Help with D.C. area trip?
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From: Illinois
Help with D.C. area trip?
My wife and I will be in the D.C. area the last week in June. We are going to have one week of time with no committments lined up so far. We have never been to that area. I know, I know, I could easily spend a week in our nation's capitol visiting the momuments. Arlington cemetary is a must, but I want to spend at least half of my free time on a scenic tour in the surrounding area.
So far from my internet search, I have decided the Skyline drive is a must. What else to those of you who live or travel in that area recommend for sight seeing adventures on the bike for us?
One other question, is it likely that I can get lodging just by waiting until we know where we are at the time and when we want to shut down for the day? We aren't picky about the kind of places we sleep at night. Or should we plan it detailed enough to have room reservations each night?
Thanks in advance.
Dennis
So far from my internet search, I have decided the Skyline drive is a must. What else to those of you who live or travel in that area recommend for sight seeing adventures on the bike for us?
One other question, is it likely that I can get lodging just by waiting until we know where we are at the time and when we want to shut down for the day? We aren't picky about the kind of places we sleep at night. Or should we plan it detailed enough to have room reservations each night?
Thanks in advance.
Dennis
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2008
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From: NY
One other question, is it likely that I can get lodging just by waiting until we know where we are at the time and when we want to shut down for the day? We aren't picky about the kind of places we sleep at night. Or should we plan it detailed enough to have room reservations each night?
Thanks in advance.
Dennis
Thanks in advance.
Dennis
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
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From: Houston area
Get a room out from city but right on the subway route. Get a "pass" for the subway and keep bike parked. Subway is cheap, clean and goes about everywhere you might want to visit. Reservations are about a must near the city. John
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From: Stephens City, Va.
I work in Fairfax (nearer to D.C.) and live in the Shenandoah Valley (Winchester, Va area). Route 50 is a great two lane road to view horse farms and old houses. I would travel it outside of commute times though. Skyline drive is nice and will take you up the Shenandoah Valley. I can give you some other info based on where you plan on getting off of the Skyline Drive. PM me and I will be happy to provide further info.
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From: Illinois
I work in Fairfax (nearer to D.C.) and live in the Shenandoah Valley (Winchester, Va area). Route 50 is a great two lane road to view horse farms and old houses. I would travel it outside of commute times though. Skyline drive is nice and will take you up the Shenandoah Valley. I can give you some other info based on where you plan on getting off of the Skyline Drive. PM me and I will be happy to provide further info.
I am just a little on the cheap side sometimes. I don't mind spending in excess when it is what I really want and enjoy. Just trying to get the biggest band for my buck on the trip.
Dennis
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From: Corporate States of America
I would suggest staying in old town Alexandria. IMO it is much better than D.C. and people on bikes hang out on King St. Lots of restaurants, bars and shops. The short ride from Alexandria to Mt. Vernon (George Washington's home) is one I never get tired of. There is so much to see in this area, so much history. The subway (as mentioned previously) is a good idea for getting around in the city. I don't know what your interests are but the Smithsonian has something for anyone. Good luck and I hope you have a good time.
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Road Master
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If you are in the city take rt 7 north up to 340 then go north up thru Harpers Ferry. You ride along the river, it's a great ride. Then go north towards Boonesboro. Then just make your way down to Winchester where you can pick up the Skyline Dr. I think you can get a day pass for $10 bucks. It ends where it connects with the Blue Ridge Parkway about 100 miles at Waynesboro where I live. Have fun and be safe there lot's of wildlife on those roads.
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Thread Starter
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Elite HDF Member
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From: Illinois
It doesn't seem possible to get bored in that area with only a week to explore. This trip may end up just being a week long recon to find out for sure where I want to spend time when I come back to visit.
Dennis
Dennis
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From: NJ
We usually stay in Crystal City in Arlington. Only a block to the subway which is one of the best in the world. Have also stayed in Alexandria but you'll have to ride into the city and find a parking place. Beautiful town though with cobblestone streets and tons of great resturants.
As for places to see, depends on your interest. One of my favorite places is Mt Vernon, about 14 miles south. Its a huge farm so I'd allow for at least 1/2 day tour. Ford's Theater was also very interesting. You can actually walk the same path Booth walked and stand where he stood when he shot Lincoln.
The Lee Curtis Mansion in Arlington has some interesting history. Changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unk Soldier, Smithsonian Air/Space Museum. Jefferson & Lincoln Memorials. Wash Monument. Holucaust Museum, Vietnam Memorial, ect.
White House and Capital tours. Was a day when you could get tickets to the WH thru your Congressman, don't know if that still holds true or not. Last time I went you got tickets at a Kiosk and waited on bleachers for your group to be called.
Take your walking shoes and be careful if you venture outside the Green Zone. (Tourist area). One street this way or that and you're in the Ghetto.
As for places to see, depends on your interest. One of my favorite places is Mt Vernon, about 14 miles south. Its a huge farm so I'd allow for at least 1/2 day tour. Ford's Theater was also very interesting. You can actually walk the same path Booth walked and stand where he stood when he shot Lincoln.
The Lee Curtis Mansion in Arlington has some interesting history. Changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unk Soldier, Smithsonian Air/Space Museum. Jefferson & Lincoln Memorials. Wash Monument. Holucaust Museum, Vietnam Memorial, ect.
White House and Capital tours. Was a day when you could get tickets to the WH thru your Congressman, don't know if that still holds true or not. Last time I went you got tickets at a Kiosk and waited on bleachers for your group to be called.
Take your walking shoes and be careful if you venture outside the Green Zone. (Tourist area). One street this way or that and you're in the Ghetto.