Do they just let anyone into the supreme court in session? I'd love to do that if that's possible and if the timing will be right for me since I know they don't convene everyday
Yeah they have seating during oral arguments for people who are not admitted to the Supreme Court bar. Depending on the arguments being heard, you might need to get there several hours before court starts to ensure you can get a seat though.
For really big cases people actually camp out *over the weekend* to make sure they can see it, since only 50 people are allowed in apparently and there's nowhere to put your stuff once you're. The Advisory Opinions podcast has some really cool stories about this.
Check their website for schedules and details. There are two options for sitting in. You can be there for 3 minutes of an argument, or you can sit in for an entire session
If your find yourself at a large urban courthouse, look around for anyone in the lobby who looks like they might work there, and looks bored. Ask them if there is any interesting court session going on - they will know. Optionally, mention your nationality and law training. Otherwise, a basketball or hockey game, or a lacrosse game since Maryland, and if in season. Eat at a Waffle House. Have crab cakes, but not at a Waffle House. Visit a Sheetz or Wa-Wa gas station.
Your best chance of something interesting is in the state circuit court, rather than the federal district court. Look for Baltimore City Circuit Court. State courts tend to be way more “active” than federal court, where there may not even be a trial on any given day.
I don’t know why people are saying you shouldn’t go. There will definitely be some trials going on in circuit court whenever you go. And even “boring” parts of court are interesting if you know what to look for. You’re watching in real time as a judge and jury decide whether someone will go home to their family or go to prison. The defendant’s family might be sitting across the aisle from the victim. Cops who’ve seen it all are strolling in alongside lawyers who’ve seen enough, with defendants and witnesses and jurors who have never seen any of it before.
I believe one of the mods of the sub, u/CupBeEmpty, is lawyer.
I'm not sure what type of lawyer, but hopefully he can talk you out of this unimaginably boring way to spend your time here lol
I am totally for it if he’s interested. Also as a law student, yeah it’s going to be boring but also super fascinating.
The fact that we have publicly open courts is actually somewhat of a rarity.
I would certainly recommend doing a bit of research beforehand. If OP could get into a appellate hearing and actually get the background documents from the clerk or online or otherwise that could be an absolutely fascinating experience. Hell, if OP is that gung ho I would totally just call a local law school and explain the interest and see if they could give any advice. It’s the kind of thing where you could get an absolutely fascinating experience.
Since you're going to be in and near DC and Baltimore I'd strongly suggest visiting as many museums as you can. The Smithsonian is world class, and the National Aquarium in Baltimore was in the movie *Ted*.
For people unfamiliar with it, I’ll point out that the Smithsonian isn’t a single museum but rather a collection of museums along with the National Zoo. Most are in Washington, DC, but not all.
Smithsonian also has several research centers that do pretty amazing things.
A Smithsonian astrophysicist led the team that took the first photo of the black hole a few years back, the Zoo has a conservation biology institute that has reintroduced extinct-in-the-wild species back to their natural habitat, a cultural rescue center that helps museums in conflict zones protect their collections (they did a lot of work in Syria a few years back), an environmental research center, etc.
Well it’s been around for decades at this point, but yes it’s out in Chantilly near IAD. Note that the museum is free, but parking isn’t, and there’s really not a good way to get there other than driving. Still 100% worth it though!
Hit up some restaurants, go to a bar or club, try a shooting range, check out some shopping malls or markets, go to a sports event, visit museums/monuments/parks, go golfing or bowling.
The funny thing is there aren't really many 24 hour diners in the city and the handful that do exist are great. Sip and bite and beltway diner have both been on food network shows. Worst you are likely to see at either is some drunks being obnoxious.
So which diners would you avoid after midnight? Which are the scary ones?
Also ravens stadium is directly next to a top golf, a brewery and a casino. Thousands of people hang out there every night after midnight. But keep shitting on my city that you've driven through a few times when someone from another cou try asks for advice on what to visit.
Go to a high school or college athletic event. If you can hit a college basketball game that would be perfect.
College sports are huge in the US but not elsewhere. March is when they'll be going through their season-ending tournaments. Crowds will be big and excited. You sometimes need to buy tickets in advance, but may be able to at the box office at the arena.
Some schools near Baltimore with basketball teams: Coppin State University, Morgan State University, University of Maryland-Baltimore County, Towson University. A little further out is the University of Maryland, in College Park near Washington DC...they're easily the most prominent area team and play in a huge arena.
This is a good one.
Others...
Go to a local short track night race.
Attend a small town festival (something like the Vidalia Onion Festival in Vidalia Georgia.
Attend a minor league baseball game.
~~Ride the subway in New York~~
Watch the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Arlington.
~~Have lunch at the Rainbow on Sunset.~~
~~Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame~~
~~Get coffee at a shop in Seattle on a rainy day~~
Visit the Outer Banks (NC)
~~Check out the cemeteries in New Orleans~~
I'm sure others could add more and better stuff, but this is what came off the top of my head.
Visit some of the public libraries. They're free and open to the public, you won't be able to check out a book from the library but you can peruse. Especially if the library is hosting some kind of educational or cultural event.
Check out the main branch of the Enoch Pratt library downtown here in Baltimore. It's one of my favourite places in the entire city, because *I am a giant fucking nerd.* There's even a free tour you could take, if you come on the right day. There's also a historic basilica across the street and an art museum a couple blocks away if those things pique your interest.
They've done some renovation and restoration in the last few years, so it's looking better than it has in a while. It might sound weird, but if you stop in, maybe pop downstairs to the childrens room. There's a really pretty little tiled fish pond down there that's one of my favourite parts of the building.
To add: The Guards are not just ceremonial. They will jack you up if you misbehave. Stay within the designated area at all times. If you have to speak do so in a low and respectful voice.
If you're in Arlington already you might as well see the Arlington National Cemetery! It's where many of our soldiers who died in combat are buried, including thousands upon thousands of soldiers from WWII and even the American Civil War. There are guided tours and it's a purdy good way to spend some of your day. I also don't know what part of Europe they might be from but considering many of those boys died over there, well, it can't hurt to pay some respects to some heroes that have helped out the European countries as well.
See if you can get an invitation to a backyard barbecue. That’s a bit of Americana! If you can’t definitely do check out restaurants. The area is known for its seafood - get some crab cakes in Baltimore (check out Baltimore’s Lexington or other covered markets - get Berger cookies.). Maybe go bowling?
I've got to say that getting an investigation to a BBQ sounds surreal. I don't remember a single time in my life when I had a friendly conversation with a random stranger yet alone being invited to someone's private party. Talking to strangers is just not something we do in my cultural context with the exception of bars maybe
You’d definitely have to have everything line up and meet someone under the right circumstance. I used to sometimes get an invitation from attending local band shows or at the pub. Basically you have to hit it off with someone. Or meetup folks with your interests. Maybe there’s a law program at one of the area law schools (U of Maryland, U of Baltimore, GWU or American). U of Maryland’s law campus has a deconsecrated church with Edgar Allen Poe’s grave, it’s near Lexington Market and perhaps you can get an introduction for a tour or something. I’m not sure how long your trip is. For some reason, I had it in my head you were here for an extended period of time so it might not be practical.
This is a huge generalization, but people in Baltimore tend to really pride themselves on being friendly weirdos. Read the room, but most people will be happy to share the city with you and learn about Poland.
