Curator’s statement
The first place I lived in after moving to the U.S. was the Baltimore-Washington area. I have been to Washington, D.C. multiple times and showed my family around the city whenever they came to visit. For all of them, it was their first time in the U.S. This city has so much to offer—it’s rich in history, art and culture, great dining experiences, and a vibrant social scene.
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Things to do in Washington, D.C.
White House: Many visitors don’t realize that the White House offers public tours throughout the year. Even more special are the rare opportunities to explore the beautiful White House Garden, which opens to the public only twice annually—usually in April for the spring tour and October for the fall tour.
Old Post Office Tower: Once the capital’s very first skyscraper, the historic Old Post Office Tower now sits within a luxury hotel complex. Visitors can explore an exhibit on Washington’s history before heading up to the observation deck for one of the best panoramic views of the city.
FBI Headquarters: Step inside the legendary FBI Headquarters and discover the real world behind America’s most famous investigations. This behind-the-scenes experience highlights the history, technology, and fascinating cases that have shaped the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Capitol Hill and Library of Congress: A visit to Washington isn’t complete without seeing the United States Capitol and the nearby Library of Congress. Though separate landmarks, they’re often toured together thanks to their close location, and each offers fascinating insights into the nation’s political and cultural history.
Lincoln Memorial: Standing proudly at one end of the Lincoln Memorial, this iconic monument honors President Abraham Lincoln and offers a breathtaking view across the National Mall toward the U.S. Capitol.
The National Mall: The true joy of visiting the National Mall is the walk itself. This beautiful park stretches between major monuments and museums, filled with people strolling, relaxing, and enjoying the atmosphere—plus plenty of food trucks and world-class museums to explore along the way.
Georgetown: The charming neighborhood of Georgetown is often compared to London’s Notting Hill. With its picturesque cobblestone streets, historic architecture, stylish boutiques, and excellent restaurants, it’s the perfect place for an afternoon of shopping, dining, and wandering.
Arlington Cemetery: Located just across the river, Arlington National Cemetery is the largest national cemetery in the United States. Maintained by the military and open daily to visitors, it is also the resting place of President John F. Kennedy and members of his family.
Sporting events: For an authentic local experience, attend a live sporting event in Washington, D.C., or nearby Baltimore. Depending on the season, you can catch everything from basketball and baseball to football or hockey and enjoy the electric atmosphere of American sports culture.
Places to eat & drink in Washington, D.C.
Kaché: A stylish and lively dining spot blending upscale cuisine with a vibrant nightlife atmosphere. It’s a great place to start the evening with cocktails and dinner before the music and energy of the city’s nightlife take over.
Live K The Wharf: Located along the scenic waterfront, Live K Karaoke offers a fun and interactive night out. Visitors can enjoy private karaoke rooms, drinks, and a lively atmosphere while singing their favorite songs with friends.
The Park at 14th: One of downtown D.C.’s most popular nightlife venues, The Park at 14th combines dining, dancing, and entertainment across four stylish floors. Known for its energetic brunches, DJ-driven parties, and festive atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking for a memorable night out.
Georgetown Seafood: Located in the historic Georgetown district, this spot is perfect for seafood lovers looking to enjoy fresh flavors in one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. After dinner, visitors can stroll the cobblestone streets and explore the lively waterfront.
Gypsy Kitchen: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers a warm, vibrant atmosphere with flavorful tapas, creative cocktails, and colorful décor. It’s an excellent place for sharing dishes with friends while experiencing a taste of Southern European cuisine.
Nellie’s Sports Bar: A lively and welcoming spot in D.C.’s nightlife scene, known for its energetic crowd, drag brunches, and fun game-day atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy drinks, watch sports, and experience the city’s inclusive and upbeat vibe.
Menomale NoMa: Pizza lovers shouldn’t miss Menomale in the NoMa district. This cozy Italian pizzeria is famous for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven.
Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar: Here, visitors can enjoy bold Peruvian flavors in a vibrant setting. The menu features fresh ceviches, creative Latin-inspired dishes, and signature cocktails made with pisco, Peru’s national spirit.
Need to know
The best time to visit Washington, D.C. is in early spring or fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, beautiful scenery, and many exciting events—making them perfect for sightseeing. Summer visits can be challenging, as the city often becomes very hot and humid, which can make exploring on foot—one of the best ways to experience D.C.—much more tiring.
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Barbara Campbell
Barbara Campbell
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