Category Archives: Free Things in Washington DC

Free Things in Washington DC Holidays Washington DC Art Galleries Washington DC Celebrations

Earth Month at Union Station Washington DC

In order to foster a public discussion on global warming, the Earth Day Network is sponsoring a month long event at Union Station in Washington DC. Beginning on April 1 and lasting to April 30 2013 ,Washington DC’s Union Station will educate visitors through interactive and environmentally friendly experiences. Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in public discussion panels or watch alternative energy demonstrations. The organizers are also working on a film festival, a green fashion show, and a farmers market.

As one of the busiest transit hubs in the United State, the Union Station also enables countless visitors to learn more about the various projects going on across the country to fight global warming. Given the rapid transformation our climate patterns have undergone, it’s now more important to spearhead a meaningful debate to save our planet for future generations.

As you plan your trip for our Earth Day festivities, please consider staying at our lodge in Washington DC. We are conveniently located within a 10 minute walk to the DuPont Circle Metro Station that will take you straight to Union Station.

We look forward to you stay.

Bernardo, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC


View Directions to Union Station in a larger map

Free Things in Washington DC Regional News Washington DC Tourist Itineraries

C & O Canal towpath in Georgetown

As the warmer weather arrives in Washington, the time is ripe to explore some of the unique natural features of the area. One local favorite is the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, better known as the C & O canal. There, you can take a walk or bike ride along the edge of the Potomac River, using the tow path that stretches the 184.5 miles from Georgetown, all the way to Cumberland, Maryland. The area provides a fabulous place to spend the day outdoors, enjoy some fabulous scenery, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some wildlife.

C & O towpath

The towpath is reminiscent of the canal’s rich history as a transportation conduit in the area. Many of the original structures including aqueducts, water “locks” (gates used to control the flow of water), and the lock-houses are still present, and some, still active.

To begin to explore the C & O canal and Potomac River valley for yourself, ask your friendly innkeeper for the best directions to your destination. The canal region also offers opportunities for boating, kayaking and biking. Let us know how we can help you plan an excursion that best suits your interests, and if we can be of assistance in storing any of your equipment needs, such as bicycles, or pointing you in the direction of rentals.

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

 

 

Free Things in Washington DC Packages & Deals Regional News Specials Washington DC Activities Washington DC Celebrations

Springtime begins to blossom in Washington DC

 

Springtime is beginning to emerge in Washington DC…

Springtime in DC

Join us here in Washington as the days grow longer, and the early spring flowers begin to bloom! Soon the capital’s renowned cherry trees will begin to blossom. Consider visiting during the National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 22 – April 6. In honor of the occasion, we are offering 10% off our regular rates from 3/23 – 4/6/2013.

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

Free Things in Washington DC Regional News Washington DC Celebrations

Women’s Suffrage Centennial Celebration in Washington DC this weekend

The Suffrage Centennial Celebration, honoring the 100 year anniversary of the Women’s Suffrage March in Washington DC, will be held in the nation’s capitol this weekend from March 1-3, 2013. The celebration commemorates the centennial of the date Inez Milholland and other women’s suffragists led a crowd of thousands through the street of Washington, to fight for women’s right to vote. A re-enactment of the March will take place along the original parade route– along Pennsylvania Avenue– on Sunday March 3, beginning with a rally at 9 a.m. on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Some streets in Washington will be closed or delayed for the procession.

The original poster image, advertising the 1913 March:

(Photo courtesy of US Library of Congress)

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

Free Things in Washington DC Uncategorized Washington DC Art Galleries Washington DC Museums

The National Museum of Health and Medicine

NMHM

Washington D.C. has no shortage of museums.  However, you’d have a hard time answering the following question, “Excuse me, do you know where the National Museum of Health and Medicine is located?”  Perhaps the museum’s location, 2500 Linden Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20910, makes it difficult for tourist to locate it.

Established during the Civil War, the National Museum of Health and Medicine serves as a  repository for specimens used in military research to better understand the human body.  After World War II, researchers at the museum began working on understanding human pathology.  

poster board

skull with wounds

With it’s countless specimens, the museum is a perfect place to relive childhood dreams of becoming a doctor.  You’ll have the opportunity to view dissected brains, hearts, lungs, and even primitive surgical tools.  For children, the museum provides unlimited opportunities for intellectual stimulation, thanks to its knowledgeable staff and interactive kiosks.

The museum is open 7 days a week, from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm and accessible by the Metro Redline.  For more information, please visit the National Museum of Health and Medicine’s travel page, here.

Don’t forget the view the Lincoln exhibit!

Lincoln Poster

Safe Travels!

