could not hold the huge weight.

Today the statues are scattered throughout the Capitol

building as well as being in the hall.

Old Senate Chamber

Since the country used to be much smaller, the Capitol

building was as well. This is actually the third chamber that
the Senate has met in. The first had to be abandoned after just
6 years because it was crumbling and rotting, and the second
was burned down by the British during the War of 1812. 
Finally, the Senate convened here for 40 years.

In 1859 the Senate moved to its fourth and current chamber,

and the Supreme Court moved in until it got its own building
in 1935 (which you could also tour).

The Old Senate Chamber is richly decorated in crimson and

gold and was inspired, like so much of Washington DC, by
buildings in Paris.

 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES GALLERY PASSES

To visit the House of Representatives Gallery, which is where

members of the House debate and take their votes, contact
your representative or senator to obtain passes. International
visitors may inquire at the House of
Representative’s appointment desk on the upper level of the
Capitol Visitors Center. These passes are not timed and can
be used at any time during that year.

Hours:

The House Gallery is open to visitors whenever the House of

Representatives is in session (see schedule) until adjournment
for that day.  It is also “usually” open whenever the House is
in recess, from 9:00 am until 4:15 pm, Mondays through
Fridays.

You will have to go through additional security and leave all

belongings outside of the gallery in storage containers.  You
can bring in pen and paper, but that is about it!  Absolutely no
photography.

PRO TIP: You will need an additional 30 – 60 minutes to

visit either of the legislative galleries.   If time is short, then
we recommend visiting the House Gallery.  It is here that the
President of the United States delivers his annual State of the
Union Address and you are more likely to see action on the
floor.

SENATE GALLERY PASSES

To visit the Senate Gallery, which is where members of the

U.S. Senate debate and take their votes, contact your
representative or senator to obtain passes. International
visitors may inquire at the Senate appointment desk on the
upper level of the Capitol Visitors Center. These passes are
not timed and can be used at any time during that year.

Hours:

Open to visitors whenever the Senate is in session, from 30

minutes before the Senate convenes (see schedule) until
 adjournment for that day, which is usually 4:15 pm.  

It is also regularly open whenever the Senate is in recess for 1

week or more.  When in recess, visitors are permitted to view
the gallery from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm, Mondays through
Fridays.  There is no access on Saturdays unless the Senate is
in session.  You could also call the Senate to confirm if the
gallery is open at 202.224.0057.

You will have to go through additional security for either and

leave all belongings outside of the gallery in storage
containers.  You can bring in pen and paper and that is about
it!  Absolutely no photography.

How to Get Here:

Library of The Library of Congress is home to over 158 million items
Congress including books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, films, Address: 10 First Street, SE, Washington, DC
and more. Today, the complex has multiple buildings but 20540 (map).  We recommend using the map link
the most breathtaking is the original: the  Thomas to get exact directions, as there are 4 Metro lines in
Jefferson Building.  two stations for access to the Jefferson Building.
Best Time to Visit: The closest is Capitol
South (Orange/Silver/Blue), which is just a 5-
The Library of Congress is free to visit and open Monday – minute walk. The other is Union Station (Red),
Saturday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm and is closed on Sundays, which is a 15-minute walk.  Learn more
Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. about riding the Metro with our guide.
If you’re looking to get the Library to yourself, you’ll want to Security
visit early in the morning as soon as it opens. It’s busiest at
lunchtime, especially on Tuesdays and Fridays. As with most building in D.C., expect to go
through security. You can find their exact
We often run our tours in the afternoon, so you’ll miss the guidelines here. There is no eating or drinking
lunchtime crowd if you join our Capitol Hill & Library of allowed in the building, though visitors are
Congress Walking Tour.  allowed to enter as long as any food or drink is
stored in a bag.  
HIGHLIGHTS AND SELF-GUIDED TOUR
Photography is allowed in most of the building,
Once you pass security, the first major room is the Great Hall.
though there is no flash photography allowed of
As you enter the Great Hall, you’ll immediately look up. This
the bibles, the Reading Room, and the Jefferson
interior section of the building is nearly double the height of
the entrance hall. The works you see all around you are the
effort of 50 artists to contribute to the sculptures, paintings,
and murals.
Scroll and zoom in to take a closer look at the Great Hall
 Above you, look at the rose windows in the ceiling. Most
people assume that it is silver leaf surrounding the stain glass
windows, but it is aluminum leaf, which more valuable at the
time than silver leaf.  The various single names you see
inscribed on the ceiling throughout the building are the last
names of authors who have made great contributions to
literature. The first one most people spot is Bacon!
Below you are the symbols of the zodiac signs surrounding a
brass inlay of the sun in the center.
Room.
If you’re visiting the U.S. Capitol Building first,
you do not need to go through security again at the
Library of Congress, if you take the access tunnel
that connects both.  Do note that food and drink
are not permitted in the Capitol. 
Daily Official Guided Tours
These are the main tours that visitors enjoy on
most days.  This free general tour covers the art
and architecture of the Jefferson Building,
including a view into the main reading room, as
well as the history and purpose of the library itself.
They last 1 hour and take place every day, but
Sundays. Tours depart from the ground floor
information desk.  

The tour schedule is as follows.

