Washington, D.C., is more than just the seat of government.
There’s so much more to discover beyond just the political sphere that dominates the headlines.
Let’s start with getting here. Most visitors fly into one of our three major airports. Reagan National (DCA) is closest to downtown – just a quick Metro ride away. Dulles International (IAD) sits out in Virginia and handles most international flights, while Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) up in Maryland offers another great option, often with competitive fares.
Now, you can’t talk about DC without mentioning the National Mall – that grand expanse in full-view of the White House windows. The Smithsonian museums lining the Mall are a national treasure, and here’s the kicker – they’re all free. The National Air and Space Museum (https://airandspace.si.edu) just completed a massive renovation and it’s spectacular. The National Museum of African American History and Culture (https://nmaahc.si.edu) tells the powerful story of the African American experience.
You know what’s remarkable about DC? The way history comes alive around every corner. Take the U Street corridor, once known as “Black Broadway,” where Duke Ellington played and civil rights history was made. Today, it’s home to the historic Lincoln Theatre (https://www.thelincolndc.com) and the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl (https://benschilibowl.com) – where President Obama had his fair share of half-smokes there.
Speaking of food, DC’s culinary scene has exploded since my time in office. You’ve got to check out Rose’s Luxury (https://www.rosesluxury.com) on Capitol Hill – they’re doing amazing things with contemporary American cuisine. For a special night out, Pineapple and Pearls (https://www.pineappleandpearls.com) offers an unforgettable fine dining experience. And if you’re looking for international flavors, head to Eden Center in Falls Church for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, or explore the Ethiopian restaurants along 9th Street NW.
Now, let’s tell you about some neighborhoods you shouldn’t miss. Georgetown, with its historic charm and waterfront parks, is always buzzing. The shops along M Street, the Georgetown Waterfront Park (https://www.georgetowndc.com/explore/georgetown-waterfront-park), and Georgetown University’s gorgeous campus make for a perfect afternoon stroll.
Capitol Hill isn’t just where laws are made – it’s a vibrant neighborhood with Eastern Market (https://www.easternmarket-dc.org), one of the city’s oldest public markets. On weekends, local vendors sell everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. The nearby Barracks Row area has some fantastic restaurants and bars.
For the arts lovers out there – the Kennedy Center (https://www.kennedy-center.org) is a must-visit. They’ve recently expanded with The REACH, adding even more performance spaces and interactive experiences. The National Gallery of Art (https://www.nga.gov) continues to amaze with its world-class collection, and don’t miss their Jazz in the Garden series during summer months.
Speaking of summer, there’s DC’s festival scene. The National Cherry Blossom Festival (https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org) in spring is probably the most famous, but there’s so much more. The DC Jazz Festival (https://dcjazzfest.org) brings incredible talent to venues across the city. And H Street Festival in the fall transforms the whole corridor into a massive celebration of local culture.
Now, for those looking for adult entertainment – and I mean the sophisticated kind – DC has plenty to offer. The 9:30 Club (https://www.930.com) is one of America’s premier music venues. The Black Cat (https://www.blackcatdc.com) on 14th Street has been hosting alternative music since the ’90s. For comedy, check out DC Improv (https://dcimprov.com).
The 14th Street corridor has become one of DC’s hottest nightlife destinations. Places like Barcelona Wine Bar (https://barcelonawinebar.com) and Le Diplomate (https://lediplomatedc.com) are perfect for a night out. And speaking of drinks, DC’s craft brewery scene has exploded – right in Navy Yard, you’ve got Bluejacket (https://bluejacketdc.com) brewing some excellent beers.
For those seeking relaxation, the Salamander Spa (https://www.salamanderdc.com/spa) – formerly the Mandarin Oriental – offers world-class treatments. The Four Seasons Georgetown (https://www.fourseasons.com/washington) spa is another excellent choice for some luxury pampering.
Let’s talk about some of DC’s distinct areas. NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue) has transformed into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood with Union Market (https://unionmarketdc.com) as its crown jewel – a revitalized indoor market with fantastic food vendors and events. The Wharf (https://www.wharfdc.com) is another relatively new development that’s brought new energy to the Southwest Waterfront, with restaurants, music venues, and beautiful views of the Potomac.
