Great video ! Sometimes Plan B works out better than Plan A would have. I'm glad you highlighted the Metro - I've always thought it was not well enough known as a great option for getting around vs fighting traffic and looking for parking. Also, it's so fitting that the memorial to TR incorporates his love of the outdoors
I have to agree with you on that one. We LOVE the metro! So easy and less frustrating! In the long run it is cheaper than paying for parking too. You are right Teddy loved the outdoors.
I would install a hitch for bike rack and get roof bars for kayaks. You need to attend a demo day to try out different types. Appomattox river Co. in FarmVille, VA will be having theirs second Saturday in June.
Loved your choices of things to see, add the Korean War memorial- I saw it on a foggy evening and was very dramatic also the Vietnam memorial. Notice that however crowded it may be it is so quiet you could almost hear a pin drop. If it’s still there, the Spy museum is great fun but I understand now you must book it in advance. Used to be a great Army/Navy store at the Crystal City metro stop, don’t know if still there, but worth looking into, it’s small but packed with interesting items.
Oh geesh... Weather here has been torrential for weeks in NE!! I love DC. When I visit my daughter we always like to go to The Birchmere for concerts in Alexandria. Nice smaller venue blugrass, folk, roots music.
Hitch rack for bikes for sure. Intek inflatable kayaks or if hard body kayaks use a roof rack for those. Also don't forget the locks for any racks or roof bars. Can have them all keyed the same.
Sunset Seekers - DC is a must see! As someone else mentioned....when the Cherry Blossom’s are in bloom, it’s beautiful there. Also, there’s a fairly new development (2017) in DC called The Wharf.....hotels are amazing, strolling beside the waterfront listening to music, watching the boats & Army helicopters on the Potomac, the sunsets, great places to eat and with free bus rides that loops to/from the National Mall...on top of everything else Stacy & Phil did on their Plan B days😉 & their recommendation of Arlington National Cemetery & the Changing of the Guard. Obviously, I’m a big fan of touring DC, as well as a future full-time rv’er, so love following these two.....17 months & counting!
I agree with Wandering Heart, it really is a must see. There is something for everyone. It is so much more to see than the Smithsonian (although those museums are pretty awesome too). I really wanted the video to show there is a lot to see and do here in DC other than museums so you can plan your trip to include many different activities!
We had the same issue. Our local bike shop told us to go to U-Haul and they will install hitches for bike racks. They sold the hitch to us and installed it for less than $200 total. Works great!
We have used an NOS bike tight glider board inside our van for our bikes. We have had it for 10+ years and the closest thing we can see on the market now is the Saris single track fork mount. Just need to measure the height of your bikes once the front wheel is off to make sure they'd fit inside. Didn't work in our Subaru, but it did work in our CR-V and our Odyssey. Good luck!
Looks like a fun ride! Steve went on the Honor Flight with his Dad and loved it. So we still have to go so i can see it! We love our kayak! We have a hard 2 person, take apart one and an inflatable paddle board. The nice thing about inflatible is it's easier to store and you don't need a rack.
@@todayissomeday it was a total impulse buy on our part and we don't go often in part because it's a pain to load on top of the car. We hope that once we're on the road we'll go more because we'll choose locations which mke it easy. They are pricy so i get the need to budget it in....it will happen when the time is right! In the meantime i hope you find a rental place that is actually open lol
We have both hard and inflatable kayaks. We got our two person (tandem) about seven years ago from Sea Eagle. We carry it in the trunk. It takes up more room than you think because of paddles, life jackets and other gear. We like them because we can pull up to the water, inflate them, and paddle away. We got it on sale for $199. We wanted a sturdy kayak so we wouldn't get stranded in the middle of somewhere with a leaking boat. The kayak we got includes most things needed to go except for the life jackets. The only real problem we had was in shallow creeks. We worried that the kayak would get snagged on a rock then deflate. It never did. I hate carrying it from the parking lot to the water whether it's inflated or deflated. It is advertised as weighing about 26 pounds without the paddles, pack, repair kit and stuff. I would have bet it weighed 50 pounds with all the gear. We also bought two inexpensive single person hard kayaks for creeks but now use them for most kinds of water because they are so versatile. Most stores have equivalent ones. We carry them on the roof of our Outback. The racks cost more than the kayaks but are well worth the money. Cheap racks are a pain and we had to carry a ladder. We've used the hard ones for more than 5 years. We toyed with the idea of getting better ones but if someone steals these when we are in a restaurant or even overnight at a hotel, we haven't lost much and have gotten a lot of great fun from them. I highly recommend getting carbon fiber (or similar) paddles. They make a world of difference. I didn't notice it until we rented kayaks and used their paddles. My arms were so sore at the end of the day. Good luck and enjoy.
I lived in the area from 1972 to 2011. Great Falls and the C&O canal, pretty and flat cycling if you can handle dirt trail riding. There is also a trail that goes from downtown into Montgomery county, can’t remember the name, so you could start at the bottom in town. Also, even if you are not into museums go to the Air & Space museum out by Dulles. Excellent microbrewery down by the Navy Yard as well. Those cupcakes look like they were yummy!
@@todayissomeday Rock Creek Park. I looked it up. The main challenge will be to find parking at your starting/ending point. They used to close some of the roads on Sundays in the summer for cycling, rollerblading, etc. Happy Mother's day, and enjoy!
Welcome to the DMV!!! So much to see and do here it would take months. The bike trails actually go out to the mountains also and they have changed old rail tracks into bike trails. Ft Washington in MD is nice, Old Town Alexandria and all the Monuments.
Hey there, we finally got our RV home... wohoo ... not full timing it, gotta work a few more years, so we are taking short trips to get used our Tiffin Allegro Red! I’m learning so much from you.. thanks for your awesome videos.
That is so exciting! I am so happy for you. Part-time, anytime, and sometime is also a wonderful experience!! You dont have to be full time to have a great time and explore the country.
