Ten Favorite Places
Everybody knows DC's main attractions: the White House, Capitol, Smithsonian museums, and memorials; world-class art, theatre, gardens, and the symbols of U.S. history and government. But there's much more around here than white marble (and hot air).
This is the Resident Tourist's TOP TEN LIST of great spots to visit in Washington DC.
1. The Phillips Collection - America's first modern art museum, housed in collector Duncan Phillips's Q Street mansion, is a joy to wander through and exhibits world-class contemporary artworks. Well worth the entrance fee for special exhibitions, but you can explore the permanent collection for free (donations gratefully accepted).
2. The National Zoo,
a hilly, gorgeous zoological park set amid Rock Creek Park in the heart of Washington, D.C., home to 2,000 individual animals including the irresistible giant pandas. Take a picnic and wear good walking shoes. My tip is to not try to see all 2000 creatures in the zoo. You can easily wear yourself out hiking up and down the hills on the long stretches between exhibits. Choose a few faves and enjoy.
3. DC monuments at night.
A nighttime visit to the monuments is the best way to appreciate their grandeur. Many companies run tours. Here's a well-reviewed one.
4. The National Portrait Gallery with its spacious new courtyard (Conde Nast Traveler named the Kogod Courtyard as one of seven architectural wonders), the Gallery "presents the wonderful diversity of individuals who have left—and are leaving—their mark on our country and our culture." It's my favorite museum.
5. The free nightly concerts at the Kennedy Center.
You can eat at the Rooftop Terrace or a nearby Georgetown Harbor spot after the 6:00 p.m. show on the Millennium Stage.
6. The U.S. Botanic Garden. When it's cold, you'll get warm here and when it's hot, you'll find it cool and refreshing. Take in the fragrances and colors amidst the green lushness of this oft-overlooked downtown treasure.
Generally not crowded and, as many of DC's attractions: FREE!
7. Wander around the tables and booths of delicacies and wares while listening to street musicians on a Saturday or Sunday at Eastern Market.
8. Have a chili dog with the works at Ben's Chili Bowl. This diner on U Street is historical landmark---the only spot on the street to stay open and survive the race riots of 1968.
9. Tea at the National Cathedral. Twice a week you can get a special tour of the Cathedral followed by a very lovely traditional tea.
Also worth checking for: the occasionally scheduled 45-minute climbs to the top of the bell tower.
10.The Old Stone House right in Georgetown (across from Barnes and Noble) is the oldest house in Washington DC. The Park Service leads tours through this unassuming, charming structure. Visit and then have lunch or window shop in this famous DC neighborhood. You're not too far from the newly famous Georgetown Cupcake shop.
