WASHINGTON, D.C. — From the moment I Love DC Gifts opens at 8 a.m., Khalid Ismail is ready for “the storm.” A pair of tour buses can roll up at any minute and unload a hundred teenagers to speed shop at his family’s store.
Washington, D.C
D.C. souvenir shops know what teens want: Bucket hats and Trump merch
Most tour groups have just 15 minutes for a souvenir mad grab before it’s back to sightseeing.
Despite reports of an empty downtown D.C. still gutted by the pandemic, the city’s souvenir shops see such deluges on a regular basis. The gift shop is a core component of the quintessential student trip, and D.C. trips are a year-round industry.
Peak season strikes during spring break and the first six weeks of summer, says Brooksie Robbins, vice president of North American Operations for EF Explore America, one of the many tour companies that were out shopping on a recent Tuesday. Between June and August, the company has thousands of students on hundreds of trips and tours in D.C.
On the same day, six tour buses were idling in front of another souvenir shop a few blocks north of the White House. A blond chaperone held the door open for her flock of tweens in matching red T-shirts commemorating the trip.
“This is what you’ve all been waiting for!” she chirped as they filed inside.
Students flooded in for merch — keychains, mugs, flags, ornaments — candy and soft drinks, or just a break in their educational agenda. And bucket hats. Lots of bucket hats. American flag ones, Washington, D.C. ones, political ones.
“This fits my personality,” one boy said, wearing a white bucket hat with Donald Trump’s name stitched across the front.
“Where’s the RFK Jr. stuff?” another student asked.
Trump visors and RBG bobbleheads
Back at I Love DC Gifts, Khalid Ismail said the best-selling item is a cherry blossom sweatshirt that says “Good Vibes.” Even in June — months after the city’s famously fleeting flowers have come and gone and daily temperatures approach 90 degrees — the sweatshirt dominates. Ismail said he’s never seen anything bewitch customers so fervently, although Trump merch is a close second: T-shirts with his mug shot and visors with fake orange hair flowing out the top.
“We have no horse in the race, politically. Like, we don’t care, but man — people love him,” Ismail said. “Anything Trump-themed, anything with his name on it … people are buying it.”
Luke Wilbur has noticed the same. Wilbur, 56, used to own Washington DC Gift Shop on Pennsylvania Ave. The pandemic forced him to close, and now he runs DCgiftShop.com. Although he tries to stock an equal amount of Republican and Democrat items, Wilbur sells significantly more of the former.
Wilbur’s not convinced that means much for the outcome of the presidential election. Only that “conservatives purchase more products by far,” he said.
Plus, “when Trump has rallies, they’re all wearing the hats,” Wilbur said. “He’s a marketer … I mean, Trump was selling water.”
Some souvenir purchasing behavior is seasonal. Across the street from the U.S. Treasury Building at White House Gifts, anything with eagles sells out around the Fourth of July. Christmas tree ornaments are hot year-round. So is anything with the presidential seal or the likeness of the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
“Even though she’s passed, everybody loves her,” the shop’s owner, Jim Warlick, said, pointing at an RBG bobblehead lined up alongside ones of America’s most famous presidents. “We’ve never had anything for a Supreme Court justice other than her. She’s just so popular.”
Warlick, 71, opened White House Gifts in 2008, a dream that stemmed from his interest in American history and entrepreneurship. There was also a fateful trip he took to D.C. when he was 12 and bought a bust of President John F. Kennedy.
“I said ‘One of these days, I’m going to live in Washington,’” Warlick remembered.
In his younger days, Warlick dropped in and out of college to work for political campaigns and elected officials, then realized he could make far more money selling campaign buttons. He expanded his offerings, making campaign posters and stickers, and eventually opened his first Washington gift shop in 1992.
Five presidents later, the American public is still hungry for patriotic merch. Our appetite for what to buy, however, has evolved. Postcards barely sell these days and political pins are out (because people don’t want to put holes in their clothing, Warlick guesses); pet gear and fast fashion sunglasses are king.
“Ten years ago, people didn’t buy socks, but they do now,” Warlick said alongside a rack of novelty pairs knit with famous faces. Counter to Ismail and Wilbur’s findings, Warlick’s supply of President Biden’s socks were sold out last week while his rival’s version remained plentiful.
Warlick also gets a different clientele than the other shops. More of his foot traffic comes from White House tour runoff than big bus loads.
