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[EXsoldierSNAKE]

Hi guys! I just have a quick question about the area where Anime USA is going to be this year. How safe is the area? I'm only asking because I've just recently moved to the Northern Va area, Stafford county exactly and I've only been around DC/Arlington a few times, and I really want to attend and meet some of you fine folks. I'll most likely only be coming on Saturday, but I'm just curious about how things usually are. How is the parking? And how crowded will it most likely be? I'm planning on wearing my Transformers costume, which is a foam armor suit with limited visibility in the helmet part, so safety is definitely a factor for me.

Anyway thank you! and if I do attend I look forward to meeting some of you!

[NatureMade]

from the one trip I made up there, it seemed relatively safe. Streets are provided with proper lighting [I was there during the day, but there are literally chains of shops all around, and lamp posts]. The hotel itself can't be as gorgeous as it is unless it was in a respectable area.

As far as helmets go, I feel your pain [my mask blocks all peripheral views, and I have just barely visable fabric over my eyes, so I've bumped into quite a few people on accident before] I'd say with all the space the hotel has as far as walkways, you'll be fine. Whenever you do show up, it'd be great to meet ya and get some pictures with ya, as Transformer cosplays are pretty rare around here.

[EXsoldierSNAKE]

Thanks for the info! I guess it does make sense for it to be a respectable area because of the hotel and all. And I'd love to have pics taken with you, that is if I finish the thing on time. It's more work than I've ever put into a costume. and if it doesn't work I'll just wear Batman probably.

[makotohanabi]

The area around the AUSA hotel is very safe. Near the con hotel is the National Zoo, several embassies, and many restaurant/bars popular with suburbanites. A good friend lives in the neighborhood and she doesn't think twice about walking home from a bar at 3am. Though it's one of the safer neighborhood in the District, always remember to be aware of your surroundings and take the same precautions you take in any large city.

Because the neighborhood is popular with tourists and locals, street parking can be impossible and garage parking is expensive. If you choose street parking be prepared to look a long time for an available space. Read the signs carefully because DC police are very efficient in handing out parking tickets.

[EXsoldierSNAKE]

Originally Posted by makotohanabi

The area around the AUSA hotel is very safe. Near the con hotel is the National Zoo, several embassies, and many restaurant/bars popular with suburbanites. A good friend lives in the neighborhood and she doesn't think twice about walking home from a bar at 3am. Though it's one of the safer neighborhood in the District, always remember to be aware of your surroundings and take the same precautions you take in any large city.

Because the neighborhood is popular with tourists and locals, street parking can be impossible and garage parking is expensive. If you choose street parking be prepared to look a long time for an available space. Read the signs carefully because DC police are very efficient in handing out parking tickets.

Well here's hoping the garage has decent clearance size. I've already had one bad experience in one that my truck barely fit through without scraping the top...and the guy running it said he was prepared to tow me...yeah so much for customer service...either way I guess I can try and leave early.

[Cheetos]

I'm not too sure about the garages, but the surrounding area is pretty safe. The neighborhood is filled with independent stores, boutiques, and restaurants--easily one of my favorite parts of D.C.!

[Silent Chaos]

Keep in mind that the venue is literally steps from the Woodley Park metro station as well! It may be cheaper/easier for your vehicle storage to park it at your nearest metro station over the course of the weekend.

[EXsoldierSNAKE]

Thats a good point but I'm not sure how boarding a train with a whole foam armor suit in my hands would be. I'd most likely only be coming for Saturday so that cuts down on the parking cost considerably.

[undertaker13]

Ride the train in your full cosplay. I know my daughter and myself plan on it....the best metro station for you would be springfield right off of the 95

[EXsoldierSNAKE]

I..might be a bit reluctant to wear a full foam armored suit on a train....especially since it's a bit hard to walk in, and I've never ridden the metro before, or any other train for that matter. It might be a little hard fitting onto it.

[Crystal Lizzy]

Is there some estimated Parking cost for the Garages? I am thinking of doing that or just using the Metro and park at the station.

[EXsoldierSNAKE]

If it's like $10 for one day then that isn't too bad. I'd just like to know how much a day pass for the con is.

[simpbass]

Originally Posted by Crystal Lizzy

Is there some estimated Parking cost for the Garages? I am thinking of doing that or just using the Metro and park at the station.

Metro parking is free on weekends depending on which one you go to. I know the vienna and the springfield one are both free on weekends.

oh and Snake: I've ridden metro in Jin Cosplay before. Depending on how crowded the metro might get you could carry the foam armor on in a box or bag if you don't want to wear it.