I just watched this episode today. I enjoy watching this episode since my wife and I both grew up not far from DC. We own an inflatable kayak. It’s a double and weighs in around 70 pounds. Once me and the better half are ready to get on the road, the kayak is part of the weight calculation. It folds up to a regular sized (but heavy) suitcase that you’d probably find a spot in Ruby’s basement.
I agree with your choices. I love museums through. I would add retiring of the colors each evening at Arlington Barracks and the Korean War Monument in the snow.
I love the museums too....and the monuments! I love all of DC. I could stay there for weeks and have a great time. Thanks for the recommendations. I wouldnt have thought of retiring colors. I bet it is something to see.
We had an after-market adjustable (1 1/4-2”) hitch (Curt brand) installed on our new Jeep Cherokee. We then bought Pro Series Eclipse bike rack. Very happy with our choices.
We have a Jeep Cherokee Trail hawk. We purchased it used and the dealer put a hitch on it prior to our purchase. I looked at a video before our purchase, noticed it didn’t have a hitch. Was planning to ask about them adding but they had already added. We only use with bike mount so far. Best wishes, love your videos!
My wife and I love these type of bike trails. We have a bike trail here in Sacramento that runs all the way to the Folsom dam along the American River and you can jump on practically anywhere along the way and ride until your tired. So much fun! 🚴♂️🚴♀️
this video is what I call a great timing award winner. I am going to DC at the end of the month for a few days (31 May to 3 June). Thanks for some additional tips, but I also have one that I am doing that you didn't do. I am going to the Marine Parade at the Marine Barracks on 8th & I. Every Friday evening from May through September I believe, the Marines hold an amazing Parade at their Barracks. You need to place a reservation in and get the approval back to attend, but you can't beat seeing the Marines do their thing.
Love the music! If your looking for hard kayaks instead of inflatable Walmart and Dicks both have no frills kayaks for less then $200 each. If you are just kayaking once in a while a cheap one will do you don’t need a $2000 carbon to go here and there. Just make sure the kayak has foot pedals they help out a lot!
We will go the cheaper route for sure. I think we should rent a few more before buying so we make a better choice when we buy. We have had foot pedals in our previous rentals. We dont plan on being professionals so cheaper will work!
Well, I am glad I left it in! I almost took it out because I just wasnt sure. It was a little frustrating since I was really looking forward to kayaking. But I think it all worked out fine. We ended up having a great time. Oh and yes, you guys need to get up there and explore.
We know about rain. Our last three months in the SE we had 75% of the days with rain. Some days it was plan D, E, F .... It should be easy to find a hitch company where ever you are that can retro fit one to the jeep. Do not get a roof rack as you will need the roof of the Jeep for a rack for the Kayaks :) Another great video... Continue to enjoy the adventure.
Nice video. My father lives in Vienna, VA, not far from where you explored. Loved the reference about Rt whatever-it-was in Indiana and the asphalt trail on bikes! Happy travels.
DC isn't all about the museums and I am glad you pointed out alternative things to do (EXCEPT for kayaking, but you can't win them all). I am playing catch-up with your videos so I have not taken the time to go through the comments, but I will add to your list of places to research for an aftermarket hitch for the Jeep. Most u-haul locations (actual u-haul locations, not the mom and pop places who have u-haul as a side business) sell and install after market hitches. Years ago it was relatively inexpensive compared to an auto dealer or auto shop.
Its very common for jeeps not to have hitchs. Our wrangler also does not have a hitch... its made to crawl up a mountain tho. No hitch needed. ❤ u guys 😎
Fished a bass tourny on the Potomac awhile back was a fun area to explore. Careful on the bikes, also have you seen the ones that fold up now? They are pretty sweet and easy to store.
I like Curt Manufacturing for your hitch. They make hitches that are for your specific vehicle and should be an easy straight forward install. I bought one for my daughters Patriot. Fit like a glove. I like the hitch idea a lot better thank a hatch mounted bike carrier. The hitch gives you a lot more options. A friend of mine has an inflatable kayak for 2. He loves it. Of course, prices vary based on quality. I love it, you tease Phil for a chocolate chip cookie, then stop for cupcakes??? (hahaha, hahahah, hahahah). Love your videos and their content!
Plan A+ for cupcakes next time you are in Georgetown - head to "Baked and Wired". Its about 4/10 of a mile east on M Street then South just across the canal on Thomas Jefferson (Just up the street from Washington Harbor where you were recording. I will be in D.C. Tuesday (currently camping in Holland, Michigan for Tulip Time). Absolutely will find time to go to B&W for cupcakes to take back home on the plane!
I don't think we heard what campground you were staying in around the DC area. We lived there for many years after I retired (USAF) and worked as a contractor. We now live in NC are are looking forward to going back with the camper and were looking for some pointers here. Looked like a nice one. BTW - on the bikes, if you don't want to, or can't, use a hitch rack I would think about a roof rack. We think our hitch rack is one of the best made and even come with a hitch lock and cable locks for the bike. It is made by Kuat, they make Kyak racks too!! We are enjoying the channel, keep up the good work. B&B
We stayed at Fort Belvior. Its an army base (but we wont hold that against them). It is beautiful but a little more expensive than our usual campgrounds at $50 a night but its right on the river.
We have a couple of nice wooden kayaks...love them dont recommend them...we are trying to figure how they are going to fit in the toy hauler that is being built right NOW!!!! Costco has a two person soft kayak..unsure if it is a blow up and they have blow up paddle boards.
I have been mountain biking and hit a rock going up a hill (very quickly) flipped up and over backwards ..thank God for my camel back!!! Joel takes me places I should not go...and I no longer clip in when biking ;)
Another great video. I have passed up the line for DC Donuts, as well. Nobody goes there anymore because it is too crowded. We live in northern VA and I commute by Roosevelt Island everyday but have never been there. We will have to visit. Where did you park the RV while in DC?
I'm inspired to ride my bike again because of you. Look at all the cool things you get to see!! :-) Don't start at Mt. Vernon...good to remember. Hee-hee.