“We get some,” he said of the bus business, but not as many as he could. Warlick said some shop owners with round-the-clock bus drop-offs “pay the bus drivers.” He said he’s been approached to go into deals with drivers, “but we can’t give away half of what we sell.”
Robbins, of EF Tours, said “there’s no financial relationship that we have with any of the gift shops” but that some are better suited for big bus groups than others. Shops need to have a “diversity of inventory,” including both snacks and souvenirs, maybe a bathroom and the infrastructure to handle and process a swarm of young adults.
I Love DC Gifts meets that criteria. The store is across the street from Ford’s Theatre, where President Abraham Lincoln was shot, and directly next door to the Petersen House, where he was carried after the assassination. Ismail motioned to a wall of tourist T-shirts. “We share walls with where Lincoln died,” he said.
That proximity alone isn’t enough to guarantee customers.
“Buses are stopping in front of us, but that doesn’t mean they’ll come to us,” Ismail said. “It’s the positivity from the bus drivers and tour guides, the relationships we built … we go to dinner with these people, we know their families.”
Warlick is doing fine without the bus business. White House Gifts averages 3,000 customers a day in the summer, and he’s knee-deep in side hustles.
For example, Warlick had five replica Oval Office structures built that he rents out to movie studios. One’s set up in a building around the corner from the gift shop. Customers who spend at least $50 in the store can have their photo taken behind the desk, or from a replica White House press briefing room at no charge.
Or the traveling exhibit he created about Kennedy, populated with historic artifacts Warlick bought at auction. Exhibits included one of Jackie’s bathing suits, one of JFK’s shaving kits and two of his limousines.
“It’s just part of preserving history,” he said.
History isn’t necessarily part of the equation for Ismail. He’s hooked on the chaos and joy of dealing with hoards of customers at I Love DC Gifts.
“It gives me a purpose for life … it gives me energy, like vigor, if that makes sense,” he said. “How many people live and die to have an opportunity like this?”
Washington, D.C
How Maryland is Tackling Traffic Delays and Enhancing Travel to Washington D.C. Through Key Infrastructure Upgrades, Here is All You Need to Know – Travel And Tour World
Published on
December 14, 2025
Traffic delays in D.C. have long been a challenge for both residents and visitors. In Maryland, addressing these issues has become a top priority, with major projects aimed at easing the notorious Beltway congestion. Among the most crucial initiatives are the reconstruction of the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge. These key infrastructure upgrades are essential not only for reducing traffic delays but also for improving access to Washington D.C.’s famous attractions. With millions of tourists visiting the nation’s capital every year, these projects aim to enhance the flow of traffic, ensuring a smoother travel experience for all. By tackling congestion head-on, Maryland is making significant strides in boosting Washington D.C. tourism. The ongoing improvements promise to make visiting the capital more convenient and enjoyable, benefiting both locals and travelers alike.
Maryland’s Focus on Infrastructure Upgrades
One of the most pressing issues currently being tackled by Maryland officials is the ongoing traffic delays in D.C. caused by outdated and overcrowded bridges. The Francis Scott Key Bridge, in particular, has seen its estimated costs balloon as the need for reconstruction becomes more urgent. The Maryland Department of Transportation has faced increasing pressure to ensure the timely and efficient completion of this project, which is expected to be fully funded by taxpayers.
In September 2025, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy raised concerns regarding the proposed budget and timeline for the FSK Bridge replacement. This project, aimed at addressing significant traffic bottlenecks, is crucial to improving the daily commute for both locals and visitors heading into Washington D.C. for business, leisure, or cultural experiences.
Addressing Congestion on the American Legion Memorial Bridge
Another key project under discussion is the American Legion Memorial Bridge, which connects Maryland to Virginia along the I-495 Beltway. This bridge is notorious for heavy congestion, contributing significantly to the broader traffic delays in D.C. In 2025, Washington, D.C. was rated the worst city in the nation for traffic, with an average delay of more than six hours. As part of efforts to alleviate this problem, Secretary Duffy and Maryland Governor Wes Moore are exploring ways to accelerate the reconstruction of the American Legion Memorial Bridge.
A major focus of this initiative is the public’s input on how best to alleviate congestion in the I-495/I-270 corridor. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has recently released a Request for Information (RFI) to gather feedback on potential solutions. The aim is to develop a multi-state plan to address the congestion that affects both Maryland and Virginia, directly benefiting travelers heading into Washington D.C. This effort is seen as vital for improving the overall travel experience in the region, particularly for tourists navigating the Beltway.
