Join Us in America’s Capital
The GridWise Global Forum is pleased to be in Washington, D.C. once again
for the second installment of the event.
The Federal Triangle is an area nestled between the Capitol Building and the White House that encompasses many federal office and government buildings such as the FBI Building, the National History Museum, the Department of Justice, and the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center — host to the Inaugural GridWise® Global Forum.
The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center facility is second in size only to the Pentagon, and is within walking distance of the White House, the Capitol, Smithsonian Museums, many of DC's finest hotels and other prominent businesses, historical sites and cultural organizations.
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| Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center was presented the Inner Circle Award by Association Meetings magazine for "being one of the best convention centers in the U.S." as voted by their readers/meeting planners. (Photo courtesy of Nicko Margolies) |
Heralded as one of America's most magnificent architectural achievements, the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center features an extravagant framework of glass and steel. On the outside, it looks like one of DC's grand federal buildings with its prominence and limestone facade. But on the inside, a contemporary style and a skyscape of shimmering glass create a uniquely unconventional setting … truly a “house full of surprises” inside.
The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center incorporates today's optimum features and leading-edge technology with tomorrow's vision for a brilliant conference setting.
DC’s beautiful mid-Atlantic location makes it the perfect place for biking, hiking and water sports and is best known for its historic neighborhoods, hotels, nightclubs, art galleries, theatres and trendy stores. A crossroads of culture and entertainment, DC is full of must-see sights. You’ll also find some of the top shopping centers and outlet malls in the country just minutes from downtown as well as quaint neighbourhood boutiques within downtown.
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| Penn Quarter’s Proof restaurant offers top-notch fare, a great beverage program and an elegant dining room. (Photo courtesy of Destination DC) |
Once you’ve been to DC, you’ll soon recognize what it is best known for, however … its restaurants. DC has been dubbed one of the best restaurant towns in the country. There are more than 100 restaurants located in the downtown area alone — 40 of them receiving Zagat scores of 25 or higher (out of a possible 30). The historic neighborhood of Penn Quarter draws lively crowds to two of the city’s hottest restaurants, both of which were included on the “best new restaurants in America” list by Esquire Magazine in 2007.
Getting Around DC
Airports
There are three DC-area airports: Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). DCA and IAD are the primary airports for DC.
Train
Washington DC Union Station (WAS) is home to Amtrak and multiple commuter rail services. Click here for more information and schedules.
Metrorail & Metrobus
The Metro system is the nation’s third-largest and the nation’s second-most utilized transport system carrying 206 million riders each year.
For hours, fares and station information, click here.
DC Circulator
Three bus routes service 2.2 million riders each year, connecting Union Station with Georgetown, the National Mall with Walter E. Washington Convention Center, and a seasonal loop around the National Mall, priced at just $1 per ride.
For hours, passes and route maps, click here.
Taxis
The DC taxi cab system operates on a meter system. Fares begin at $3, plus 25 cents per each additional 1/6 mile and 25 cents per minute of wait time.
Suggested Attire
Dress for the GridWise Global Forum is business attire. Please keep in mind, DC’s average low temperature during September is 57˚F, while the average high is 80˚F.
Click here for the local weather forecast.
For more information on Washington, DC, visit http://washington.org or call the visitor’s association at 800.422.8644 or 202.789.7000.
