Ray's The Steaks

Want to know where all the money comes from? Then get set to find out on one of Washington, DC's most popular tours when you visit the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Some of the exhibits include bills that are no longer in circulation, counterfeit money and a staggering $100,000 bill, along with a presentation of how money is produced and printed. In keeping with fiscal responsibility, the tour is actually free but during peak summer months, admission tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

C & O Canal Boat Rides offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to get closer to nature while learning some interesting history about the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. It begins as a history lesson in the 1870s when these waterways were used for trade, and that era is highlighted as you pass several historic buildings as the tour progresses. Beautiful foliage and even some trails can be seen from the boat, as the 1 hour canal boat ride is both an historic and visually appealing experience sure to delight visitors who are out to learn as much as they can about this area of the country.

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History boasts the world's largest natural history collection that will inspire several "oohs' and "aahs" from visitors of all ages. Among the highly dramatic and memorable exhibits are a 70 million-year-old dinosaur egg, an incredible giant squid, and a look at a truly unforgettable tarantula feeding that will inspire several gasps among all who view it. In addition to all of these exhibits, the museum offers even more adventures via the 3-D IMAX theater within its facility.

The National Book Festival attracts both writers and readers of some of the world's best-loved books. Several award-winning authors head to the National Mall for this event every September to be on hand for autograph signing and seminar appearances. The kids will love meeting some of the characters from some of their favorite books as they come to life here and are available for photos.