Kayaks? No OpPlan survives first contact??? Metro - - With the family we found that a weekly pass was a great deal. A lot of places are within easy walking distance (easy for us at least) of a station. The National Cathedral is not. It's been a few years but parking at the outlying Metro Stations was free on weekends and a daily Metro Pass used. Arlington - walk back down from the Tomb, find Lee Marvin, Pappy Boyington and Joe Lewis together.
Couple of thoughts on bikes...ebikes which really, really, help going up hills and then folding ebikes which may be able to go on and off trains/buses....creating a new plan ....e...for ebikes. I have ridden but don't have a Brompton folding bike (yet). Brompton folding bikes, I would say, are the best of the best folding bikes. They do have a Brompton ebike model. There are many RUclips videos of people riding their bikes all over the world, they are quite the bike. They are the smallest size and weight when all folded up and so can easily put in basement storage on coach or even a back closet on the floor if needed. These bikes are built and designed for the Great Britain rail commuter, so the bikes fit on the english trains. Putting bikes outside on a hitch, adds to the cleaning before your ride experience.....which may deter riding... The biggest plusses for the Brompton is having the best folding and locking in the fold position design and function, smallest size, lightest weight, proven design and many option choices. Their ebike is just starting to come to the US market while is has been in England for the past year or so. While ebikes have been around for 5-10 years"? the Brompton design is specific for the Brompton keeping to the original design needs of being able to be used by commuters. The disadvantage is $$$$ they are pricey....Of the various RUclips videos I've seen of people with their Brompton I haven't seen one that trashes them....I guess the old adage is true...you get what you pay for.... A comment on the design....I call it a tri-fold design because the back wheel "folds" under the frame while the front wheel is side hinge and folds next to the frame making the width fairly narrower. apologies for the long comment...but it may help folks. here's link for those interested. www.brompton.com
We are planning to stay at Fort Belvoir and going into WA DC over in the end of May 2020. My husband has PSDT and I can't find your You Tube on that trip. So any tips will be great. About parking at the blue line rail. And heard it confusing to get into the rv park?
Highly, highly recommend the metro for anyone who is sight seeing in DC. The traffic is HORRENDOUS and you will spend most of your time in traffic jams. Taxis are also an option but know where you are going and how much is should cost. There is a web site where you can put in the starting and ending addresses and it will tell you how much is will be, it works on zones. I will say that this was about 10 years ago so I don't know if Uber and Lyft have changed that. DC is an amazing place to visit along with the founding fathers' estates.
Chocolate chip Monday that was so funny. I hear you Phill, I will have to start chocolate chip Mondays myself. What RV park were you guys staying at? I am really interested in spending some time in the DC area. Only been there once and didn't have enough time to see everything that I wanted to see. Keep being my favorite retired military RVer couple. See you on the road!
We stayed at Fort Belvior. It is beautiful with large sites and right on the river although it is a little more expensive than we usually prefer but for DC it was worth it. PS: the commissary on this base is the best we have ever seen. The veggies were so fresh and it was huge! See ya out there!
For inflatable kayaks we owned a Sea Eagle RazorLite. 12ft long, about 35lbs. Drop stitch construction on the hull sides and floor. The performance is good. Cost is about $850. However we desired something better and while in Oregon we purchase two Eddyline 12’ Skylark kayaks, about 41lbs, $1399 ea plus the PFD and carbon paddles and rack accessories. Spent a bundle but no sales tax in Oregon. Another portable solution is ORU folding kayaks, 28lbs for the 12’ model but more expensive than our Eddyline kayaks but would’ve been overall cheaper because of not having to buy the car rack system. Check RUclips Kayak Cliff, he has an ORU. Figure out what rack system will work on your Jeep to carrying kayaks before buying kayaks. We are moving up to a Red 37pa soon and have decided the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has the roof real estate for our kayaks as we carry them hull down.. Recommend at least 12 ft kayaks. 10ft are too short to go any distance. I gave up mountain biking trails. First time injured my wrist, second time fell off and scrapped up my leg, third time spent more time walking it. Left the bike at the trailhead and hiked the trail. Much safer for my 67yr old body. Still use them for dirt road rides, rails to trails. What campground are you staying at. I assume you booked months in advance. Thanks.
Thanks for the kayak info. It is very helpful! We did not booked about a month out and stayed on Ft Belvior. It is an army base just outside DC. It is beautiful!
My vote is for the receiver hitch. It is a one-time investment that provides plenty of options. BTW: You two need to remain amateurs. We need more bloopers! :-D
Thank you so much I'm at this and I am very happy that veterans like you give us the inspiration to go on the road. Thank you again. Hope to see you on the road!
You need to check out Calvert County in southern Maryland Chesapeak Bay on one side river on the other side Rv park for Military also! Was My home town till I moved to Ga 15 years ago and still miss the water n board walks Across the river from the navel air base
Great video!!! Get the hitch, you will not be sorry. Police Memorial, great week for it too. Are you staying at a military installation?? We normally stay at Bolling AFB, they all seem good though. Be safe
We were at Fort Belvior. It is a bit more than we usually spend but beautiful! We are already gone so we will miss police week. It would have been great to be there during that time.
Stacie wasn't at all upset, or frustrated about the lack of kayak availability, "sh!t happens". Or in this case sh!t doesn't, (hee hee). Plan B looked like more fun than plan A would have been anyway. Jayman...
I have a Cherokee but have the tow package. Before I got my bike rack (Kuat) I tried to put the bikes inside.....nope, for the Birds. You can add the hitch, if you RUclips it you can see how to remove part of your bumper and add a proper hitch.(mount27 yt channel)
We bought an Intek inflatable kayak that fits in the bay of our fifth wheel bay and only takes about 20 minutes to get set up. Also we got it on Amazon for under $100.00.
