Come inauguration, tourists are expected to pour into the the National Mall, thicker than molasses.
Locals looking to take to the streets can avoid the crowds by watching from their city hall, or seek safe haven in local bars.
Here are some last minute ideas to watch the inauguration in comfort and without spending a ton:
Old Town Alexandria: the city will broadcast the swearing-in ceremony and parade live on jumbotron screens in Market Square at City Hall. The broadcast takes place from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., with live entertainment from 12 - 2:30 p.m. 301 King St., Alexandria, Va. Visit http://visitalexandriava.com/Inauguration/ for more information.
Rockville: There will be a viewing of the inauguration and related festivities in the council chambers of City Hall. The event will be broadcast on television monitors and the big screen. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 111 Maryland Ave., Rockville, Md. For more information, call 240-314-5000.
Station 9: DC for Obama is hosting an Inauguration Viewing Event at Station 9. The restaurant offers two levels, as well as plenty of T.V.s and projections, for a more comfortable option for watching the day's events. $10 will get you entry and food throughout the day. Doors open at 9 a.m. 1438 U St., Washington, D.C.
The Carolina Kitchen Bar: Settle in at Carolina Kitchen's and watch the inauguration on one of their 14 flat screen T.V.s. Grab one of the restaurant's new "Obama drinks" before you toast its namesake. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 6501 American Blvd., Hyattsville, Md. Call 301-927-2929 for more information.
Ultrabar: Inauguration and Parade Viewing Party. This nightclub opens its doors early for an exclusive viewing event. It will feature an Obama inspired brunch, live entertainment, complimentary drinks, and multiple T.V.s broadcasting the swearing-in and parade. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ultra Bar and Lounge. 911 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. For tickets, visit http://thepresidentialsuite.eventbrite.com/.
Politics and Prose: View the speech, toast the president, and linger as you watch the parade and interact with other attendees. They are also offering an inauguration sale for members. The event is free and begins at 11 a.m. 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. Visit http://www.politics-prose.com for more information.
The Diner: This 24-hour spot will be open for inauguration, serving food while you watch the screens they'll have set for the swearing-in and parade. 2453 18th St. NW, Washington, DC.
DAR Constitution Hall: Inauguration viewing hosted by Best Buy. Free and open to the public. Begins at 8 a.m. 1776 D St. NW, Washington, D.C. Call 202-628-1776 for more information.
More Inauguration Links for Locals:
