DC is filled with endless tourists attractions, notable resturaunts and awesome views, and there is so much more to this city than just your typical monument tour. Within and around DC, there are so many hidden hot spots that make this city so unique.
Food
Lady Camellia
One of the cutest places to ever exist can be found on a cobblestone side street in the middle of Georgetown. It includes all flavors of tea imaginable with endless amount of side pastries and finger foods.
Ted's Bulletin
Famous for their legendary homemade pop tarts, Ted's has two locations in DC (Capitol Hill and U Street). This funky diner has everything from breakfast to "adult" milkshakes and is also super family friendly. It's a definite dining experience while in DC.
The Coupe
Easily one of my favorite restaurants here, The Coupe, has a vibrant vibe and their coffee list is massive (which is always a plus for a caffeine junkie like me). Located in Colombia Heights, The Coupe is a coffee house, café and bar that provides WiFi for working on your laptop and a warm environment for all sorts of people.
Places
Eastern Market
If you're a fan of farmers markets, this is the dream. The Eastern Market stretches over the span of several blocks with outdoor stands, entertainment, fresh produce, local artists and it is the most perfect Sunday morning activity.
National Mall
It's hard to visit DC and not walk the course of the National Mall, hitting all the monuments and museums along the way. And every visit is priceless. Literally. Smithsonian museums and the monuments cost nothing!
The Kennedy Center
Right on the Potomac River, The Kennedy Center is definitely a place to visit while in the city. They also offer free shows on the Millennium Stage every day at 6 p.m.
Rock Creek Park
The trails of Rock Creek Park run throughout the entirety of the city and stretches even into Maryland. This is one of my favorite DC spots because it's so nice to get some fresh air and exercise. And, not everyone can say they've hiked 10 miles from Silver Spring, Maryland to Georgetown.
Just Outside of DC
Old Town Alexandria
Although its technically in Virginia, Alexandria has a stop on the DC metro and is fairly easy to access. It's filled with cute shops, cool markets and good food, and it's right on the water. The little town is also full of history, and is a great tourist spot to spend the day.
Inner Harbor in Baltimore
It's a little more of a trip, but the MARC train runs all day from Union Station in DC to Penn Station in Baltimore. There are so many different things to do and see in the Inner Harbor, like enjoying a meal at the Hard Rock Cafe or taking a stroll next to some ships, or visiting the National Aquarium. It's exciting to explore different parts of the surrounding cities.
Of course, in such a vibrant and lively city, there are so many other exciting and beautiful places to explore and see, but these were just a few of my favorites! Be sure to check them out next time your in the area!
(All photos belong to Mary Kate McGetrick.)
