D.C. is a vibrant and young city that I think is often overlooked by many people. From the charming houses in Georgetown to the bustling nightlife on U Street, many people, from senators to students, call this city home. For those of you planning a visit or for those who are long-time residents here is 24-hour itinerary to fall in love with everything that the nation’s capital has to offer.
Breakfast (9am – 10am)
Photo courtesy of @district_foodies on Instagram
D.C. residents love a good brunch on Sundays, but there are many options for a weekday breakfast to give you a good start to your day. Head over to The Diner, a spot in Adam’s Morgan that serves up stacks of pancakes, French Toast, and greasy bacon. The spot is open 24/7 so if you are thinking breakfast for dinner, that is also an option.
Between breakfast and lunch (10am – 1pm)
Photo by Amanda Fung
D.C. is a city with a vast history, and much of it is easily accessible to the general public. A stroll through the Smithsonian’s is a must, especially since they have FREE admission. That’s right, $0. The American History Museum and the Air and Space Museum are two of my personal favorites.
#SpoonTip: Avoid the peak hour lines by going as early as possible, right after breakfast.
Lunch (1pm-3pm)
Photo by Margaux Henderson
I think the best way to get to know a city is through the food, and D.C. definitely has a variety of options. Food trucks are really big in the city, and around noon you can find several of them lining the streets serving up their specialties to those young professionals you hear about – some of them right across the mall by 12th St. SW and C St. SW.
But if you want more of a sit-down option, take a cab or right the Metro to Union Market, an old warehouse that was converted into a foodie heaven. It has the best set of food vendors in the city, and here is a list of spots you should hit up for lunch.
Late Afternoon (3pm-6pm)
Photo by Amanda Fung
With a couple hours before dinner, you’ve got plenty of time to keep exploring. D.C. Art fans love The Fridge Gallery, found by Capitol Hill, which is a space that specializes in street art. To find the gallery you have to follow the graffiti and murals found in the alley way beside the oyster shop on 8th St. SE.
The Embassy Row mansions are amazing from the outside, and a popular trick-or-treat spot during Halloween. The Anderson House, the headquarters of the society of Cincinnati which is an age-old patriotic group, allows you to take a peek inside of their mansion completely free.
Another museum you could pay a visit is the Renwick Gallery (which is one of the Smithsonian’s AND it’s free), located right opposite the White House by Lafayette Square. Here, you’ll find several large and unique pieces, like the one in the picture above, that will definitely have you spamming your Instagram with pictures for days.
#SpoonTip: Kill two birds with one stone by visiting both the Renwick and White House at the same time (well, one after the other).
Dinner (6pm-9pm)
Photo courtesy of @mamojo on flickr.com
A favorite spot of mine is U Street. A street filled with bars, restaurants and music venues, this is also a great spot to have dinner. Some of my favorite spots include The Fainting Goat, Busboys and Poets, Matchbox, and Ben’s Chili Bowl.
One of D.C.’s favorite chefs is José Andrés, who has opened several well-ranked restaurants in the area. While visiting the city, one of his restaurants will definitely take you on a culinary journey.
After Dinner (9pm-late)
Photo courtesy of @taedc on flickr.com
Adams Morgan is famous for its nightlife so definitely don’t miss it while you’re in the city. One of the best places to check out is Tryst, which is a coffee bar by day and a lounge bar by night but Adams Morgan is totally at your disposal for a fun night out.