Planning a unique side activity, or looking for thoughtful gifts or guides suitable for out-of town guests? Here are four ideas.
1. An Historical Experience: In a city full of history-based tours, Ford's Theatre puts Civil War-era costumed actors on the streets, leading groups on a walk that centers around a particular theme and story. There are two History on Foot tours, including "Detective James McDevitt," which explores the facts and fiction surrounding the Lincoln assasination and last two hours of his life. Offered since this spring is "A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly," which tells the tale of an African-American woman who was close to the Lincoln family and aided former slaves in a newly free Washington. The tour lasts roughly 90 minutes and covers about 1.5 miles. Regularly scheduled public walks are held on Saturdays well into October; private tours are also possible for a flat fee of $500 (for two to 40 people).
2. A Record of the Sights: A handsome photo book can serve as a reminder of the host city long after an event is over. The new Washington, DC Photographs: Monuments and Icons, by Rodney L. Arroyo, includes color and black-and-white images of exteriors and interiors of some of the area's most memorable sights, and includes photos from this year's cherry blossoms, and the President's helicopter, Marine One. Books are priced at $20 each on Amazon.com, and bulk orders are available by contacting the publisher, City Photos and Books Inc. Not only does the book help mark a trip to D.C., but it also helps residents of greater Washington since a portion of its proceeds benefits the Neighbors in Need Fund of the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, which supports nonprofits in providing food, clothing, and shelter.
3. An Edible Memento: Give gift bags or hotel welcome baskets a local feel with gift purveyor Après Peau’s line of flavored chocolate bars named for local landmarks and packaged with catchy graphics of various D.C. sights. Selections include the Washington Monumint (dark chocolate and mint), the Smithsonian salty pretzel, and the Kennedy Center caramel-apple. Bars retail for $6 each; custom sleeves for the bars are possible for a flat fee of $200.
4. An Insider's Map to the City: Swiss company A la Carte Maps has just introduced its new series of artistically drawn guide books and maps for a variety of international destinations, including a Washington edition. Each map-guide contains local insight on places to shop, dine, and explore, that diverge from the typical tourist book material and focus on places that locals know and frequent. Planners can also create their own map suited to an event, or a specific outing—a scavenger hunt, for example—by providing their own tips and city highlights and using provided stickers to pinpoint their selections. Maps are matte laminated and cost around $12.70. Fully customized maps are also possible, pricing upon request.
