It’s ironic that one of America’s oldest cities is one of its most up-and-coming. Over the last few years, our nation’s capital has become younger, more culturally relevant, and more fun than ever before. Thanks to its compact size, abundance of recent college grads and a surplus of after-work bars, DC makes for the perfect getaway from busier NYC and smaller urban hubs like Philadelphia and Baltimore.
It’s also a city that’s manageable (there’s a super convenient metro system) as well as gorgeous— think cherry blossoms in spring and the colorful townhouses of Georgetown. And let’s not forget that real global politics goes down here. Laws are passed, national security is maintained and important world news gets broadcasted. But the pressure of leading the country also means that the locals know how to party hard. If you’re in the market for some late night fun, a little Southern hospitality and a lesson in American history, consider it your next “must” destination.
*Here’s TravelSquire’s “capsule” round-up of the best of D.C. both for tourists and locals alike.
Where to Stay:
The Jefferson – For a taste of luxury with an unapologetic sense of grandeur, stay at this small, Federal-style hotel with a convenient Dupont Circle location. 1200 16th St NW, tel. 202-448-2300, www.jeffersondc.com
Donovan House – This trendy cog in the Kimpton Hotels wheel pulls out all the stops: ultra-modern furnishings, a rooftop pool and lounge and a pan-Asian restaurant led by celebrity Chef Susur Lee. The downtown location doesn’t hurt, either. 1155 14th St NW, tel. 202-737-1200, www.donovanhousehotel.com
The George – The George’s quirky modern design attracts powerbrokers and celebrities alike, especially to dine at its French restaurant, Bistro Bis. 15 E St NW, tel.202-347-4200, www.hotelgeorge.com
The Willard Intercontinental – Having served as a temporary home for two former Presidents (Lincoln and Coolidge) and the site where MLK wrote his “I Have a Dream” speech, the Willard’s resume certainly stacks up. If mountains of marble and crystal chandeliers aren’t enough, the Round Robin’s mint julep will win you over. 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, tel. 202-628-9100, www.washington.intercontinental.com
Where to Eat:
Perry’s Restaurant – Don’t miss the popular drag brunch on Sundays for an all-you-can-eat buffet and a performance by the divas themselves. 1811 Columbia Rd NW, tel. 202-234-6218, www.perrysadamsmorgan.com
Bourbon Steak – It’s exactly what you’d expect from the Four Seasons Hotel and James Beard award-winning chef, Michael Mina. Nestled in chic Georgetown, both the dining room and adjacent lounge are worth some of your time, especially if you’re in the mood to splurge. 2800 Pennsylvania Ave, tel. 202-944-2026, www.bourbonsteakdc.com
Cactus Cantina – Skip the touristy stuff and head to this homey favorite of DC locals. The house made tortillas are cheap and delicious and best enjoyed with one of their famous frozen swirl margaritas. HYPERLINK “http://www.cactuscantina.com” 3300 Wisconsin Ave NW, tel. 202-362-5649, www.cactuscantina.com
Queen of Sheba – Unbeknownst to most tourists, DC boasts a large Ethiopian population, which means tons of off-the-beaten-track restaurants to explore and possibly eat sans utensils. Queen of Sheba is one of the best in the Little Ethiopia area. 1503 9th St NW, tel. 202-232-7272, www.queenofshebadc.com
Where to Drink:
Columbia Room – For the best cocktails in DC, trust the award-winning mixologists at Columbia Room. Try the tasting menu, which includes an opening drink, followed by a seasonal drink paired with an amuse bouche, and a third, customized drink of your choice. Or, hone your own skills and take one of their bartending and mixology classes. 1021 7th St NW, tel. 202-393-0336, www.passengerdc.com/columbia
Birch & Barley – Its main attraction is the seasonally-rotating list of 555 draft beers (the most in D.C.). On nice days, the garage door wall opens, creating a patio feel within the chic rustic warehouse. 1337 14th St NW, tel. 202-567-2576, www.birchandbarley.com
The Gibson – Here’s one pseudo-speakeasy that won’t induce cringing. Even Don Draper would approve of their unique cocktail selection and sultry atmosphere. 2009 14th St NW, tel. 202-232-2156, www.thegibsondc.com
Beacon Sky Bar – One of many DC “cocktails-with-a-view” destinations, the Beacon Hotel’s claim to fame is providing old school luxury and amazing photo-ops of the Mall and the White House. 1615 Rhode Island Ave, tel. 202-872-1126, www.beaconskybar.com
Bohemian Caverns – This legendary jazz club inside a cave-like basement has hosted the likes of Duke Ellington, who probably wouldn’t have ventured into the hip-hop club upstairs. But don’t let that stop you from checking it out after the early set. 2001 11th St NW, 202-299-0800, www.bohemiancaverns.com
What to See & Do:
The National Mall – Whether you’re alone, with friends, family, or even pets, there’s no better way to spend a Saturday morning than strolling the two miles of historic green space containing the Capitol, the White House, the Smithsonian, the Lincoln Memorial and the beacon of the city, the Washington Monument. It doesn’t get more D.C. than this. www.nationalmall.org
The Newseum – A recent addition to the museum scene, the Newseum tracks the history of global journalism in the most newsworthy city in the world. Check out the exhibitions on 9/11, the First Amendment, and the Berlin Wall then play the role of reporter in the NBC Interactive Newsroom. 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW, tel. 888-639-7386, www.newseum.org
Eastern Market – This 29-year-old flea market bustles every Sunday from 10 to 5 pm with fresh food, arts and crafts, antiques, and a hundred exhibitors from five continents. 7th St and C St SE, www.easternmarket.net
Georgetown – Feel like spending? DC’s best shopping district ranges from thrift shops to upscale boutiques to designer pop-ups. The neighborhood’s colorful townhouses echo the city’s colonial roots. You won’t find the fashion or the cute factor of Georgetown anywhere else. www.georgetowndc.com
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