Symposium on the 50th
Anniversary
of
Operational Numerical
Weather Prediction
 14-17 June 2004
University of Maryland
University College Inn and Conference Center

Beyond the Symposium
Washington DC and the surrounding metropolitan area has so many things to do you have to narrow the list down just to scratch the surface of one of Ame rica's most favorite tourist spots! Where else in the world can you walk the halls of our government and talk to your elected leaders, visit the world's best museums and most sought-after touri st attractions, yet hit great cultural, scenic, and sports attractions all with in a few hours drive? It would be almost impossible to visit the Washington metropolitan area and not take in numerous c ultural attractions. Although there are too many to name, this list should help you plan you free time to see all that the amazing city has to offer.
If you are heading downtown stop in some of Washington's ethnic restaurants, international shops, theaters, or cultural attractions. When your feet get tired jump on one of the city's many sightseeing tours. Speak with your concierge about which one is best for you. For detailed information about where to go in the Washington DC area, see the Visitor's Guide, or What-to-See Guide, or check out this NOAA web site, for more detailed information.

Here are some other sightseeing tips from some local experts:

Get Off the Mall
There are a number of excellent attractions off the Mall: the National Zoo; the Corcoran and Renwick Galleries; National Geographic's Explorer's Hall; small museums like Hillwood House, the Kreeger Museum, and the Phillips Collection; religious landmarks like the Washington National Cathedral and the National Shrine; and a slew of foreign embassies.

Tour at Night
The Lincoln, Jefferson, and FDR memorials are all open at night and staffed by Park Service rangers, as are the Korean and Vietnam War memorials. With all the major attractions swathed in floodlights, the city looks majestic after dark. An added bonus: It's easier to park, and everywhere will be less crowded. A great information source is National Park Service. Metro Stop: Foggy Bottom

Visit Your Congressperson
An office visit is not only an excellent way to feel connected to your elected representative, but also congressional offices can often offer special services to visitors, as well as practical and unique tips on seeing the city. Metro Stop: Capito l South

See the Supreme Court of the United States in Action
Open Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lecture in court every hour on the half hour 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. when court is not in session. Admission is free. Metro Stop: Capitol South, Union Station

See the Military Up Close at the Pentagon
The world's largest office building (3.7 million square feet). The 90-minute guided tour departs every half-hour (9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) Monday through. Metro Stop: Pentagon

Check Out the Smithsonian Institution
The world's largest museum complex houses some of the world's most unique and rare artifacts. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Metro Stop: Smithsonian

Visit the Library of Congress
The world's largest library with almost 119 million items in three buildings. The Thomas Jefferson Building houses one of the world's three perfect vellum copies of the Gutenberg Bible and changing exhibitions. On permanent display is American Treasures of the Library of Congress, a rotating exhibition of rare and unique items. (202) 707-8000. Metro Stop: Capitol South

Check Out the White House Visitor's Center
With tours of White House suspended for now, the next best thing is to stop by the White House Visitor's Center. Its open 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. every day.The White House Visitor Center is located in the north end of the Department of Commerce Building between 14th & 15th Streets on Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. Six permanent exhibits relating to the White House including the First Families, Symbols & Images, White House Architecture, White House Interiors, Working White House and Ceremonies and Celebrations. A variety of exhibits change frequently during the year. They can be viewed at the White House Visitor Center daily. Phone (202) 208-1631. Metro Stops: Federal Triangle or Metro Center South.