Old Post Office Pavilion

In 1899, a magnificent stone structure was built in the notorious neighborhood known as Murder Bay between the White House and the United States Capitol. The Old Post Office's tower reached a height of 315 feet, and was the second tallest landmark on the Washington skyline after the 555-foot Washington Monument. It has since settled into third place after the construction of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in 1959. Though surrounded by slums, saloons, and brothels remaining from the neighborhood's stint as a red light district during the Civil War, the Old Post Office Pavilion opened triumphantly as the new headquarters of the Federal Post Office.

The Post Office's monolithic style was based on the architecture of Henry Hobson Richardson but was designed by Willoughby J. Edbrooke. Massive stone walls are paired with decorative columns and a lofty glass ceiling that fills the building's inner courtyard with light. While the exterior of the Old Post Office exudes steadfast permanence, the interior emanates a gentle grace. This elegance is particularly evident from the 9th floor balcony, a pausing point on the Clock Tower Tour. A glass-walled elevator deposits visitors here to explore an exhibit on the Post Office's history before climbing (or riding) up to the 12th floor for one of the best views in Washington, DC.

From the top of the tower, you can turn in any direction to discover an unbroken panorama of the nation's capitol. The National Cathedral juts out of a distant crest, the Washington Monument stands proudly a few blocks away, and the United States Capitol keeps its noble vigil over the National Mall. The tower is open to the elements, so on windy or wintry days, keep in mind that temperatures will be significantly lower on the 12th floor than they are on the ground. Do not be deterred, however. The Old Post Office Pavilion has an abundant food court with plenty of warm beverages for the chilly winter days and cool treats to break the summer heat.

The area formerly known as Murder Bay is now the impressive Federal Triangle neighborhood, home to such government buildings as the National Archives, Environmental Protection Agency, and Internal Revenue Service. Only the imposing Romanesque structure of the Old Post Office remains to commemorate the 19th century. While the Federal Post Office has since moved its headquarters, the Old Post Office retains its name and now houses government offices, a food court, souvenir shops, and the Congress Bells, which you can inspect on your way to the top of the tower. Modeled on the bells of Westminster Abbey, the Congress Bells peal on all holidays and at the opening and closing of Congress.

- Tess Hart