4 things To Do in Washington D.C. That Aren’t The White House

When most people think of Washington D.C. the first thought that comes to mind is the White House but there are plenty of things to do in this city. Get out and explore like a local!

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Washington D.C. is full of monuments and history. When most people think of Washington D.C. the first thing that comes to mind is the White House. While visiting the White House may be the main point of interest while visiting, don’t miss out on everything else this city has to offer. This guide will help you plan your visit so you can explore like a local and make the most of Washington D.C.

Markets

Washington D.C. has some great local markets that really show what their communities are all about. The Eastern Market, located in the Capital Hill Neighborhood, is filled with tons of fresh food including vegetables, fruits, meats, and cheeses from local merchants from Tuesday-Sunday. If you stop by on the weekend you can also find art from local artists and enjoy live music. The Union Market is a year-round market that is best described as an urban village. It boasts over 40 small restaurants specializing in all types of things such as kombucha, waffles, BBQ and more. Stop by one of these markets to get a local taste of the city.

Gardens

The first urban planner of D.C. intended the city to be beautified by of public gardens. Today there are tons of public and private gardens in the area. The U.S. National Arboretum is a wonderful place to take a scenic stroll. Not to mention they have the largest collection of Bonsai Trees in North America. Dumbarton Oaks is also highly regarded and sits on 4 acres of landscaped gardens. This historic estate offers more than just beautiful gardens, there is also a museum on the property that has a world class collection of art. Some other gardens worth checking out include the U.S. Botanic Garden, Hillwood Mansion Gardens, or the Hirshhorn Museum’s Sculpture Garden.

Alexandria, VA

Alexandria calls for an unforgettable day trip just minutes from Washington D.C. A place where George Washington used to call home, Alexandra holds a lot of rich history and culture. Visit historic museums such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon, George Washington’s Masonic National Memorial, and many more. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old town Alexandria where you will find tons of restaurants, boutiques, and museums. Explore the waterfront of the Potomac River where you can hop on a boat tour, bike along the picturesque Mount Vernon Trail, or grab a bite to eat while enjoying views of the water. Check out the best restaurants in Old Town Alexandria here.

Brewery Scene

Had your fix of monuments and looking for a cold one? Check out the local craft beer scene for a distinct taste of D.C. Some popular breweries include DC Brau, Atlas Brew Works, Bluejacket Brewery, 3 Stars Brew, and more. Whether you prefer full-bodied, frothy, hoppy, or fruity one of these breweries will have something for you. If you really want to dive into the D.C. brewery scene, take a 5-hour brew tour where you will get to try 12 or more beers at 3 breweries all while being shuttled around so you can drink as much beer as you please!

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