@@todayissomeday just shy of 21 years in the Marine Corps, I'll turn 62 in December and plan on getting the Senior Pass, then plan is in June 2021 to retire with just shy of 21 years in Law Enforcement and begin full-time RVing in toy hauler with my Harley. Been slowly watching all your vids, learning alot. Hoping to see you guys on the road before too long. *A Marine should be sworn to the patient endurance of hardships, like the ancient knights; and it is not the least of these necessary hardships to have to serve with sailors* I was on 7 submarines on 8 missions (USS Alexandria twice), in 2 years in the Med. Love those sailors!
@@todayissomeday, it was years ago, so maybe they've improved but... problem 1 was getting it sufficiently inflated. A hand pump won't do it. That means buying a compressor of some kind, which is noisy. Not good for campgrounds. Problem 2 was the shape. The one I had was pointy on the ends but flat on the bottom which made directional control nearly impossible. I was continuously twisting my body to keep it straight, which took away the ability to cruise along enjoying the scenery. I only used the inflatable on flat water, and only a few times. When I bought my 9 foot Old Town Otter I didn't even bother selling the inflatable. I just threw it in the trash. Price is the only saving grace of inflatables, in my opinion. Hardshell models are expensive these days, but you know nothing quite compares to the peace of nature when you're silently slicing through a quiet pond, lake, or channel. And they would store and travel quite nicely on the toad. Love you guys, btw. I'm glad I found your channel. And thank you for your service.
@@Ranch_Hand_Jeff Thank you! And thanks so much for the information! I am really torn between the storage of the inflatables and the quality of the hard shells
DC has so many awesome things to see. I agree with you guys that the changing of the guard and the holocaust museum are must sees. Also the Korean monument and WWII monument are my personal favorites.
Great video ! Sometimes Plan B works out better than Plan A would have. I'm glad you highlighted the Metro - I've always thought it was not well enough known as a great option for getting around vs fighting traffic and looking for parking. Also, it's so fitting that the memorial to TR incorporates his love of the outdoors
I have to agree with you on that one. We LOVE the metro! So easy and less frustrating! In the long run it is cheaper than paying for parking too. You are right Teddy loved the outdoors.
I would install a hitch for bike rack and get roof bars for kayaks. You need to attend a demo day to try out different types. Appomattox river Co. in FarmVille, VA will be having theirs second Saturday in June.
This is exactly what I was thinking! A demo day would be so helpful!!
I second Lynn's statement.
I'm looking forward to taking our bikes out in DC! Thanks for showing that. Bloopers are always great!
I thing you should aim for all 18 miles! Let me know how it goes.
@@todayissomeday Will do :)
Love your sense of humour. At 88 I am too old to RV but I am thoroughly enjoying your adventures. You are a great couple.
Thanks George!
Looks fun adventure. Sorry about the kayaks!
Thats ok! We will kayak it next time we come through the area.
Loved your choices of things to see, add the Korean War memorial- I saw it on a foggy evening and was very dramatic also the Vietnam memorial. Notice that however crowded it may be it is so quiet you could almost hear a pin drop. If it’s still there, the Spy museum is great fun but I understand now you must book it in advance. Used to be a great Army/Navy store at the Crystal City metro stop, don’t know if still there, but worth looking into, it’s small but packed with interesting items.
Oh geesh... Weather here has been torrential for weeks in NE!! I love DC. When I visit my daughter we always like to go to The Birchmere for concerts in Alexandria. Nice smaller venue blugrass, folk, roots music.
That sounds like a wonderful evening.
Hitch rack for bikes for sure. Intek inflatable kayaks or if hard body kayaks use a roof rack for those. Also don't forget the locks for any racks or roof bars. Can have them all keyed the same.
Good call on the locks! Thanks for that.
DC is a place that we have never been and hadn't really considered before! It looks beautiful! Thanks for the video!
Sunset Seekers - DC is a must see! As someone else mentioned....when the Cherry Blossom’s are in bloom, it’s beautiful there. Also, there’s a fairly new development (2017) in DC called The Wharf.....hotels are amazing, strolling beside the waterfront listening to music, watching the boats & Army helicopters on the Potomac, the sunsets, great places to eat and with free bus rides that loops to/from the National Mall...on top of everything else Stacy & Phil did on their Plan B days😉 & their recommendation of Arlington National Cemetery & the Changing of the Guard. Obviously, I’m a big fan of touring DC, as well as a future full-time rv’er, so love following these two.....17 months & counting!
I agree with Wandering Heart, it really is a must see. There is something for everyone. It is so much more to see than the Smithsonian (although those museums are pretty awesome too). I really wanted the video to show there is a lot to see and do here in DC other than museums so you can plan your trip to include many different activities!
I love Dupont & Georgetown. The self guided tour of Embassy Row is pretty Awesome. Kayak story was way too funny.
Lou💚
Those kayaks got us again!! we will get our own eventually.
@@todayissomeday and once you do, you will be unstoppable!
Lou💚
We had the same issue. Our local bike shop told us to go to U-Haul and they will install hitches for bike racks. They sold the hitch to us and installed it for less than $200 total. Works great!
Really! Thanks. We will be checking them out. Great info.
We have used an NOS bike tight glider board inside our van for our bikes. We have had it for 10+ years and the closest thing we can see on the market now is the Saris single track fork mount. Just need to measure the height of your bikes once the front wheel is off to make sure they'd fit inside. Didn't work in our Subaru, but it did work in our CR-V and our Odyssey. Good luck!
Thanks for the info. We will check it out
Inflatable kayaks on Amazon. I just bought a two person for $75. Very good reviews. Folds up into a small package too!
Sweet!
Saris Bones bike carrier for the jeep,no hitch required folds up for storage....safe travels.
Thanks we will pop over and check this one out.
Looks like a fun ride! Steve went on the Honor Flight with his Dad and loved it. So we still have to go so i can see it! We love our kayak! We have a hard 2 person, take apart one and an inflatable paddle board. The nice thing about inflatible is it's easier to store and you don't need a rack.
We really want to get something...eventually!
