The 2011 International Appraisers Conference promises to be a tremendous learning experience for all attendees. While you're here, we invite you to take time to enjoy some of the museums, landmarks and history that Washington, D.C. has to offer. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning friend, there are many ways to experience our Nation's Capital - through its history, art, culture, and natural landscape.
GETTING AROUND WASHINGTON D.C.
The Washington DC Metrorail System is efficient and easy to navigate. There is a metro rail stop that is just around the corner from the JW Marriott Hotel. Just hop on the red/orange/blue to Metro Center! You can use their trip planner, or check out the interactive map here.
DC’s newest bus, the Circulator Bus provides easy connections between Downtown and Adams Morgan, Georgetown and Union Station, Union Station and the Capitol Riverfront, and the Washington Convention Center and the Southwest Waterfront via bus, as well as seasonal service around the National Mall. The price is just $1.00 per ride.
It is very easy to hail a Taxi Cab in most Washington DC neighborhoods. The DC taxicab system operates on a meter system. Typically, fares begin at $3.00, plus 25 cents for each additional 1/6 mile and 25 cents per minute of wait time. The typical taxicab fare from Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) to the JW Marriott is $19.00.
TOURING THE HISTORICAL MONUMENTS
Washington, D.C.'s national monuments are truly spectacular. Here is a list of historical monuments you should check out while you are in town for the conference -
- Washington Monument - Built between 1848 and 1884, this marble tower may be the most recognizable monument in the city.
- Lincoln Memorial - A marble statue of our 16th president that serves as an enduring symbol of Freedom.
- Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial - A park of scenes and quotes from our longest serving president.
- Korean War Veterans National Memorial - Often referred to as the forgotten war, these nineteen statues will remind all visitors of the cost of defending freedom throughout the world.
- World War II Memorial - A breathtaking memorial dedicated to the sacrifices and history of the WWII generation. Highly recommended to see at night.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial - At the center of the city's Cherry Blossom Festival, this marble structure enshrines the words of Thomas Jefferson as a site for reflection and inspiration for people around the world.
- Vietnam Veteran's Memorial - Honoring the men and women who served their Nation when called to do so, this wall lists the name of all individuals who lost their lives during the conflict.
- Iwo Jima Memorial - Located in Arlington, VA near the Arlington National Cemetery, this statue memorializes the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima, commemorating one of the bloodiest battles of WWII.
VISITING A SMITHSONIAN
The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum complex and research organization composed of 19 museums, 9 research centers, and Washington, D.C.'s National Zoo. These national treasures cover a wide range of subjects from art to space exploration. If you decide to visit a Smithsonian museum, start at the Smithsonian Institute Building where you can pick up a map and information on all of the museums. Here is a list of the Smithsonian museums and parks located in Washington, D.C. (and open during the ASA conference dates).
VISITING THE WHITE HOUSE
Once you've determined what days you will be in D.C., contact your member of Congress to request tickets to tour the White House. Tours are self-guided and begin at 7:30 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday. As the day of your departure for D.C. nears and if you haven't heard back from your Member of Congress, call his or her office and follow-up with a staffer. Click here for House Members or Senators.
WEATHER
During the summer, Washington, D.C.'s average daytime temperature is 87 degrees, nighttime temperature is 65 degrees, and average precipitation is 3.9 inches.