Ozzie had a few days off of school so we explored Washington DC. I lived there for almost 7 years and my office's HQ is in DC so it was fun to show Ozzie around

town. Here are some ticks and tips if you're planning a trip to our nation's capital.

AMTRAK: I booked our ticket a few weeks ahead of time and Ozzie's ticket was free! Pro tip: Go to Amtrak's Red Cap service to be seated together as a family since seats are not assigned for Coash. Note - this is a free service but keep in mind they accept tips. Hotel: I chose a hotel in the Dupont Circle neighborhood that was 2 blocks from the Metro. Our 1 bedroom suite at the Marriott Residence Inn Washington, DC/Dupont Circle at 21st & P had a separate bedroom along with a kitchenette which was nice to spread out. Gotta love a free breakfast with a make-your-own waffle bar and they even served cold brew coffee.

Cherry Blossoms: Lucky for us, the Cherry Blossoms bloomed early and we took a lot of fun photos with them! For peak bloom times, check the Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom Forecast.

Getting Around Town:

• Metro: We purchased 3 day pass for each of us at the Metro stop for $28.

• Circulator Bus: This bus loops around a few different areas for $1 per person per ride. We enjoyed the National Mall loop to check out the Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Vietnam Memorial.

• Capital Bike Share: We rented bikes but they were a smidge too big for Ozzie. $8 per person per day or you can rent by the hour. Very easy to rent right at the kiosk.

Cool Sites that We Checked Out:

• White House (1600 Penn NW): You can walk by and take photos, but I suggest that you request a tour in advance (21-90 days lead time) via your Congressman.

• Capitol Building Tour: Visit the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall via a reservation. You may also request a timed tour through your Congressman. To tour the Senate and House Galleries while in session, stop by your congressman's office while in town.

• Washington Monument (National Mall): I played kickball at the base of this monument for almost 7 years and had no idea you could go inside! We loved the view from the top - be sure to make a reservation the day before at 10am or 30 days before via Recreation.gov.

• National Archives (7th & Constitution): I love a historical document and it was pretty cool to see the Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution in person. Be sure to Make a reservation in advance.

• Natural History Museum (1000 Madison Ave) - very cool, no reservation needed. Check out the Hope Diamond, dinos, gems, and animals.

• National Air & Space Museum (6th & Independence NW) - Although the museum was under construction, we still spent about an hour touring their new exhibits. Be sure to snag a timed entry.

• Museum of Illusions (9th & H NW) - Near the Convention Center, this was a highlight of our visit. Ozzie LOVED all of the interactive exhibits.

• International Spy Museum (700 L'Enfant Plaza): We spent almost 3 hours here and still couldn't get enough. Assume a new alias as an undercover spy. Be sure to reserve your ticket in advance and be on time. Pretty fun gift shop as well.

• A few faves we were unable to pack into our trip for your consideration include the American History Museum, Library of Congress, Georgetown, St. Matthew’s Cathedral, National Cathedral, and the National Zoo.

Restaurants:

• The Exchange (17th & G NW): Yes, I took Ozzie to lunch at my old happy hour haunt. The food is still delish.

• Old Ebbitt Grill (15th & Penn NW): An old classic. It may make sense to make a reservation here; we waited 30 mins for a table.

• Mozzeria (13th & H NE): A short Uber or Bus ride away for an amazing Deaf-owned and operated pizza shop with tons of gluten free options. Our friend Rachel took us here and ordered in sign language, but you could also just point to what you'd like on the menu.

• Capitol Cafe (basement of The Capitol Building): A cafeteria type restaurant that offers a dish of the day, BBQ, salads, wraps, sandwiches - a real crowd pleaser. Be sure to get the Capitol Shaped dessert!

• L'Enfant Plaza Food Court (429 L'Enfant Plaza SW): A hidden gem steps from the Smithsonians with a ton of options allowed for a nice break from the museums. It also was steps away from the L'Enfant Metro stop. We enjoyed DC Dogs & Fries.

• A few other faves we suggest but were unable to get to this time around: POV at the W (amazing views), Big Ass Slices, Ben’s Chili Bowl, and Rise (completely gluten free).