 Every 30 past the hour from 10:30 am with

Look at the staircases on
either side of the Great Hall. Along the outside of each
banister, you’ll see “putti” which were popular during the
Italian Renaissance. These figures each represent a different
profession or hobby that was popular in American life at the
time of the construction.
the last tour at 3:30 pm (Mondays – Fridays)
 Every 30 past the hour from 10:30 am with
the last tour at 2:30 pm (Saturdays)
 NOTE – There is no tour at 12:30 pm on
Saturdays.
 No reservations required. 

If you look closely at these little boys, each is holding an

attribute of their profession. A mechanic holds a wrench, an
artist holds a paintbrush, an etymologist holds a butterfly net.

See if you can figure out what jobs are portrayed by looking
at each of the items held by the putti. The original idea was to
put sculptures of adult men holding these symbols of
professions but the proportions did not work out as well
within the banister as the putti. 

In the center of each banister

at each side, the theme of the entire library is once again
represented: the universality of knowledge. On either side of
the globe, figures represent the Americas and Africa on one
side with a view of these continents on the globe they hold,
and a view of Europe and Asia on the opposite side of the
Great Hall.

The Bible Collection

View rare, perfect copies of the Giant Bible of Mainz (the last
handwritten bible before the printing press) and the
Gutenberg Bible (the first Bible printed using the printing
press).  Here you can view two bibles from the 1400s
Germany. Look closely at the Bible of Mainz and you can
often see the lines across the page put there by scribes to
make sure they stayed in a straight line. See how the typeface
of the printed Gutenberg Bible is similar to the handwritten
Bible of Mainz? They didn’t have Times New Roman back
then!

 Once you’ve seen those, head upstairs to the upper level of

the Great Hall. Note the groves worn into the marble steps
from more than a century of fellow travelers and researchers.
On the east side of the building, you’ll see a set of steps
leading up to the Main Reading Room Overlook.
The Main Reading Room

Though technically not an exhibit, this is certainly a spectacle

that should not be missed during your visit to Washington,
DC.  Have you seen National Treasure 2? This is the room
that hides the Presidential Book of Secrets (we can neither
confirm nor deny that it is really there.)

To view the Main Reading Room, you can access the

overlook from the second level of the Jefferson building. A
set of stairs in the back leads to a small walk-through so you
can have a peek into this beautiful room. The library
discourages flash photography and talking in the walk-
through as there are often researchers below.

 
  You may see a sign that says “Official Tour in Progress” –
just come back in a few minutes when the tour is over for
your chance to walk through. During busy times, a staff
member is on hand to monitor the line but otherwise, just
head up the steps and stay to the right!

As you head up the stairs toward the viewing platform, you

will be greeted by a large mosaic of Minerva, the Roman
Goddess of Wisdom, holding a list of fields of study and
accompanied by an animal we all associate with wisdom: the
owl.

Inside the Main Reading Room, look up towards the dome.

The personification of Human Understanding is surrounded
by twelve figures that represent the various cultures that have
contributed to the universality of knowledge.

 Eg
ypt represents Written Records.
 Judea represents Religion.
 Greece represents Philosophy.
 Rome represents Administration.
 Islam represents Physics.
 The Middle Ages represent Modern Languages.
 Italy represents the Fine Arts.
 Germany represents the Art of Printing.
 Spain represents Discovery.
 England represents Literature.
 France represents Emancipation.
 America represents Science.
The bronze statues depict men who have contributed to:

 Religion: Saint Paul the Apostle (a leader of the first

generation of Christians) and Moses (Hebrew prophet,
teacher, and leader)

 Commerce: 
Christopher Columbus (explorer and navigator who helped
open the Americas to European colonization) and Robert
Fulton (American engineer and inventor known for the steam-
powered engine)
 History: Edward Gibbon (Author of The History of
the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire) and
 Herodotus (Greek author of the first great narrative history
produced in the ancient world, the History of the Greco-
Persian Wars)
 Art: Ludwig van Beethoven (German composer and
musician between the Classical and Romantic period. and
Michelangelo (Italian Renaissance sculptor, painter,
architect, and poet)
 Philosophy: Plato (Ancient Greek philosopher) and
Francis Bacon (British lawyer, statesman, and philosopher)
 Poetry: William Shakespeare (English poet,
dramatist, and actor) and Homer (supposed author of the
Illiad and Odyssey)
 Law: Solon (Athenian statesmen) and James Kent
(helped shaped common laws of both the new United States
and England)
 Science: Sir Isaac Newton (English physicist and
mathematician) and Joseph Henry (American scientist)
Want to see the Main Reading Room up close? A few times a
year on certain holidays the Main Reading Room is open to
visitors!

Exterior

The Thomas Jefferson Building, an Italian Renaissance-

inspired structure, opened in 1897 to great renown. When
people visited Washington, they didn’t write home about the
Capitol Building or the White House, instead, they wrote
home about the Library of Congress. 

In many ways, the grandiosity of the building was an attempt

(and a successful one) to prove America’s strength in science,
literature, and the arts – subjects that European countries had
been dominating for hundreds of years. For example, the
building’s dome, which is topped with the “Torch of
Learning,” is plated in 23-carat gold.
The art featured on the building are meant to showcase human
achievement. However, it also reveals the prejudice of the
time, as most of the great thinkers featured throughout the
building are male and Westerners.

However, representing the universality of knowledge, there

are also thirty-three ethnological heads, which show a wide
variety of countries and cultures, that surround the exterior of
the building.