Adams Morgan remains one of DC’s most eclectic neighborhoods, especially after dark. From the rooftop views at Perry’s (https://www.perrysam.com) to the craft cocktails at Jack Rose Dining Saloon (https://jackrosediningsaloon.com), it’s a great area for bar-hopping.
For those interested in the political side of things – you can book tours of the U.S. Capitol (https://www.visitthecapitol.gov) and the White House (https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/tours-events), though you’ll need to plan well in advance. The Library of Congress (https://www.loc.gov) is another architectural marvel that often gets overlooked – and it happens to be the largest library in the world.
Here are some hidden gems that tourists often miss: The Phillips Collection (https://www.phillipscollection.org) in Dupont Circle is America’s first museum of modern art, housed in a beautiful Gilded Age mansion. The National Arboretum (https://www.usna.usda.gov) offers 446 acres of gardens and open space – a perfect escape from the city bustle. And if you’re into unique experiences, check out Artechouse (https://www.artechouse.com) for some mind-bending digital art installations.
For the sports fans out there, DC has you covered. Nationals Park (https://www.mlb.com/nationals/ballpark) offers one of baseball’s best experiences. Capital One Arena (https://www.capitalonearena.com) hosts both the Wizards and the Capitals, and the atmosphere during playoff games is electric.
The Metro system makes getting around pretty straightforward, but don’t overlook the Capital Bikeshare program (https://www.capitalbikeshare.com) – it’s a great way to explore the city, especially along the National Mall or the Capital Crescent Trail.
When it comes to adult-oriented entertainment, DC has some unique offerings. The Mansion on O Street (https://www.omansion.com) hosts eccentric events and tours in a historic mansion filled with secret doors and fascinating artifacts. For something different, check out SAX (https://www.saxwdc.com), a luxury lounge featuring cabaret performances while you dine.
The city’s speakeasy scene is worth exploring too. The Gibson (https://www.gibsondc.com) on 14th Street requires a reservation and feels like stepping back in time. Down in Blagden Alley, Columbia Room (https://columbiaroomdc.com) elevates cocktail-making to an art form.
For coffee lovers, La Colombe (https://www.lacolombe.com) in Chinatown or Compass Coffee (https://www.compasscoffee.com), a local chain started by two Marines, are great spots to start your day.
Speaking of Chinatown, while it may be smaller than other cities’ versions, it’s worth visiting – especially during the Chinese New Year celebrations. The Chinatown Gate on H Street serves as a striking reminder of the neighborhood’s heritage.
Let’s tell you about some annual events that make DC special. The DC Wine and Food Festival (https://www.wineandfooddc.com) brings together some of the region’s best chefs and vintners. Passport DC in May offers a unique opportunity to visit various embassies and experience different cultures. And during the summer, Screen on the Green lets you watch classic films on the National Mall under the stars.
For music lovers, the 9:30 Club isn’t the only game in town. The Anthem (https://www.theanthemdc.com) at The Wharf is a stunning new venue that’s quickly become one of the city’s premier concert spaces. Blues Alley (https://www.bluesalley.com) in Georgetown has been hosting jazz legends since 1965.
DC’s surrounding counties each offer their own attractions. Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac, is home to the somber beauty of Arlington National Cemetery and the vibrant Rosslyn-Ballston corridor. Alexandria’s Old Town (https://www.visitalexandria.com) features beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture and a charming waterfront. In Maryland, Bethesda Row (https://www.bethesdarow.com) offers upscale shopping and dining in a walkable setting.
The city’s craft cocktail scene deserves special mention. Places like Dram & Grain (https://dramandgrain.com) and Left Door (https://www.leftdoordc.com) are creating some of the most innovative drinks you’ll find anywhere. And for wine enthusiasts, ENO Wine Bar (https://www.enowinerooms.com) in Georgetown offers an excellent selection with knowledgeable sommeliers.
Washington, D.C., is more than just the seat of government – it’s a city with rich history, vibrant culture, and constant evolution. From the solemnity of the Lincoln Memorial at sunset to the energy of U Street after dark, from world-class museums to hidden gem restaurants, DC offers something for everyone. And while the political machinery keeps turning, the real heart of the city beats in its neighborhoods, its people, and its endless capacity to surprise and delight.
So come explore DC. Whether you’re here for the history, the culture, the food, or just to experience one of America’s most dynamic cities, you won’t be disappointed.
