The City Girl's Guide to D.C.
Spring is on the horizon, and we’re so excited to see things slowly open back up. Living near Washington, D.C. is something I always took for granted, considering it was always a metro ride away. Ever since the world turned upside down, I’ve missed strolling through the National Mall and walking around the Waterfront. I don’t think I’ll ever take it for granted again and I’ll enjoy every moment of it, even when the tourists stand on the wrong side of the escalator. Below. I compiled a list of my favorite D.C. staples to visit and restaurants to eat at if you ever happen to visit the nation’s capital!
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most iconic and historical locations in D.C. Looking over the reflecting pool and right across from the WWII Memorial, you’ll feel on top of the world. Inside is the president himself chilling inside the cool marble building. Make sure to go early in the morning to avoid the tourist rush and get a peek at one of the most beautiful sunrises.
Tidal Basin
Nothing in D.C. screams spring more than the Cherry Blossom Festival. Peak bloom this year is between April 2nd and April 5th. At this festival, you can visit the Tidal Basin and enjoy the flowers, while looking over towards the Jefferson Memorial. In non-covid times, the festival would include things like a parade and the Petalpalooza, which is a day of free family-friendly entertainment! This year’s festival runs from March 20th through April 10th, with a mix of virtual and in-person events.
The Smithsonian Museums
One of the coolest things about D.C. is the access to free museums and infinite amounts of American and world history right at your fingertips. The Smithsonian Institute offers eleven museums and galleries on the National Mall, plus six other museums for everyone to enjoy. My personal favorite is the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Portrait Gallery. They are currently closed due to the ongoing pandemic. However, when they open back up, the museums do close at 5:00 pm, so be prepared to schedule your days around those closing times.
The National Botanical Garden
Now that we all became plant parents over the past year, it’s only natural to take the next step and check out the Botanical Gardens. This living plant museum is home to over one million plants from all parts of the world! In the conservatory, there are 10 gardens and 2 courtyards under one roof. My absolute favorite part of The Gardens are the orchids, which have an entire room dedicated to them.
Georgetown
One of the most well-known areas in D.C. is right across the river from Virginia. You can walk down the streets of this historic neighborhood, looking at the most beautiful townhouses you’ll find. Get some shopping done at the local businesses and expand your palette with over 100 restaurants from every culture and country you can think of. Walk along the waterfront and watch people in the kayaks, or even hop in yourself and experience Georgetown for all it is. You can even walk around the Georgetown University campus if you’re in an intellectual mood.
Mama Ayesha’s
Hungry in D.C.? One of D.C.’s classic restaurants is Mama Ayesha’s. It is a Middle Eastern restaurant introduced in the 1960s, founded by Mama Ayesha Abraham, a former cook for the Syrian embassy. Formerly known as Calvert Cafe, this spot gives you authentic Middle Eastern staples like hummus, kibbeh, grape leaves, and kebabs. The restaurant has served ambassadors, foreign dignitaries, and U.S. officials over the years. Plus, on the outside of the building, there is a mural of past presidents starting with Eisenhower and ending with Obama.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Located on U Street and opened in 1958 in a segregated Washington D.C., Ben’s Chili Bowl is a D.C. landmark. The restaurant still has the original counter, booth, and stools from when they opened. The chili recipe has not changed either. Going into the diner is a blast from the past. You won’t regret trying the Original Half Smoke Chili Dog, a quintessential D.C. flavor made famous here.
Le Diplomate
If you’re looking for fancy dress-up dining, Le Diplomate is the way to go. Located on 14th St, the Parisian-style cafe provides you with all the classic French dishes if you’re on a date, celebratory dinner, or even just trying to treat yourself. From cappuccinos and croissants to oysters and Steak Au Poivre--you can pretend you’re in Paris for a few hours.
Clyde’s of Georgetown
Since it opened in 1963 in the heart of Georgetown, Clyde’s quickly became “The original, quintessential Washington, DC saloon” for classic American dishes, brunch, deli-style burgers, and award-winning chili. The restaurant was even able to open other locations in parts of Virginia, expanding their classic dining experience.
Old Ebbitt Grill
Old Ebbitt Grill opened in 1856, and no one knows exactly where for sure, but the original location was most likely at the edge of present-day Chinatown. Old Ebbitt Grill started as a boarding house and is said to have housed president McKinley while he was in Congress. President Grant, Johnson, Cleveland, and Rosevelt have been said to have been at the bar. After multiple moves over a century, Old Ebbitt Grill finally settled at 15th St. With a menu ranging from oysters, to eggs benedict, to filet mignon, to salted caramel bread pudding, there’s something for everyone!