Things To Do
National Mall
If it's your first time in DC, the National Mall is an obvious choice and a must-do. There are too many things to do and it's quite large so bring your walking shoes and don't worry if you don't get to everything in one day. Some favorite places on the mall: Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, African American History Museum, Hirshorn Museum of Modern Art, the National Archives, and the east wing of the National Art Gallery. Pretty much every metro line ends up at the Mall at some point so you'll most likely find your way here if you hop on any train.
Union Market
The Union Market area in northeast DC features the eponymous food hall as well as plenty of shops (including a Politics and Prose bookstore), restaurants (St. Anselm has the best biscuit in DC), a movie theater (Angelika Pop Up). and even a rum distillery (Cotton & Reed). By the time y'all arrive, there will also be a new latin food hall and market. Justin works nearby and we used to live near here as well. For those staying in the NoMa Marriott, this is only a 15-minute walk away.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Most Smithsonian museums are on the mall, but the best one is over in Chinatown. This museum includes an incredible collection of classic and folk art as well as the National Portrait Gallery.
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
We had the best tour guide ever here. Kevin brought this impeccably maintained historic to life and created powerful moments out of small details. This is one of the less visited historic sites because it's across the river, but it's absolutely worth the trip.
Arboretum
A wonderful collection of gardens, trees, and local plants. A lovely place for a walk. We had one of our first dates here and it's a peaceful place that is more manageable than Rock Creek Park and more open than that National Botanic Garden. Also features the national bonsai collection which features trees that are hundreds of years old.
H Street Corridor
For many years, Nancy's (and later Justin's) home base. A free street car runs from Union Station down H Street. Here you'll find a ton of great restaurants and bars include some of the most creative vegan food (Fancy Radish), one of the best dive bars (The Pug), and the best coffee shop (Maketto).
National Museum of Women in the Arts
One of the best and most varied permanent collections of any museum in the city. This isn't free like the Smithsonians, but it's well worth the admission.
The Phillips Collection
If you like photography, the Phillips is one of the best places to go in DC. While their collection is broader than that, you can always count on finding incredible photos on display either in the permanent collection or in the a rotating exhibit.
Federalist Pig
Barbecue may not be the first thing you think of when coming to D.C., but if you have a hankering for it while you're here, this place is the best in town and can compete with places further south, too.
Unconventional Diner
Comfort food, elevated. The menu has so much variety that anybody can be happy here. Justin thinks they serve the best chicken parm ever.
Red Hen
If you're looking for a cozy, warm, and delicious spot to get seasonal dishes and pastas, this is the spot. A favorite of some big wigs as well so you may spot a familiar face or two.
Right Proper Brewing
D.C.'s brewing culture is growing and this is one of our favorites. They have a restaurant in the Shaw neighborhood, but we think hanging out at the brewery is a bit more fun.
Indigo
Our favorite place to get Indian food. There are fancier and better places, but for the price, flavor, and atmosphere (check out their great patio), you can't do much better.
Red Bear Brewing Co
The newest brewery in town has a great space next to the REI. It's really close to the NoMa metro and the Marriott hotel so it's an easy hangout spot for those staying nearby.
Archipelago
Walking up and down U Street is a great way to spend a day if you're looking for shopping and great at night if you're looking for eats and drinks. Our favorite spot is this wonderful tiki bar with a dynamite happy hour menu.
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
While it won't rival the San Diego Zoo or the like, it's free and a nice stroll. The National Zoo is best known for its panda program. Plus, their small mammal house is top notch.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
A great place for a stroll among lily pads and other beautiful aquatic plants.
Theodore Roosevelt Island
One of the most filling tributes to a former president is this nature preserve that encourages you to bring your dog.
The Wharf
Recently rebuilt and redeveloped, The Wharf is D.C.'s new water front. It's full of shopping, fancy restaurants, and quick eats like Shake Shack, but it also still has a working fish market and the boardwalk is a good place for a walk along the water.