Touring Obama's Washington
Then president-elect Barack Obama waves after lunching at Ben's Chili Bowl restaurant January 10, 2009 in Washington, D.C. Credit: Getty Images
Washington, D.C. is in a constant state of political, social and economic flux. The always-evolving scene makes it an appealing destination for visitors who can find their niche among the vast number of attractions, tours and sights.
That goes for the first family, too.
Blogs such as Eddie Gehman Kohan's ObamaFoodorama.com track President Barack and Michelle Obama's' restaurant experiences around town while Mary Tomer's Mrs-O.org reveals where the fashionable first lady gets her clothes.
The D.C. press reports Obama sightings at small businesses, historic sites and Verizon Center sporting events. Tour company Destination DC offers itineraries for self-guided Obama-centric jaunts around town. Here's how you can visit D.C. and follow in the first family's footsteps.
TO DO
Ford's Theatre, 811 10th St. NW, 202-347-4833, fords.orgfords.org
This national historic site is the most visited spot off the Mall and one of D.C.'s oldest working theaters. It has been restored to the way it looked in President Abraham Lincoln's day, and the new museum tells the story of his presidency. Free timed tickets include entrance to the museum, theater and Peterson House, where Lincoln died.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION The president and his wife attended the reopening of Ford's to celebrate the 200th birthday of Obama's hero, Lincoln. In June, President Obama paid tribute to U.S. Medal of Honor winners at the televised annual Ford's Theatre gala.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, 1001 F St. NW, 202-942-7300, madametussauds.com
ADMISSION $20, $18 (over 60), $15 (4-12); discounts online
The interactive Madame Tussauds will open its one-of-a-kind Presidents Gallery displaying wax figures of all 44 presidents and biographies of all the first ladies in February 2011.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION First daughters Sasha and Malia Obama have visited twice. According to museum officials, the girls giggled at the figures of their parents and waited in line (without cutting) to see the Oval Office replica. In July, they posed for photos with figures of Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus and Jennifer Lopez and saw the new Selena Gomez and their fave group, The Jonas Brothers.
EAT
Ray's Hell Burger, 1725 and 1713 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va.
This popular build-your-own-burger joint's signature meal is the premium aged 10-ounce burger on a toasted brioche for $6.95. Toppings such as cognac- and sherry-sauteed mushrooms are free. The more exotic foie gras burger with truffle oil is $10.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION President Obama indulged his love for fast food by treating visiting Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to a traditional American burger lunch here. The presidential motorcade has made other spontaneous burger runs to Ray's.
Restaurant Nora's, 2132 Florida Ave. NW, 202-462-5143, noras.com
Housed in a converted 19th century red brick grocery store, the restaurant is decorated with old quilts. Most of the foods here are produced by local organic growers. The seasonal selection includes vegetarian and chef's tasting menus for $65-$70. Entrees average $35. Reservations recommended.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION Michelle Obama, who prefers healthy eating, celebrated her 46th birthday this year here with family and friends. She had rack of lamb, and President Obama ate lobster risotto. They drank organic Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc.
Ben's Chili Bowl, 1213 U St., 202-667-0909, benschilibowl.com
Located in the revitalized U Street Corridor near new art galleries, this landmark eatery with gift shop has been serving breakfast and chili dishes for over 50 years. Order at the counter. Try the signature Bill Cosby Half-Smoke, which is pork and beef smoked sausage on a bun topped with mustard, onions and spicy homemade chili sauce.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION At last year's televised visit with D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, the president ate a Chili Half-Smoke with all the trimmings. This year, he sent French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his family there for lunch when they visited the capital.
STAY
The Latham Hotel, 3000 M St. NW, 202-726-5000, thelatham.com
RATES $109-$259
Set in tony Georgetown, this historic boutique hotel has 133 rooms, a rooftop swimming pool and fitness center. Chef Michel Richard's on-site French restaurant serves dinner and room service breakfast.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION The first couple dined at Citronelle on their first date night of Obama's presidency (he had the 72-hour short ribs; she had a lobster burger).
Hay-Adams Hotel, 800 16th St. NW, 202-638-6600, hayadams.com
RATES From $249
This historic Italian Renaissance-style landmark is in Lafayette Park, across from the White House. Guest rooms have marble baths.
THE OBAMA CONNECTION The Obamas stayed in the penthouse Presidential Suite for 12 nights in early 2009 awaiting the inauguration. Mrs. Obama's Vogue cover was also photographed here.