As you move to walk up the steps, take a moment to view the

fountain on road level. This fountain of Neptune, Roman God
of the Sea. His sister, Minerva, is featured inside the building.
The king is surrounded by his court with his sons, the Tritons,
and horses, symbolizing water. He protects the sea of
knowledge that is the Library of Congress’ collections behind
him.

The grand figure of Neptune would be 12 feet tall if he were

standing! While the fountain is not always on, the wavy lines
of the sculptures do mimic the flowing of the water. A
particular favorite is the “spitting” turtles at the front of the
 fountain.

National Archives What can I take into the National Archives?

To expedite the security screening, it is recommended to take

as little as possible. All bags and metal objects will be
screened. Since photography is prohibited, if it is possible to
leave camera elsewhere you will enter the building quicker,
though you may bring it in if necessary. There is a great gift
shop, so do bring your wallet!
Declaration of Independence:
Independence of the thirteen colonies from England was
declared in 1776. Ever been asked to write your John
Hancock?  You’ll see his large signature on the bottom of this
document.
Constitution:
This 1789 document laid the groundwork for our government.
Notice the states that signed at the bottom – one of them is
spelled differently than it is today!
Where Is the National Archives Building in DC? 
The National Archives has multiple facilities
across the country but the National Archives
Museum is in downtown DC on Constitution Ave
NW between 7th and 9th St NW.   The closest
Metro to the National Archives is Archives /Navy
Memorial station on the Green/Yellow line. 
National Archives Hours
The National Archives is open daily 10 am – 5:30
pm with the last admission at 5 pm.  The building
is closed on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving (the
last Thursday of November).

Bill of Rights: Do I need tickets to visit the National Archives?

Tickets are not required to visit the National

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution are called the
Archives in the public line. There is no admission
Bill of Rights. They include the First Amendment right to free
to the National Archives but it can get crowded
speech and religious freedom. Count the ones you see at the
and the unreserved entry line to get through
National Archives. You’ll see more than 10 and can learn
security can last up to an hour from March-June
about this proposal and which ones were not adopted.
and on holiday weekends.
Public Vaults
If you want to cut down on uncertainty and wait-
The public vaults are the main exhibit at the Archives and time, you can get tickets for a timed visit that
 explain the purpose of the institution.  This exhibit holds over allows you to skip most of the line. There is a
1,000 documents divided into five sections: $1.50 processing fee per person and you can
reserve up to 15 people. Admission is available
 We the People – records of family and citizenship 10:30 am – 3:30 pm with timed tickets.
such as immigration records and Native American settlement
agreements. Guided tours are available at 9:45 am Monday to
 To Form a More Perfect Union – records of liberty Friday. They are free but advanced reservations
and law from investigative records from Kennedy’s are required.
assassination and congressional debates about Prohibition.
 Provide for the Common Defense – records of war RESERVE TICKETS HERE
and diplomacy, Civil War regimental records and documents
from the Cuban Missile Crisis
 Promote the General Welfare – records of frontiers
and firsts; explorers artifacts and patents
 To Ourselves and Our Posterity – keeping records for
future. Here you can learn about how your records become
part of the Archives and how you can do research.

How much time should I spend at the Archives?

A visit the Archives can be done as quickly as needed or you

can spend time with the various exhibits. Allow at least 30
minutes from once you’re inside the building.

In a Rush? Visit the Archives in 30 minutes:

If you’re in a rush and just want to hit the highlights, there are
a few must-sees. After you enter security, make sure you pop
in to see the Magna Carta, one of a few originals left, which is
on display at the entrance of the Rubenstein Gallery. Then
head upstairs to the Rotunda to view the Charters of Freedom
– Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of
Rights.

You will have to line up again to enter the Rotunda, however,

they only let in a certain number of people at a time to avoid
overcrowding. The line moves fast and once you’re in they
 encourage you NOT to line up and to view the documents in
any order.

Visit the Archives if you have more than 30 minutes: If

you’re not in a rush, we recommend 90 minutes to visit the
Archives. You can explore the rest of the Rubenstein Gallery
to learn about Record of Rights, the Public Vaults, the
rotating exhibits and you can spend more time reading about
the Charters of Freedom.

Day 2 - The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution

Sunday the Smithsonian Giant Panda Habitat: you’ll find no admission prices or tickets to visit. As one of
National Zoo oldest zoos in the United States, the National Zoo is sure to
The Giant Pandas at the National Zoo are the most popular
a highlight of your visit to Washington, DC, especially for t
exhibit. As of January 2018, there are two adult Giant Pandas
young and young at heart. Use this post to explore the optio
on loan from China, named Tian Tian (male) and Mei Xing
at the National Zoo.
(female) and one young male panda (Bei Bei).
The outdoor parts of the Zoo open earlier and stay
Their offspring born at the National Zoo are kept for a few
open later than the buildings so you can explore
years and then moved to a conservation center in China. Bei
many of the outdoor areas before the rest of the
Bei will travel to China in 2019.
Zoo opens.
The Giant Panda Exhibit has two parts for visitors – an
outdoor viewing platform and an indoor exhibit where you  Grounds: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last admittance
can also view the pandas if they are inside. The inside area 4 p.m.) | 7 p.m. closing in summer* (last
also has exhibits about Giant Pandas and the conversation admittance 6 p.m.)
efforts to protect them.  Exhibit Buildings: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | 6 p.m.
closing in summer* (Amazonia opens at 10 a.m.
On busy days, the trail through the exhibit is one all year)

way allowing visitors to walk through the outdoor exhibit and Important Note: There are often changes to
then the indoor area. what areas of the Zoo are open, especially during
inclement weather. If there is a particular animal
Expert Tip: Check out the National Zoo Panda Cam to find you want to see, be sure to check their website first
them before heading over! The Panda Cam offers two for updates.
cameras so you can watch the Pandas wherever you are. The best time of day to visit the National Zoo is in
the morning. With the heat of the afternoon and
You’ll also find sloths, red pandas, and Asian elephants fully bellies from lunch, many animals will be
nearby on the Asia Trail. asleep and hidden from view.

