Afternoon tea (and more!) in Washington DC: A Capital idea!

Mrs. Gulley goes to Washington: a capital idea!

Mrs. Gulley goes to Washington. . . for afternoon tea and more!

Last month, my husband, Chris, and I visited our nation's capital - the first time for both of us since we were kids - and, after an incredible four-day tour of DC that included stops at the White House, the Capitol, Library of Congress and the Willard Hotel, we're already planning a return trip with the family in the Spring.

At the south wing of the Capitol.

Having a special connection, we were able to get a private tour of the Capitol and Library of Congress, both exceedingly impressive and, as one would imagine, filled with history. At the former, we walked passed the House Chamber in the south wing (where a vote was soon taking place!) and had a photo op in front of  one of Michigan's famous politicians, Lewis Cass (every state is represented by a statue of a renowned leader). Cass was  our state's second governor, a senator and secretary of state (and namesake for my husband's high school!).

Chris (a grad of Cass Tech) standing in front of Lewis Cass

A highlight (although it was all a highlight!) of our visit to the Library of Congress was a viewing of Thomas Jefferson's book collection. Amazing to stand in front of the books used by the third President of the United States.

And, to continue our connection with this national treasure, Chris and I secured two library cards (which we may use next Spring!).

Next up, a visit to the White House and all the colorful public rooms that we're familiar with: the Green Room, the Blue Room and the Red Room. I am particularly fond of dining rooms and, after seeing many palaces and Aristocratic homes of the rich and famous, the State Dining room was refreshing in its traditional, but not ostentatious, furnishings. 

The State Dining Room was once Thomas Jefferson's office, but it  turned into its current incarnation in 1809. With the help of a series of round tables, it can seat up to 140 guests for formal events. 

Of course, no trip to Washington D.C. is complete without afternoon tea! We made reservations as the Willard Hotel. Built in 1840 on Pennsylvania Avenue, it's a stone's throw from the White House and the National Mall. Its lobby is expansive and opulently decorated - the utmost in luxury. We learned, over a delightful pot of Earl Grey and delicious afternoon tea fare, that this hotel was a magnet for politicians and influencers and in the Willard's elaborate environs, the term  "lobbyist" was coined. (More on the Willard's afternoon tea in a future blog!)

Afternoon tea at the Willard Hotel with a famous foyer!

A capital idea to visit Washington D.C., indeed. Stay tuned for a future blog story on the Willard Hotel afternoon tea and another trip to our nation's capital in 2020. It won't require an act of congress to make it happen, but even so, we know someone who would approve it!

In front of the White House. Mrs. and Mr. Gulley went to Washington and had an awesome time!