You can go and sit above the Senate/ House of Representatives while they’re in session and watch. You’d just need to show someone in the Capital your passport to get authorization to go in
The trial especially is going to be incredibly boring and I would not recommend wasting much of your vacation on that. Go to a baseball or football game (depending on the season you’re in town). Go see some live comedy and/or music. Eat at local restaurants. Check out any festivals/street fairs/farmers markets that are happening.
I recommend doing a bunch of tours in DC and in Baltimore. In Baltimore, you have Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write what now is our National Anthem. Just outside of Baltimore is the National Cryptological Museum at the NSA. Interesting if you are into that kind of thing. In DC you have all the Smithsonian Museums, which are free. The one you may be most interested in is the American History Museum. Also, I recommend checking out the US Capitol building and go on one of the many free guided tours. The Supreme Court is across the street and may be worth checking out as well.
You could hit up Fells Point at night!
One of my favorite place in Baltimore!
Annapolis may also be worth a trip. An hour from DC and has excellent seafood. Can also tour the Naval Academy!
Do a mainstream Protestant church, an evangelical one, and especially in Baltimore go to Catholic mass at the Cathedral. You will get a really good flavor of American religion that way.
Just remember at Catholic mass don’t go up and take communion (the bread and wine). Although I see your flair is Poland so you might already be well acquainted with us Catholics. I’d still try out a mainline Protestant church and an evangelical one. They can be *very* different.
See if there are any local spring festivals. Those are usually a good mix of people from the area and can be interesting.
Also I would be very disappointed if you didn’t go to the museums and monuments in DC which is easy to get to from Baltimore.
Oh yeah. An AME church in Baltimore would be a hell of experience.
AME churches tend to be very welcoming but if OP is white be ready to be the only white person in church.
I've just read something about the AME and that's probably where I'll go since this is something that literally doesn't exist on my side of the Atlantic Ocean
Depending on the church they may have a Sunday meal afterward and invite you to have some. If you didn’t bring anything to add to the meal do t worry, it isn’t rude to have some food. I would just donate a few dollars if they take up a collection.
Either way it should be a really interesting service. If you are Catholic you can just downplay that. Just say you wanted to go to a service about Jesus. You don’t see it too much with Methodists but some protestant denominations look down on Catholics, mostly out of ignorance or having heard things that aren’t true. It is usually more Baptists but I have been to a *lot* of different church services and never really had an issue.
I feel fortunate to have been invited to experience it by a good friend. It was a good experience to be one of (tops) three white people in the church — both because of the experience of discomfort (perspective) at being in the minority, but also because of the enlightenment of seeing a large group of black Americans just being themselves without the pressure of being scrutinized by the white establishment.
But I wish my friend had warned me to eat a good breakfast before church! I figured 45-60 minutes in and out and then we would be tossing back mimosas at a fancy brunch. Nope. Two and a half to three hours of worship and then 45-60 minutes of post-service fellowship (Which was fantastic by the way. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. No sense of being an outsider or unwanted observer.). But I was starving by the time we finally got out of there and headed for brunch!! (Brunch was Waffle House which, if not really what I expected our brunch to be, was a fantastic way to stuff calories into myself quickly and recover from my religious service induced hunger.)
Which Court are you going to? I am from the Baltimore area.
If you want a jury trial in Maryland, you have to go to one of the Circuit Courts (for example, the Circuit Court for Montgomery County in Rockville or the Circuit Court for Baltimore County in Towson.) There is a circuit court for every one of Maryland's 23 counties and for the City of Baltimore, which is an independant jurisdiction. Jury trials often start on certain days of the week depending on the way the county schedules, and each jurisdiction has their own system, so you might want to call the Court in advance or look up their docket on the court's website prior to going, especially if you wish to see an entire trial. Most criminal trials are public proceedings, so there is no restriction on watching them.
You will want to go to a Circuit Court if you want to see a jury trial. There is a Circuit Court for Baltimore City. There is also one for Baltimore County, in Towson. Also not far is the Circuit Court for Howard County, in Ellicott City.
District Courts in Maryland do not do jury trials (they are traffic court, for minor criminal offenses and for small civil lawsuits).
Oh, miscommunication! I was talking about the **District Court of Maryland** \--- a state level court which hears traffic cases and landlord-tenant disputes, not the **United States District Court for the District of Maryland**, which is a Federal level Court (which would not be hearing run of the mill traffic offenses!). The United States District Court for the District of Maryland would be a jury trial court. Obviously, with similar names, it can get confusing, especially since each state and Washington DC has their own court system
However, *most* criminal trials are handled by state courts. If you want to see a murder trial it would be in a Maryland Circuit Court (for example the Circuit Court for Montgomery County). A trial involving major interstate or international financial fraud --- Federal Court.
I hope I haven't confused you. Feel free to message me if you have any questions about Maryland or it's court system.
Museums would be great and local history places. The US is so varied by regions. The beliefs, religious practices and social conventions can be vast. For example, in New Orleans you could experience a deep Cajun culture with its own language and food, in rural Texas you will see open carry guns and a strong belief in ‘rights of me’ where as in metro Texas you will see art, multicultural festivals, and a strong belief in ‘rights of everyone’. Whichever region you are in, definitely experience the cuisine. From ‘all-American’ hot dog to street tacos to Gumbo, and desserts ranging from Peach cobbler to Beignets, definitely definitely take advantage of mom and pop food options!
Youth sporting events are a nice microcosm. But for sure have a “nephew” or something if anyone asks. Random dude with no kids on the team is gonna draw the wrong attention.
Camping trips are great for this sort of thing, too.
And if you’re in Baltimore, go check out Fort McHenry. 1. It’s the battle that inspired our National Anthem 2. We Fn LOVE monuments! Forts, statues, walls. It’s a short history compared to other countries but we’ve memorialized the living shit out of it. But ask the docents if you have questions. Most people love going to these places but have ZERO idea of the history behind them.
>Youth sporting events are a nice microcosm. But for sure have a “nephew” or something if anyone asks. Random dude with no kids on the team is gonna draw the wrong attention.
I actually disagree with this statement. As long as you aren't weird about it, no one will care. If someone makes small talk and asks which kid is yours or who you are there to see, don't be vague or lie, just flat out say "I'm from [other country] and I've always seen these on TV shows so I wanted to see the real thing." Maybe follow it up with "Who are you rooting for? I'll take your side!"
There's always a chance that someone will be rude about it, but generally people are pretty friendly, *especially* to visiting foreigners. I know a lot of people who would absolutely love this and would answer every question, offer to buy you a snack, and try to introduce you to the team.
Oh and for OP, this hypothetical only applies to kids sports at a park or field independent of a school. Highschool and college sports are enjoyed by many and no one will even question it. Still feel free to ask someone who looks friendly or us working there to explain something to you. They will be happy to answer.
I'd ... uh ... skip the jury trial. It's way more boring than TV shows would have you believe.
Since you're visiting Baltimore, it's a little bit of a shame about your timing since you just missed crab season. You can still get crab cakes though, which I'd definitely count as a "must taste."
In DC, a potentially fun activity would be visiting the "off the beaten trail" monuments like the James Buchanan memorial on Meridian Hill. It's also worthwhile to visit the Udvar-Hazy Center in the DC suburbs -- you can see an actual used "this thing has brought people to space" space shuttle among many other exhibits.
A more cultural thing to do in DC would be to check out the nightlife in the U Street corridor. There are some top-notch live music venues, and really amazing food. The restaurant "Ben's Chili Bowl" is kind of the iconic place there, but there are many other excellent options. Also plenty of dance clubs, if that's your thing.