Elephant Trail The National Zoo is free! 

The National Zoo is home to 6 Asian Elephants which can be How to get to the National Zoo
viewed on the Elephant Trail. Asian Elephants are currently
an endangered species and you’ll see that they are smaller The National Zoo’s address is 3001 Connecticut
than African elephants. Ave NW.

The Kids’ Farm We highly recommend taking public transportation

Experience life on the farm with goats, donkeys, Woodley Park neighborhood of NW DC, so a bit
hogs, and cows.
Great Apes and Primates
You’ll find three types of lemurs on an island surrounded by a
moat, including the well known ring-tailed lemur. The Zoo is
also home to gorillas and orangutans.  The orangutans have
the ability to travel from one enclosure to the next via the O-
line, which from a guests perspective means they walk right
above you! You can even play tug of war with them in the
Think Tank. There is a tall outdoor section to
allow gibbons to swing around as they would in the wild.
The Small Mammal House
to the National Zoo. The National Zoo is in
further afield that most tourist attractions, but it is
worth the journey.
Tip on Public Transportation to the National Zoo:
There is a Metro Station called “Woodley
Park/AdamsMorgan/Zoo” on the Red Line.
However, we recommend taking the Metro one
stop further to Cleveland Park.
It is a 10-minute walk from either stop but from
Cleveland Park the walk is downhill instead of
uphill from the Woodley Park stop!

The variety of foxes, rats and smaller monkeys are housed in

the Small Mammal House.

The American Trail

Along the American Trail, you’ll be able to experience the

variety of animals and plant life native to North America.
There are seals and otters, wolves, and and bald eagles,
among others. There are also two American bison at the
American Bison exhibit.

Great Cats
 Lions, Tigers and … Cheetahs. (Don’t worry, the zoo has
bears, too). On Lion and Tiger Hill, you can find African
lions, and two types of tigers. Next door is the Cheetah
Conservation Station which mimics the Savannah. You’ll
find cheetahs but also wolves, gazelles, vultures and more.

Amazonia

You can walk through this exhibit to experience the flora and
fauna found in the Amazon. There are many corals, frogs, and
other aquatic animals, but also sloths and monkeys.

The Reptile Discovery Center

There are over 50 species of reptiles and amphibians in this

exhibit. You’ll find tortoises, snakes, alligators and even
a Komodo dragon.

Day 3 Holocaust
– Museum Museum Hours
Monda
y The Museum and its exhibitions are open from 10 a.m.
5:30 p.m.

You must enter our Permanent Exhibition, the Holocau

via the elevators near the Information Desk. These elevato
close 50 minutes before the exhibition does, to allo
visitors adequate viewing time.

Location
The Museum is located on the National Mall, just south
Independence Avenue, SW, between 14th Street and Rao
 Wallenberg Place (15th Street) in Washington, DC.

Address

100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, S

Washington, DC 20024-2126

Requirements for Burial or Inurnment Getting There

Arlington
National There are two distinct types of funerals at ANC.  The first is
Cemetery inurnments / hoa tang(cremations).  All honorably discharged
service men and woman are permitted to be inurned at one of
the columbaria at ANC.  There are no other requirements. 

Additional qualifiers are necessary for ground burial. 

In short, all service members who have died in combat or

have retired from the military, received a purple heart or any
of a number of medals of valor, or who make a career out of
their service and qualify for retirement benefits from the
military are automatically eligible for ground burial at
Arlington National Cemetery.
A
Additionally, all members of Congress, the Supreme Court, rlington National Cemetery is located just to the
Cabinet Members and Presidents of the United States are
automatically eligible for ground burial, regardless
of length of service, as long as they were honorably
discharged.
Please read our full post on all burial and inurnment
requirements at Arlington National Cemetery.
Markers are government issued, though family can request a
personal self-funded larger headstone. You will see various
emblems, both religious and military on both types. For more
on this, see our guide to symbols and emblems on headstones.
Tomb of the Unknowns
west of Washington, DC in Arlington, VA.  The
address for the Cemetery is simply:
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, VA 22211 (map)
It’s best to use the map and input your starting
point.  The map is already set to Arlington
Cemetery as the ending point.
Security:
Arlington National Cemetery has recently installed
new security procedures.

