Washington, D.C.
A long weekend in America's capital, D.C.
Not your typical guide to Washington D.C.--- where to eat, stay, and what to see on your long weekend.
Washington, D.C. is a beautiful, pedestrian friendly city with countless things to do. And the best part, so much that the city has to offer is FREE. Don't be afraid to take public transit. It is. so well integrated, you just need the SmarTrip card and you are good to go!
Planning the Perfect D.C. Itinerary
Every time I visit this city, I stumble upon something new. There are endless restaurants, bookstores, parks, and museums to peruse as you wander the beautiful streets of D.C. It truly is a city that always calls you back for another lovely weekend. I love wandering the college campuses, checking out bookstores, stopping for a vino happy hour, and finding the perfect rooftop restaurant to watch dusk happen.
Where to stay
What to do
Where to eat
Where to Stay in Washington, D.C.
The Darcy is a fabulous hotel, centrally located, pet friendly, and has a surprisingly wonderful daily perk: gin hour.
Staying at the Darcy was absolutely perfect. Situated between Dupont and Logan Circle, the Darcy is the perfect location to see a little of everything. We even stopped by the hotel before dinner to refresh and regroup, without having to go completely out of our way. The Darcy offers a deal for the fourth night FREE. How can you beat that?
What to do in Washington, D.C.
The things to do in this city are endless. Just walking around the beautiful neighborhoods lined with colorful row homes with cone shaped domes is enough to make you ooooo and ahhhhh. D.C. is exceptionally pedestrian friendly, with long crosswalk times, wide sidewalks, and plenty of garden paths asking you to 'Walk your Wheels". Aside from enjoying the city by foot, here are my recommendations for things to do (that are not your typical recs to see the National Mall):
Rock Creek Park: It is so lovely to walk the park! My suggestion: check out Each Peach, grab some snacks and drinks for a picnic, and head for the park.
Dumbarton Gardens: Located in Georgetown, the gardens are gorgeous. Check the website ahead of time to get tickets and updates on any closures.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: the calendar for this venue is always vibrant and has something for everyone. When we visited, we saw Riverdance (and the dancers had JUST performed at the White House!)
The Hirschorn Museum: Such a cool museum! I love the immersive exhibits and the overall layout of the spaces. Free! Just grab your ticket early so you get a time slot.
Farmers Markets: seriously, you find one every day! I love the Dupont Circle farmers market. It is huge! I love that they have a compost collection station, honey bee education, and dozens of vendors.
Library of Congress, Union Station, The Archives: ALL fantastic spots to check out.
Where to Eat in Washington, D.C.
Probably my favorite thing to do when visiting places is EAT. I mean, who doesn't love to try new restaurants? D.C. has a plethora of restaurants to choose from, so what cuisine are you looking for? Here is a list of some of my faves:
Tatte Bakery: get the shakshua, you will not regret it.
The Pembroke: brunch is fantastic, the design of this restaurant is gorgeous!
Himalayan Heritage: all the momos.
Flavio: the gnocchi is to die for.
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