Improving Access for Washington D.C. Tourists
Tourism in Washington D.C. is a significant economic driver for the region. Each year, millions of tourists flock to the nation’s capital to visit iconic landmarks such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian museums. However, these visitors often face traffic delays that hinder their ability to enjoy their trip. The ongoing congestion on the I-495 Beltway and critical bridges like the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge directly impact the ease with which tourists can access these sites.
Improving these key transportation routes will not only benefit local commuters but also enhance the tourism experience in Washington D.C. Faster and more efficient access to the city’s major attractions can encourage more visitors, boosting local tourism revenue and supporting the area’s hospitality sector. By addressing Beltway congestion and modernizing key infrastructure, Maryland is taking a proactive approach to ensuring that tourists spend less time stuck in traffic and more time exploring the capital’s many cultural and historical offerings.
The Role of the Capital Beltway Accord
Maryland’s commitment to improving transportation in the region is also evident in its collaboration with Virginia through the “Capital Beltway Accord.” In 2019, Maryland and Virginia announced a bipartisan agreement to build express lanes on the Beltway, designed to ease congestion. Virginia completed the 495 Express Lane Extension in November 2025, a move that aims to improve the flow of traffic between the two states.
The express lanes offer an expedited route for drivers and are expected to have a direct impact on reducing congestion, particularly in areas where traffic delays have historically been the most severe. For tourists traveling to Washington D.C., these lanes represent a potential shortcut that could significantly shorten travel times to key attractions. The implementation of such infrastructure upgrades helps ensure that both residents and tourists benefit from improved access to the region.
Public Input and Community Involvement
Secretary Duffy has emphasized the importance of involving the public in the planning and development of these transportation projects. The release of the Request for Information (RFI) for the American Legion Memorial Bridge reconstruction is a clear indication of Maryland’s commitment to ensuring that local communities, commuters and tourists alike have a say in how congestion is addressed. Public input is vital for shaping the future of transportation in the region, particularly when it comes to making improvements that impact everyday lives and travel experiences.
A Brighter Future for Maryland’s Transportation Network
With ongoing efforts to tackle Beltway congestion, rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge and improve the American Legion Memorial Bridge, Maryland is positioning itself to enhance travel to Washington D.C. for years to come. The state’s focus on modernizing key infrastructure projects is crucial for easing traffic delays and improving the overall experience for both residents and tourists. As these projects progress, they promise to unlock smoother, more efficient travel, benefiting everyone who relies on these critical routes.
Conclusion: Enhancing Travel Through Strategic Infrastructure Investment
Maryland’s commitment to addressing traffic delays in Washington D.C. through key infrastructure upgrades is set to have a significant impact on both local commuters and tourists. The reconstruction of the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge will not only ease Beltway congestion but also improve access to the capital’s major attractions. By ensuring that these vital projects are completed on time and within budget, Maryland is making strides in improving travel for everyone who relies on these roads. With the ongoing public input process and collaboration with neighboring Virginia, the future of travel in the Washington D.C. metro area looks brighter than ever.
President Donald Trump has set his sights on his next renovation project: Washington, D.C.’s golf courses, according to a new report.
The president, who frequently spends weekends on the fairways at his various properties, is seeking to redevelop the three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, The Wall Street Journal reported.
“If we do them, we’ll do it really beautifully,” he told the outlet on Friday after reportedly describing the courses as run down and neglected. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum echoed this sentiment, describing one course as “in total disrepair,” adding that Trump is trying to bring it “back to what it was originally envisioned to be, which is the finest municipal golf in the country, right here in our capital.”
In his pursuit to remake the green spaces, he is attempting to wrest control from the National Links Trust, a non-profit with a 50-year lease to operate, restore and maintain the affordability of East Potomac Golf Links, Rock Creek Park Golf and Langston Golf Course.
Earlier in 2025, the administration ordered the group to take dirt resulting from the demolition of the East Wing of the White House or risk defaulting on its lease with the government, people familiar with the matter told the outlet. The group accepted and trucks were seen dumping piles of soil onto one of East Potomac’s courses.
Despite this, the Interior Department told the National Links Trust that it violated its lease and delivered an official default notice. Trump said that the courses will fall under the administration’s control if the group does not remedy alleged violations by the end of the year.
