Washington, D.C. hotels are filling up in anticipation of the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama on January 20. If you're one of the thousands planning to be there in person for the parade and swearing-in ceremony, here's the lowdown on transportation and security.
Transportation:
More than three square miles of downtown Washington are scheduled to be closed to traffic from the afternoon of January 19 through the morning of January 21. View a map of street closures. In addition, most bridges into Washington will be restricted to buses and authorized vehicles only. Virginia Interstate 395 northbound and I-66 eastbound (east of I-495) also will be closed. See a full list of closures.
Washington's subway, Metrorail, will operate continuous rush hour service from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. January 20, with regular service continuing until 2 a.m. Travelers will pay peak fares during this time. Two stations, Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter and Smithsonian, will be closed on January 20 until about 6:30 p.m. Two other stations, Judiciary Square and Mt. Vernon Sq/7th St. Convention Center, will close on the evening of the 20th and will reopen at 5 a.m. January 21. Metro officials expect long lines and crowded trains throughout the day. Get more information about taking Metrorail and Metrobus to the inauguration.
Security:
All ticket holders are required to pass through security screening, including handbag inspection. The following is a partial list of prohibited items:
- Backpacks/large bags/duffel bags
- Strollers
- Coolers/thermoses
- Suitcases
- Umbrellas
- Signs/posters
Other:
- All attendees must have tickets.
- Gates open at 8 a.m.
- Food and beverages will not be available within the ceremony area.
- The typical temperature in Washington on inauguration day is 37 degrees.
Inauguration resources:
- Joint Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies
- Washington D.C.'s Presidential Inauguration Web site
- Using WashingtonD.C. public transportation on Inauguration Day
Related Orbitz resources:
