It rained again this morning and then remained overcast and light fog for most of the day. We learned the first time we were here that driving ourselves to the capitol is a really bad idea.  Taking the train in is so much better.  So that’s what we did.

US Capitol

We mostly just walked around the National Mall and took some pictures.  The Washington Monument is totally covered in scaffolding due to the repairs being made since it was damaged in that earthquake in 2011.  The scaffolding is to begin to come down this weekend as the repairs are completed.  Then scaffolding will be going up on the capitol dome to do some renovations there.

Washington Monument

Our first visit was to the Museum of American History.  This is one of the many Smithsonian museums here and admission is free. There are three floors of wonderful and interesting displays including the inaugural ball gowns of the first ladies.

Museum of American History

First Lady Inaugural Ball Gowns

There is also a Little Golden Books artwork display.  Oh, that brought back some memories.

Little Golden Books

We walked past the Dept. of Agriculture building and stopped in to see their visitor center.  It was just a little room with some information and posters.  We picked up free pedometers and a free package of heirloom tomato seeds.

US Department of Agriculture

• Gasoline Expense:  none
• Lodging Expense:   $8
• Train Fare & Parking:  $20