I empty all my change into a meter less than three blocks from the Capitol, then follow Pennsylvania as it spans the White House lawn. The Lincoln Monument’s a mob scene with dueling preachers on both pillars and the yuppies play flag football on the north side of the mall. I swing out wide along the war memorials before doubling back toward the car. The Washington Monument remains closed. It’s been that way for 15 years.

Bob Hill’s America: General Index