The Changing of the Guards happens every half hour in the SECURITY PROCEDURES:
summer and on the hour in the winter.
 While we do not know exactly what will be
While both ceremonies are the same, there are often wreath in place when as it has been subject to change,
laying ceremonies on the hour. This is when a group please be prepared for:
participates in the laying of the wreath and a bugler plays o ID Check for Adults
Taps. It’s a very moving ceremony that happens regularly in o Bag Check – if this is place, you
the Spring. will need to have your bag open and ready for
inspection. Prohibited items include:
The rest of the year has a only a few a day and you can find EXPLOSIVES
out what time they are by visiting the kiosks in the Visitor FIRE ARMS
Center and checking under that days events. KNIVES (blades more than
3-inches in length)
Notable Graves & Memorials
NARCOTICS
Brief History of Arlington National Cemetery FIRE WORKS
o There will be an express lane for
guests who have no bags.
You may want to look into luggage storage before
arriving at Arlington National Cemetery if
you’re travelling with large bags.

Visitor’s Center:

At the Visitor’s Center, there are restrooms, free


Prior to
becoming a national shrine to America’s service men and
women, the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery were
part of the Custis Family holdings. Martha Washington,
America’s first First Lady, was a Custis and passed this land
on to her grandson George Washington Parke Custis.
Immediately following the death of George Washington, his
famous step-grandfather, went straight to work
creating Arlington House as shrine in his memory as well as a
home for the decedents.  these events.
The image to the left shows the parlor of the house where
Robert and Mary were wed.
One of these decedents was his daughter, Mary Custis, who
would famously marry Robert E. Lee.  The land would be
confiscated by the U.S. Army and turned into a cemetery
under the supervision of Montgomery Meigs, partially for 
spite, partially for practical reasons, as the Civil War raged on
and created the need for new burial grounds for fallen soldiers
and sailors.
Today, there are between 25-30 funerals Monday-Friday, and
an average of 8 on Saturdays. Over 400,000 people are buried
at Arlington National Cemetery.
For a more detailed history of Arlington National Cemetery,
maps, and a small shop that sells books,
commemorative items, and cold water. Food and
chewing gum is strictly prohibited, and thus not
sold.
There are water fountains throughout the cemetery
and a few restrooms, but it’s advisable to stop here
first. 
Tickets for the trolley must be purchased at his
building, and our walking tour begins just outside
the doors past security.
Photography: 
The cemetery is a beautiful place and you’re
welcome to commemorate your visit with
photographs and video. However, please
remember that as moving as funeral ceremonies
and processions are, they aren’t tourist attractions.
Please refrain from photographing or videotaping
Hours:
The cemetery is open every day of the year. The
cemetery has two distinct operating seasons, peak
and off-peak.
April 1 – September 30: 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.
October 1 – March 31: 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
 see this post.

Kennedy Memorials

Following his assassination in

1963, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy decided that her late
husband belonged to the people and requested for him to lay
in rest at Arlington National Cemetery.

Five years later his younger brother, Senator Robert Francis

Kennedy, also assassinated, was laid to rest near his brother.

Finally, in 2009, the youngest bother, Senator Edward “Ted”

Moore Kennedy was laid to rest next to his bothers.

ANC’s administration placed a grave marker for the oldest

brother, Joseph Kennedy Jr., whose remains were never
recovered.

Today, all four brothers lay in rest together.  Learn more

about the Kennedy brothers’ memorials here.

Other Notable Graves and Memorials

 William Howard Taft’s Grave

 Robert E. Lee Memorial/Arlington House
 Section 27
 Learn more about sights in Arlington National Cemetery that
are off the beaten path with this post.

Day 4 JULY
Smithsonian
–
Museum
Tuesda The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the
y National Portrait Gallery already stay open until 7
 African pm (19:00) every day.
American
History In the summer, the museums of Air and Space,
and Natural History, and American History have
Culture extended hours and stay open until 7:30 pm
Museum (21:30), instead of the regular time of 5:30 pm
 African *17:30).  
Art
Museum
 Air and
Space
Museum
and Hazy
Center
 American
History
Museum
 American
Indian
Museum
 Freer|
Sackler
Galleries
 Hirshhorn
Museum
 Natural
History
Museum
  Postal
Museum
 Renwick 
Gallery
 Ripley
Center

Day 5
– Wed.
Day 6 The International Spy Museum is the only US museum thatUnlike is solely the Smithsonian Museums, the
– International Spy dedicated to espionage and features the largest collection of International
espionage Spy Museum is a private museum
Thursd Museum artifacts ever placed on public display. It is the only museum inand
the does
worldcharge admission.
ay to showcase a global perspective on the roles spies have played and on the
Afterno men and women who have participated in this profession, shaping Tickets are timed entry tickets, which means you
history
on and continuing to have a significant impact on global events. are free to enter the museum after the time printed
on your ticket. You are able to re enter the
museum throughout the day, as long as it is after
the time printed on your ticket. Tickets can be
Is the International Spy Museum Worth Visiting? | purchased in advance, same day, and for larger
groups.
Like the Newseum, the International Spy Museum is another
great attraction that is worth the entrance fee. Since its
opening in 2002, it has educated people of all ages on the General Admission Ticket Type
history of espionage both in the USA and abroad. In fact, the
International Spy Museum boasts the largest collection of Adults (ages 12-64)
spy-related artifacts in the world.
Senior (ages 65+), Military, Fire & Law Enforcement
Who should visit the International Spy Museum?
Youths (ages 7-11)
The museum is probably most entertaining for children ages
11-15. However, anyone interested in learning more about
Children age 6 & under
espionage will thoroughly enjoy their time there. The exhibits
are very informative, and the museum does a good job of
blending fun with facts, making a visit to the International
Spy Museum a pleasure for the entire family. International Spy Museum Hours

