I love DC in the springtime.
I love DC in the fall.
I love DC in the winter when it drizzles,
I love DC in the summer when it sizzles.

Okay, okay . The song doesn't exactly go like that, but Washington DC is such a fantastic city, it should. If every presented to visit the nation's capitol, you must take this opportunity. Since being a resident for two summers, and tourist on two other separate occasions, not only have I had my slice of DC, I have pretty much ate the whole cake.

Washington is a great city not only for the young, but the young-at-heart, and family. It boosts cultures, history, and most importantly, pride. As well, you'll find  a great transportation system and tons of free museums. So if you do find yourself in this city and do not want to get lost in the shuffle between white limestone buildings and politicians in their crisp suits, then listen up. You may be busy and on-the-go, but with one day, you can get a slice of DC.  It can be done.

Morning. Take a step outside and soak in the humidity. Welcome to Washington DC. Built on a swamp and alongside the Potomac river, there is no escaping the wet air. But I'd like to think the humidity gives it character, right? Take the blue or orange line metro to the Federal Triangle metro stop. Rent a bike from Bike the Sites (alongside the Old Post Office). Trust me when I say, biking the monuments & museums is much easier than walking. Do it in the morning, when the sun has not set in just yet with its temperatures. Biking allows you  to  stroll past the monuments that you do not care to stop at, and park at the ones you care to venture into. As well, with locks provided, its not hard to lock up your bike. Police officers and security are also readily available to ask questions. Getting winded? Step off the bike and grab a snack from one of the venders or purchase your souvenir.

Afternoon. Morning was spent riding around town, being all-active, now its time to take it down a notch. Experience the preppy, historic, and quaint district of Washington, away from the national monuments; Georgetown. Georgetown, living up to its reputation, is a people-watching, shopping indulged sector of DC.  Take the blue line on the metro and get off at Foggybottom/GWU.  Get lunch at one of the many restaurants on K street or walk down the hill to Washington Harbour and dine there. Stroll up and down K street, peeping into the shops ranging from used bookstores to Lacoste. Notice the brick streets, wood sided buildings, and general feel of this neighborhood. Spend the afternoon here.

Evening. Wind down after a long day at the notorious and classic Old Ebbitt Grill. Whether its the richly carved wood that encompasses the bar, or the delicious oysters, it is an experience that makes you believe you may have sat here with a former president. Not your most frugal dinner, but not your most expensive either. Check out their website. After dinner, take a stroll a few blocks west to the White House. Notice the never-leaving picketers parked outside the gates. Take a loop around the White House and you can see the Washington Monument lit up in all its glory. And if you choose, by walking up to the Washington Monument, and looking east, you'll see the Capitol. To the south, Jefferson Monument. To the West, Lincoln & WWII. And let me tell you, these monuments are almost more spectacular at night.

So that's it. The monuments and museums to choose are up to your discretion. Remember, national museums are free but don't count on seeing everything-just a few. And remember, after your visit, you too will love DC in the spring, fall, winter, and even summer.

Other notable mentions:

-DC Nationals baseball game
-National Cathedral
-Alexandria
-A show at Capitol Steps (political satire) in the Ronald Regan building.
- Riding to the top of the Old Post Office

-Mt. Vernon, G.W. Estate