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Getting Around the Inaugural

By
Real Estate Agent with RLAH@Properties AB95346

 

Barak Obama's first Inaugural attracted a crowd of between 1 and 1.8 million people, depending on which estimates you believe.  And it was one of the coldest days in Washington's history.  As a volunteer along the parade route, they issued my battery operated glove and boot inserts to deter frostbite, and there were warming stations on each block along the parade route.  

For President-elect Trump, the long range weather forecast looks a lot kinder, with temperatures expected to be in the high 50's.  And no matter how many people show up for his swearing-in and parade, there will be some major traffic challenges.  

If you plan to look at houses, shop or walk your dog in the downtown area, keep in mind that there will be more road closures than they have for the Marine Corps Marathon!  And above is a helpful map from the Secret Service showing what streets will be closed off or restricted for the occasion.  And here is their complete list of street closures between the 18th and the 21st of January.

But if you are planning to be anyplace near the Capitol, the White House or the parade route on January 20th, my strong recommendation is that you use Metro - or walk.  And here are some more tips if you plan to attend:

  • Wear very comfortable shoes.  If they're really ugly, it's OK.  Nobody will be looking at your feet.  And you will be doing a whole lot of walking - maybe even running! Thick socks and Dr. Sholls are recommended.
  • Dress warmly for whatever the weather. I'd suggest layers and a big shoulder bag to stuff them into, except that you might have issues with security.
  • Bring gloves even if it is in the 50's.  The weather can turn nippy quickly.  
  • Have your phone fully charged in case you are separated from the people you came with.
  • Turn off the sound on all electronics during any musical performances, poetry reading, swearing in and the Inaugural Address.  At Clinton's first inaugural, some idiot was negotiating stock trades on his constantly ringing cell phone and someone almost grabbed it out of his hand.
  • Etiquette does permit texting and checking your email as long as the sound is off, but it's not encouraged.
  • To get anywhere close to the Capitol or the parade route, expect to go through heavy security, and leave any jewelry or other accessories that could set off the metal detectors at home.   
  • If you are planning to participate, whether it's to celebrate or to protest our new leader, just remember that in the United States, we are famous for our peaceful transfers of power. Behave yourself!

Me? I'm going to watch the ceremonies in the comfort of my home on my big screen TV with some friends, some bubbly and some pate and brie on a baguette!  

 

Comments (19)

Chris Ann Cleland
Long and Foster Real Estate - Gainesville, VA
Associate Broker, Bristow, VA

Good advice for anyone who will be braving the crowds, by choice or circumstance.  Like you, I'll be watching from the comfort of home with friends over brunch.

Jan 12, 2017 12:03 PM
Sheri Sperry - MCNE®
Coldwell Banker Realty - Sedona, AZ
(928) 274-7355 ~ YOUR Solutions REALTOR®

Hi Patricia Kennedy - lots of good advice to heed for the inauguration.  I am content to watch most if not all events on TV!  

I hope your travels are not impeded much by the route closures during this National event. No matter if you are red, blue or purple, this is indeed a historic event that the USA should be proud of.  We get to hold this event every four years! 

Jan 12, 2017 12:10 PM
Harry F. D'Elia III
WEDO Real Estate and Beyond, LLC - Phoenix, AZ
Investor , Mentor, GRI, Radio, CIPS, REOs, ABR

I know many people are looking forward to this day showing a change in Making America Great Again

Jan 12, 2017 12:10 PM
Beth Atalay
Cam Realty and Property Management - Clermont, FL
Cam Realty of Clermont FL

Hi Patricia, great advice to those who will be joining the crowd, like you, I will be watching it on TV.

Jan 12, 2017 12:30 PM
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

Chris Ann,  I think most of the locals will be staying home.  

Jan 12, 2017 01:12 PM
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

Sheri, I'll be proud if we can just get through it with everyone on their best behavior.  

Jan 12, 2017 01:14 PM
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

Harry, I duuno.  I think a lot of people are holding their collective breath hoping he doesn't push all of us over a cliff.  I think it's going to be about trying to keep America great!

Jan 12, 2017 01:16 PM
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

Beth, watching at home or at your favorite neighborhood pub is probably the way to go.  

Jan 12, 2017 01:18 PM
Nick Vandekar, 610-203-4543
Realty ONE Group Advocates 484-237-2055 - Downingtown, PA
Selling the Main Line & Chester County

Cannot imagine how you run a business in a city that must have many road closures for so many different events and work around that constantly. Enjoy the day, and at least you know your hands and feet will stay warm.

Jan 12, 2017 02:40 PM
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

Good points but I prefer to watch on TV.  I am not crzy enough to go

Jan 12, 2017 03:55 PM
Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

I can't imagine that I'll be attending this inauguration, but those are excellent tips for any who may!

Jan 12, 2017 06:25 PM
Sheila Anderson
Referral Group Incorporated - East Brunswick, NJ
The Real Estate Whisperer Who Listens 732-715-1133

Good morning Patricia. I think if I lived in Washington, I would stay in and avoid the day.

Jan 13, 2017 06:13 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

This is excellent advice to share. We will be watching from home on TV.

Jan 13, 2017 01:40 PM
Sally K. & David L. Hanson
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce

Best seen from afar....and it will be one crowded scene for sure...with tight security !

Jan 14, 2017 02:03 AM
Nathan Gesner
American West Realty and Management - Cody, WY
Broker / Property Manager

Patricia Kennedy this was a neat article to read, though I personally despise large crowds. I am expecting protestors and possible violence so stay vigilant if you attend!

Jan 14, 2017 05:21 AM
Georgie Hunter R(S) 58089
Hawai'i Life Real Estate Brokers - Haiku, HI
Maui Real Estate sales and lifestyle info

It never even occurred to me about trying to show homes while this goes on! What a headache. It will soon be over though.

Jan 14, 2017 10:19 AM
Lottie Kendall
Compass - San Francisco, CA
Helping make your real estate dreams a reality

What a great blog post, Patricia. There are many people who will benefit from your tips.

Jan 14, 2017 06:52 PM
Laura Cerrano
Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island - Locust Valley, NY
Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

People think it will be a crazy madhouse of a show and it probably will be. I have no idea what to expect in any aspect.

Jan 15, 2017 10:47 PM
Yolanda Cordova-Gilbert
Richmond, TX

Pat,

 Now that sounds like a plan and a way to watch the igaguaration, I think we went a few days after the last ignaguration and I think the March was going on or it was coming...it was cold! I like your plans I like your food selection as well!

Jan 18, 2017 01:42 PM