Highlights of the International Spy Museum? The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM- 7:00
PM, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day and
 Pretending to be a spy! — The Covers and Legends
exhibit (which is visited by all guests upon entry) assigns
everyone a secret identity. It is then your job to withhold that
identity and keep your cover throughout your time at the
museum. Finally, before leaving, you are tested on whether or
not you succeeded in that mission!
 Learning Civil War era spying techniques! — From
Ballroom to Battlefield exhibit reveals how spies operated
during the 19th century.
 Dive into the history of espionage! — The Secret
History of History spans the evolution of espionage. The
museum’s section on spying during the Cold War is
especially fascinating.
Your museum experience will start when you enter on the
first floor and will wait for the elevator to take you up to the
third floor. In the lobby you will see various artifacts and
props that will give you an idea what is in store for the rest of
your visit. In the lobby, you wait for an elevator to take you
up to the third floor where you will learn if you have what it
takes to be a spy.
 Photography
Third Floor
The permanent collection starts on the third floor and ends on
the first floor.
 Other Gallery Policies
 Cover & Legends: The museum is an interactive
experience so your museum experience is centered around the
idea of being a spy. In the first exhibit you are asked to pick a
cover and memorize it, like you are a spy preparing for an
operation. There are different identities on the wall to choose
from. This is what you do while you wait for the introductory
film in the “Briefing Room’. The introductory film is only a
few minutes and give you information about the type of
people who become spies and the importance of their job.
 Schools for Spies: After learning about who are spies
Christmas Day.
During peak seasons, the museum extends its
hours which can vary on a weekly basis. The
International Spy Museum frequently updates any
changes to operating hours on its Museum Hours
page.
Please note that the last ticket of the day is sold
one hour before closing.
Security and Visitor Policies
While there are not required to go through a
scanner at this museum, your bag and belongings
as subject to be searched upon entry into the
museum.
            While in the galleries, there is no flash
photography allowed. Photography of certain areas
and artifacts is permitted. The museum asks that
you pay attention to signage and obey the “No
Photography” signs when posted.
            The museum asks that visitors do not has
food, drink, or chewing gum while in the galleries.
They, also, ask that visitors do not talk on cell
phones and refrain from smoking. All guests under
the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The museum asks that strollers be checked in the
Clock Room at the Museum Lobby.
How to Get To the International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is located in
 and how they operate, you head into the School for Spies. It is downtown Washington, DC near L’Enfant Plaza.
there that you learn every aspect of being a spy and explore The museum is on L’Enfant Plaza SW near D St
spy gadgets that have aided former spies. This exhibition is SW just south of Independence Ave SW.
broken up into five thematic rooms, designed to show you all
aspects of espionage.
o Tradecraft Skills– You will get a chance to  Metro
continue on with the cover you selected in the first gallery The closest Metro station is the L’Enfant Plaza
and learn how to observe things like a spy. station(Yellow/Green/Orange/Blue/Silver lines).
o Ninja- Learn the qualities of a spy that make There are many exits from this Station, but the 9th
them invisible and able to detect everything. In this section of and D St SW L’Enfant Plaza Promenade is the
the gallery, you will see everything from the eavesdropping closest. Use our guide to using the Metro to get
bugs and tiny camera that fit on the button of a coat. there.
o Cloak- See how spies change their appearance
and blend into their surroundings. This room will show you
the more polished and refined side of being a spy.  Bus
o Dagger-One of the most exciting part Many of the Hop on Hop Off Bus Tours have
of School for Spies is seeing the hidden weapons in stops nearby. Read more about the best
the Dagger Some of the highlights from this room, Washington DC bus tours to find a company and a
include The Lipstick Pistol and James Bond’s Martin DB5 bus pass that fits your itinerary.
from Goldfinger.
o Shadow- Explore the teams that support spies
while out in the field. These professionals are given the task
of collecting and analyzing information. Be sure to check
out The Thing, which was a wooden Great Seal of the United
States with bugging device hidden inside.
The second half of the third floor takes you through the
history of espionage, starting with its beginnings in The
Secret History of History and its major effects on the modern
world with Spies Among Us.

 The Secret History of History- Within this exhibit

spaces see some of the earliest tools used by spies and how
they shaped different periods of history. Some must sees from
this exhibit are George Washington spy letter, a letter asking
from General George Washington asking Nathaniel Sackett to
spy for his country during the American Revolution, and the
Spy Pigeon, model of a pigeon fitted with a small camera that
would have been used through the 1950s.
  Spies Among Us- Learn about the espionage that took
place during World War II and the Cold War. This exhibit
delves into spies infiltrating Main Street America, tactics
code makers and breakers used during World War II, famous
faces used as spies in Europe, and how the US kept their
biggest secrets. Highlights from this exhibit includes
a German enigma machine from 1944, a cipher machine used
by the Germans during World War II that the Allies were able
to break, and an Oscar from a film director John Ford, who
served as Field Photo Chief for the OSS.
First Floor

 21st Century- See the future of spy work in this small

exhibit. This gallery occasionally changes. Currently, the
exhibit “Cyber War” is about the world of hacking and other
forms of cyber espionage. Within this exhibit, stop by Real-
life hacktivist “Jester’s” laptop, which was used to attack
MI6.

