All Smithsonian museums and other national museums (e.g., the National Gallery, National Archives) are free and open on most weekends and weekdays. Some require timed entry reservations, however. DC has a terrific website with information and links to help you plan your museum visits. Zack’s Favorite: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Emma’s Favorite: Smithsonian American Art Museum/National Portrait Gallery
If you've never traveled around DC before, the National Mall is a key location with monuments and memorials galore all near The White House and a short walk outside of our hotels. Zack's Fav: Abe Lincoln Memorial Emma's Fav: Washington Monument
Check out the shops and cobblestone streets of Georgetown. Be sure to walk through the neighborhood to see some of the country's best Halloween decorations!
Touring the US Capitol or the White House, or both, is a great “only-in-DC” experience. Every US citizen is able to request a tour by contacting their member of Congress. You’ll need to do some advance planning, though.
$$$ A favorite brunch spot with chic french-inspired interiors. Reserve a table in advance!
$$ Right around the corner from the hotel, Old Ebbitt is rich with our antiques whispered to have presidential connections. Enjoy a seasonal cocktail, oysters and crab cakes.
Speaking of Oysters...Pearl Dive is a local favorite for local oysters and rarities from far off places. A must stop if you're a seafood fan!
Not only delicious, this place holds a special place in our hearts as being none other than the venue for Emma and Zack's first date.
A great brunch spot with fabulous cocktails!
Even if you have a car, consider taking the Metro if you want to explore farther afield. It’s clean, affordable, and generally quite safe. Here’s a link to the Metro website, which offers a map and other tools to help you plan your journey:
If you’re coming in early or staying later, here are a few off-the-beaten track suggestions. For art lovers, consider visiting the Phillips Collection near Dupont Circle, which presents a stunning collection of late 19th century-early 20th century art. It’s worth the small fee they charge. Visit the site: https://www.phillipscollection.org/ The National Cathedral on Massachusetts Avenue offers tours, as well as services that often feature outstanding choral music. Visit the site: https://cathedral.org/ Hillwood, Gardens and Museum, the former estate of famed hostess and collector Marjorie Merriweather Post, are also worth a visit. Visit the site: https://hillwoodmuseum.org/ Last but not least, Brookside Gardens in Montgomery County offer natural beauty in any season. Visit the site: https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens/