But following the attack on the Pentagon that same day, you might be less aware of similar problems in Washington, DC.

More of this Feature • Part 2: Where to find the Deals

Join the Discussion "I have flown since the attacks and admit that I was a little apprehensive at first. However, the security at the airport was amazing and the pilot took a little extra time to make us all feel at ease..." YLWTULIPS

Related Resources • Deals of the Week • Planning Your Trip: Washington/Baltimore • Skyline Splendor: Shenandoah National Park

From Other Guides • D.C. for Romantics • D.C. National Parks and Historic Sites • Destination Washington: Camping and the Cherry Blossom Festival • Maryland Campgrounds with Web pages

Elsewhere on the Web • BiddingForTravel.com • Official Tourism Web site of Washington, DC

Restaurants on Dupont Circle and in Georgetown that normally are filled with visitors were nearly empty. Plenty of tables and no waiting.

In the months that followed, the situation improved. Reagan National Airport re-opened, again providing budget travelers with a Metro link to the city center--one of the cheapest rides from terminal to town available in any major city.

The White House has opened to student groups again, amid much tighter security. That might be the message to all potential Washington visitors: come back, but expect a few more delays.

How much has Washington suffered?