A new president will be inaugurated tomorrow. Since 1937, Inauguration day has been January 20th following the election, except for 4 years ago when President Obama was sworn in on Monday, January 21st for his 2nd term. If you plan on attending the 58th Presidential Inauguration, there are some things you should know.
Starting today, there is a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery as well as welcome celebrations this evening. Both events are private.
Swearing In Ceremony
The swearing in ceremony and inaugural address are free to attend. The location is on the west front of the United States Capitol. If you can’t get in due to the crowds (both for and against Trump,) you can still take part in much of the activities if you go to the National Mall or stand along the parade route on Pennsylvania avenue. There will be huge Jumbotrons broadcasting both the ceremony and the parade. Just be aware that you need to arrive at the event very early to find a spot. You will also have to be cleared at a security checkpoint and will need a valid photo ID. Do not bring prohibited items such as backpacks or you will be turned away.
This evening is also 3 Inaugural Balls: Liberty and Freedom Ball (Walter E Washington Convention Center 7 to 11 p.m.,) and the Salute to Our Armed Services Ball (National Building Museum.) For the first time ever, the media is invited and can air the 2 hour show. The Armed Services Ball is by invitation only. The guests list includes active and retired military, military families and first responders.
On January 21st, there is a National Prayer Service held at Washington’ National Cathedral. This is also private event.
Getting Around
If you are traveling from outside the D.C. area, Amtrak will be offering additional trains to the area on the days leading up to and after the event. They also have stated that if the demand is high, they will add even more trains in order to accommodate everyone. Once in Washington D.C. you need to keep in mind that there will be numerous street closures that will be taking place. There will also be a lot of traffic so you’re better off walking or biking everywhere. Bikes can be rented at various locations around the city, but beware that they will end up selling out quickly. While public transportation is generally a good option in D.C., it probably won’t be during this time because of all the inevitable gridlock. For those that want to risk it and use the metro system, make sure you get your metro card well in advance in order to avoid waiting in long lines. Stations near the inauguration such as at the National Mall, will be closed during the actual ceremony.
Other Things To Do
There are quite a few presidential things to do other than the inauguration ceremony and parade. Items related to the election will be displayed at the Library of Congress, which is open to the public. The former homes of both President Woodrow Wilson and and George Washington are both fairly close to the inauguration site. Other popular attractions include the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. While tickets to tour the White House are available, they are difficult to get and have to be requested no less than 21 days before your trip. However, you can still walk outside the gates of the White House to try to get a glimpse of the new president.
What To Eat And Where To Stay
You certainly won’t go hungry while in Washington D.C. It has recently become a popular destination for foodies. The National Mall is always a good choice if you are looking for fast food. Georgetown and Dupont Circle are great spots if you are looking for something unique. Make sure though that you eat before the events you are attending because chances are you will be there a while and won’t want to leave to grab a bite to eat. As far as lodging goes, there are numerous places to stay at around Washington D.C. However, many of them are sold out already. Nearby cities like Arlington, Virginia not only have quite a few hotels as well, but interesting sites like the Arlington National Cemetery and U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial.