@@todayissomeday it was a total impulse buy on our part and we don't go often in part because it's a pain to load on top of the car. We hope that once we're on the road we'll go more because we'll choose locations which mke it easy. They are pricy so i get the need to budget it in....it will happen when the time is right! In the meantime i hope you find a rental place that is actually open lol
We have both hard and inflatable kayaks. We got our two person (tandem) about seven years ago from Sea Eagle. We carry it in the trunk. It takes up more room than you think because of paddles, life jackets and other gear. We like them because we can pull up to the water, inflate them, and paddle away. We got it on sale for $199. We wanted a sturdy kayak so we wouldn't get stranded in the middle of somewhere with a leaking boat. The kayak we got includes most things needed to go except for the life jackets. The only real problem we had was in shallow creeks. We worried that the kayak would get snagged on a rock then deflate. It never did. I hate carrying it from the parking lot to the water whether it's inflated or deflated. It is advertised as weighing about 26 pounds without the paddles, pack, repair kit and stuff. I would have bet it weighed 50 pounds with all the gear. We also bought two inexpensive single person hard kayaks for creeks but now use them for most kinds of water because they are so versatile. Most stores have equivalent ones. We carry them on the roof of our Outback. The racks cost more than the kayaks but are well worth the money. Cheap racks are a pain and we had to carry a ladder. We've used the hard ones for more than 5 years. We toyed with the idea of getting better ones but if someone steals these when we are in a restaurant or even overnight at a hotel, we haven't lost much and have gotten a lot of great fun from them. I highly recommend getting carbon fiber (or similar) paddles. They make a world of difference. I didn't notice it until we rented kayaks and used their paddles. My arms were so sore at the end of the day. Good luck and enjoy.
I lived in the area from 1972 to 2011. Great Falls and the C&O canal, pretty and flat cycling if you can handle dirt trail riding. There is also a trail that goes from downtown into Montgomery county, can’t remember the name, so you could start at the bottom in town. Also, even if you are not into museums go to the Air & Space museum out by Dulles. Excellent microbrewery down by the Navy Yard as well. Those cupcakes look like they were yummy!
They were yummy! Thanks for the trail info. I like dirt trails and we are always looking for trails. I love it when we find good ones in the city.
@@todayissomeday Rock Creek Park. I looked it up. The main challenge will be to find parking at your starting/ending point. They used to close some of the roads on Sundays in the summer for cycling, rollerblading, etc. Happy Mother's day, and enjoy!
Welcome to the DMV!!! So much to see and do here it would take months. The bike trails actually go out to the mountains also and they have changed old rail tracks into bike trails. Ft Washington in MD is nice, Old Town Alexandria and all the Monuments.
I agree completely. I love the monuments and museums but there is so much more! I could stay there for weeks and be happy.
Hey there, we finally got our RV home... wohoo ... not full timing it, gotta work a few more years, so we are taking short trips to get used our Tiffin Allegro Red! I’m learning so much from you.. thanks for your awesome videos.
That is so exciting! I am so happy for you. Part-time, anytime, and sometime is also a wonderful experience!! You dont have to be full time to have a great time and explore the country.
I just watched this episode today. I enjoy watching this episode since my wife and I both grew up not far from DC. We own an inflatable kayak. It’s a double and weighs in around 70 pounds. Once me and the better half are ready to get on the road, the kayak is part of the weight calculation. It folds up to a regular sized (but heavy) suitcase that you’d probably find a spot in Ruby’s basement.
That is probably the way we will go. It just seems to make the most sense with our space requirements.
Very interesting. Wish we knew this before hand, thank you for sharing.
I agree with your choices. I love museums through. I would add retiring of the colors each evening at Arlington Barracks and the Korean War Monument in the snow.
I love the museums too....and the monuments! I love all of DC. I could stay there for weeks and have a great time. Thanks for the recommendations. I wouldnt have thought of retiring colors. I bet it is something to see.
We had an after-market adjustable (1 1/4-2”) hitch (Curt brand) installed on our new Jeep Cherokee. We then bought Pro Series Eclipse bike rack. Very happy with our choices.
Thanks for the info!
We have a Jeep Cherokee Trail hawk. We purchased it used and the dealer put a hitch on it prior to our purchase. I looked at a video before our purchase, noticed it didn’t have a hitch. Was planning to ask about them adding but they had already added. We only use with bike mount so far. Best wishes, love your videos!
Thanks! That is cool that they added the hitch for you. It is on our list.
My wife and I love these type of bike trails. We have a bike trail here in Sacramento that runs all the way to the Folsom dam along the American River and you can jump on practically anywhere along the way and ride until your tired. So much fun! 🚴♂️🚴♀️
I love it! You are right it is so much fun!!
this video is what I call a great timing award winner. I am going to DC at the end of the month for a few days (31 May to 3 June). Thanks for some additional tips, but I also have one that I am doing that you didn't do. I am going to the Marine Parade at the Marine Barracks on 8th & I. Every Friday evening from May through September I believe, the Marines hold an amazing Parade at their Barracks. You need to place a reservation in and get the approval back to attend, but you can't beat seeing the Marines do their thing.
I had not heard of this! Thanks for sharing. It sounds amazing. Hopefully, we can catch it our next time through.
Do I like this video? YES! Spes the biking. Good music, lovely nature, clever editing. Cary on.
Thanks!! It was a good time for sure! The bike ride was a lot of fun and a perfect day for it.
Love the music! If your looking for hard kayaks instead of inflatable Walmart and Dicks both have no frills kayaks for less then $200 each. If you are just kayaking once in a while a cheap one will do you don’t need a $2000 carbon to go here and there. Just make sure the kayak has foot pedals they help out a lot!
We will go the cheaper route for sure. I think we should rent a few more before buying so we make a better choice when we buy. We have had foot pedals in our previous rentals. We dont plan on being professionals so cheaper will work!
"Some $hit"...love the realness of your emotions and experiences..DC is definitely a must-see for us at some point in our lives.. great video!!
Well, I am glad I left it in! I almost took it out because I just wasnt sure. It was a little frustrating since I was really looking forward to kayaking. But I think it all worked out fine. We ended up having a great time. Oh and yes, you guys need to get up there and explore.
