Jeff Dickey: The capital region of D.C., Virginia, and Maryland is one of the cradles of American history (along with New England), and contains so much to do that it's hard to know where to start. But Colonial Williamsburg is one such place. In recent decades, Williamsburg's historical accuracy has been much improved and the site now offers a factual, intriguing look at an old colonial capital; if you're visiting the Historic Triangle, as it's known, you should also drop in on Jamestown, site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World, which just celebrated its 400th anniversary, and Yorktown, site of the decisive battle in the Revolutionary War. Closer to D.C., Richmond has a number of fine historical attractions, foremost being the American Civil War Center, while the region's preserved battlefields provide context to that monumental conflict. Further east, you could visit Monticello in Charlottesville while making a tour of Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, or stop closer to home at Harpers Ferry or deeper into West Virginia at New River Gorge.

_______________________

Athens, Ga.: When is the best time to go to D.C. to avoid the crowds and get the best deals? My mom and I were going to go in April before the school children get out but I read somewhere that many schools take trips to D.C. in April and the place is overrun with school field trips. Would May be a better time to go?

Jeff Dickey: April through June is really high season for the District, along with September and the weeks closest to it. The height of summer, July and August, features tropical levels of heat and humidity, while the depth of winter offers biting winds and icy temperatures. If you're planning a mainly indoors itinerary, then by all means you should brave the summer or winter conditions and snap up the deals you're likely to find for accommodation or tour packages. Otherwise, you'll be waiting in line for the major attractions in the spring or late summer/early autumn busy season.

_______________________

Topeka, Kans.: Jeff:

My husband, an active duty soldier, myself, an RN, and our active, sports-minded 9 year old daughter are planning a week-long trip to Washington, D.C., in September 2008. We plan to fly into Baltimore International, but have not purchased tickets yet, so if Dulles or Reagan are better airport choices we can do that. My question is this: What are some not to be missed sites for a soldier to see in DC? And for an active 9 year old? We all love history and would love to see where Frances Scott Keyes wrote the Star Spangled Banner. We have written to our Senator for White House Tours and have already filled out the Security Questionaire. Any information on "military discounts" would be greatly appreciated as I have noticed prices in D.C. area are alittle more that in Kansas!&#33 And also, if it isn't too much of an "April Fool's" question, is it possible to get a hotel close to public transport (even it is at the end of the subway/"L" line) for under $200 a night? Thanks so much for your letting us use your expertise! Paula

Jeff Dickey: You'll find plenty to do in D.C. if you enjoy military and all other aspects of national history. Francis Scott Key finished his poem, later set to music, in the long-gone Indian Queen Hotel, but it was inspired by his witnessing of the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812 (the Banner's original title is/was "The Defence of Fort McHenry"). You can still visit the restored fort in Baltimore, as it's a national monument. Key's Georgetown home, however, was destroyed in the 1940s to make way for the "progress" of the Whitehurst Freeway.

Obviously, you'll also want to visit the striking soldiers' memorials around the District, especially on the National Mall, as well as Arlington National Cemetery, the Navy Memorial, and perhaps the Navy Museum. For good hotels under $200 a night, check out my answers several questions ago for a list of good options.

_______________________

Jeff Dickey: All around, a great chat. Thanks for the many fine questions. If you're in need for further guidance, I'd suggest perhaps the Rough Guide to Washington DC, with an updated new edition arriving later this year. Good luck on your trips!