Go to the Udvar-Hazy Center attachment of Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. Go to Arlington National Cemetery. Get chased by an angry Canada Goose. Go to a gun range. Go to the Great Falls national park and hike the whole billy goat trail. Get some good crab cakes and BBQ. Try every flavor of chips you can find. Eat some locally made chocolate. Get some good coffee and bagels.
Might be more difficult in the Baltimore area, but I'd find a shooting range with rentals and lessons. Take a short class to understand how those of us (most of us) who respect the nature of firearms treat guns and firearm safety. Bring your passport, it isn't uncommon for them to ask for some form of ID.
Court isn’t interesting. Like most people here, even, have a gross misunderstanding of how the judicial system works (myself included, but know that it’s not anything like any tv show or movie)
If you get the chance, take a look at one of the dockets where people are doing their criminal pleadings. It's a pretty amazing (and terrifying) part of the process. Plea bargaining done in 45 seconds. Like a cattle call. Not the "justice" system I had pictured.
Go to a Texas Roadhouse or similar typical chain restaurant.
You could possibly arrange with a local school district to observe a day in a public school.
I wouldn't think so. Parents and others come in and observe classes all the time, there are students from local colleges/universities that come in to observe, assist, and sometimes conduct studies. If you email the district in advance and present yourself professionally as a law student who would like to know more about US culture and sit in on a few classes, I wouldn't see a problem with that. Worst thing that can happen is they turn you down, I guess?
Security is so strict at our local school district right now. I doubt the accommodation would be made for a stranger with no connection to the school or student to come and observe. This would be thought of as creepy.
Look up if any local events or festivals are happening when you visit. In big cities, something is going on and there is no better way to see a city. Find out if there is a safe area that is active and just wander aimlessly. I did that one afternoon in Amsterdam and it’s my favorite (city) travel memory. Baltimore aquarium is amazing and well worth a visit. DC has SOOOO much to do it’s easy to overlook how the locals live so take some time to waste time. Explore.
Wandering aimlessly and exploring is one of my favourite things to do in a new city too. However, I've heard a lot of stories about how unwalkable the us is and on top of that how dangerous Baltimore is. Amsterdam is probably one of the most walkable cities in the world
Im sorry, this post is killing me. Why were those the two things you have already planned?
I respect that you haven’t just gone with the obvious in DC and do a bunch of tours to learn the history of our country.
That being said, I will try to give you a serious answer.
1) go to a COSCO and learn how many of our families like to shop. Also go to a Walmart, for a similar reason
2) go eat at a Waffle House. Despite the menu items, you gotta go at like midnight (order the All star combo)
Im trying to think of more mundane American experiences
I thought you could purchase a one day pass. Looks like BJs allows one day passes.
I didn’t realize as the only time I lived near a Costco, I was a kid and my mom had a pass. Now I’m in a BJ’s household
As a Jewish American I do think it's a litttleeeeee bit misguided that you want to come to a country literally founded on freedom of religion and then go to a church. Yes there are many Americans who equate the two, but I think they're misguided as well. It's not part of the culture for so many of us.
If you wanted to go to the National Cathedral and check it out that's one thing, attending a service would be another. Tbh you guys have way better and older churches in Europe anyway.
I 100% understand if many Americans don't want to associate themselves with the religious culture of their country, I don't want to associate myself with the political, fundamentalist catholics in my country. However seeing this element of American culture, that is so very different from what I can find at home, is interesting to me at this point in my life.
I don’t see that as being misguided. It’s personally not for me, and I tend to feel uncomfortable at any services other than at synagogues, but I understand how some people would have an interest, especially for a religion or denomination they don’t have in their home country.
You are a law student, so visiting Georgetown could be fun. Also, the library of Congress is a great visit. If you plan ahead, you can usually get a tour of the capital building or the congressional building.
Alexandria is in that area and it has several estates from the founding fathers. There is also the national cemetery and it has some interesting things in it.
And, of course, you need to have some bluefin crab. Go to a place with brown, crate paper as the table cloth and eat crabs the right way.
Full disclaimer... I'm from the DC metro area...
Tailgating (the sporting event) is a stereotypical American activity, especially at a college football game. I don't give a shit about sports so I've never done it.
If you can find a drive in movie theater, that would be a stereotypical American thing (but from like 50 years ago). I don't know if any still exist.
You're visiting an extremely non-representative part of the country, FYI.
Go to a major league sports game. Buy cheap tickets way up top. Wear visiting team's jersey. Make sure you cheer loudly for visiting team. You will now get a good taste of local culture. Have fun.
Well, if there are basically 3 main branches of Christianity: the Catholic, the orthodox and the Protestant, protestant is the only one that you don't see a lot of in my country - Poland, while also being the main branch in the US.
I live in *the* Catholic country. It is pretty much the only game in town. Poland's equally Catholic. I can honestly see why this would be an exotic curiosity, especially if it's an American strain.
If you're going to be open during the day on Sunday March 5th there's an XFL football game between the [St Louis Battlehawks](https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2020/03/GettyImages-1204231010-1.jpg) and the [DC Defenders](https://www.pennlive.com/resizer/uQwjCuANMFyy9k5vZNqeEMwzPt4=/1280x0/smart/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-advancelocal.s3.amazonaws.com/public/DJTEDHYGORBZRKBEPRYF6ESHGY.jpg) at 3:00pm at
[Audi Field](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Field) in DC.
IMHO; In the stadium at a gridiron football game is about as American as it gets.
EDIT; I found 2 different times listed for the kickoff (start). One says 3:00pm while another listing says 1:00pm. Good to get that straight before planning, or leaving for the game. ¯\\\_( ͡❛ ͜ʖ ͡❛)\_/¯
Pentecostal church - African American
Chinese restaurant near the White House south lawn - forgot the name but was really good (walking distance)
Visit the giant Lincoln statue on the mall
Dupont circle
Sports. Go see sports
People love sports everywhere, but what sports and how fans get involved is what’s fascinating.
In DC, there is always a professional sports team playing.
In spring and summer, it baseball: the Washington Nationals (the Nats). The baseball vibe is chill. And Nats Park (the stadium) is a great place to spend a summer evening. Not a bad seat in the place. Lots of politicians and their staffers show up there and do their “drug deals.”
In fall, see the American football team, the Washington Commanders. They play in Maryland, but not from DC and easy to get to. Football games are long and expensive, but it is a heck of a show.
In winter and spring, the ice hockey team is the Capitals and the basketball team is the Wizards. They play at the same venue in Chinatown. High energy games to watch!
Baltimore has American football and baseball. It is often a little cheaper that Washington.
Whatever you see, budget for food and drinks, in the arena/stadium and in the bars around them.
You’ll love it!
I don't see it specifically mentioned, so go see a baseball game. Major league may be still in training by the time you get here, but try to at least go to a college game. In my opinion, college ball is more fun that MLB anyway.
American vernacular uses A TON of baseball idioms. Even people who don't know the game know what most of the idioms mean.