We know about rain. Our last three months in the SE we had 75% of the days with rain. Some days it was plan D, E, F ....
It should be easy to find a hitch company where ever you are that can retro fit one to the jeep. Do not get a roof rack as you will need the roof of the Jeep for a rack for the Kayaks :)
Another great video... Continue to enjoy the adventure.
Thanks! We are having a great time!!
Nice video. My father lives in Vienna, VA, not far from where you explored. Loved the reference about Rt whatever-it-was in Indiana and the asphalt trail on bikes! Happy travels.
That would be I10 through LA! Its a rough stretch
Tear the cupcake in half horizontally, put the bottom on top of the icing. Viola' less messy. ;-)
We got there early and bought One Dozen for just the wife and I. Pizza place across the street was so good we ate their twice. Hey from Odessa, Texas.
“They don’t start renting kayaks until May 27th or some ...” I could not stop laughing. Great video (as usual).
I almost took it out. I never know if what I should do when my mouth gets the better of me! lol
@@todayissomeday - I love that you left it in. #RealTalk :-)
Be real. Don’t remove that good stuff!
DC isn't all about the museums and I am glad you pointed out alternative things to do (EXCEPT for kayaking, but you can't win them all). I am playing catch-up with your videos so I have not taken the time to go through the comments, but I will add to your list of places to research for an aftermarket hitch for the Jeep. Most u-haul locations (actual u-haul locations, not the mom and pop places who have u-haul as a side business) sell and install after market hitches. Years ago it was relatively inexpensive compared to an auto dealer or auto shop.
Thanks Linda. I will look into the U-haul spot......I had forgotten about them.
One of our favorite places to visit.
I love it here too!
Its very common for jeeps not to have hitchs. Our wrangler also does not have a hitch... its made to crawl up a mountain tho. No hitch needed. ❤ u guys 😎
Hahahaha!
I had one that strapped to the back. It was a pain and didn’t help the paint on the vehicle. I liked the one we have that goes in to the receiver.
Good point! We are leaning toward the hitch for sure.
Fished a bass tourny on the Potomac awhile back was a fun area to explore. Careful on the bikes, also have you seen the ones that fold up now? They are pretty sweet and easy to store.
Those are pretty sweet and fit anywhere!
I like Curt Manufacturing for your hitch. They make hitches that are for your specific vehicle and should be an easy straight forward install. I bought one for my daughters Patriot. Fit like a glove. I like the hitch idea a lot better thank a hatch mounted bike carrier. The hitch gives you a lot more options.
A friend of mine has an inflatable kayak for 2. He loves it. Of course, prices vary based on quality.
I love it, you tease Phil for a chocolate chip cookie, then stop for cupcakes??? (hahaha, hahahah, hahahah).
Love your videos and their content!
You win! I was wondering if anyone would notice that! Hahahaha The cupcake just happened.....much like the cookie. lol
@@todayissomeday
Oh, i notice chocolate chip cookies and cupcakes. A nice treat after walking around and biking!
I agree with the curt reply. My enclave drove tighter, as a bonus. Go ahead and get the pigtail. I opted not to, and have regretted it a few times.
Loved the video the cup cakes had to of good to bad this tablet needs smell a vision
It did smell delicious inside the store that is for sure!
You definitely need kayaks. Try as many as you can before you buy. We settled on Vibe. They make a great yak at a reasonable price.
We want to test out as many as possible. That is why we are trying unsuccessfully to rent.
Plan A+ for cupcakes next time you are in Georgetown - head to "Baked and Wired". Its about 4/10 of a mile east on M Street then South just across the canal on Thomas Jefferson (Just up the street from Washington Harbor where you were recording. I will be in D.C. Tuesday (currently camping in Holland, Michigan for Tulip Time). Absolutely will find time to go to B&W for cupcakes to take back home on the plane!
Thanks so much for the tip! We do love cupcakes!
Check out the Viet Nam Memorial and the USMC Memorial
Great video again. Thanks!
Thanks
I don't think we heard what campground you were staying in around the DC area. We lived there for many years after I retired (USAF) and worked as a contractor. We now live in NC are are looking forward to going back with the camper and were looking for some pointers here. Looked like a nice one. BTW - on the bikes, if you don't want to, or can't, use a hitch rack I would think about a roof rack. We think our hitch rack is one of the best made and even come with a hitch lock and cable locks for the bike. It is made by Kuat, they make Kyak racks too!! We are enjoying the channel, keep up the good work. B&B
We stayed at Fort Belvior. Its an army base (but we wont hold that against them). It is beautiful but a little more expensive than our usual campgrounds at $50 a night but its right on the river.
Awesome video once again guys.
Thanks friend!! Miss you guys
We have a couple of nice wooden kayaks...love them dont recommend them...we are trying to figure how they are going to fit in the toy hauler that is being built right NOW!!!! Costco has a two person soft kayak..unsure if it is a blow up and they have blow up paddle boards.
Wooden kayaks! I bet they are sweet but you are right no room in our rig for them.
I have been mountain biking and hit a rock going up a hill (very quickly) flipped up and over backwards
..thank God for my camel back!!! Joel takes me places I should not go...and I no longer clip in when biking ;)
Phil takes me to those same places! I dont have clips so I guess I am good there.
If you come to New York, visit Teddy's birthplace in Manhattan and Sagamore Hill on Long Island.
We actually did when Phil was stationed on the USS Theodore Roosevelt in '02-'03. Great visit!!!
I was in DC this past week also, but definitely not having fun like y’all. Loved the video! You will get to kayak one day! 🤣
Thanks! Sorry you werent having a blast with us!
Another great video. I have passed up the line for DC Donuts, as well. Nobody goes there anymore because it is too crowded. We live in northern VA and I commute by Roosevelt Island everyday but have never been there. We will have to visit. Where did you park the RV while in DC?
We stayed at Fort Belvior. I was really nice but a bit more expensive than our usual stay.
