Travel Series: 108 Hours In Washington D.C.
What To Pack
Light Sweaters: D.C. tends to be warm in spring and summer months but the museums and galleries can still run cold. It is best to always have a light sweater that you can pop on and off. This is a great option for traveling.
A Stylish Denim Jean Jacket: Jean jackets are known for their versatility and can pull an outfit together especially if you are wearing a nice summery dress or t-shirt and jean outfit. Check out this option to spruce things up.
A Pair Of Leather Pants: A pair of leather pants are good for if you want to explore the city’s robust bar life and night scene. This would be a great option for the average traveler.
A Cross-Body Bag: A nice cross-body bag is vital when in a big city. You don’t need that much stuff to carry. Really a place for your phone, wallet and keys will do. A cross-body bag is light weight and a good option for maneuvering in and out of the city. Check out this option for travel.
Extra Socks: You can’t go wrong with an extra pair of socks. This is a great packing choice because you will do a lot of walking in D.C. and even in the summer it can get a little chilly at night. Here is a great option for cute yet functional socks for the city.
Where To Stay
Courtyard Washington, Foggy Bottom: This hotel is in the middle of the action. Next to premier restaurants and walking distance from a ton of museums.
Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C: This is a five-star hotel and beckons a true-luxury experience. This is great for those who want a bit more quiet and have the funds to splurge. Bonus for being near Georgetown and the cute shops in the area.
Waldorf Astoria Washington D.C: This is also a five-star hotel only steps away from The White House and some of the most premier D.C. museums. The architecture of the building is gorgeous and the rooms blend just the right amount of cozy and luxury.
Motto By Hilton Washington D.C: This is a great budget friendly option right in the middle of Chinatown in D.C. This hotel is nice, colorful, and fun. A great option if you plan to spend more time outside than inside when in the city.
State Plaza Hotel: This is a bit further out the way but still a very nice and cozy hotel. Closer to the John F. Kennedy Center and The Lincoln Memorial, this hotel is charming and a bit more laid-back. Great for a couple nights, or a quick business trip as well.
What To See (And Do)
National Gallery Of Art: This museum is a fan favorite. It is multiple stories and can take a full day to access and see all of the art. It gets crowded easily so come early. Bonus is that it is free!
Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History: This museum is well-known and people from all over the world come to visit it. It is great for families, kids, and teens. Best days to go are early weekday mornings.
Smithsonian National Museum Of American History: If you are a history-buff this is a great museum for you. This museum is more geared to school trips, but it is very fun and interactive and something that you can get through in ninety minutes.
National Museum Of African American History And Culture: This is one of the most moving museums in the city. It explores the history and legacy of African-Americans and their experiences living in the US from the past, present, and what could be in the future. It has multiple stories and definitely takes time and care to explore.
Lincoln Memorial And Lincoln Reflecting Pool: The Lincoln Memorial will not disappoint. A gorgeous place with a gorgeous reflecting pool. Great for taking a large group and learning history while you are at it.
Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum: This museum is great for lovers of art and culture. It is a very tactile and sensory experience. This museum is packed with cool portraits, sculptures, rotating exhibits, and more.
Hirshhorn Museum: This museum is one of the more experimental museums on the list, but a very intriguing museum to visit. The art installations featured in the museum are meant to expand your mind and thinking so definitely go into it with a want to challenge yourself and your art sensibility.
National Museum of Asian Art: This museum does a great job at combining history, culture, and art. There are plenty of pieces from throughout East, South, and Central Asia with the history of the piece and the significance of the artwork or art piece to the region.
Where To Eat + Dine
Jinya Ramen Bar: Craving ramen? You can’t go wrong with Jinya. With spots all over D.C., you can get your ramen fix in a pinch. Some recommendations include Jinya Chicken Ramen and Tonkotsu Spicy.
Supra: This is a unique dining experience featuring Georgian food. It is more rustic, but very hearty. Some recommendations include Georgian Salad and Georgian Mixed Grill Platter.
Rumi's Kitchen: Rumi’s Kitchen is a delightful experience, especially when you need to have your Persian food fix. You can’t go wrong with the options here. Some recommendations include Rumi’s Wings, Shirazi Salad, and Lamb Shank.
Zaytinya by José Andrés: This restaurant is also a great pick if you want world-class Mediterranean food. Some good options include Sea Scallops, Grilled Lamb Chops, and Branzino.
Carmine's Italian Restaurant, Washington, D.C: Carmine’s is a staple in the D.C. food experience. The restaurant operates family-style, so there is no shortage of food to take home. Try out the Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna, or Chicken Scarpariello if you want to leave feeling full.
Thai Chef Street Food: This colorful spot is a must-see if you are wanting some Thai street food. If you are in the area, check out the catfish dry curry, duck curry, pineapple fried rice, or papaya salad.
Tail Up Goat: This restaurant is a fine dining experience with a sophisticated vibe. It is known for good food and good views. It is a tasting menu, so there is no guarantee of exactly what you will get. Recommendations include the herb-crusted halibut and coffee-crusted strip steak.
Late Night Fixings + Sweet Treats
Milk Bar: Milk Bar has been famous for awhile. They are best known for inventive cookies, cakes, and cookie truffles.
Insomnia Cookies: These cookies are delicious and very gooey. They make a great late-night treat or last-minute stop before turning in for the day.
ThreeFifty Bakery and Coffee Bar: This cute bakery is in the heart of Washington, D.C. It sells sweet and savory goods, including yummy quiches. Great place to sit, read a book, and/or people-watch.
Georgetown Cupcake: These cupcakes have developed quite a reputation as some of the best cupcakes in the area. Tasty, colorful, and with a lot of options, you can’t afford to go wrong with a visit to this cupcake bakery.