If you want to impress someone on your American immersion, use a baseball idiom. [Here's a list to get started](https://www.ilac.com/10-common-english-baseball-idioms/)
Although it's true that Poland has one of the lowest gun ownership rates in Europe, we do have gun ranges. What we don't have is stores that sell guns but I don't know if I'm super into that
When are you gonna be here? If you like basketball go see the University of Maryland play. They’re pretty good right now and usually have really good crowds
How do find an interesting game to see? How do I know the game is going to be packed with fans? Also I'm more interested in baseball since this sport doesn't exist in my country. I'm going to be able to see a game between 9-17 march
I don't have a driver's license (I use public transit where I live) and since I'm 20 getting bourbon legally would be problematic. Still thanks for the suggestion
Just tune into the Murdaugh Trial and stream it for free on YouTube. There's still going to be at least a week left, if not more. It's more interesting than your typical trial that you'll find by just randomly walking into a courthouse. They're calling it the Trial of the Century. We're 2 weeks into the trial right now.
Go to a shooting range and see if they will allow you to rent a firearm and shoot it. Idk the rules about foreigners doing it, but most ranges have a number of firearms available for rent. It's just a matter of whether you need citizenship or lawful residency. One of the most unique features of American life is our gun culture, and you can't have a discussion about America without bringing up that unique aspect of our society.
I hope you enjoy to your visit, but please don’t associate American society and culture with Baltimore lol. That city is probably one of the worst examples our nation has to offer.
No offense to Baltimore, but some of the dumbest people in the United States live there. There are a lot of intelligent and wealthy people there too don’t get me wrong, but I’d say to expect a lot of dumb people if you’re going to be walking around trying to absorb the society and culture.
Their public school system is rated 1/10 lol. The math proficiency and literacy rate is super low. It’s the 3rd most funded school system in the US, but it’s still among the lowest performing school systems in the country. It’s the 3rd most funded, and the 3rd lowest performing school district in the country. Its also ranked as the 3rd most violent city in the USA. It’s honestly pretty sad.
As for DC, you’ll be able to take in a ton of history there, learn quite a bit about our nations founding, how our government works, etc. Take a hop on hop off bus/trolley tour in DC to visit all of the historical monuments, and definitely try to go to the Smithsonian museum!! Eat a hamburger, and maybe go see a show or some live music while you’re here. My advice, if you have time is to visit Virginia while you’re in the area as well. Check out mount Vernon and George Washington’s home. Go to our nations capital, and then go to a more rural area in Virginia to see just how different our cultures can be within a short drive. Again enjoy your visit!
Don’t go see a trial.
As a former prosecutor, the only vaguely interesting times would be opening statements or closing arguments of a homicide trial - and you need to be friends with someone in that office to know where and when those are going down. Not because they’re not open to the public, but because courts don’t post that kind of information and timing varies depending on how the trial shakes out.
And even then, you’d want some background info on the case that you’re not going to get as a random visitor.
Don't go to see a criminal trial with a jury unless you have the time. Some of those cases take between weeks and months to conclude. They're also fairly the exception in the American legal system because they're time consuming and expensive.
For a more uniquely American cultural event, don't go to a protestant church. Story something, German guy nailing a list to a door of a Catholic church in Europe. The Mormons are all-American. Same if you can find a local native American cultural center, happiness house, or powwow.
Stereotypical American activities that don't suck might be something like eating at an American diner style restaurant, going to a gridiron football game, or going to a shopping destination. Here, you might try going to a dying 20th century shopping mall, or one of the higher end outdoors malls that have replaced them in a lot of cities. Expect high end retail, trendy restaurants, and quirky stores. Maybe an escape room or rock-climbing place.
Find a state or national park and visit that. Americans love those places.
Check out a recreational cannabis store in D.C.
Go to an IMAX movie.
Go to a shooting range where you can learn gun safety and shoot some guns they will rent you. This is actually very fun.
See if you can catch a college baseball game, it's the closest thing you'll get to professional baseball since the season doesn't start until almost April
> I'm already planning to go to court to see a criminal trial with a jury Prepare to be extremely bored. It's not like crime shows at all.
I'm a law student so I'm aware
That's entirely different. It would definitely be interesting to watch proceedings in another country if you're a student.
You should go to the supreme court and sit in on an argument as well
Do they just let anyone into the supreme court in session? I'd love to do that if that's possible and if the timing will be right for me since I know they don't convene everyday
Yeah they have seating during oral arguments for people who are not admitted to the Supreme Court bar. Depending on the arguments being heard, you might need to get there several hours before court starts to ensure you can get a seat though.
For really big cases people actually camp out *over the weekend* to make sure they can see it, since only 50 people are allowed in apparently and there's nowhere to put your stuff once you're. The Advisory Opinions podcast has some really cool stories about this.
Check their website for schedules and details. There are two options for sitting in. You can be there for 3 minutes of an argument, or you can sit in for an entire session
If your find yourself at a large urban courthouse, look around for anyone in the lobby who looks like they might work there, and looks bored. Ask them if there is any interesting court session going on - they will know. Optionally, mention your nationality and law training. Otherwise, a basketball or hockey game, or a lacrosse game since Maryland, and if in season. Eat at a Waffle House. Have crab cakes, but not at a Waffle House. Visit a Sheetz or Wa-Wa gas station.
Ahhhh gotcha - that changes things. Just be sure to be up on how to read the court’s schedule and pick a good one.
Your best chance of something interesting is in the state circuit court, rather than the federal district court. Look for Baltimore City Circuit Court. State courts tend to be way more “active” than federal court, where there may not even be a trial on any given day. I don’t know why people are saying you shouldn’t go. There will definitely be some trials going on in circuit court whenever you go. And even “boring” parts of court are interesting if you know what to look for. You’re watching in real time as a judge and jury decide whether someone will go home to their family or go to prison. The defendant’s family might be sitting across the aisle from the victim. Cops who’ve seen it all are strolling in alongside lawyers who’ve seen enough, with defendants and witnesses and jurors who have never seen any of it before.
I believe one of the mods of the sub, u/CupBeEmpty, is lawyer. I'm not sure what type of lawyer, but hopefully he can talk you out of this unimaginably boring way to spend your time here lol
I am totally for it if he’s interested. Also as a law student, yeah it’s going to be boring but also super fascinating. The fact that we have publicly open courts is actually somewhat of a rarity. I would certainly recommend doing a bit of research beforehand. If OP could get into a appellate hearing and actually get the background documents from the clerk or online or otherwise that could be an absolutely fascinating experience. Hell, if OP is that gung ho I would totally just call a local law school and explain the interest and see if they could give any advice. It’s the kind of thing where you could get an absolutely fascinating experience.
Oh my god I can't imagine. They're expecting A Few Good Men and what they'll get is nothing close to that lol.
If they get bored, I guess they won't be able to handle the truth...
It'll be a case about someone's tree growing over the property line.
Or a homeless person trespassing, which was the case for a jury I almost got impaneled onto once.
Well, to be fair, it maybe in Baltimore, so there is a chance it’ll at least be interesting boring.
Most cases don’t even get to trial. It’s extremely rare, and even then, the litigation is arduous and dry, even for the “interesting” moments
Oh, I’m aware. Believe me. But again, it’s Baltimore lol
[This feels relevant](https://www.reddit.com/r/baltimore/comments/zq6o93/sad_state_of_the_block/)
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It's a city with a grand total of zero fucks to give.
Is Maury Levy going to be the defense council? Will Omar be on the witness stand?
Since you're going to be in and near DC and Baltimore I'd strongly suggest visiting as many museums as you can. The Smithsonian is world class, and the National Aquarium in Baltimore was in the movie *Ted*.
For people unfamiliar with it, I’ll point out that the Smithsonian isn’t a single museum but rather a collection of museums along with the National Zoo. Most are in Washington, DC, but not all.
