Ellie & Joseph
Things To Do
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
A great place to start on your tour of the museums and memorials.
Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history. We take Rikki here on Fall Saturdays for scenic hikes!
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Georgetown Waterfront Park is a national park completed in Washington, D.C. in the fall of 2011. Part of the Georgetown Historic District, the park stretches along the banks of the Potomac River from 31st Street, NW to the Key Bridge. There are several restaurants in the waterfront area to enjoy - we like Nick's Riverside for casual dining with a waterfront view or Fiola Mare for upscale, Italian seafood.
The Hunter's Hound
Irish "pub" located in Friendship Heights a block from the Metro stop. We stop here on occasion when we've had a late night at work for a bite to eat and to watch rugby on their big screen.
Caruso's Grocery
Caruso's is our go-to date night spot for Friday nights when we are craving old school Italian cuisine. We recommend the spicy neapolitan ragu and chicken parmesan (sub vodka sauce). Make a reservation early because they are very popular!
Hill Country Barbecue Market
Fun spot downtown for drinks, dancing and delicious barbecue. This is where the bride & groom made it official.
Aventino Cucina Romana
A new addition to downtown Bethesda, featuring Roman cuisine and an Italian-leaning wine list.
The Avenue
Great spot for crab dip and crabs (when they are in season).
PLANTA
PLANTA has a wide-ranging menu, with their pizza options being the customer favorite. We personally love the crispy rice and the bao sliders. PLANTA also serves brunch and lunch!
Cucina MORINI
Chef Adler, who is part-owner of Caruso's Grocery, opened Cucina Morini in early 2024. Cucina Morini is our go-to spot for $7 martinis in the lounge all week and southern Italian flavors. We highly recommend the Ricciola and the Sfincione to start!
Purple Patch
Purple Patch is a Filipino restaurant and a hidden gem in the Mount Pleasant area of DC. Delicious cocktails and generous portions. We recommend the Ghost Face Manila cocktail and the alimasag fried rice!
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
The 120-year-old Smithsonian National Zoological Park is one of the most scenic zoos in the country. There are cafes throughout the zoo for food options and other restaurants in the Woodley Park area to enjoy before or after visiting. We recommend taking the Metro Red Line as parking is very limited and typically on a reservation basis. Fun Fact: Bao Li and Qing Bao, two giant pandas from China, will join the Smithsonian's National Zoo by the end of 2024!
