Use the Metro to get around,not during rush hours if possible, and walk, walk, walk. All public buildings and many other attractions are free.We tried the tourist trolley tour to check out the overall and selected key stops for complete tours. Trolley provides a seperate,cost included,offshoot to visit Arlington National Cemetery. Most of the national monuments are near the Mall and can be reached on foot.You could spend the week just visiting the Smithsonian attractions for all age groups. Due to security restrictions, not all sites are available and be prepared to be checked at every venue.If available,try a visit after dark to see the monuments and buildings under lights.
Quick Tips:
Hotel rates in VA and MD offered a better value if you do not want to stay in the District.
Take water in your pack as the heat does dehydrate you on an all day tour. Additionally, pack a snack or lunch to take a midday break under a shade tree to refresh yourself.
Best Way To Get Around:
The metro was clean, efficient, well marked and cheap. Traffic in District was very heavy and street parking limited.
Walking allows you to get to most sites and see more along the way. Be prepared with good comfortable shoes.
Trolley tours,which we have used on major city visits, are worth the cost to orient you to the locations and allow on and off visits to specific attractions.