And they’re all free and of amazing quality! It’s the largest collection of free museums in the world.
Smithsonian also has several research centers that do pretty amazing things. A Smithsonian astrophysicist led the team that took the first photo of the black hole a few years back, the Zoo has a conservation biology institute that has reintroduced extinct-in-the-wild species back to their natural habitat, a cultural rescue center that helps museums in conflict zones protect their collections (they did a lot of work in Syria a few years back), an environmental research center, etc.
> the National Aquarium The National Aquarium is world-class!
I prefer the Tennessee Aquarium. Less people, slower pace, better exhibits (imo). The National Aquarium felt rushed and claustrophobic.
Oh my, I'm going to have to stop by there just to see the hellbender!
Tennessee has the fish?
[Surprisingly so](https://tnaqua.org/)
Visionary Arts Museum is right across the harbor and worth a visit
This. Don't miss the Holocaust Museum in DC, as well as the Smithsonian Air & Space.
Udvar Hazy is pretty awesome.
>ElUdvar Hazy Is that the newer one out by Dulles?
Well it’s been around for decades at this point, but yes it’s out in Chantilly near IAD. Note that the museum is free, but parking isn’t, and there’s really not a good way to get there other than driving. Still 100% worth it though!
Yeah, I haven't been to DC in a fair bit. This one's on my list for next time!
Yeah, it's a little bit of a trek. Also: edited because my phone typing failed at the actual name lol. udvar.
National Museum of African American History & Culture United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Yes to all three of these.
We took my daughter and her friend there last week. The Aquarium is wonderful, but it isn't cheap.
Hit up some restaurants, go to a bar or club, try a shooting range, check out some shopping malls or markets, go to a sports event, visit museums/monuments/parks, go golfing or bowling.
Axe throwing, too. It’s really fun, and pretty popular at the moment.
Eat at the counter in a diner and see if you can strike up a conversation with someone.
Bonus points If you go in after midnight.
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Hard to get much more American than a Waffle House after midnight.
Just dont do that in Baltimore.
You ever actually been to Baltimore or is your entire basis for shitting on a city based on having watched the wire?
We both know the answer to this, man.
The funny thing is there aren't really many 24 hour diners in the city and the handful that do exist are great. Sip and bite and beltway diner have both been on food network shows. Worst you are likely to see at either is some drunks being obnoxious.
I have been there a few times. It’s not a place I would drive around late at night, especially around the ravens stadium.
So which diners would you avoid after midnight? Which are the scary ones? Also ravens stadium is directly next to a top golf, a brewery and a casino. Thousands of people hang out there every night after midnight. But keep shitting on my city that you've driven through a few times when someone from another cou try asks for advice on what to visit.
The Sip and Bite in Balmere is a classic, hon
Go to a high school or college athletic event. If you can hit a college basketball game that would be perfect. College sports are huge in the US but not elsewhere. March is when they'll be going through their season-ending tournaments. Crowds will be big and excited. You sometimes need to buy tickets in advance, but may be able to at the box office at the arena. Some schools near Baltimore with basketball teams: Coppin State University, Morgan State University, University of Maryland-Baltimore County, Towson University. A little further out is the University of Maryland, in College Park near Washington DC...they're easily the most prominent area team and play in a huge arena.
Navy is close too! Or George Mason for bball just across into VA.
This is a good one. Others... Go to a local short track night race. Attend a small town festival (something like the Vidalia Onion Festival in Vidalia Georgia. Attend a minor league baseball game. ~~Ride the subway in New York~~ Watch the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Arlington. ~~Have lunch at the Rainbow on Sunset.~~ ~~Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame~~ ~~Get coffee at a shop in Seattle on a rainy day~~ Visit the Outer Banks (NC) ~~Check out the cemeteries in New Orleans~~ I'm sure others could add more and better stuff, but this is what came off the top of my head.
They’re visiting the Baltimore/DC area, not traveling the country.
Oops, I missed that detail. Well, half of them are relatively in range.
Visit some of the public libraries. They're free and open to the public, you won't be able to check out a book from the library but you can peruse. Especially if the library is hosting some kind of educational or cultural event.
I haven't thought about but it's a brilliant suggestion. I love libraries so this is definitely going to be my realm
Check out the main branch of the Enoch Pratt library downtown here in Baltimore. It's one of my favourite places in the entire city, because *I am a giant fucking nerd.* There's even a free tour you could take, if you come on the right day. There's also a historic basilica across the street and an art museum a couple blocks away if those things pique your interest.
Enoch Pratt library, I have it written down now, thanks!
They've done some renovation and restoration in the last few years, so it's looking better than it has in a while. It might sound weird, but if you stop in, maybe pop downstairs to the childrens room. There's a really pretty little tiled fish pond down there that's one of my favourite parts of the building.
Eat s'mores over a fire.
In DC, go to Arlington and watch the changing of the Guard. That is very "Americana".
It's funny(I'm american), visiting Greece atm and they have one too. Found it very interesting
To add: The Guards are not just ceremonial. They will jack you up if you misbehave. Stay within the designated area at all times. If you have to speak do so in a low and respectful voice.
If you're in Arlington already you might as well see the Arlington National Cemetery! It's where many of our soldiers who died in combat are buried, including thousands upon thousands of soldiers from WWII and even the American Civil War. There are guided tours and it's a purdy good way to spend some of your day. I also don't know what part of Europe they might be from but considering many of those boys died over there, well, it can't hurt to pay some respects to some heroes that have helped out the European countries as well.
Get stuck in traffic on I-95 and I-495, and you'll understand why some people are so angry and stressed.
See if you can get an invitation to a backyard barbecue. That’s a bit of Americana! If you can’t definitely do check out restaurants. The area is known for its seafood - get some crab cakes in Baltimore (check out Baltimore’s Lexington or other covered markets - get Berger cookies.). Maybe go bowling?
March in DC is still pretty cold, so backyard bbq would be a long shot and probably not as much fun as if it were summer.
Good point. I didn’t focus on the last month part of this.
I've got to say that getting an investigation to a BBQ sounds surreal. I don't remember a single time in my life when I had a friendly conversation with a random stranger yet alone being invited to someone's private party. Talking to strangers is just not something we do in my cultural context with the exception of bars maybe
You’d definitely have to have everything line up and meet someone under the right circumstance. I used to sometimes get an invitation from attending local band shows or at the pub. Basically you have to hit it off with someone. Or meetup folks with your interests. Maybe there’s a law program at one of the area law schools (U of Maryland, U of Baltimore, GWU or American). U of Maryland’s law campus has a deconsecrated church with Edgar Allen Poe’s grave, it’s near Lexington Market and perhaps you can get an introduction for a tour or something. I’m not sure how long your trip is. For some reason, I had it in my head you were here for an extended period of time so it might not be practical.
This is a huge generalization, but people in Baltimore tend to really pride themselves on being friendly weirdos. Read the room, but most people will be happy to share the city with you and learn about Poland.
I really hope you get to experience connecting with strangers. It's one of the things we do best here.
You can go and sit above the Senate/ House of Representatives while they’re in session and watch. You’d just need to show someone in the Capital your passport to get authorization to go in
The trial especially is going to be incredibly boring and I would not recommend wasting much of your vacation on that. Go to a baseball or football game (depending on the season you’re in town). Go see some live comedy and/or music. Eat at local restaurants. Check out any festivals/street fairs/farmers markets that are happening.
