Visitors–ok, tourists– around town can rather easily be dropped into one of a few buckets within different classifications.
- Big bus groups paying large fees for full service travel and tour guides. Seem to typically be foreign or retired. They seem to get to all the major monuments and museums, little off the normal track.
- Smaller groups being herded along, again with what looks to be semi-pro tour guides. These guys get off the path–I’ve seen them biking the Mt. Vernon Trail, segueing down Pennsylvania and meandering along a couple waterfronts–guide in tow.
- Smaller groups, families and couples, wandering with maps spinning around in their hands almost as much as their heads swivel around. I like them–they show up at a few unexpected places.
- One group left out that we’ve joined. The group that pokes around long enough to find something slightly unique, super inexpensive–yet still completely touristy!
We were recently treated to a full-on Mall Monument, dog-friendly!, walking, professionally guided and free tour. How? Patience and a little creativity. The Park Rangers offer tons of free guided tours that are not just geared for kids.
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| Ranger Eddie and Group on 15th&Jefferson |
In fact, the recent one we took was geared toward our canine companions! Commencing after dark was perfect as it allowed the pups to cool a bit and not be distracted by so much of our surroundings.
We hit a few of the expected monuments but more importantly Ranger Eddie wove in a few historical dog stories along the walk. He did a fair to fine job~~ a solid 3. Well versed–even in bizarre minutiae; my one knock was the tendency to (attempt to) be a click-or two more entertaining than necessary. We were an all adult group and from his observation surely he could tell several of us were in it for the dog exercise and the learning vs. entertaining. Tough to gauge every group–he really did a fine job.
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| Samantha Stunned by 6’6” Eddie Picking Her Up! |
With the weather calming down and dusk coming a little earlier I was surprised how few people were out; the Mall area is stunning at night and with free events such as these it’s unfortunate more don’t participate. I suppose after a long, hot day of getting shuttled around most visitors simply want a meal, a drink and a comfy bed—that can’t be faulted. We’re in an unusual position to have the right combination of patience, persistence and adventure. Sammy’s clearly the routine big winner from that combination!
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| Samantha and Liberty |