Where to stay

Like any city, it is best to be centrally located and close to transportation. One great option is the Riggs hotel. Located in NW Downtown DC it is close to transportation options (the Metro is DCs subway and bus system). The Riggs is located in a gorgeous old-school bank building that first opened in 1891 and was recently beautifully restored to include some of the great history the building has been a part of over the years.

Transportation

DC is an easy city to navigate, and there are several ways to do it. DC's public transportation system, called The Metro, is a great way to get to all of the high-points in the area. The subway is clean and efficient (and air-conditioned!) while the buses are easy to navigate. If public transportation isn’t your thing, Uber and Lyft are plentiful in almost all parts of the city. If you really want to travel like a local and you’re not going too far, you can hop on a scooter or bike. DC has invested lots of time and space in creating safe bike-lanes for those who use these methods.

Evening

Washington DC has an awesome music and theater scene. Sure, we have standing institutions like the Kennedy Center, which host shows and other events all throughout the summer. However, the Kennedy Center’s newest outdoor venue—the REACH—hosts more non-traditional outdoor music and concerts. Best part: it is located right along the Potomac River so you’ll have front-row river views all evening.

Morning

Please know this: Brunch is a big deal in this town and for Washingtonians brunch is almost a professional sport. One of the best places to experience this first-hand is at Le Diplomate. Located in the Logan Circle neighborhood of NW, this popular restaurant transports you to a bustling café in Paris. Honestly, everything on the menu is tasty but I’m a fan of the Warm Shrimp Salad. Pair with their Froze and you’re doing brunch like a local!

Mid-Day

Next up, head down to the Wharf. Located in SW DC, this waterfront destination is always buzzing with activity. Take a stroll along the water, watch the boats go by, and definitely pop into a shop or two for some local merch (and ice cream!). There are also lots of rooftop bars, including one at the Canopy. It is the perfect perch to people watch.

If the day gets too hot (and it DEFINTELY does July-August), skip the Wharf head over the The National Mall to visit DC's world-class museums. From more-traditional options like the Smithsonian Art Museums to the newer African American History Museum, there is a good time for everyone in the family. Best parts: all of the Smithsonian museums are free, they have cafes, and they are AIR-CONDITIONED!

Dinner

DC has awesome—and authentic!—cuisine from around the world. If you’re a fan of Indian food you should try out Rasika. Located in downtown NW DC, it is hands-down the best in the city. All of the entrees are wonderful but be sure to order the crispy spinach appetizer. You’ll thank me later! Afterwards, check out the city in the most unique way: from above! Head to the Hotel Washington’s rooftop bar and lounge for a one-of-a-kind nighttime view of the White House and National Mall.

A true hallmark of the city is its farmers markets, and one of the best is Eastern Market. Located in the Capital Hill neighborhood of NE, nearby farmers, crafters, and other vendors sell homemade and homegrown merchandise of all kinds.

Stop into Tunicliff’s Tavern for brunch (see DC brunch: above) or, if you want something more low-key, Tortilla Café or Bullfrog Bagels. Definitely stop into the market itself. It is a beautiful building, first built in 1873 and restored about 20 years ago.