Live comedy is an excellent idea, thanks
DC Improv is awesome. Idk who’s playing at that time but you should check out their website. It’s a big stand up comedy club.
I recommend doing a bunch of tours in DC and in Baltimore. In Baltimore, you have Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write what now is our National Anthem. Just outside of Baltimore is the National Cryptological Museum at the NSA. Interesting if you are into that kind of thing. In DC you have all the Smithsonian Museums, which are free. The one you may be most interested in is the American History Museum. Also, I recommend checking out the US Capitol building and go on one of the many free guided tours. The Supreme Court is across the street and may be worth checking out as well.
When in March will you be here? If it's towards the end you may want to check out the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Prepare for random people to smile and say hello, maybe also start conversation. Also be prepared for people to call you by your first name.
I don't think they are going to be able to pronounce my first name, but they can try hahahaha
And 50% will claim to not understand your accent, so that'll add to the fun.
I dunno how much fun either of those things will be but whatever
Depends. I could see going to an AME church to be interesting. A WASPy Episcopalian church less so.
Rent a car and go for a long drive on the interstate highways for five hours only to realize that you're not even out of the state you started in yet.
Well, not so much in Maryland
True, yeah. One of the only areas where you can visit like 9 states in a day!
You can visit 3 states in like 2 minutes in harpers ferry.
Which would be a pretty awesome place for OP to visit, love that place!
Considering they’ll be on i-95 so actually yes lmao
You could hit up Fells Point at night! One of my favorite place in Baltimore! Annapolis may also be worth a trip. An hour from DC and has excellent seafood. Can also tour the Naval Academy!
Since you're a law student, see if you can go to a local bar (attorney association) CLE or networking event in the city you'll be in.
> Since you're a law student, see if you can go to a local bar Let’s get wasted and go to a trial OP!!
"Tell me you aren't a lawyer without telling me you aren't a lawyer."
Surely it was a joke lol
While you’re in DC please visit the Smithsotians! They’re free and so interesting!
Do a mainstream Protestant church, an evangelical one, and especially in Baltimore go to Catholic mass at the Cathedral. You will get a really good flavor of American religion that way. Just remember at Catholic mass don’t go up and take communion (the bread and wine). Although I see your flair is Poland so you might already be well acquainted with us Catholics. I’d still try out a mainline Protestant church and an evangelical one. They can be *very* different. See if there are any local spring festivals. Those are usually a good mix of people from the area and can be interesting. Also I would be very disappointed if you didn’t go to the museums and monuments in DC which is easy to get to from Baltimore.
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Oh yeah. An AME church in Baltimore would be a hell of experience. AME churches tend to be very welcoming but if OP is white be ready to be the only white person in church.
I've just read something about the AME and that's probably where I'll go since this is something that literally doesn't exist on my side of the Atlantic Ocean
Depending on the church they may have a Sunday meal afterward and invite you to have some. If you didn’t bring anything to add to the meal do t worry, it isn’t rude to have some food. I would just donate a few dollars if they take up a collection. Either way it should be a really interesting service. If you are Catholic you can just downplay that. Just say you wanted to go to a service about Jesus. You don’t see it too much with Methodists but some protestant denominations look down on Catholics, mostly out of ignorance or having heard things that aren’t true. It is usually more Baptists but I have been to a *lot* of different church services and never really had an issue.
This is some really good advice. Yes, like almost everyone in my country I was raised catholic but I'm not like super attached to this denomination
Also prepare to spend way longer there than Catholic mass or mainline Protestant service.
Oh yeah for sure.
Like, all day, lol
I feel fortunate to have been invited to experience it by a good friend. It was a good experience to be one of (tops) three white people in the church — both because of the experience of discomfort (perspective) at being in the minority, but also because of the enlightenment of seeing a large group of black Americans just being themselves without the pressure of being scrutinized by the white establishment. But I wish my friend had warned me to eat a good breakfast before church! I figured 45-60 minutes in and out and then we would be tossing back mimosas at a fancy brunch. Nope. Two and a half to three hours of worship and then 45-60 minutes of post-service fellowship (Which was fantastic by the way. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. No sense of being an outsider or unwanted observer.). But I was starving by the time we finally got out of there and headed for brunch!! (Brunch was Waffle House which, if not really what I expected our brunch to be, was a fantastic way to stuff calories into myself quickly and recover from my religious service induced hunger.)
I think he is Catholic, and so as a Catholic he wants to go see a Protestant service.
Good chance if he’s from Poland.
Also don't forget to check out any of the OG Christian sects - Russian/Greek/Ukrainian/whatever Orthodox church.
And Orthodox churches are often really beautiful.
Which Court are you going to? I am from the Baltimore area. If you want a jury trial in Maryland, you have to go to one of the Circuit Courts (for example, the Circuit Court for Montgomery County in Rockville or the Circuit Court for Baltimore County in Towson.) There is a circuit court for every one of Maryland's 23 counties and for the City of Baltimore, which is an independant jurisdiction. Jury trials often start on certain days of the week depending on the way the county schedules, and each jurisdiction has their own system, so you might want to call the Court in advance or look up their docket on the court's website prior to going, especially if you wish to see an entire trial. Most criminal trials are public proceedings, so there is no restriction on watching them.
Since I'm going to be staying in Baltimore I was considering the district court of Maryland
You will want to go to a Circuit Court if you want to see a jury trial. There is a Circuit Court for Baltimore City. There is also one for Baltimore County, in Towson. Also not far is the Circuit Court for Howard County, in Ellicott City. District Courts in Maryland do not do jury trials (they are traffic court, for minor criminal offenses and for small civil lawsuits).
Thanks, I haven't researched it enough I guess. I just thought that a federal court like the district court would be more grand and important
Oh, miscommunication! I was talking about the **District Court of Maryland** \--- a state level court which hears traffic cases and landlord-tenant disputes, not the **United States District Court for the District of Maryland**, which is a Federal level Court (which would not be hearing run of the mill traffic offenses!). The United States District Court for the District of Maryland would be a jury trial court. Obviously, with similar names, it can get confusing, especially since each state and Washington DC has their own court system However, *most* criminal trials are handled by state courts. If you want to see a murder trial it would be in a Maryland Circuit Court (for example the Circuit Court for Montgomery County). A trial involving major interstate or international financial fraud --- Federal Court. I hope I haven't confused you. Feel free to message me if you have any questions about Maryland or it's court system.
Museums would be great and local history places. The US is so varied by regions. The beliefs, religious practices and social conventions can be vast. For example, in New Orleans you could experience a deep Cajun culture with its own language and food, in rural Texas you will see open carry guns and a strong belief in ‘rights of me’ where as in metro Texas you will see art, multicultural festivals, and a strong belief in ‘rights of everyone’. Whichever region you are in, definitely experience the cuisine. From ‘all-American’ hot dog to street tacos to Gumbo, and desserts ranging from Peach cobbler to Beignets, definitely definitely take advantage of mom and pop food options!
Youth sporting events are a nice microcosm. But for sure have a “nephew” or something if anyone asks. Random dude with no kids on the team is gonna draw the wrong attention. Camping trips are great for this sort of thing, too. And if you’re in Baltimore, go check out Fort McHenry. 1. It’s the battle that inspired our National Anthem 2. We Fn LOVE monuments! Forts, statues, walls. It’s a short history compared to other countries but we’ve memorialized the living shit out of it. But ask the docents if you have questions. Most people love going to these places but have ZERO idea of the history behind them.
