From touring the icons of our national heritage in Washington, D.C.

to rafting some thrilling white water in the West,

we've got more of America to explore in the hour ahead today on Travel with Rick Steves.

Hi, I'm Rick Steeves.

We're welcoming guests today back with more insights into their work and passion.

Melinda Machado from the National Museum of American History tells us more about what the Smithsonian

Institution does in the nation's

capital. As the caretaker, we're in the forever business. She'll provide tips for what

to see and insights into how they shape their exhibits of so many national

treasures.

At American history, we have 3 million objects.

And River Guide Hefe Aronson describes some of his favorite whitewater rivers in the Western U.S.

With stories about the camaraderia River Expedition builds as people of a certain age

test their limits.

And we'll check in with our listeners for reports on memorable adventures and tips for having

fun at a bargain price all over the world.

It's the Smithsonian, River Rafting, and your tips in the hour ahead.

It's travel with Rick Steves.

From the symbols of our national heritage to the adrenaline rush of a wild Western river,

we're taking a closer look at the two sides of the American Vacation coin today on Travel with Rick

Steve's. And later in the hour we'll check in with our listeners to hear what travel tips

and topics are on their minds at 877 333 Rick. There's so many ways to experience and appreciate the great outdoors in the United States and one of the best must be

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