Great plan B, whoever's taking credit for it! Nice video guys, have fun up there
It really was such a nice day! Plan B for the win!
I'm inspired to ride my bike again because of you. Look at all the cool things you get to see!! :-)
Don't start at Mt. Vernon...good to remember. Hee-hee.
Ha ha! #BlameItOnTheBabies
It was totally their fault! hahahahaha
there are blow-up kayaks for one or 2 people comes with oars and air pump for less than 100.00 and so it will fix in your jeep
That is an option for sure. I have looked at a few of those.
How about a roof rack on the jeep for your bikes? Then when you get a kayak you'd have somewhere to haul it as well?
We will end up with both eventually.......I am thinking.
Kayaks? No OpPlan survives first contact???
Metro - - With the family we found that a weekly pass was a great deal. A lot of places are within easy walking distance (easy for us at least) of a station. The National Cathedral is not. It's been a few years but parking at the outlying Metro Stations was free on weekends and a daily Metro Pass used.
Arlington - walk back down from the Tomb, find Lee Marvin, Pappy Boyington and Joe Lewis together.
Great ideas!
We plan around Mondays, so many things closed in small towns.
This is true
Couple of thoughts on bikes...ebikes which really, really, help going up hills and then folding ebikes which may be able to go on and off trains/buses....creating a new plan ....e...for ebikes. I have ridden but don't have a Brompton folding bike (yet). Brompton folding bikes, I would say, are the best of the best folding bikes. They do have a Brompton ebike model.
There are many RUclips videos of people riding their bikes all over the world, they are quite the bike. They are the smallest size and weight when all folded up and so can easily put in basement storage on coach or even a back closet on the floor if needed. These bikes are built and designed for the Great Britain rail commuter, so the bikes fit on the english trains.
Putting bikes outside on a hitch, adds to the cleaning before your ride experience.....which may deter riding...
The biggest plusses for the Brompton is having the best folding and locking in the fold position design and function, smallest size, lightest weight, proven design and many option choices. Their ebike is just starting to come to the US market while is has been in England for the past year or so. While ebikes have been around for 5-10 years"? the Brompton design is specific for the Brompton keeping to the original design needs of being able to be used by commuters.
The disadvantage is $$$$ they are pricey....Of the various RUclips videos I've seen of people with their Brompton I haven't seen one that trashes them....I guess the old adage is true...you get what you pay for....
A comment on the design....I call it a tri-fold design because the back wheel "folds" under the frame while the front wheel is side hinge and folds next to the frame making the width fairly narrower.
apologies for the long comment...but it may help folks. here's link for those interested. www.brompton.com
Sometimes lazy days are the best days.
Always have a plan "B".
Safe travels and good health.
I agree completely. We all need a good lazy day every now and then.
What kind of bikes do you have? Trying to decide what to get.
We have Treks. Stacy 27 and Phil 29
We are planning to stay at Fort Belvoir and going into WA DC over in the end of May 2020. My husband has PSDT and I can't find your You Tube on that trip. So any tips will be great. About parking at the blue line rail. And heard it confusing to get into the rv park?
We didn't do one specifically on DC...we mentioned in our video when we stayed at Ft Belvoir.
What campground are you staying at?
We were at Fort Belvior.
I-20 in Louisiana use to be rough also.
On Amazon...Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 3 person inflatable Kayak set up with aluminum oars and high output air pump $74.99
Thanks!! Hope you guys are doing well!
You, Me & the RV .... we are thanks, heading to San Diego for a few days. Take care my friends!
Highly, highly recommend the metro for anyone who is sight seeing in DC. The traffic is HORRENDOUS and you will spend most of your time in traffic jams. Taxis are also an option but know where you are going and how much is should cost. There is a web site where you can put in the starting and ending addresses and it will tell you how much is will be, it works on zones. I will say that this was about 10 years ago so I don't know if Uber and Lyft have changed that. DC is an amazing place to visit along with the founding fathers' estates.
I still think the metro is better than uber and lyft in DC unless you are in a down poor! lol
No argument here, it's pretty cheap too!
What type of backpacks are you guys using?
Camelbacks...we love them.
Chocolate chip Monday that was so funny. I hear you Phill, I will have to start chocolate chip Mondays myself. What RV park were you guys staying at? I am really interested in spending some time in the DC area. Only been there once and didn't have enough time to see everything that I wanted to see. Keep being my favorite retired military RVer couple. See you on the road!
We stayed at Fort Belvior. It is beautiful with large sites and right on the river although it is a little more expensive than we usually prefer but for DC it was worth it. PS: the commissary on this base is the best we have ever seen. The veggies were so fresh and it was huge! See ya out there!
@@todayissomeday Thanks for the information. I will be looking forward to visiting DC sometime soon.
@@MrWilfredoSantiago Of course!
Love DC!
For inflatable kayaks we owned a Sea Eagle RazorLite. 12ft long, about 35lbs. Drop stitch construction on the hull sides and floor. The performance is good. Cost is about $850. However we desired something better and while in Oregon we purchase two Eddyline 12’ Skylark kayaks, about 41lbs, $1399 ea plus the PFD and carbon paddles and rack accessories. Spent a bundle but no sales tax in Oregon. Another portable solution is ORU folding kayaks, 28lbs for the 12’ model but more expensive than our Eddyline kayaks but would’ve been overall cheaper because of not having to buy the car rack system. Check RUclips Kayak Cliff, he has an ORU. Figure out what rack system will work on your Jeep to carrying kayaks before buying kayaks. We are moving up to a Red 37pa soon and have decided the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has the roof real estate for our kayaks as we carry them hull down.. Recommend at least 12 ft kayaks. 10ft are too short to go any distance.
I gave up mountain biking trails. First time injured my wrist, second time fell off and scrapped up my leg, third time spent more time walking it. Left the bike at the trailhead and hiked the trail. Much safer for my 67yr old body. Still use them for dirt road rides, rails to trails. What campground are you staying at. I assume you booked months in advance. Thanks.
