Romance in the Capitol

Washington, D.C., or the District of Columbia, is the capital of the United States. It is a planned city, designed specifically to house the federal government and is not part of any state. Its history, beautiful architecture and excellent cultural centers attract millions each year.

Virtually all of Washington’s tourists flock to the National Mall—which features monuments, museums, the White House and the Capitol—but the city itself is a vibrant metropolis that often has little to do with monuments, politics or white, neoclassical buildings. In many ways D.C. remains a significant center of African-American culture. It is home to Howard University, one of the most important historically black colleges, and is the hometown of many significant African-American figures of history and culture, including Frederick Douglass and Duke Ellington. The District is also home to one of the country's most prominent lesbian/gay communities, centered around DuPont Circle.

A Treasure Hunt is a great way to see many of the famous landmarks and institutions of D.C. as well as some of its unknown treasures. Several tour companies offer this service for groups throughout the downtown mall area. Visitors can also enjoy the National Zoo, and the many large parks that offer hiking and biking.

The legendary Four Seasons Washington provides unparalleled attentiveness, and gracious service, in the heart of historic Georgetown. This property is strategically located within walking distance to the District's most upscale shops, boutiques, and galleries. Most rooms feature stunning views of Rock Creek Park, or the historic Chesapeake and Ohio canal, originally commissioned by George Washington. Many of Washington's most notable historic and cultural attractions are also nearby. The on-site Spa provides the ultimate in relaxation, where pampered guests can enjoy a massage or body treatment, steam shower, or whirlpool, in total privacy. After a treatment, the Spa's relaxation lounge can provide a quiet refuge from the hectic world outside. George's Salon can complete the experience by providing clients with luxurious hair and nail treatments. Bourbon Steak, the Four Seasons award-winning restaurant, features contemporary American fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients, as well as butter-poached meat, poultry, and classic seafood dishes. When only the finest will do, there is simply no alternative to the Four Seasons.

Monticello was Thomas Jefferson's 40-year labor of love, continually under construction and renovation during his lifetime. It is the only US house listed on the United Nation's World Heritage List of sites to be protected at all cost. Visitors will see many of the curious inventions designed by Jefferson, the Renaissance man. Discover the library holdings of Jefferson, the politician and statesman, and stroll through the green house and fruit, flower and vegetable gardens of this avid horticulturalist.

This is a famous Capitol Hill retreat for romantics and government staffers in need of a gentle, soothing atmosphere. Floral fabrics decorate the quaint tearoom. The menu leans toward delicate versions of the nouvelle standards, with light creams, cheese and artichoke hearts accompanying chicken, game meats and filet mignon. The house signature dish is quail stuffed with walnut, apple and cheese. A Sunday brunch featuring interesting egg dishes and lunch entrees, is very popular.

Spirit Cruises offers trips along the Potomac River. On The Spirit of Washington, a 600-person luxury vessel, passengers cruise, dine and dance. Two and three hour cruises are available. On the smaller, Capital Elite, guests cruise the river to Mount Vernon and back. It is the only cruise ship offering trips to George Washington's home. The narrated tour includes admission to the estate and grounds. Another cruise the Spirit of Mount Vernon offers day long cruises. All the ships boast many amenities, including outdoor strolling decks, climate-controlled interior decks, outdoor patio seating, full-service bars and oversize windows.

An exhibition kitchen dishes up a wonderful blend of French-Californian cuisine. Try Chef Michael Richard's sliced and grilled scallops, delicious pastas or tuna Chateaubriand. The place looks attractive, with a wall that changes colors and an extensive wine cellar. Some 8000 bottles and a collection of 18th-and 19th-century corkscrews are on display. Complimentary valet parking is available during dinner.

Dance the night away, or just watch others in the spacious Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park in Maryland. Fridays feature square, contra and country dances. On Saturdays hear big band, Cajun, swing and R&B. Sundays are reserved for intermediate and advanced contra and square dancers. With the exception of contra, the public is welcome to watch, join in or take a lesson.

This 52-acre park is located north of the Reflecting Pool amid the capital's many famous monuments and memorials. A beautiful place for a stroll, the paths wind through the trees taking you to Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a lake and a memorial to the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Famous and distinguished Americans are honored at the National Portrait Gallery in portraits, photographs and other visual media. A wide variety of politicians, artists, scientists and social activists are represented. This gallery is a remarkable testimony to the diverse figures the United States has produced, from Grace Kelly and Boris Karloff to George Washington, Mickey Mantle and Gertrude Stein. Photographs, prints, drawings and sculptures supplement the paintings. Of particular interest is the Hall of Presidents, which features a portrait or sculpture of each chief executive.

1789 Restaurant, a formal, elegant restaurant in Georgetown is a Washington favorite. Its Federal-era architecture is nicely accentuated by burning fireplaces and classic linen-and-silver table settings. A wide range of New American entrees are featured on the menu. There are fine vegetarian offerings as well as non-vegeatrian delicacies like Roasted Veal Loin and Emerald Farms Pork Chop. Desserts like Plum-Berry Hazelnut Shortcake are a perfect end to the gastronomic experience.

The legendary Four Seasons Washington provides unparalleled attentiveness, and gracious service, in the heart of historic Georgetown. This property is strategically located within walking distance to the District's most upscale shops, boutiques, and galleries. Most rooms feature stunning views of Rock Creek Park, or the historic Chesapeake and Ohio canal, originally commissioned by George Washington. Many of Washington's most notable historic and cultural attractions are also nearby. The on-site Spa provides the ultimate in relaxation, where pampered guests can enjoy a massage or body treatment, steam shower, or whirlpool, in total privacy. After a treatment, the Spa's relaxation lounge can provide a quiet refuge from the hectic world outside. George's Salon can complete the experience by providing clients with luxurious hair and nail treatments. Bourbon Steak, the Four Seasons award-winning restaurant, features contemporary American fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients, as well as butter-poached meat, poultry, and classic seafood dishes. When only the finest will do, there is simply no alternative to the Four Seasons.