Looking to travel through DC like a local? This guide is here to help! There are several new spots that are discovered on a regular basis, niche restaurants, and even some of the top places to visit with a little twist.
If you aren’t sure where to start, well then let’s go into number one, the monuments.
Visit the Monuments
There are so many monuments to check out in DC. From the Jefferson Memorial to the Washington Monument itself, the history is endless.
Something to keep in mind is that there is a distinct wonder to the monuments when you visit them at night. There’s nothing like a sunset sky behind any of the memorials.
Now it may take some time to see all of them at night, however, the experience and beauty will be worth the effort.
Go to Farmer’s Markets
If you are going to go to any of the many markets in the area, go on an empty stomach. There are tons of samples everywhere and when you go, you don’t want to have to deny the delicious foods!
From fruits and veggies to soaps and home items, there really is something for everyone at a farmer’s market. One of the most popular in the area is the Dupont Circle Farmers Market. When you plan to go, make sure you get ready to spend the day there.
Anacostia Organics
If you are a part of the medical marijuana system or if you are looking for a marijuana doctor in DC then the place to go is AO! A minority and woman owned business, Anacostia burst into the scene not too long ago.
They have passionate people who can get you with the right strains, help you apply for a medical marijuana card, or even just chat and help you figure out what you need.
Visit the Parks
Politics surround DC like an annoying hum of insect wings. It’s not as pleasant as the many parks that are found throughout the area. You can awaken your inner hippy in Meridian Park or explore botanical wonders at the US Botanic Gardens.
If you’re looking for something more historical, there’s Lincoln Park or Roosevelt Island. You can even go back in time at the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park which travels to the early 18th and 19th centuries.
Spend Time at the Museums
Museums may not be your thing, but something to try to help you live like a local is to go to the museums in the morning.
Think of it this way, there’s a hubbub in the afternoon and evenings because that’s when everyone is off of work. If you go in the morning, you avoid the traffic and can spend that time enjoying the displays at your own leisure without the noise or distraction.
Writer Homes
If literary ventures are more your speed, then there’s something for you as well. Why not stop by one of the seven homes of John F. Kennedy? Or how about you check out one of the other hundreds of authors who, at one time, stayed in Washington DC?
You can easily check them out using a database that was designed by friends and local word nerds whose passion for literature led to finding out about local authors and their history in the DC area.
Local Eateries
From juicy and perfectly baked empanadas to fresh poke, there’s always an option available in the area for your food loving heart. Some great places that have been tried and true are those like Cafe Citron where you can eat wonderful Spanish food and dance the night away at the same time. It’s a great place to meet others and have a wonderful time.
After mentioning empanadas, the best place that you can get those delicious pockets of tender meat is going to be Julia’s Empanadas. Thankfully, there are several locations that are a hotspot for quick grab-n-go snacks.
Visit Art Galleries
If art is more your thing, then there are plenty of artists and eclectic locations to catch the discerning eye. Some of the best galleries to visit are going to be Compass Coffee or Artechouse. However, if you are looking for something more on the wild side, then you have to check out the Blind Whino.
Blind Whino lives in an old abandoned church and it is decorated in psychedelic colors and paintings all over the place. It’s definitely an eye catcher and something to live in the memory banks forever!
Conclusion
Part of going through DC like a local is taking the time to go to different locations at the off times of the day. One of the biggest regrets of any tourist is not being able to take enough time to go through the museums, that’s why you should go in the morning. It’s easier to trek through them when you aren’t shoulder to shoulder.
All in all, try the food, try the fun, visit the parks, and do all that you can to get a feel for Washington DC. It’s more than politics, it’s quirky, fun, and full of food.