African American
Sobering three stories below ground starting with historic roots of slavery in the US and ending with Barack Obama’s turnout on the National Mall for his first inaugural address. The long line for the Emmet Till memorial ended in learning about a heartbreaking story of a mother’s decision which turned the tide of the Civil rights movement. The statue of Phillis Wheatley made me weep.
National Gallery of Modern Art
Ok, some modern art, I just don’t get. But I loved it, and I bonded with one of the guards who agreed with me and suggested a documentary on Yayoh Kusama for me to watch.
Smithsonian Castle and gardens
Great overview of all of the Smithsonian museums, and some awesome photos of DC then and now. Then was was the Civil War era.
Portrait Gallery
The Hall of Presidents was so great. The portrait of John F Kennedy was surprising. There was a gorgeous portrait of Michelle Obama in another area of Museum, and I loved it so much. But The Four Justices was my favorite.
DC
Botanical Gardens
The Renwick Gallery
This gallery is devoted to sculptural fine art. It is beautiful.