Nighttime right time to see D.C.

WASHINGTON — Next time you're in the nation's capital, see a Washington you normally miss with the Bike and Roll Sites@Nite tour. The tour starts behind the Old Post Office and hits many of the hot spots on the Mall, from the World War II Memorial down to the Lincoln Memorial, through West Potomac Park to the Jefferson Memorial.

The bikes are equipped with lights, and riders wear reflective vests. Aside from about five minutes in the beginning, the tour stays on sidewalks. The Trek bikes are new every year and come with a water bottle and helmet. Trailer carriers are available for young kids. With one guide in the front of the group and one in the back, safety is their biggest concern, our tour guide, Jas Guram, 24, reminded us often.

The tour is four easy and slow miles, round trip, with a maximum of 15 riders per trip. Make sure you ride your bike around on the patio before you start out so a guide can adjust your bike seat if necessary. You can leave bags at the meeting place. Another tip: Bring bug spray; you may have to bike through whole clusters of mosquitoes cruising next to the Potomac River en route to see Mr. Jefferson.

The tour is not just about riding. The guide talks about every important place before allowing time to look around.