There are so many great things to do around Washington DC, from malls to museums to monuments, oh my!
Here are a few favorite, local, or below-the-radar attractions:
Riley's community project since 2020! Gates open for free community events (schedule updated monthly) including weekly meditation, yoga, etc. Located by U Street metro station (yellow/green lines) and local landmarks including the Lincoln Theatre and Ben's Chili Bowl.
"The museum where language comes to life" invites guests to explore words through interactive exhibits that highlight all the ways we use language to navigate our world. Located in downtown DC. Free admission.
Just a 6 minute walk from the LINE DC hotel, Malcolm X / Meridian Hill Park is always active with dogwalkers, picnics, lawn games, and yoga groups. Sunday afternoons (3pm-dusk) feature the park's iconic drum circle, a 40-year tradition known for its positive and inviting atmosphere.
Head East to the NoMa neighborhood if you'd like to explore "DC’s hippest feasting ground, a revived mid-century produce- and meat-selling bazaar that holds food stalls, informal restaurants and kitchenware boutiques".
Blaire's favorite Smithsonian museum showcases contemporary craft and decorative arts. The Renwick Gallery is known for its innovative and interactive exhibits. Located just north of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on Pennsylvania Ave. Free admission.
DC is blessed with beauty year-round; when the cherry blossoms fade, outdoor artwork keeps the district colorful! While MuralsDC maintains a map of 165 murals, here's a more comprehensive google maps registry of outdoor art in the District. A self-guided tour of murals in the Adams Morgan neighborhood can be found here.
Riley's favorite Smithsonian museum. Even if you don't make it inside, the architecture and landscaping are really special. Situated between the U.S. Botanic Garden & the Air and Space Museum. Free admission.
Tucked away in a peaceful grove of holly and elm trees near the Lincoln Memorial, this 12-foot tall bronze colossus is accessible 24/7. Snap a pic sitting on Einstein's lap, test the site's curious echo effect, and walk among the stars on the celestial map surrounding the statue!
Central location of Blaire's workplace (though Busboys has bookstore-restaurants across DMV). Great food and even greater selection of books. A place to feed your mind, body, and soul. Check out their schedule for events across locations.
Great range of burgers. Salads rocking Green Goddess dressing. Recently franchised to DCA National Airport, but you won't want to miss the vibes at their OG restaurant in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.
Once 'Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe', Blaire's former place of employment features a restaurant and extensive bookstore in Dupont Circle neighborhood. Best known for their Brunch.
One of three remaining black-owned businesses on U Street to have survived the riots following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Ben's Chili Bowl is a cultural landmark for DC and the U Street / Cardozo-Shaw neighborhood where Blaire and Riley lived 2020-2024. Near Temperance Alley as well as landmark Lincoln Theatre.
Check out the original storefront (closed for repairs) then grab food at their pop-up location open right across the street: 1208 U St NW
"Combining modern craft cocktails and mixology with the flavors of the Middle East, giving you drinks like the Saz'iraq, Lebanese No. 1, Janissary Corps, and our legendary Mint Lemonade & More." Inshallah the best drinks you'll taste in DC! Located in Adams Morgan.
One of just a handful of Lesbian bars remaining in the USA, Adams Morgan's ALOHO "is a place for people who have not found their place elsewhere. Our doors are not open to intolerance, hate, or bigotry. Please remember that while all are welcome, in this space you are a guest of the LGBTQIA+ community. Have fun, spread love, and appropriate shenanigans only. If you're not sure, ask - consent is sexy!"
Coffeehouse, bar, and lounge in Adams Morgan neighborhood (just south of the LINE DC hotel). Famous for always serving two animal crackers with each drink.
Pastry shop with a solid collection of Ecuadorian coffee served hot and cold. Located across the street from the LINE DC hotel in Adams Morgan neighborhood. Muy sabroso!
General coffeeshop with nice atmosphere and friendly baristas. Blaire's former place of employment! Located between Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, & Cardozo-Shaw/U-Street neighborhoods. Blaire recommends the "Black & Tan," which is half- cold brew and half- La Colombe's classic draft latte.