Ever heard of The Discovery Store? It's awesome! We just visited there the other day after hearing that its Flagship Store is right here in Washington, D.C. The store is located at the new MCI Arena at the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro stop. The store has many, many artifacts, memorabilia and other VERY cool items for all ages. The Discovery Store is part of The Discovery Channel.

The store is four or five levels high with an exciting amphitheater on the upper level which shows a 15-minute film on some of the popular sights in and around Washington. It's air conditioned and makes for a nice reprieve from the hot weather. The cost is $2.50 for adults and I believe $1.50 for children. It's DEFINITELY worth putting on your schedule, as is the entire store, especially if you won't be able to make it to all the sites in town. Click the red button below and it will link you to The Discovery Store web site. From there you can select the shopping link and find a list of the stores which will include the Flagship Store here in D.C.

As you may know, or as you'll soon find out if you are visiting soon, The Metro System is the only good way to get around the city in a timely manner. If you are a tourist and will be visiting the Washington, D.C. area for the first time, let me give you a few good tips about riding The Metrorail that will save you some nasty looks by the locals...

1. When using the escalators in the Metro System, always stay to the right unless you plan on walking up or down the steps immediately upon entering them. Those of us who ride the Metro to and from our jobs are usually trying to catch a train and/or bus at a certain time...believe me, it will save you a possible head injury if you stay to the right. The left side of the escalator stairs are generally for those rushing up or down.

2. While on the train, try to stay AWAY from the doors...move to the center of the train or take a seat. Since the doors can open on either side of the train depending on which station you arrive in, it would make it easier for those exiting and entering the train if you're away from the doors. During major events or during rush hour (7-9AM & 4-7PM) the trains can get very crowded and it behooves you to move inward. Start moving towards the door about two stops away from your destination if the trains are crowded.

3. If you are going to be riding the Metrorail several times throughout the day, it would be easier and less expensive to purchase a $5.00 Metrorail Pass. It will give you unlimited riding on the trains all day. Especially during rush hours, the train fare can start getting expensive, especially if you're bringing your entire family.

4. One last thing...remember, NO EATING OR DRINKING in the Metrorail System. It is not unusual for a local Washingtonian to let you know that there is a $500.00 fine for eating or drinking in any station or on any train. I have also seen people report others, so save your $500.00 for the t-shirt and hotdog carts on the Mall!