As we approach the two-week mark of the government shutdown, the reality of the situation seems to be setting in. Here at the 4E, we are working hard to provide you with all the information you need to understand what is actually going on. Personally, I did not know what the government shutdown entailed and have been in a constant state of utter confusion.

Since October is a big month for D.C. visitors (especially with parents’ weekend fast-approaching), everyone and their mother will want to go sight-seeing and museum-hopping. So, what are we suppose to do when all of the typical D.C. sights are closed? Do not fear, the 4E is here! Here are the D.C. Sights: Shutdown Edition.

The Spy Museum The Spy Museum is one of the newest (and open-est) museums in D.C. currently. This is because The Spy Museum is privately owned and, therefore, costs money to enter. But trust me, it’s worth it. The Spy Museum is an amazing experience and a great alternative while the Smithsonian is closed.

The Newseum The Newseum is another privately owned D.C. museum with a lot to offer. They have a fantastic exhibit of every Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph and their back stories as well as sections of the Berlin Wall (you can even touch a piece of it) and much much more!

Phillips Collection Located near the Dupont metro station, the Phillips Collection is America’s first museum of modern art. The price is affordable (no more than $12 and children under 18 are free) and the museum offers works from many artists including Vincent van Gogh.

U Street Corridor U Street is a popular commercial neighborhood in north D.C. that provides a fantastic walk-around area for residents and visitors alike. U Street is also the center of D.C.’s music scene. Hungry? Head to Ben’s Chili Bowl, a D.C. landmark and a very popular location for Georgetown students. Also, the African American Civil War Memorial is still open, so go check it out!

Georgetown’s Vietnam Memorial Unless you do not walk through SoReS, you probably have seen the replica of the Vietnam Memorial that Georgetown has erected. Instead of running by it, stop and check it out! Less tourists, easier commute. Thank you shutdown.

Looking to have a little fun with the shutdown? Go down to the monuments and pretend to be one of the tourists (since everyone seems to be ignoring the shutdown perimeters anyway). The Instagram possibilities are limitless. Don’t forget to document your trip with a picture of the government shutdown flyers.

Have fun, Hoyas!