Surprise visitor at the Lincoln Memorial

WASHINGTON (CNN) –Basking in the absence of a government shutdown, President Obama made an unannouced visit to the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall in Washington on Saturday to greet a surprised set of visitors enjoying their afternoon.

With cameras snapping, Obama shook hands and said he made the stop "because Congress was able to settle its differences, that's why this place is open today."

Obama said he hoped the cooperation between Democrats and Republicans that yielded a deal would continue.

"I hope you have a great time," the president said as he headed back to the White House.