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Most people experience DC as a school trip, with time spent walking around the National Mall but that doesn't do it nearly enough justice. DC has long been a cultural center with a thriving dining scene, music scene, and plenty to do that doesn't involve any kind of monument. Check out the places where the locals go in DC.
Since it's DC we have to mention at least one museum but this isn't your average museum. It's a museum all about language and the first voice-activated museum in the world. Interactive exhibits include a karaoke-style songwriting session, a library with hidden adventures, and an exhibit that is dedicated to showcasing the languages of the world. Don't forget to head to Lexicon Lane, the puzzle room where you have 60 minutes to solve one of three different cases before you leave.
This contemporary art museum is currently home to the famous Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Room installation and is well worth seeing but the sculpture garden is where the locals go. That's because every summer the Sculpture Garden holds a Jazz in the Park series on Friday evenings where you can bring a picnic, and enjoy sangria and live music in the garden. You have to reserve time passes the Monday before because this event is so popular.
Simply calling it a food court wouldn't be right. Union market holds stalls where restaurants can set up shop and sell. Some offer to-go options only while others have bar space built in. There is something for every kind of palate here and options include dumplings, burgers, Lebanese food, South Indian dosas, global fusion bowls, and the best bagel sandwich and bloody mary purveyor (Buffalo and Bergen). One block over, La Cosecha, the Latin American market hosts boutiques, highly rated eateries, dance classes, and a natural wine bar.
Once a premiere music destination downtown that turned into the current beloved venue 9:30 Club, the Atlantis has been born anew near the U Street neighborhood. This small venue shows live acts both local and touring with a stage that is an intimate experience. Plus it has a great rooftop so if you come for a show, try to arrive early and grab some drinks up there.
The standard bearer for all DC area Laotian food and the restaurant that I always bring my friends to when they visit from out of town because it's just that good. The food and cocktails are always fresh, funky, and well-spiced. The crispy pig ears dusted in tamarind salt and the coconut crispy rice salad are my go-to orders.
This bar has over 2,500 whiskies lining its walls and one of the best rooftop terraces in the city. I'm not even a whiskey drinker but I'll always be happy to go here it helps that their non whiskey cocktails are also excellent. People in DC also love a happy hour and Jack Rose's weekday happy hour offers great deals on drinks and food alike until 7:30 pm.
OK, yes, this is also technically a museum entry but bear with me. The Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe is located within the National Museum of the American Indian (worth a visit in its own right) and showcases the diverse food of different indigenous people around the Western hemisphere, the history behind the food, and some more fusion food options. The name "Mitsitam" is translated to "let's eat" in the language of the Delaware and Piscataway people of the area.
I'm a copywriter currently based in DC. I've always been restless and on the move. I've lived in Los Angeles, Tokyo, London, St. Louis, Napa Valley, and I always love seeking out a new spot.
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