Meade's Heating and Air

Residents of DC love hockey season, and with good reason. When the Washington Capitals hit the ice, the fans know they are in for a great display of speed and agility that is required to get that puck through the other team's goal. The professional sports team is a member of the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League. "The Caps," as they are affectionately known, won the 1998 Stanley Cup Finals and have captured six division titles. The 2009-10 Capitals continued that tradition by taking home the franchise's first-ever President's Trophy for the team with the most points at the end of the regular season.

The United States Botanic Garden is a haven for not only nature lovers but for anyone who wants to find solace in its exceptional surroundings. The garden is a facility that features controlled climates so that some of the plants that are kept there can thrive as they would in their natural environments. Since the 1800s, this Garden has been gathering different types of plants and flowers from all over the world, not only for conservation efforts but to also explore their medicinal and cultural benefits. After you see all of this in the Garden's conservatory, stroll through Bartholdi Park to breathe in the fragrant flower beds and marvel at the fountain designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, who designed the Statue of Liberty. Check back regularly as the Garden often stages special exhibits and outdoor concerts.

Seize the opportunity to see our government in action with a visit to the Supreme Court of the United States. The Neoclassical architecture of the building is stunning, and the outer spectacle of the Court is just the beginning. While the court term runs from October through June, you can actually sit in on an actual Court session. Seating is limited, however, so plan to arrive early at the Front Plaza if you want a seat. When the Court is not sitting, you can still take in a lecture or presentation every hour on the half hour.

Touted as America's First Museum of American Art, the Phillips Collection is a museum that not only presents an impressive collection of exhibits that feature impressionist, post-impressionist and contemporary American art, it also boasts a rather intimate charm. That mood is perfect for a romantic afternoon date with that special someone. Stroll through the galleries and discuss your impressions of these works and see where the conversation (and the afternoon) goes from there.