Day 2 - New York to Washington DC

The jetlag didn’t affect us too badly as we were so tired from the day before. I woke up at about 4am EST (10am BST).  I just about managed to get back to sleep and we eventually got up about 7am. We got ready and re-packed our bags before going down for a complimentary continental breakfast. This was actually really disappointing which was a shame because at the other hotel we have stayed at in London the breakfast was amazing.

We had the hostess bring us some hot drinks, but then nothing else arrived after about 10 minutes and so we left knowing we needed to get to the station in good time.

We walked a couple blocks back to the station. Much easier in the daylight and before the commuters were out in force. We got to the waiting area before going to get some food for breakfast and the train. The train was on time and we huddled quickly as the boarding gate was announced to make sure we could sit together on the train.

Departures board at Penn Station, New York

It has been a nice and quiet journey so far. I’ve caught up on some work emails and typed the rest of the blog up. It’s very sunny, we should be greeted to temperatures of about 28 degrees Celsius in DC. The hotel is a short 5-10 minute walk.

Approach to Philadelphia

Once we arrived and had a quick look at the foyer of Union Station was quickly made our way to the hotel. We unpacked and got comfortable before heading out.

Disembarking train at DC

Union Station entrance hall

Union Station

Washington Court Hotel lobby

As we had plenty of time, we decided to go straight to the Newseum. It is unusual as it is a paid for museum in DC. But we had heard good things about it and it was very close to the hotel. We had a bit of trouble finding the entrance but once inside it was very sleek and modern.

Newseum

I wasn't sure what to expect, but it was really great. It was quite clear what order to do things in, first there was some old sections of the Berlin Wall on display and an exhibit about the importance of journalism to keep people informed. The next bit was about the FBI and importance of seeking the truth (this also covered the potential for corruption too).

Preserved sections of the Berlin Wall

Unabomber's hut

The upper floors had a section on media and different types of journalism (print, radio, TV, internet) and the final bit was on journalism in war zones and free press.

Inside atrium of the Newseum

View of Capitol Hill from the Newseum

Once we finished we headed over to a sports bar that we knew did really good, very unhealthy, America food. We had a few drinks too, and the eventually decided to have an early night back at the hotel.

Outside seating at sports bar

Sunset from the hotel window