When most tourists visit Washington, D.C., they catch a few exhibits at the Smithsonian Museum, take a tour of the United States Capitol and get shuttled through the green and yellow rooms of the White House.
Thankfully, there are alternative "sites" more interesting and just as educational - the city's historic neighborhoods. These offbeat "destinations" are not only interesting but reveal a genuine vibrancy and soul of Washington - a city many consider stripped of soul by politicians and pundits.
Here are a few of the lesser-known Washington, D.C. attractions:
BROOKLAND: Take the Metro (subway) train to the Brookland/Catholic University stop and get off. You'll find yourself in a un-citylike neighborhood of wide, tree-lined streets and big old houses. Take a short walk and see the largest Catholic church in America -- the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Whether you're religious or not, its worth a peek inside. Next, walk about ¾ of a mile through the neighborhood and visit Washington's oldest monastery. Yep - an enclosed monastery complete with brown-cloaked monks tending the grounds! Most areas, including the gorgeous gardens, are open to the public at no cost.
MERIDIAN HILL PARK: Besides being one of the best places to view the Washington Monument and Capitol Dome, the park itself is a gem. Set on a hill between 15th and 16th Streets NW (East and West) and Euclid and W Streets (North and South), the park offers a glimpse into Washington life. The most striking feature of the park is giant stair-step pools of cascading water, with big trees shading either side. On weekends, a group of batik-clothed drummers sends echoes of Africa through the park. The rest of the time, you'll see Washingtonians walking their dogs, playing Frisbee or writing a novel on an old-fashioned typewriter.
U STREET: Once the site of the destructive 1968 riots, U Street NW is re-emerging as the Place to Be in Washington for nightlife. Traditionally a bastion of black culture - jazz, art and theater - the district is attracting all types to clubs large and small. Stroll east beginning at 17th Street to 10th Street and pass by antique and vintage clothing shops, dozens of ethnic restaurants and bars galore. Notable spots include the Lincoln Theater, Ben's Chili Bowl and the African American Civil War Memorial. As you walk, take in the street scene of incense and oil salesmen and of course bums - including one whom will sing for change.
