Explore the City and Learn at Higher Ed Summit 2018

Whether you’re a history buff, a social butterfly, or enjoy the outdoors, it’s easy to have fun in D.C., especially when you are traveling with our Higher Ed community.
Here are a few suggestions for you to make the most of the Summit! Not registered yet? Let me give you a few more reasons why you shouldn’t miss this year’s Higher Ed Summit.
Celebrate
Higher Ed Summit ‘18 Awards Ceremony
Celebrate with your new friends at the reception & award ceremony, March 22, 5:15 pm – 7:15 pm, in the Maryland Ballroom at the Gaylord National Harbor. Check out the finalists on the website under the Awards tab.
Learn
- Georgetown campus tour
For history buffs or those with kids, visit Georgetown University’s Beautiful Campus immediately following the closing keynote! Georgetown’s staff will provide a walking tour that will include many of Georgetown’s buildings – some dating back to 1789 when Georgetown University was founded. Discover how Georgetown’s campus architecture makes the most use of the available space while providing a beautiful environment for research and learning. Space on the tour is limited and will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Lunch and transportation will be provided. Sign up today! - White House Tour – free, but submit a request to visit online at least 21 days in advance through your Member of Congress. Self-guided tours are available from 7:30 am to 11:30 am Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 am to 1:30 pm Fridays and Saturdays. Note: bring photo ID and no food, video or backpacks allowed.
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – free admission, open 10:00 am to 5:30 pm daily.
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum – free admission, open 10:00 am to 5:20 pm daily.
- National Museum of Natural History – don’t miss the famous Butterfly Pavilion where you can walk through a field of butterflies!
- National Museum of African American History and Culture – 10:30 am to 5:30 pm, free admission, (reserve online in advance).
- The Freer | Sackler Galleries – free admission, open 10:00 am to 5:30 pm daily.
Be Chill
Visit the wellness area at the Summit
Ready to recharge, reset and refresh?
Stop by our Meditation Lounge in the Quad (Exhibit Hall E) at Higher Ed Summit and treat yourself to an audio guided meditation session powered by Wisdom Labs! Provided in 5 minutes session intervals, you’re sure to destress and stimulate your creativity.
U.S. Botanic Garden
Free – and relaxing! The Conservatory and National Garden are open every day of the year from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, and the National Garden has extended evening hours staying open until 7:00 pm until Labor Day. Bartholdi Park is open every day of the year from dawn till dusk. Catch a tour or cooking demonstration.
Eat Fabulously
These restaurants are within walking distance from Higher Ed Summit 2018:
- Cadillac Ranch – All-American Bar and grill on a hill overlooking the skyline,
- Grace’s Mandarin – Flashy waterfront venture serving upscale Pan-Asian fare, including sushi, along with river views.
- Succotash – Inspired Southern cuisine, melding Dixie & Asian flavors in curry succotash, fried chicken & ribs.
- Granite City Food & Brewery – A casual chain eatery with an American comfort-food menu plus craft beers brewed on-site.
- The Walrus Oyster & Ale House – Casual seafood spot with local fare, whimsical spirit & views of Potomac & Old Town Alexandria.
- Fiorella’s Italian Kitchen – Rustic-chic Italian eatery with pizza & seafood specialties plus marble statue & river views.
- Rosa Mexicano National Harbor – Modern Mexican chain eatery known for tableside guacamole, creative margaritas & chic surrounds.
- McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks – Upscale steak & seafood chain known for its clubby environs & happy hour.
- McLoone’s Pier House – Upscale-casual American restaurant by the beach with a seafood-focused menu, full bar & live music.
What are you waiting for? Register now to not miss this unforgettable event.
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