Everything Is Closed on the National Mall

It seemed all we saw were “locals” as we took our walk this morning on the National Mall. It was a very empty space except for the random joggers here and there. Unfortunately for the few who haven’t kept up with the government shutdown news they were very disappointed when they tried to enter any of the Smithsonian buildings. Either a guard instructed them to leave, there was a visible sign to stay out, or a gate was closed. The renovations are still ongoing at the Air and Space Museum and whatever installation is happening at the Natural History Museum. You could still get in to the garden section of the US Botanic Garden. It must be a let down to travel all the way to DC and not be able to get in to all the free museums and such. If I was still working at the Library of Congress I would have to be at work because they are totally funded. I actually would have preferred the days off. At least the city has cleaned up all the garbage that was taking over the Mall space. It was really starting to look disgusting. Hopefully things will get back to normal soon - whatever that is.