Before the 4th of July tomorrow, let me point out a few highlights from the 23 national park sites in our nation’s capital. Although this was my first region completed, I’ve returned several times for reopened exhibits and other sites. There’s lots to see and do in this compact city.

Best historic site: the Frederick Douglass home has much to teach us about the 19th century Civil Rights leader. (The recently refurbished Belmont-Paul house is also well worthwhile).

Best park: Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is beautiful, especially from lotus & lilies blooming in summer, with birds and reptiles and more to see all year.

Best presidential memorial: the Lincoln Memorial, with French’s statue inside, overlooking the reflecting pool outside.

Best tour: the White House. Contact your Congressperson and get a ticket.

Best view: top of Washington Monument. I know it’s a pain to get tickets, that it’s cramped and the windows are small. But Washington hired L’Enfant to design the city & mall, and from here it all makes sense.

Best war memorial: the Vietnam Veterans Memorial takes you beneath the green grass to grieve.

Hope you have a happy Fourth of July!