We checked out of the hotel at 8 AM and drove out to Mt. Vernon for the morning. Even though it was fairly crowded, their new timed tickets system allowed everyone who was interested to see the inside of the mansion. Another favorite part of the visit was the 4-D movie about George Washington. We drove through historica Alexandria, VA before viewing the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution at the National Archives. After half an hour of souvenir shopping, we had a great lunch at the hard Rock Cafe. Thanks to Mr. Block’s quick thinking, we were able to get some tickets to Ford’s Theater for students who were interested in seeing the presentation there by the National Park Service. The rest of the group walked to the Natural History Museum to see the dinosaurs, the Hope Diamond and the mummies. Then we all walked over to the American History Museum to see the Star Spangled Banner, Kermit the Frog, and Dorothy’s ruby slippers, amongst many other items. Dinner and shopping at the Pentagon City Mall was our last stop before hitting the road for home. I hope all the kids had an excellent time in DC!