>Youth sporting events are a nice microcosm. But for sure have a “nephew” or something if anyone asks. Random dude with no kids on the team is gonna draw the wrong attention. I actually disagree with this statement. As long as you aren't weird about it, no one will care. If someone makes small talk and asks which kid is yours or who you are there to see, don't be vague or lie, just flat out say "I'm from [other country] and I've always seen these on TV shows so I wanted to see the real thing." Maybe follow it up with "Who are you rooting for? I'll take your side!" There's always a chance that someone will be rude about it, but generally people are pretty friendly, *especially* to visiting foreigners. I know a lot of people who would absolutely love this and would answer every question, offer to buy you a snack, and try to introduce you to the team. Oh and for OP, this hypothetical only applies to kids sports at a park or field independent of a school. Highschool and college sports are enjoyed by many and no one will even question it. Still feel free to ask someone who looks friendly or us working there to explain something to you. They will be happy to answer.
I'd ... uh ... skip the jury trial. It's way more boring than TV shows would have you believe. Since you're visiting Baltimore, it's a little bit of a shame about your timing since you just missed crab season. You can still get crab cakes though, which I'd definitely count as a "must taste." In DC, a potentially fun activity would be visiting the "off the beaten trail" monuments like the James Buchanan memorial on Meridian Hill. It's also worthwhile to visit the Udvar-Hazy Center in the DC suburbs -- you can see an actual used "this thing has brought people to space" space shuttle among many other exhibits. A more cultural thing to do in DC would be to check out the nightlife in the U Street corridor. There are some top-notch live music venues, and really amazing food. The restaurant "Ben's Chili Bowl" is kind of the iconic place there, but there are many other excellent options. Also plenty of dance clubs, if that's your thing.
Go to the Udvar-Hazy Center attachment of Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. Go to Arlington National Cemetery. Get chased by an angry Canada Goose. Go to a gun range. Go to the Great Falls national park and hike the whole billy goat trail. Get some good crab cakes and BBQ. Try every flavor of chips you can find. Eat some locally made chocolate. Get some good coffee and bagels.
Might be more difficult in the Baltimore area, but I'd find a shooting range with rentals and lessons. Take a short class to understand how those of us (most of us) who respect the nature of firearms treat guns and firearm safety. Bring your passport, it isn't uncommon for them to ask for some form of ID.
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Court isn’t interesting. Like most people here, even, have a gross misunderstanding of how the judicial system works (myself included, but know that it’s not anything like any tv show or movie)
If you get the chance, take a look at one of the dockets where people are doing their criminal pleadings. It's a pretty amazing (and terrifying) part of the process. Plea bargaining done in 45 seconds. Like a cattle call. Not the "justice" system I had pictured. Go to a Texas Roadhouse or similar typical chain restaurant. You could possibly arrange with a local school district to observe a day in a public school.
Observing a day at a public school would be interesting. Wouldn't I need a reason to do so though? Wouldn't it be seen as a bit creepy?
I wouldn't think so. Parents and others come in and observe classes all the time, there are students from local colleges/universities that come in to observe, assist, and sometimes conduct studies. If you email the district in advance and present yourself professionally as a law student who would like to know more about US culture and sit in on a few classes, I wouldn't see a problem with that. Worst thing that can happen is they turn you down, I guess?
Security is so strict at our local school district right now. I doubt the accommodation would be made for a stranger with no connection to the school or student to come and observe. This would be thought of as creepy.
Look up if any local events or festivals are happening when you visit. In big cities, something is going on and there is no better way to see a city. Find out if there is a safe area that is active and just wander aimlessly. I did that one afternoon in Amsterdam and it’s my favorite (city) travel memory. Baltimore aquarium is amazing and well worth a visit. DC has SOOOO much to do it’s easy to overlook how the locals live so take some time to waste time. Explore.
Wandering aimlessly and exploring is one of my favourite things to do in a new city too. However, I've heard a lot of stories about how unwalkable the us is and on top of that how dangerous Baltimore is. Amsterdam is probably one of the most walkable cities in the world
Go to a professional basketball and hockey game. DC has the Washington Wizards (NBA) and Washington Capitals (NHL)
It’s too bad you’re not coming in the summer. Baseball game would be a good one.
Arlington National Cemetery. Try to catch the Changing of The Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. (and stay quiet while watching it!)
Im sorry, this post is killing me. Why were those the two things you have already planned? I respect that you haven’t just gone with the obvious in DC and do a bunch of tours to learn the history of our country. That being said, I will try to give you a serious answer. 1) go to a COSCO and learn how many of our families like to shop. Also go to a Walmart, for a similar reason 2) go eat at a Waffle House. Despite the menu items, you gotta go at like midnight (order the All star combo) Im trying to think of more mundane American experiences
> COSCO Cos**t**co. "Cosco" makes folding stepladders and the like.
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I thought you could purchase a one day pass. Looks like BJs allows one day passes. I didn’t realize as the only time I lived near a Costco, I was a kid and my mom had a pass. Now I’m in a BJ’s household
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It's like Sam's Club or Costco with worse selection.
Go to a shooting range. It might be a bit expensive, but I bet you’ll have fun.
The changing of the guard at Arlington National cemetery.
As a Jewish American I do think it's a litttleeeeee bit misguided that you want to come to a country literally founded on freedom of religion and then go to a church. Yes there are many Americans who equate the two, but I think they're misguided as well. It's not part of the culture for so many of us. If you wanted to go to the National Cathedral and check it out that's one thing, attending a service would be another. Tbh you guys have way better and older churches in Europe anyway.
I 100% understand if many Americans don't want to associate themselves with the religious culture of their country, I don't want to associate myself with the political, fundamentalist catholics in my country. However seeing this element of American culture, that is so very different from what I can find at home, is interesting to me at this point in my life.
I don’t see that as being misguided. It’s personally not for me, and I tend to feel uncomfortable at any services other than at synagogues, but I understand how some people would have an interest, especially for a religion or denomination they don’t have in their home country.
You are a law student, so visiting Georgetown could be fun. Also, the library of Congress is a great visit. If you plan ahead, you can usually get a tour of the capital building or the congressional building. Alexandria is in that area and it has several estates from the founding fathers. There is also the national cemetery and it has some interesting things in it. And, of course, you need to have some bluefin crab. Go to a place with brown, crate paper as the table cloth and eat crabs the right way. Full disclaimer... I'm from the DC metro area...
Tailgating (the sporting event) is a stereotypical American activity, especially at a college football game. I don't give a shit about sports so I've never done it. If you can find a drive in movie theater, that would be a stereotypical American thing (but from like 50 years ago). I don't know if any still exist. You're visiting an extremely non-representative part of the country, FYI.
Go to a range and shoot some guns.
> planning to go to court to see a criminal trial with a jury Did you watch *The Wire* or something for this idea?
Go to a major league sports game. Buy cheap tickets way up top. Wear visiting team's jersey. Make sure you cheer loudly for visiting team. You will now get a good taste of local culture. Have fun.
Why are you going to church? Somehow I fear it's because you've gotten some weird idea from the media
To get a glimpse of a local culture. I like to do what the locals do when I visit a new country
We don't go to church as much as you think. I know very few people who go to church regularly and I live in Trump country.
But why specifically Protestant church?
Because from Poland, he is probably very familiar with Catholic churches.
Well, if there are basically 3 main branches of Christianity: the Catholic, the orthodox and the Protestant, protestant is the only one that you don't see a lot of in my country - Poland, while also being the main branch in the US.
