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Attending the inauguration? Follow these guidelines
Sunday, January 18, 2009
WASHINGTON — Looking to attend Barack Obama's inauguration, but still haven't made any plans? Well, you can still go, just be prepared for some improvisation along the way. With at least 2 million people expected to descend on Washington, city services and local businesses will be strained to the limit. Start planning your trip with these tips.
TRANSPORTATION: The local transit authority has planned out special hours and services for Inauguration Day, but nothing will be a cakewalk. Expect long lines and crowded conditions. Walking will be the best way to get anywhere, with the added bonus of street-level revelry. The subway system is scheduled to operate at rush hour levels from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will stay open until 2 a.m. If you need to drive, parking lots will open on Inauguration Day at 3:30 a.m. and cost only $4. (Also check out Metro's online trip planner for more details.)
When it comes to getting to the city, try to avoid driving unless you can find overnight parking ahead of time. The subway goes right to the airport, making air travel more attractive. Or take Amtrak right into Union Station, just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol.
LODGING: Hotel rooms are scarce, and what's left is likely to be very expensive. Your best bet is to call up that long-lost cousin, college buddy or former significant other and asking to crash at their place. If that doesn't work, try looking on Craigslist to rent out someone's apartment. Another low-budget option is AirBed & Breakfast. Anything is better than sleeping in your car.
THE CEREMONY: The swearing in ceremony will be held at the U.S. Capitol facing the National Mall. The program is scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m. If you're one of the 240,000 lucky ticket holders, you'll need to enter the Capitol Grounds through one of the color-coded entry points that open at 8 a.m. Everyone else can crowd the Mall, which will be opened for the first time in inaugural history. Another option is to line the parade route as Obama makes his way to the White House after the ceremony. Security checkpoints are scheduled to open at 7 a.m., so don't try to camp out the night before.
Additional information at http://inaugural.senate.gov/
