D.C Essentials

I can’t describe it. D.C is one of my favorite cities in the world. It is unfortunate that every time I have gone it has been because of a march for basic human rights (women’s, common-sense gun laws, and indigenous rights). But I wouldn’t trade my experiences for anything else in the world.

There is an energy in D.C that does not exist anywhere else. It is literally the most powerful and symbolic place in the country. I don’t particularly want a job in politics (as of yet!), but between driving through the embassies or national monuments, it’s enough to change my mind. Here is my basic and small guide to all things D.C— where to eat and what to do.

Eats

  • The Diner: every time I have visited D.C I have arrived between the insane hours of 3-6 am. A must stop no matter how early or how late is this 24-hour diner, where you can get everything from guac to grilled cheese sandwiches to milkshakes (exactly my order).

  • Honeyfish Poke: I love a good poke bowls. And chances are so do you. Most poke places including this offer tofu versions to swap out fish products. They are the bane of my existence, especially during the summer. It’s conveniently near the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. So got get lost in art, and then stop by here for lunch.

  • Union Market: over 40 vendors from sushi to nachos and everything in between. Art and live music— you could spend a whole day here!

  • Cafe Georgetown: it doesn’t get better than a seasonal menu and a picture-perfect coffee spot.

  • Rooster and Owl: this is probably one of my favorites in D.C, with a market-driven and sustainable focus, I love sharing this gem with friends.

  • The Dabney: Can’t say I would have ever considered Mid-Atlantic cuisine to be among my favorite food fare, but I am obsessed. Perfect for girls’ night or a first date venture- for the seasonal foodie or the newbie.

  • Green Almond Pantry: I swear Green Almond does justice to the vegetable. They usually have an amazing pastry menu as well! For all my vegetarian friends this one is a must-visit!

  • Oohs & Aahhs: If you are looking for some organ-clogging southern soul food, then this Black-owned restaurant should be at the top of the list! Good luck snagging a seat!

TO DO

(outside of the common political stargazing that everyone recommends i.e Lincoln Memorial, Embassy Row, Capitol Hill, etc.)

  • Well, of course, you have to hit up all the free museums! The National Portrait Gallery is by far one of my top ten favorite museums in the world. And if you can find a way to go I would also add the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

  • Library of Congress: the world’s largest library? Yes, please!

  • National Museum of Health and Medicine: super fun to geek out and learn all things crazy science. It is technically in Maryland but it so easy to cross the line- you won’t even notice.

  • Washington National Cathedral: This is not your average place of worship. From Helen Keller’s ashes to a gargoyle shaped like Darth Vader, you will have a lot of fun here.

  • National Arboretum: spend some time around perfectly manicured nature.

  • Drug Enforcement Administration: did you know they had a museum? And an extensive bong collection? Who knew, lol?

  • The Fringe: follow the yellow brick road? Try a graffiti walk on Capitol Hill instead!

A short and sweet list, feel free to drop your reccomendations down below!

cover image by @solenfeyissa

Travelelina morrisonComment