Kate & Travis
Things To Do
Theodore Roosevelt Island
Accessible near Rosslyn, VA from the Mt Vernon Trail by foot or the GW Parkway by car, we love this forest escape from the city for walks and runs. Trails circle the island, and at the center there is a lovely monument to Teddy Roosevelt. You can see peeks of the surrounding city and Potomac River through the trees. Average time spent here per visit: 1-1.5hrs.
Georgetown University
Travis' alma mater is located at the top of a hill in the beautiful, historic Georgetown neighborhood of DC. We recommend strolling through the campus and checking out Tombs bar, and then heading for dinner or shopping along M street. Be sure to check out Baked & Wired for our absolute favorite desserts in the DC area.
Arlington National Cemetery & Iwo Jima Memorial
If you decide to visit, don't miss the powerful and solemn changing of the guard by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. There is a walking path that runs from the Cemetery along Route 110 over to the Iwo Jima Memorial, which is a can't miss view of DC and an iconic memorial.
Jack Rose Dining Saloon
Our go-to spot for fantastic whiskey cocktails and a great selection of draft beers. The Southern comfort food/ BBQ menu is always good as well.
George Washington's Mount Vernon
The structures at George Washington's estate in Virginia are almost all original, down to the wood with which his father build the original home. Travis and Kate share a love of history and this spot, with lovely views of the river, is a perfect nod to their shared interests.
Carlyle House Historic Park
Our wedding ceremony site! The inside of the historic home is lovely and worth the visit while you're here, since we will be outside in the garden behind the home only on the day of the wedding. Its history goes all the way back to colonial times and it played key roles during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.
National Harbor
If you're staying in Old Town Alexandria, there are river boat rides you can take across to the National Harbor area of Maryland, where the new MGM Grand Casino is located. There are lots of restaurants and shops in an outdoor venue by the river.
National Portrait Gallery
Kate's favorite of the free Smithsonian museums and often overlooked, this museum features paintings, sculpture and portraiture of historic and pop culture figures. The covered courtyard is the perfect oasis-like space to sit and relax. It's also right in the middle of the bustling Chinatown area of DC, within walking distance of the White House and National Mall.
Bilbo Baggins
Travis and Kate are huge fans of the Lord of the Rings series, and epic fantasy stories generally. This restaurant/bar is just off the beaten path in the Old Town Alexandria area and features good food and craft pints a hobbit would approve of.