This study uses a new approach to interpretative research based on (1) understanding the meanings visitors attach to park resources, and (2) examining the connections that visitors made after attending an on-site interpretive program. The study was conducted at the National Capital Parks in Washington, DC. This study revealed that many visitors to the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial (i.e. the Triangle) seek something of value for themselves, including everything from connecting with the past and rededicating themselves to the ideals of the nation. The study incorporated mixed method design, including purposeful sampling for visitor interview participants, quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design, focus group interview, and both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. During the summer of 1998, researchers conducted 89 focus group interviews and interviewed a total of 527 visitors. Study results suggest that visitors attach meanings and many of them desire quality interpretative experiences