Day 7 -
Friday Georgetown
Waterfront
C&O Canal
G. University
House Hunting
Exorcist Steps
Old Stone House
Dumbarton Oaks
Tudor Place
 Visiting the Washington National Cathedral is certainly a highlight
HowtoTo anyGet There:
Washington trip to DC. Located just north of Georgetown, the Washington National
National Cathedral is the 6th largest cathedral in the world. Some visitors are By Metro and Bus – The nearest metro
Cathedral stopsbut
surprised to learn that it took 83 years to complete the Cathedral, to the
a Cathedral are the Tenleytown and
closer look at the magnificent structure reveals the intricacy andWoodley
precisionPark Metro stops. Each is on the red line
of the architecture. The Washington National Cathedral held andfuneral
is about a mile and a half from the Cathedral.
services of former Presidents Dwight Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan, From Tenleytown
and you can take any 30 series bus
south on
Gerald Ford. It also serves as the final resting place for Helen Keller andWisconsin Avenue until you reach
President Woodrow Wilson. Woodley Avenue and see the Cathedral to the left;
Highlights: from Woodley Park take the 96, 97, or X3 bus
toward McLean until you reach the cross streets of
The Space Window on the south side of the Cathedral Woodley and Wisconsin Avenues and see the
as it contains a chunk of lunar rock. Cathedral on your right.
The beautiful music of the great organ during one of
the many recitals held on varying Sunday evenings at 5:15pm.  By Taxi – The Cathedral is a  short cab
See full schedule here. ride from Georgetown or the DuPont area.
The Canterbury Pulpit, where Dr. Martin Luther King
Jr. delivered his final sermon. Hours:
The Darth Vader Gargoyle! How many cathedrals do
you know that has a Darth Vader Gargoyle?!  Monday–Saturday: 10 am–5:30 pm
Interested in attending a sermon or worship (430pm on Saturdays)
service? Here is the full schedule of services.  Sunday the church is open for services
8am-5pm
Though it is commonly called the Washington Admission:
National 
 Visitors do require admission if they are
there for touring purposes.
 Entering the Cathedral for worship is free.
 $10 per adult, $6 per child (ages 5–12),
senior, military (active or veteran), or student.
 Children 4 and under are free.
 No admission charge on Sundays.
Cathedral, its officially named the Cathedral Church of Saint
Peter and Saint Paul. It is a national church by congressional
order, by its location in the nation’s capital, and by its
representative nature of American history. However, no
federal funds went into its building or for its current
maintenance. The church relies solely on donations and
grants, so thank you for purchasing your admission ticket into
the cathedral today.

The idea for a national church dates back to Peter L’Enfant

and his grand plans for the capital city. His original location
was downtown, where the National Portrait Gallery stands
today. It would take more than a century for his plans to come
a reality, but by this point the city had already been built. The
location in Northwest DC at this highest point in city was
chosen and the work began.

STOP 1 West Front:

As you’re looking at the west facade of the cathedral, this is

actually the newer part. The cornerstone was laid in 1907 by
President Theodore Roosevelt and worship service began in
the Bethlehem Chapel, which has been used for worship ever
since as the cathedral was slowly built it around it.

It took 83
years to finish the cathedral, with the final piece placed at a
ceremony under President George H.W. Bush. In some ways,
however, it is not completed. Some of the carvings were left
undone so future generations can add to this national house of
worship. While 83 years seems like a lengthy amount of time,
it was actually quite fast considering how long it took the
built the great cathedrals of Europe. This Gothic structure was
built in much the same way medieval cathedrals were built –
with no steel supporting structure. It is made of Indiana
limestone.
 Walk around to the North side of the Cathedral to your left.

Stop 2 Darth Vader Gargoyle (Grotesque):

In the 1980s, a competition was held for designs of some of

the sculptures. There is a postal worker, a young girl with
braces, and other interesting faces dotting the facade of the
building. The National Cathedral grew up in the age of Star
Wars, so there is also a Darth Vader grotesque!

You’ll need binoculars or extra zoom on your camera, or

good eyesight and imagination.

How to find the Darth Vader Gargoyle

(Grotesque): You’re on the north side of the Cathedral, so
find the top of the tower you just walked around (the one that
has the Entrance at the bottom). Face its east side (the side
you weren’t able to see from Stop 1). There are three
pinnacles at the top of the tower, with the smallest one in the
center. Follow the line of its right side down until you reach
the peak in between the two large windows. There are two
gargoyles at the ends of that peak, and the one on the right is
Darth Vader.

Stop 3 Entrance:

The cathedral requires admission.

National Cathedral Ticket Prices:

 Entering the Cathedral for worship is free.

 $10 per adult, $6 per child (ages 5–12), senior,
military (active or veteran), or student.
 Children 4 and under are free.
 No admission charge on Sundays.
Find out more about that here.
Stop 4 Nave:

All 50 states are represented in the National Cathedral with

their seals in the narthex as you enter and their flags flying
along the nave. The flags are arranged based on the order they
became part of the Union.

As you’re looking down the Nave, follow the line in the

center on the floor. Note how it doesn’t match up in a direct
line with the high altar at the end. There are a few theories as
to why this is a common practice in cathedrals. There are
intentional flaws throughout the building, because only God
is perfect. Also, it helps correct a trick your eye plays on you.
If it were a straight line, it would make the Cathedral seems
shorter than it is, this allows you to truly get a sense of it’s

grandeur.