“Such a move could make it easier for Trump to implement his vision for the East Potomac course, which sits on a prime stretch of Washington real estate along the river,” the outlet reported, noting that the course is “at the top of his list.”
In a statement, the group disputed the administration’s assessment.
“National Links Trust respectfully disagrees with the characterization that we are in default,” a spokesman for the National Links Trust told the newspaper. “National Links Trust appreciates the president’s interest in the D.C. golf courses and looks forward to the opportunity to partner with the administration to improve these historically significant facilities.”
But the Republican president has no interest in working with the organization.
“I think what we’re looking to do is just build something different, and build them in government,” he said.
He’s also shown interest in hiring Tom Fazio, a famed golf course architect, to create designs for a new East Potomac course and hopes to host a professional golfing event in the capital in the near future.
The president’s renovation attempts have triggered consternation among some golfers in Washington, D.C., who fear Trump’s beautifying efforts could boost prices and render the courses unaffordable for residents.
But, Trump said that, if he takes over the three courses, D.C. inhabitants will receive lower rates than visiting golfers.
If Trump is successful in his bid, it would add to the many changes he’s made to the nation’s capital since returning to office in January. At the White House, he’s paved over the Rose Garden, installed towering flag poles on the lawn, affixed gilded furnishings to the Oval Office and began constructing a massive ballroom where the East Wing once stood.
He’s also proposed building a victory arch on the banks of the Potomac and is considering renovating the Reflecting Pool that sits in front of the Lincoln Memorial.
A White House spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Independent.
A D.C. high school teacher is accused of climbing through a student’s window at night to sexually abuse her on numerous occasions.
At least twice, the teacher used the 16-year-old student’s phone to record explicit videos of himself with the girl, the U.S. attorney’s office said.
The abuse began last spring. The most recent incident happened last month.
FBI agents arrested 35-year-old John Gass at his Hyattsville, Maryland, home Thursday.
Gass taught at the D.C. International School. He has been fired.
Gass is charged with production of child pornography and enticement of a minor.
Detectives say there could be other victims. Anyone with information should call the FBI.
Lifestyle5 minutes ago
‘Wait Wait’ for December 13, 2025: With Not My Job guest Lucy Dacus
Technology17 minutes ago
A new old idea about video stores
World23 minutes ago
Australian authorities: Bondi Beach shooting was ‘terrorism … designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community’
Politics29 minutes ago
Trump’s election win filled Hamas with ‘fear,’ hostage held like ‘slave’ for 505 days recounts
Health35 minutes ago
5 winter-weather essentials to protect skin health in dangerously cold temperatures
Florida1 year ago
Florida High School Football Rankings: Top 25 teams – Oct. 21
Connecticut2 years ago
Cleary's 21 help Le Moyne down Central Connecticut State 69-64 in OT
Oregon2 years ago
How old is Bo Nix? What to know about Oregon quarterback ahead of 2024 NFL Draft
Virginia1 year ago
99th annual Pony Swim held in Virginia
Education2 years ago
Video: ‘It Didn’t Have to Happen This Way:’ U.Va. Faculty Call for Review of Police Response to Protests
Politics29 minutes ago
Trump’s election win filled Hamas with ‘fear,’ hostage held like ‘slave’ for 505 days recounts
World2 hours ago
In Khartoum, exhumation of makeshift graves reawakens families’ grief
News2 hours ago
Manhunt under way for attacker after two students killed at US university
News11 hours ago
Video: At Least Two Killed in Shooting at Brown University
Politics13 hours ago
FBI ousts reinstated whistleblower over unauthorized media talks, ‘poor judgment’
-
Alaska1 week agoHowling Mat-Su winds leave thousands without power
-
Texas1 week agoTexas Tech football vs BYU live updates, start time, TV channel for Big 12 title
-
Ohio1 week agoWho do the Ohio State Buckeyes hire as the next offensive coordinator?
-
Washington5 days agoLIVE UPDATES: Mudslide, road closures across Western Washington
-
Iowa7 days agoMatt Campbell reportedly bringing longtime Iowa State staffer to Penn State as 1st hire
-
Miami, FL1 week agoUrban Meyer, Brady Quinn get in heated exchange during Alabama, Notre Dame, Miami CFP discussion
-
Cleveland, OH7 days agoMan shot, killed at downtown Cleveland nightclub: EMS
-
World6 days ago
Chiefs’ offensive line woes deepen as Wanya Morris exits with knee injury against Texans
