DC Travel Itinerary for Politically-Inclined Parents Traveling Solo

As a politically-inclined, traveling parent who's left your kids at home, you'll find extraordinary opportunities to explore your interests in Washington, D.C. Consider this itinerary of activities and attractions:

Morning: Newseum

Politics and journalism are inextricably intertwined, and Newseum offers the opportunity to explore that relationship ($21.95). Front Pages Gallery displays 700 national and international newspapers, demonstrating the link between presentation and perspective. Censorship and journalist-intimidation exhibits highlight subjects of major consequence to recent revolts in Africa and the Mideast. The Berlin Wall Gallery emphasizes word-of-mouth's importance in distributing news governments don't want citizens to hear. You'd never achieve the satisfaction level you'll get experiencing this attraction solo with kids in tow.

Early Afternoon: National Archives

With no child tugging on your sleeve, you won't feel pressured to glance quickly at the Charters of Freedom and leave. Instead, you can take time to study the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and U.S. Constitution.

The 5 public vaults contain displays of government papers touching on such diverse subjects as the Civil War, moon landing, Kennedy assassination, and immigration.

Late Afternoon: Politics and Prose

Politics and Prose, a 25-year tradition, combines the best of a bookstore and a coffeehouse. Selection and programming encompass best sellers, graphic novels, histories, and contemporary fiction. Since merging with Cheshire Cat in 1999, Politics and Prose has carried a venerable selection of children's books. To call this a "political bookstore" would underestimate its offerings and appeal. Nevertheless, visitors interested in political books and authors will find Politics and Prose the most energizing bookstore in the city.

After Dinner: Capitol Steps

Capitol Steps, who advertise putting the "mock" in democracy, perform Friday and Saturday evenings in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center ($39.95). As a solo traveler, enjoy the political jokes that would have gone over the kiddies' heads. No reason to miss half the current skit to explain the last. And, no need to worry about the appropriateness of sometimes risqué content.

Logistics

For lodging with a rich political history, try Hay-Adams Hotel by the White House (One Lafayette Square) or the Watergate ( 2650 Virginia Avenue NW ) in Foggy Bottom.

Restaurants with political connections are ubiquitous. Some favs include Bullfeathers (410 First St., S.E.), Hawk and Dove (329 Pennsylvania Ave., S.E.), the Monocle (107 D St., N.E.), Old Ebbitt Grill (675 15^th St., N.W.), the Palm (1225 19^th St., N.W.) and the Caucus Room (401 9^th St., N.W.)

Carpe diem!