Friday, October 27, 2017

Washington, D.C. Travel Guide: Eats and Sights In Our Nation's Capital


It's no secret that Washington, D.C. is one of my favorite cities. From its history to its culture, there is something for everyone to love.

I've been to D.C. on six separate occasions - one of those being a summer program right before college where I lived in the city and attended journalism courses at American University. Other than that summer, it's been for pure pleasure visiting friends there in the city and having a mini getaway from Florida (the flight is quick and usually inexpensive!).


District Doughnut

If it's your first time in D.C., you're going to want and try to do it all. Trust me when I say there is no way to see it all unless you're there for quite some time. But, I am going to highlight some touristy things you have to do and some of my new favorite spots from my most recent visits!

Some of my favorite areas to visit include Georgetown, U Street, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan and the Downtown spots.

What to Do:
Visit all the National Monuments - You can't go to D.C. and not visit! If you can't make it during the day time, the monuments are still amazing at night! You could even split them up if needed for your schedule.

Tour the Capitol Building - This may sound boring to some, but the inside of the Capitol is actually pretty remarkable. You can do a self-guided audio tour if you want to learn a little more about the history! Make sure to check out the acoustics under the dome - it's super intriguing.

Visit the Library of Congress - Probably one of the most incredible libraries I've ever been in! The detail in the design is sure to impress any book or architecture lover!

Visit the National Zoo - I may not be a kid anymore (still am at heart), but this zoo is such a fun spot to spend a gorgeous day outside! Be sure to stop by the panda exhibit and the jungle cats!

Spend a day at Union Market - Foodies and craft lovers - this spot is for you. With monthly events and daily food specials, the vendors at Union Market have something for everyone! From delectable ice cream and french fries to wine tastings and pop-ups, you'll want to stop by for the fun!

Get lost in Capitol Hill Books - One of the most amazing bookstores I've ever been in! When I say there are THOUSANDS of books in this store, from classic fiction to contemporary fiction, you could spend an entire day in this store!! I picked up some older copies of some of my favorite classics.

Go shopping in Georgetown - It's easy to spend your entire month's savings in this area of D.C., but at the very least, it offers fantastic window shopping. You'll find adorable local boutiques as well as some popular chain favorites!

Capitol Hill Books
Union Market
Union Market
Where to Eat:
Breakfast/Brunch:
801 Restaurant - Probably one of my favorite spots that we visited! Do yourself a favor and make a reservation if possible - they get busy on the weekends! Go ahead and order the DIY bottomless mimosa bar... you won't be sorry (or you might). Highly recommend the french toast and breakfast tacos!

Farmers Fishers Bakers - If there was ever a brunch spot that had something for everyone, THIS IS IT. The open buffet stations include a carving station, made-in-front-of-you omelets, dessert bar, and so much more. Plus, this restaurant is located near the water in Georgetown, which is an amazing spot to enjoy a nice brunch before walking around outside.

District Doughnut - I only have two things to say here: brown butter and creme brulee. Order them both and share with a friend (or don't) and then thank me later.

Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken - I was pretty skeptical of this combination at first. But then I was quickly reminded how I'm an idiot for thinking it was even possible that it wouldn't be delicious. I had the raspberry donut and is was a dream come true.

Calabash Teahouse - CHAI LATTE WITH THE LOVE POTION.

Big Bear Cafe - Didn't get the chance to sit down here for a meal, but walked by during one of our morning strolls and it's and adorable outdoor spot! My bestie Chelsea, who currently lives in D.C., says it's a must-visit!

801 Restaurant
801 Restaurant
Calabash Teahouse
Where to Eat:
Lunch/Dinner:
Matchbox - This pizza is is the bomb-diggity. You seriously can't go wrong with any of the options on the menu - but the one pictured below is a half-and-half of 'Matchbox Meat' and 'Sweet + Spicy Sausage'.

Union Market - Honestly, there are so many different food options in here, it's hard for me to suggest good ones to you guys. It's all delicious!! You'll just have to go explore for yourself and let your foodie senses tingle.

DC Noodles - I actually was not a huge noodle fan at all until I tried DC Noodles. Their bowls were incredible! I came super close to asking if they would be willing to add more noodles to my bowl when I was done... they were that good.

Roofers Union - I went to this spot on my second visit to the DC area to grab some food before hitting a wine bar (the one mentioned in the bars area below). Multiple appetizers was the way to go! The dips were delish.

Red Hen - Though I haven't had the chance to eat here, it comes highly recommended by locals. Word on the street is that it's a bit pricier, but if you're looking for a nice dinner spot, search no further than this place!

Bacio Pizzeria - Probably one of the cutest pizza places I've seen. The black and white outside design is what originally caught my eye, and I hear the pizzas are just as divine.

DC Noodles
Matchbox Restaurant

Where to Eat:
Dessert:
Jeni's Ice Cream - you seriously can't go wrong with anything from Jeni's. I HIGHLY suggest the Brown Butter Almond Brittle and the Brambleberry Pie.

Baked and Wired - This place is a cupcake lovers dream (especially if you don't want to stand in the line for Georgetown Cupcake). Their flavors are incredible - enjoy them with a cup of coffee in this super trendy spot!

Jubilee Ice Cream - Order yourself a scoop of the salted caramel, and coffee and doughnuts. *heaven*

Bars:
Bar Pilar - As if I wasn't already a sucker for string lights, Bar Pilar's cocktails are EVERYTHING. Just ask the bartender if you're on the fence, and they can help you select one that caters to your taste.

El Centro D. F. - CAN YOU SAY MARGARITAS?!?!

Jug & Table - That one place where you can buy a JUG of wine for a reasonable price and drink your sorrows away with friends. Yes, this is my paradise.

Jeni's Ice Creams
Baked and Wired
Bar Pilar
WHEW! This is definitely one of my longest travel guides (at least when it comes to food), but I had to share all the goods with you guys!

If any of you are planning on visiting D.C., let me know! I love to hear about new places to visit in the city!

My bestie, Chelsea, and I at 801 Restaurant's Rooftop

Until the next adventure - less than 2 weeks until L and I head back to Europe!

x, B
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