While you’re walking through the Nave, you’ll notice many

features that make this a Gothic church. You’ve seen the
flying buttresses outside to support the weight of the walls.
Inside, we have pointed arches that allow great height and
great light, and stained glass windows.
Turn around and face the rose window in the west entrance. It
is based on the story of Creation. The window was designed
by Rowan LaCompte, whose artistry can be seen in many of
the windows. He came to visit the church as a 13 year old boy
and fell in love with the windows already completed. He
began to study the art and returned to submit his first of more
than 40 works to the church. He was only 16 years old at the
time.

Stop 5 Space Window:

The stained glass windows

in a church typically depict scenes from the Bible. In an age
where many people were illiterate, and even if they could
read it was unlikely they could read the Latin the Bible was
written in at the time. The National Cathedral’s windows
don’t only show biblical scenes, but also scenes from the
nation’s history. In addition to statues of George Washington
and Abraham Lincoln, the windows show  a farmer and his
John Deere tractor, Lewis & Clark’s expedition, and the flag
raising over Iwo Jima during WWII.

One of the most popular windows is the Science and

Technology Window. As you’re looking at it, you’ll notice
that it’s a scene from Space. The large red globe in the center
is the moon, with a small yellow line orbiting it and another
globe in the lower right, Earth. The yellow line is the route of
Apollo 11 mission. We all know Neil Armstrong and Buzz
Aldrin, but a third man was there manning the spacecraft,
Michael Collins. He was a student at St. Albans, the all boys
school on the cathedral campus. When they returned, they
donated to the church a piece of the moon, seen in the center
of the red Moon in the window.

Stop 6 President Woodrow Wilson Tomb:

President Woodrow Wilson and his wife, Edith, are both

buried here in the Cathedral. He is the only president buried
in the District of Columbia. You’ll see in the bay the
American flag and the flag of Princeton University, of which
he was president also. The cross on top of his tomb is the
Crusader’s Cross, to represent his crusade for peace after
WWI.

Stop 7 Crossing:

One of the other Gothic features is that the church is in the

shape of a cross. We’re here at the crossing, where the long
arm meets the short arm. Look at the four pillars at the
corners and note their size. These hold the weight of the 301′
(91m) tower above but also the bells – a 53 bell carillon and
10 peal bells.

The carillon is played by pounding keys that correspond to

each bell, but the peal bells are played by head. Imagine
Hunchback of Notre Dame. Each bell is pulled by a rope but
needs to settle back in place before it can be played again.
The change ringing is not a musical song or piece but more of
a mathematical system. Each succession of bells must be rung
in an order than will allow them to come to a stop before
being played again.
 At the right side of the crossing,
you can see the Canterbury Pulpit, carved from stone from the
Canterbury Cathedral in England, the seat of the Episcopalian
church. Though officially Episcopalian, the National
Cathedral is a house of worship for all. All faiths are welcome
and many interfaith services are held here. His Holiness the
Dalai Lama, Archbiship Desmond Tutu, and Dr. Martin
Luther King have spoken from here. In fact, it was here that
King gave his last Sunday sermon before he was assassinated
on April 4, 1968. The images you see on the pulpit depict the
translation of the Bible into English.

Stop 8 St. John’s Chapel

Walk to the right of the Canterbury Cathedral and past the

War Memorial Chapel on your right. You’ll also see to your
right the small Children’s Chapel. This enter chapel from the
pews to the organ is sized to a 6 year old, in order to make
children feel included and comfortable.

The needlepoint kneelers on the chair’s lining St. John’s

Chapel all depict men and women from America’s past.

Stop 9 High Altar:

As you enter, you’ll see the east end of the Cathedral on your
right and the high alter. The alter itself if made from stone
quarried near Jeruselum, where it’s believed stones for
Solomon’s Temple were quarried. In front of it are ten stones
from Chapel of Moses on Mount Sinai.

The alter is
farther away than it looks. The cross in the center is actually
6′ tall!

The stone carvings above the altar depict 110 men and
women who exemplify the ideals of Christianity, surrounding
Christ in Majesty in the center. Notice the difference in stone.
The smaller reliefs are made from French stone, but Christ is
from Texas. Well, the stone is at least.

In order for this to be a Cathedral, it must have a cathedra.

The stone chair you see on the left is the seat for the bishop. It
is carved from stone from Glastonbury Abbey in England.

Behind you, you’ll see the choir and the organ. This is the
largest organ in the area with over 10,000 pipes, some as
small as your pinky. The mirror above the seats is so all can
see the direction of the organist.

STOP 10: Stairs to Lower Crypt

The stairs here lead down to the lower Crypt, where you’ll
find restrooms and the gift shop. As you make your way
towards the gift shop, stop in the St. Joseph’s Chapel. As you
descend down, it is as if you are entering a tomb. The depth
represents the lowest point of Jesus’ life. The mural on the
wall, the only mural in the entire building, is the scene where
Joseph donates his tomb to Jesus. On the opposite side, many
people are buried in the crypt behind the gates, namely Helen
Keller and her friend/teacher Anne Sullivan. You can see a
well-touched plaque for them on the wall.

If you exit through the Gift Shop, as you come up the stairs to
the main level, you’ll see an elevator to the Observation
Level. It provides a great view to walk around the west tower
for a view over DC, Virginia, and Maryland!