Thanks for the kayak info. It is very helpful! We did not booked about a month out and stayed on Ft Belvior. It is an army base just outside DC. It is beautiful!
Oh! Hope you saw the Martin Luther King memorial also...all the quotes! Love it!
Awesome video y'all !
Thanks guys!
Cool video thanks, what's next???
Good question!
Is Ft Belvoir military only? Safe travels Thanks
Yes, it is an Army base.
My vote is for the receiver hitch. It is a one-time investment that provides plenty of options. BTW: You two need to remain amateurs. We need more bloopers! :-D
We cant always suck!! lol
You get a hitch at uhaul
Bikes would be safer on a hitch mounted carrier
Thanks! :)
another great show
Thanks for hanging out with us!
Did you stay at a Famcamp while in the DC area
At the army base, Ft Belvior. It was right on the river and beautiful. Its more expensive than our usual stay but worth it.
Thank you so much I'm at this and I am very happy that veterans like you give us the inspiration to go on the road. Thank you again. Hope to see you on the road!
@@mitchelldebord179 You are welcome! Hope to see ya out there.
You need to check out Calvert County in southern Maryland Chesapeak Bay on one side river on the other side Rv park for Military also! Was My home town till I moved to Ga 15 years ago and still miss the water n board walks Across the river from the navel air base
Thanks for the suggestion! I am adding it to my must see map
Hey, fun video! Where did you stay? (RV park)
We stayed at Ft Belvior just outside DC. It is an army base.
Great video!!! Get the hitch, you will not be sorry. Police Memorial, great week for it too. Are you staying at a military installation?? We normally stay at Bolling AFB, they all seem good though.
Be safe
We were at Fort Belvior. It is a bit more than we usually spend but beautiful! We are already gone so we will miss police week. It would have been great to be there during that time.
wow, impressive what a workout
I was a really sweet ride and the perfect day for it.
Where did y'all camp in DC?
At the army base, Ft Belvior. It was right on the river and beautiful. Its more expensive than our usual stay but worth it.
hello from Cabot Arkansas great video I'm with Phil kayak and more cupcake LOL
Hahaha!
Camping world has kayaks on sale for under $180. 10 ft.
:)
If you like biking, ought do the C&O … three days HINT: Start on the western end …. down hill
Stacie wasn't at all upset, or frustrated about the lack of kayak availability, "sh!t happens". Or in this case sh!t doesn't, (hee hee). Plan B looked like more fun than plan A would have been anyway. Jayman...
I really wanted to kayak! We havent been in forever. Oh well plan B really was a great day so I am not complaining.
I have a Cherokee but have the tow package. Before I got my bike rack (Kuat) I tried to put the bikes inside.....nope, for the Birds. You can add the hitch, if you RUclips it you can see how to remove part of your bumper and add a proper hitch.(mount27 yt channel)
We hate throwing the bikes into the back of the Jeep. We will have to do something and we are leaning toward the hitch.
Where did you guys stay?
At the army base, Ft Belvior. It was right on the river.
@@todayissomeday Did you make reservations?
@@n6nvr Yes, they fill up
We bought an Intek inflatable kayak that fits in the bay of our fifth wheel bay and only takes about 20 minutes to get set up. Also we got it on Amazon for under $100.00.
That sounds cool. We are thinking inflatables.
Plan B: get a 2-person kayak; half the $$; half the storage; all the fun. ;-)
Now that is using your noodle!
Yay for Cup Cakes, The Metro and nay for no kayaks!
The cupcakes totally rocked
Visiting the Pentagon? it is neat
I do hope you paid homage to our brothers and sisters at the Vietnam Wall Memorial
We have been there several times and recently visited the traveling wall when it was in San Antonio. It is featured in one of our videos.
Take in an Evening Parade at the Marine Barracks at 8th and I.
It is on the list for our next visit.
@@todayissomeday just shy of 21 years in the Marine Corps, I'll turn 62 in December and plan on getting the Senior Pass, then plan is in June 2021 to retire with just shy of 21 years in Law Enforcement and begin full-time RVing in toy hauler with my Harley.
Been slowly watching all your vids, learning alot. Hoping to see you guys on the road before too long.
*A Marine should be sworn to the patient endurance of hardships, like the ancient knights; and it is not the least of these necessary hardships to have to serve with sailors*
I was on 7 submarines on 8 missions (USS Alexandria twice), in 2 years in the Med.
Love those sailors!
As a Shellback, I'll take #7. Maybe they could setup a "Pollywog Ale", non-alcoholic for kids. ;-)
I agree!!
You should rode the whole trail after stopping at the cup cake shop
Lol
right!! baahahahahaha
Do NOT get inflatables. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt.
Oh no! Why? Do they not last? Poor quality?
@@todayissomeday, it was years ago, so maybe they've improved but... problem 1 was getting it sufficiently inflated. A hand pump won't do it. That means buying a compressor of some kind, which is noisy. Not good for campgrounds. Problem 2 was the shape. The one I had was pointy on the ends but flat on the bottom which made directional control nearly impossible. I was continuously twisting my body to keep it straight, which took away the ability to cruise along enjoying the scenery. I only used the inflatable on flat water, and only a few times. When I bought my 9 foot Old Town Otter I didn't even bother selling the inflatable. I just threw it in the trash. Price is the only saving grace of inflatables, in my opinion. Hardshell models are expensive these days, but you know nothing quite compares to the peace of nature when you're silently slicing through a quiet pond, lake, or channel. And they would store and travel quite nicely on the toad.
Love you guys, btw. I'm glad I found your channel. And thank you for your service.
@@Ranch_Hand_Jeff Thank you! And thanks so much for the information! I am really torn between the storage of the inflatables and the quality of the hard shells
DC has so many awesome things to see. I agree with you guys that the changing of the guard and the holocaust museum are must sees. Also the Korean monument and WWII monument are my personal favorites.
Those are great as well!
If you are still in the area we are located in Cecil County MD. I have a hatch back bike carrier you can have for free.
We are already out of the area. Thanks so much for the offer!