Bernardo, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

Free Things in Washington DC Regional News Washington DC Museums Washington DC Tourist Itineraries

US Botanical Gardens in Washington DC

As the springtime weather begins to emerge, it becomes the perfect time to visit the US Botanical Gardens in Washington DC. Established in 1820, The Botanical Gardens are among the oldest in the nation. Completely free to the public, The Conservatory, National Garden and Bartholdi Park are open 365 days a year! Located on The National Mall, close to many Smithsonian museums and next to The Capitol Reflecting Pool, the Botanical Gardens offer a variety of exhibits and displays throughout the year.  The Conservatory includes species from all around the world, and the Garden’s “Savage Plants” exhibit features the popular carnivorous plants exhibit. For directions from our Washington dc B & B, a quick 15 minute cab ride away, see the map below.


View Directions to US Botanical Gardens by Taxi in a larger map

Public transit is also available, see map below:

View Directions to US Botanical Gardens by Public Transit in a larger map

Enjoy!

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

 

Free Things in Washington DC Holidays Regional News The White House Washington DC Activities Washington DC Celebrations Washington DC Museums Washington DC Tourist Itineraries

President’s Day Weekend in Washington DC, February 2013

Looking for a getaway for President’s Day Weekend 2013? Look no further than Washington DC! What better place to celebrate the birth of our nation’s great presidential leaders than right here in Washington? Here is your go-to-guide to some of the region’s best celebrations:

President’s Day will be honored on February 18th, 2013, with many special events and commemorations happening the weekend prior, from the 16th-18th.

Mount Vernon will be commemorating George Washington’s 281 Birthday Celebration all weekend from February 16-18, 2013, with a series of festivities, including the opportunity to see George Washington’s personal copy of the Constitution.

On February 18, 2013, from 1 to 3 p.m Old Town Alexandria will hold the annual George Washington’s Birthday Parade. For 2013 updates, check back here.

The Gadsby’s Tavern Museum will be hosting a series of events from banquets to parades,  on the weekend of February 16-18.

Or consider visiting the National Memorials along the National Mall, for example,visit the Lincoln Memorial (23rd & Constitution Ave., NW) to see the Presidential wreath-laying ceremony and a dramatic reading of the “Gettysburg Address.” Or tour the White House! Or for a more unusual adventure, tour Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum to see likenesses of all US Presidents carved from wax! And on your way home, why not stop by Colonial Williamsburg for a trip back in time?

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

About American Guest House B&B Free Things in Washington DC Regional News Washington DC Activities Washington DC Celebrations Washington DC Tourist Itineraries

Springtime in DC-The National Cherry Blossom Festival

Growing weary of the winter, and eagerly awaiting the warmer weather?

Why not take this chance to book a springtime excursion now, and seize the opportunity to see one of the quintessential signs of springtime in Washington DC- the opening of the cherry tree blossoms.

Every year from mid to late March through early April, DC is awash in these gorgeous and fragrant blooms, surrounding all of the sights and attractions in our nation’s capitol. Come explore this beautiful time in Washington for yourself!

Consider planning your trip to coincide with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, held in the city from March 22-April 06,  2013 and get 10% off our regular rates.

And if you’ll need a place to stay, the American Guest House is always ready to point you in the right direction of any festivities happening in the city. We hope to see you here in Washington soon!

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

Free Things in Washington DC Holidays Washington DC Activities Washington DC Celebrations Washington DC Tourist Itineraries

Holiday lights in Washington

Capitol Christmas Tree

In DC for the holidays and looking for festive holiday activities in the area? Visit the National Christmas tree, all lit up on display at the Capitol. Or visit Zoolights at the National Zoo. Or check out the Botanical Garden’s holiday exhibits.

Looking for more to do? The Washington Post offers their insights to “best bets” in city this weekend.

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

Free Things in Washington DC Holidays Regional News The White House Washington DC Activities Washington DC Celebrations Washington DC Museums Washington DC Tourist Itineraries Washington DC Tours

Spend Presidents Day weekend in DC

What better place to spend President’s Day weekend than in Washington DC?

President’s Day, celebrated on February 18th, 2013, originated as a celebration of General George Washington’s birthday, and later evolved to commemorate all of our nation’s great presidential leaders. From parades to exhibits, there’s sure to be excitement in the air, and many festivities around town that weekend in DC.

Visit the Lincoln Memorial (23rd & Constitution Ave., NW) to see the Presidential wreath-laying ceremony and a dramatic reading of the “Gettysburg Address.” Or tour the White House! Or for a more unusual adventure, tour Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum to see likenesses of all US Presidents carved from wax!

While in the region, be sure to check out  Old Town Alexandria, home to Washington’s Birthday parade, and the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, which typically hosts a George Washington’s Birthnight Banquet and Ball during this time. And on your way home, why not stop by Colonial Williamsburg for a trip back in time?

We look forward to seeing you here in Washington over President’s Day Weekend,

Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC

Last updated by at .