We have been checking things off the DC bucket listen between the craziness of our work schedules. Trying to blog about those things we have done has proven challenging. For example, I went to bed at 6 pm the other night and crashed hard. We love our jobs, and our day to day life here. But I think everyone can speak to a season of life in which they just want to go home and sleep all the time. And that legit is us right now.
We have still been out on the weekends and I am having so much fun. The summer in Washington DC , though hot, is really filled with so many fun things to see and do. Over the past couple months we have checked out some more Smithsonian (Freer-Sackler, Museum of African Art, Postal Museum), Arlington National Cemetery, Big Band Jam Festival, Jazz in the Garden, Embassies Open Weekend, Johhnyswim in Concert at Lincoln Theater, Memorial Day Concert at the Capital, hiking Rock Creek Park, and checking out some new restaurants/ neighborhoods along the way.
Smithsonian-
Freer-Sackler Museum:
Dustin and I went once to tour this museum. I then saw an exhibit went up of watercolor/ oil paintings not seen since the 1930’s and only up for a short time this year. So I begged to go back a few weekends later. This museum houses a lot of Asian and Middle Eastern Art. As a smaller museum (and a little hidden while still on the National Mall) it is a good place to escape the crowds.
The special exhibit is called “Whistler in Watercolor.” I highly recommend checking it out if you are planning on being in DC before October 2019. The second time we went they were even having an event where we were able to choose between a screen printed tote or a screen printed wall hung art piece. I went with wall print of course. There was some live music in one of the exhibit halls. The whole experience was wonderful, and was a fun surprise for a second visit. This might be controversial but Whistler is better than Degas hands down.
Museum of African Art:
One thing to mention is that this museum is underground. The entrance is behind the Smithsonian Castle and is a blink you will miss it thing. Don’t be afraid to ask someone for help. It was really beautiful, and the beaded pieces were my favorite. Another great Smithsonian on the National Mall that is low crowds only due to it’s hard to find entrance.
Postal Museum:
I know this one sounds boring, but it was actually really interesting. Did you know that John Lennon collected stamps? I do now. The building (for a person who loves historic architecture) is amazing, the collection of stamps dating back far into history, the autographed stamps, the interactive exhibits, and super friendly/ helpful staff made our experience super enjoyable and not boring at all! Don’t forget to pick up a few free stamps from all over the world in the main level exhibit!
Arlington National Cemetery-
This is a must see if visiting DC experience. It reminds you how much we have to be thankful for and who we should be thankful to. It is a quick walk from the Arlington National Cemetery metro stop on the blue line. However, the Cemetery is expansive. I would recommend strollers for kids, and if you are traveling with people who struggle with long walks to pay for the many options of motorized tours. The app that you can download for your phone (ANC Explorer) is a HUGE help. Not only does it help you navigate to specific points of interest, but it also helps you get to specific graves if you are looking for someone specific. As just a visitor, you are asked to stay on the main paths. If you are a family member of someone and would like to be given permission to visit a grave site, reach out to Arlington National Cemetery directly to schedule that ahead.
Other Things to Check Out:
(Depending on Season/ Date)
Big Band Jazz Festival:
On the National Mall. Bring a blanket, some food, and even a dog. It was not too hot yet so I highly recommend!
Jazz in the Garden:
Every Friday evening, during the summer, the National Sculpture Garden has live Jazz music and food. I recommend getting there at 4 pm to get a good spot (it gets PACKED). Bring a good blanket, bring your own food and drinks. No pets are allowed, and while sad, I totally agree with it. Too many people/ too much stuff for pets to be comfortable.
Hirshorn Museum Sculpture Garden:
From Rodin to Yayoi Kusama, the Hirshorn Sculpture Garden is just a quick detour off the National Mall grass. Totally worth the 5 minute side adventure even if you are not wanting to enter the Hirshorn itself.
Embassies Open Weekend DC/ Passport DC:
This free event is really one of the coolest events of the year in DC. Many embassies open their doors for visitors to welcome the community to not only be on their land for a while (which is so cool), but to also experience food, art, musicians other culture activities specific to their homeland. If you have wanderlust check this out for sure.
Rock Creek Park:
While I am not particularly “outdoorsy”, I am working on it. A couple of our friends asked us to join them on an easier hike in Rock Creek Park located within the District. It is maybe a 15 minute drive from the hustle and bustle; but it is a completely different world. For a novice hiker like myself it was a really good starter course. Basically if I can do it, you can do it. (There are other trails and options for those who need more of a challenge, don’t worry.)
Some restaurants here in DC we are loving right now:
(Listed are location and type of food)
- Aqua AL 2 (Eastern Market/ Italian Food)
- Ophelia’s Fish House (Eastern Market/ Brunch there is amazing. I know it sounds weird but it is true.)
- Duffy’s Irish Pub (H Street/ Known for their wings, but we like a lot there. Also pets not only welcome, but encouraged on the patio)
- Tupelo Honey (Arlington/ Southern/ Brunch, Lunch Dinner options are great. They give you biscuits ahead of the meal, so it was an immediate favorite.)
- Abe’s Cafe (Gallery Place/ American and Vietnamese. It is a hidden gem across the street from Ford’s Theater.It looks like a typical touristy souvenir store, but just up the stairs is the best food for a good price.)
- Jacob’s Coffee House (Capital Hill/ Breakfast, Lunch, Great coffee!!)
(Abe’s Cafe)
(Aqua Al 2)
Hope you are having a fun summer so far!
Cat
Update: Check out our blog post about planning your visit to Washington DC.
