Explore DC
THE NATIONAL MALL
🌸 This two-mile stretch is the heart of the city and home to the most famous landmarks. It's best explored on foot and an easy walk from the hotels. The Monuments: A stroll among the memorials (like the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial) is truly unforgettable. The Smithsonian Museums: Most are free! Wander through the incredible collections at the: National Air and Space Museum | National Museum of Natural History | National Museum of American History | The National Museum of African American History and Culture with free timed-entry passes that can be reserved online in advance | National Gallery of Art: See masterpieces of art, including the only Leonardo da Vinci painting in the Americas | The U.S. Capitol Building & Library of Congress: Marvel at the grand architecture on Capitol Hill.
BEYOND THE MALL (GREAT NEIGHBORHOODS & CULTURE)
☕ 🚙 For those looking to venture off the main path, DC has charming, historic neighborhoods perfect for a half-day trip. Georgetown: DC’s oldest neighborhood. Enjoy high-end shopping and dining along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue. Take a peaceful walk along the C&O Canal or down the charming, cobblestone residential streets. The Wharf: A vibrant, revitalized waterfront area with great restaurants, live music, and beautiful views of the Potomac River. Union Market: A trendy indoor food hall featuring artisanal vendors, local produce, and delicious prepared foods—great for a quick, high-quality lunch. Museums with a Twist: International Spy Museum: An interactive museum that's great for all ages (ticketed admission) and the National Portrait Gallery: See portraits of all U.S. Presidents and iconic American figures.
OUR FAVORITE BITES AND SIPS
🍔 🍺 Historic Ambiance: Old Ebbitt Grill (near the White House and Willard Hotel) is a DC institution for classic American fare and fantastic oysters. Quick & Casual: Hit up Eastern Market on Capitol Hill for fresh food and a lively atmosphere, or grab a coffee at a local favorite like Compass Coffee or Tatte Bakery. A Toast to Us! If you're looking for a celebratory cocktail, check out the rooftop views at The Hotel Washington or The Hay-Adams.
Historic Willard Hotel
🦅 ⭐ The Willard Hotel, "Residence of Presidents", has a small display that highlights moments from the hotel's two-century-long legacy. Abraham Lincoln secretly lived there for ten days before his 1861 inauguration, smuggled in to avoid assassination. The phrase "lobbyist" is believed to have been coined by President Ulysses S. Grant who was often pestered in the lobby by people seeking favors while he enjoyed a cigar and brandy at the Round Robin Bar. He reportedly referred to them as "lobbyists." VP Calvin Coolidge lived in the hotel for his entire term and part of his presidency. The Presidential flag flew over the hotel during this time. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote and finalized his "I Have a Dream" speech in his hotel room at in 1963, just before the March on Washington. The White House turkeys stay in a luxury suite the night before their official pardon with a "check-in" ceremony, followed by a press conference in the hotel's famous Peacock Alley.
A FEW TIPS
📝 ✅ Getting Around: The Metro rail system is easy to navigate (use a credit card for entry) and ride-shares are widely available. Many of the main attractions are walkable from the hotels. Best Views: For a fantastic photo opportunity, visit the Lincoln Memorial steps, which offers a great view down the Reflecting Pool to the Washington Monument and Capitol. Check Websites: While most Smithsonian museums are free, certain special exhibits or monuments (like the Washington Monument or U.S. Capitol tours) may require timed-entry passes, so check their websites! Discover DC provides great things to do around our Nation's Capital: https://washington.org/things-do-washington-dc