Things To Do
The Wharf
The Wharf offers many food, drink, and activity options right next to the hotels where we offer room blocks. Stroll the boardwalk, take a water taxi to Old Town Alexandria or the Georgetown Waterfront, grab a book at Politics and Prose, or walk down the block to check out a unique exhibit at the Artechouse. For lunch, check out Bistro Du Jour or Hank's Oyster Bar. In a rush? Grab food to go from Colada Shop or Surfside. For dinner, try out Officina, Lucky Buns, or Mi Vida. Cantina Bambina, 12 Stories, and Whiskey Charlie all offer good drinks and great waterfront views. These are just a few of the many options the Wharf has to offer! Given it is a very popular spot, we highly recommend securing a reservation ahead of time for any sit-down meals.
Dupont Circle
We might be biased, but not only is this our neighborhood, but it's the best neighborhood in the District! If you plan to join us for our welcome party, Dupont offers a wide variety of great dinner options. Some of our favorites are Duke's Grocery, Floriana, Astoria, and Pupatella. For larger groups, check out Agora or Lauriol Plaza. Head a few blocks north and try out one of our favorite restaurants in the city, Lapis, or grab sushi at Perry's. Head east and you'll reach 14th Street, which offers six blocks filled with fantastic restaurant options. If you are spending the afternoon in the neighborhood, stop by Emissary for coffee and Dawson's Market for a sandwich. Previously called Glen's, this is where we had our first date! Of course, you can't leave Dupont without buying a book at Kramer's. For art lovers, don't miss the Phillips Collection! If you are in the area on Sunday, check out the Farmer's Market to grab Zeke's Coffee and a Call Your Mother bagel.
National Mall
First-timers in D.C. can't miss the National Mall! You can walk, bike, or scooter from the Lincoln Memorial, past the Washington Monument, and on to the Capitol Building. For those of you who have been to D.C., check out the monuments at night! It's an experience you won't forget. Ryan's favorite spot in this area is the Tidal Basin, where you can see the Jefferson Memorial and the often-overlooked but worthwhile FDR and MLK Memorials. Katie's favorite spot is the Library of Congress - it's worth getting a library card so you can explore the ornate Main Reading Room! If you stop by the White House, check out the Renwick Gallery next door or grab a beer at The Exchange (where we met!).
Outside of the District
There are tons of fun things to do right outside of the city! Cross over the Maryland border and hike the Billy Goat Trail, or head to the Virginia side for Great Falls Park. Another highlight across the bridge in Virginia is Old Town Alexandria. Stroll down cobblestone streets with historic row houses, grab drinks on the water, or peruse King Street where you will find shops, restaurants, and - Ryan's favorite - many ice cream stores! If you are willing to venture an hour outside of the city, you can get beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Stone Tower Winery or enjoy beer flights and live music at 2 Silos Brewing. These are just two of many, many wineries and breweries in the northern Virginia region!
Extras!
We could fill pages and pages with our favorite D.C. recs, but here are a few additional highlights: Union Market National Arboretum Hillwood Estate Eastern Market The Yards Park