Turkey Legs to Go: Eagle Bank Bowl Travel Guide, Wake Forest vs. Navy

Turkey Legs to Go is FanHouse's complete travel guide for all of the 2008-2009 college bowl games. Here, we cover the Eagle Bank Bowl (Washington), which pits Wake Forest against Navy.

Overview / Matchup: The Navy Midshipmen are locked into what could be one of the more controversial bowl games of the 2008 season. Why, you ask? Well, because the ACC takes up the other slot in this game. Only one problem -- Maryland, who appeared to be the most obvious choice, has said they won't play in D.C. because of an exam conflict. Wake Forest, the next choice, accepted an offer to rematch against Navy, who shocked the Demon Deacons in Winston-Salem earlier this year.

Hotels:For luxury accommodation we recommend the Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown because it's in a great location for going out. There are lots of young people, which means a strong focus on college sports (area newspapers have actually run stories about the large number of Carolina graduates that populate Georgetown). But there are probably a dozen world-class hotels in DC, and plenty more luxury options. None of the hotels listed are close to the stadium, because South East DC is too jangly for most tourists. The Capital Hilton is a great midrange option and probably offers the best all-around value for bowl travelers. The National Mall and two different metro stops are within easy walking distance. Recently refurbished and just three blocks from the Capitol, the Best Western Capitol Skyline Hotel is the best bet for the budget-minded traveler.

Restaurants: As for dining, Equinox is a classic Washington hob knob spot so expect to see reporters and political playmakers enjoying a steak. 2 Amys pizzas have been certified by the Italian government (it's in Northwest, off Wisconsin Ave). If you like pastries (and who doesn't?) their sfogliatelle is to die for. The Diner is cheap, delicious, and in the center of Adams Morgan, which is the undisputed after-hours circus of D.C.

Nightlife: If you want to sample a wide variety of beers try the Brickskeller. The DuPont Circle institution offers more than 1,000 bottles. The 9:30 Club is one of the nation's best small clubs to see live music, with bands like Kings of Leon and Wilco routinely showing up. And, if you're feeling particularly bourgeois, you can try and roll to Smith Point (where the Bush girls like to hang), but be warned -- it's an exclusive list they're holding at the door.