Whether you’re headed there to check out the nation’s icons or for a weekend city break, your trip planning will be a breeze with our local photographers’ top picks for things to do in DC.
Washington, DC Flytographers Hannah and Lindsey gave us their favourite local tips on only the most important city facts: what to eat, see, and do while in the U.S. capital. That’s right — we ask the important questions.
Washington, DC is one of my favourite cities. It is built on arts and culture, the people are friendly, and there is always something for everyone to enjoy. Can’t wait for you to experience it!
Best Restaurants in Washington, DC
Washington, DC’s dining scene is having a moment. Finally coming into its own and catering to a new generation of DC residents, noteworthy restaurants and bars are popping up all over the city. In 2016, Bon Appetit named Washington, DC Restaurant City of the Year and things have only gone uphill from there.
Farmer-owned, sustainable restaurant Farmers Fishers Bakers boasts a huge variety of dishes and incredible cocktails. Located on Georgetown’s waterfront, head here to bump elbows with local tastemakers over breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Farmers & Distillers — sensing a theme here? — is owned by the same group as FFB above. F&D’s huge menu offers a variety of flavours including highlights like Chinatown-inspired dumplings and spring rolls, homemade donuts, and handcrafted cocktails with spirits sourced from local distilleries.
For a fast-casual option and the BEST burgers & shakes in the city, Good Stuff Eatery is the place to go! Made with the highest quality ingredients, Good Stuff is Hannah’s #1 choice for a quick meal in the city!
Craving Mexican? (Who doesn’t love a good taco?) Lindsey recommends District Taco for a casual bite or Oyamel Cocina Mexicana for a more upscale take on Mexican dishes.
Whether you’ve got something to celebrate or you’re just out there living your best life, head to The Hamilton for a memorable date, solo, or best friends night out. Nosh on shareable nibbles in the dining room, head downstairs to catch live music in The Hamilton’s performance space, or check out the three — yes, three — upstairs bars.
Must See Attractions in Washington, DC
There’s a reason a common rite of passage for 8th graders growing up in the US is long-awaited big class trip to Washington, DC. Historic monuments are everywhere. But as for our favourite must see attractions in Washington, DC? They’re just a bit more under the radar.
Jefferson Memorial is, in Hannah’s very qualified expert opinion, the prettiest and most off-the-beaten-path monument in the city. And guess what? It just so happens to be Lindsey’s favourite DC memorial, too! Go at sunrise to avoid the crowds, take in the view of the Washington Monument over the Tidal Basin, and walk through the columns. This spot screams “Washington, DC” and is generally less crowded than the Lincoln Memorial — you can thank us later.
Many DC visitors miss the National Portrait Gallery, a free Smithsonian museum, just because it’s not right on the mall. However, it is absolutely worth a visit! The museum tells the story of the good ol’ U.S. of A. through a variety of portraits housed in a beautiful building — what’s not to love? Plus, that beautiful building makes for a gorgeous location for photo shoots (hint, hint).
Things To Do in Washington, DC
There’s more to DC than monuments of former presidents. Charming shopping destinations, streets best discovered by bike, beautiful hiking trails along waterfalls, and stunning wineries are just a few of the offerings outside Capitol Hill.
Located on Capitol Hill, the Eastern Market outdoor flea market and indoor marketplace offers artisan crafts, antiques, fresh produce, and a great variety of food trucks. Check it out on Saturdays and Sundays!
We are fully on board with Lindsey on this one — one of the best ways to take in a new city is on two wheels and DC is no exception. Rent a bike and ride through the city! Stop in Georgetown to go window shopping, then head across the river to Alexandria and cycle through Old Town.
Once the sights have been thoroughly seen, get some fresh air just outside of DC along the Potomac River at Billy Goat Trail. Explore beautiful hiking trails on both the Virginia and Maryland sides of the river and don’t miss the Great Falls waterfalls and the C&O Canal.
Travel just about an hour outside of DC into Northern Virginia and you’ll discover the area’s gorgeous vineyards. Most of the area’s wineries have options for a tasting and small plates for snacking. On a nice day, you can sit outside and even hear live music! Hannah recommends Cana Vineyards in Middleburg, VA and Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton, VA.
