Rock Creek Park became one of the first federally managed parks all the way back in 1890! It's a gorgeous, long park filled with many trails and a few points of interest along the way, like the National Zoo, which has free admission and pandas again. Rebecca especially loves walking by boulder bridge and hanging out by Pierce Mill.
Also known as Malcolm X park, there's a lively drum circle here every Friday night! There are a few tiers to this park, which is along a hill. The top has large, grassy spaces perfect for a picnic.
With any luck, there may be some early cherry blossoms in bloom for you to peep! The trees were a diplomatic gift to the United States in 1912. Japan is gifting the United States 250 more trees. Do you know why?
DC has many, many incredible, free museums. We recommend so many of them, especially the Smithsonian museums. Still, this one stands out among the rest. Block off multiple hours to really appreciate the rich history and thoughtful curation of this museum. (Also, Sweet Home Café is delicious.) Consider a stroll through the National Mall while you're here!
A very cute bar in a hip part of DC. There are several solid restaurants and bars for many blocks north and south of Jane Jane.
Rebecca's favorite bakery in the city. They have an especially excellent breakfast sandwich, though everything they create is amazing. She's often taken it and a latte further into Mount Pleasant, as the start to a jaunt into Rock Creek Park. Note: Martha Dear (Greek pizza) and Purple Patch (Filipino) are two great restaurants down the street.
A bit touristy and crowded, but there's lots of good shopping here! Rebecca loves Bridge Street Books, a small independent bookstore in the area. But there's also a giant Barnes & Noble that's resumed its residence, which is cool.
A very popular hike in the area! Definitely nothing compared to LA, but it's a bit more rugged than any other option in the metro area. Kind of a trek to get here if you don't have a car though.
DC has several great independent bookstores! Literacy is NOT dead. P&P is great, has several locations. Also great is Kramerbooks & Afterwards Cafe!