National Building Museum

I went to the National Building Museum today with my friend Susie. It was very easy to get to, literally right across the street from the Judiciary Square Metro stop. The building is impressive from the outside and when you come inside you get an even bigger treat. The Great Hall is filled with light and has a beautiful fountain in the middle. It is about the size of a football field and is 15 stories high at its tallest point. It would be a fantastic place for a party or ball, which is why it is no surprise that the space is available for evening rentals.

We visited two of the exhibits. First, "Washington: Symbol and City," which tells about the birth and evolution of Washington as a city. For someone who enjoys history, like me, it is a very interesting exhibit. Second, "Liquid Stone: New Architecture in Concrete," which was like a dream for Susie who is a civil engineer. The exhibit shows you the strength, versatility, and potential of the seemingly boring and dreary material. Last, we visited the gift shop, which has tons of interesting design and architecture books. It also has a wide assortment of gifts, from cards, books and puzzles to bricks, blocks and designer teapots.

I would like to go back some time to see the rest of the exhibits, as we didn't have time to see them all. Also, every Wednesday from July 13th through August 24th, they will be screening American films that reflect themes such as sustainability, transportation and transit and office design in America. Upcoming movies include: "Who Framed Roger Rabit," "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying," "Do the Right Thing," "Touch of Evil," and "Summer Stock." Admission is free. There is live music before the screening and you can bring a picnic with you if you want.