New Yorkers head to Washington, D.C. for the inauguration

Sunday January 20, 2013 7:25 PM By MEREDITH GALANTE

Photo credit: Souvenir vendor holds a tee-shirt as preparations continue for the Presidential Inauguration. /Getty | Souvenir vendor holds a tee-shirt as preparations continue for the Presidential Inauguration. (Getty Images)

For Jessica Colaizzi, the highflying American flags, the Chicago-themed brunch items, and the masses of people is all part of the experience of viewing President Barack Obam's inauguration Monday in Washington, D.C.

Colaizzi, an Upper East Side resident, took a Megabus to Washington, D.C. Thursday and will volunteer as an usher to help attendees find their spots.

The 21-year-old isn't alone as plenty of New Yorkers have trekked on Megabus, Bolt Bus, and Amtrak to witness the event.

"I think seeing the ceremony with all the American flags and monuments in the background, will provide me with an overwhelming sense of patriotism," said Colaizzi.

Sarah DiGiulio's sister attended the last inauguration and convinced her to go this time. The midtown resident found an open spot on a Megabus Saturday morning and their fun began the minute they hit the ground.

Union Station, where all of the trains and buses arrive and depart D.C., had inauguration pop-up shops selling memorabilia for the ceremony, DiGiulio said.

"It's a fun time to be in D.C." DiGiulio said. "There's definitely a different vibe to it. Everyone's in inauguration mode."

Tags: NEWS , ARTICLE , AMNY , HOLD