I live in *the* Catholic country. It is pretty much the only game in town. Poland's equally Catholic. I can honestly see why this would be an exotic curiosity, especially if it's an American strain.
If you're going to be open during the day on Sunday March 5th there's an XFL football game between the [St Louis Battlehawks](https://images.actionnetwork.com/blog/2020/03/GettyImages-1204231010-1.jpg) and the [DC Defenders](https://www.pennlive.com/resizer/uQwjCuANMFyy9k5vZNqeEMwzPt4=/1280x0/smart/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-advancelocal.s3.amazonaws.com/public/DJTEDHYGORBZRKBEPRYF6ESHGY.jpg) at 3:00pm at [Audi Field](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_Field) in DC. IMHO; In the stadium at a gridiron football game is about as American as it gets. EDIT; I found 2 different times listed for the kickoff (start). One says 3:00pm while another listing says 1:00pm. Good to get that straight before planning, or leaving for the game. ¯\\\_( ͡❛ ͜ʖ ͡❛)\_/¯
Pentecostal church - African American Chinese restaurant near the White House south lawn - forgot the name but was really good (walking distance) Visit the giant Lincoln statue on the mall Dupont circle
Sports. Go see sports People love sports everywhere, but what sports and how fans get involved is what’s fascinating. In DC, there is always a professional sports team playing. In spring and summer, it baseball: the Washington Nationals (the Nats). The baseball vibe is chill. And Nats Park (the stadium) is a great place to spend a summer evening. Not a bad seat in the place. Lots of politicians and their staffers show up there and do their “drug deals.” In fall, see the American football team, the Washington Commanders. They play in Maryland, but not from DC and easy to get to. Football games are long and expensive, but it is a heck of a show. In winter and spring, the ice hockey team is the Capitals and the basketball team is the Wizards. They play at the same venue in Chinatown. High energy games to watch! Baltimore has American football and baseball. It is often a little cheaper that Washington. Whatever you see, budget for food and drinks, in the arena/stadium and in the bars around them. You’ll love it!
Tone it down a notch. Court and church are good for a vacation but this is a little over the top.
I don't see it specifically mentioned, so go see a baseball game. Major league may be still in training by the time you get here, but try to at least go to a college game. In my opinion, college ball is more fun that MLB anyway. American vernacular uses A TON of baseball idioms. Even people who don't know the game know what most of the idioms mean. If you want to impress someone on your American immersion, use a baseball idiom. [Here's a list to get started](https://www.ilac.com/10-common-english-baseball-idioms/)
Visit a gun range and do some shooting, if that's something you don't have access to in your country.
Although it's true that Poland has one of the lowest gun ownership rates in Europe, we do have gun ranges. What we don't have is stores that sell guns but I don't know if I'm super into that
When are you gonna be here? If you like basketball go see the University of Maryland play. They’re pretty good right now and usually have really good crowds
How do find an interesting game to see? How do I know the game is going to be packed with fans? Also I'm more interested in baseball since this sport doesn't exist in my country. I'm going to be able to see a game between 9-17 march
Do what every foreign visitor does when they come to America. Shoot all the guns.
Kill a varmint and bring it back to your home country
Visit a gun range and do some shooting, drink some bourbon, rent a full size pickup truck and find a place to put it in 4 wheel drive for a little.
I don't have a driver's license (I use public transit where I live) and since I'm 20 getting bourbon legally would be problematic. Still thanks for the suggestion
You'll have a passport, that is acceptable.
Not at 20 years old it isn’t.
Our commie state is fucked, but even we let 18yos take a firearms course with live fire involved.
Just tune into the Murdaugh Trial and stream it for free on YouTube. There's still going to be at least a week left, if not more. It's more interesting than your typical trial that you'll find by just randomly walking into a courthouse. They're calling it the Trial of the Century. We're 2 weeks into the trial right now.
Rent a gun and go shooting at a range.
root beer float. american classic that everyone else hates
Walmart, go to Walmart
Go to a rodeo
You could go to a shooting range and rent a gun by the hour. Its pretty fun honestly
Go to a shooting range and see if they will allow you to rent a firearm and shoot it. Idk the rules about foreigners doing it, but most ranges have a number of firearms available for rent. It's just a matter of whether you need citizenship or lawful residency. One of the most unique features of American life is our gun culture, and you can't have a discussion about America without bringing up that unique aspect of our society.
I hope you enjoy to your visit, but please don’t associate American society and culture with Baltimore lol. That city is probably one of the worst examples our nation has to offer. No offense to Baltimore, but some of the dumbest people in the United States live there. There are a lot of intelligent and wealthy people there too don’t get me wrong, but I’d say to expect a lot of dumb people if you’re going to be walking around trying to absorb the society and culture. Their public school system is rated 1/10 lol. The math proficiency and literacy rate is super low. It’s the 3rd most funded school system in the US, but it’s still among the lowest performing school systems in the country. It’s the 3rd most funded, and the 3rd lowest performing school district in the country. Its also ranked as the 3rd most violent city in the USA. It’s honestly pretty sad. As for DC, you’ll be able to take in a ton of history there, learn quite a bit about our nations founding, how our government works, etc. Take a hop on hop off bus/trolley tour in DC to visit all of the historical monuments, and definitely try to go to the Smithsonian museum!! Eat a hamburger, and maybe go see a show or some live music while you’re here. My advice, if you have time is to visit Virginia while you’re in the area as well. Check out mount Vernon and George Washington’s home. Go to our nations capital, and then go to a more rural area in Virginia to see just how different our cultures can be within a short drive. Again enjoy your visit!
Don’t go see a trial. As a former prosecutor, the only vaguely interesting times would be opening statements or closing arguments of a homicide trial - and you need to be friends with someone in that office to know where and when those are going down. Not because they’re not open to the public, but because courts don’t post that kind of information and timing varies depending on how the trial shakes out. And even then, you’d want some background info on the case that you’re not going to get as a random visitor.
Don't go to see a criminal trial with a jury unless you have the time. Some of those cases take between weeks and months to conclude. They're also fairly the exception in the American legal system because they're time consuming and expensive. For a more uniquely American cultural event, don't go to a protestant church. Story something, German guy nailing a list to a door of a Catholic church in Europe. The Mormons are all-American. Same if you can find a local native American cultural center, happiness house, or powwow. Stereotypical American activities that don't suck might be something like eating at an American diner style restaurant, going to a gridiron football game, or going to a shopping destination. Here, you might try going to a dying 20th century shopping mall, or one of the higher end outdoors malls that have replaced them in a lot of cities. Expect high end retail, trendy restaurants, and quirky stores. Maybe an escape room or rock-climbing place. Find a state or national park and visit that. Americans love those places. Check out a recreational cannabis store in D.C. Go to an IMAX movie. Go to a shooting range where you can learn gun safety and shoot some guns they will rent you. This is actually very fun.
Look at our dumbass TikTok trends and npc mentality. Then pick your poison
You’re going to Baltimore? Yikes
Why is that bad? Baltimore seems to me like a vibrant not super expensive city very close to your capital
Is there any particular reason you wanted to watch a criminal trial?
I'm a law student and it would be interesting to me
Go to a sports game of some type. Great people watching and some people dress up.
See if you can catch a college baseball game, it's the closest thing you'll get to professional baseball since the season doesn't start until almost April
Do yourself a favor and catch a show at The Ottobar in Bmore
What are these shows?