Carquest Auto Parts

Referred to as "America's attic," the National Museum of American History offers an unprecedented collection of items that numbers to nearly three million entries. Everything from Dorothy's ruby red slippers, to one of the first Kermit the Frog puppets, to Julia Child's kitchen, to an astounding 34-foot Star Spangled Banner, are just a few of the numerous highlights. The kids will love the interactive displays, especially the ones that encourage invention and creativity.

Ford's Theatre has a built-in drama all its own. This is where John Wilkes Booth shot President Abraham Lincoln, and that unsettling episode still resonates in the structure today. Take a tour that retraces the incident, and you can also get a look at some of the interesting backstage areas. And if you are visiting for a performance, the excellent acoustics and inviting seating arrangement will ensure that whether you are watching a play or a musical production, the entertainment takes on a deeper significance when you consider that you are sitting within some truly historic walls.

At the end of the evening, why end it? The DC9 is the perfect place to listen to the resident DJ spin tunes until the wee hours. Or, if you prefer something a little earlier, the club is also a great place to begin your DC nightlife experience, as the venue is perfect for convening with friends and hanging out for awhile after work. In the middle of the evening, the energy level rises thanks to the excellent live bands that frequently plug in and play. So, clearly, at whatever point you are in your evening out, DC9 has you covered.