Aside from the Watergate Scandal, Barack Obama's entire presidency and the assassination of JFK, this has to be one of the most fascinating times in American politics. Oh, wait, there's also the whole Monica Lewinsky thing, and Hilary Clinton standing by Bill Clinton despite infidelity allegations even before all that …
OK, so life in the US capital, Washington DC, is exciting to the say the least. Which is why it's totally worth booking a city break the next time you're thinking of getting away. Just a few hours away from New York by train, it's the home of all things politics, but there's so much more to get stuck into. Read on for where to go to eat, be entertained and enthralled by the rich history and culture.
Dine at some of the best restaurants
Image Source: Leah Simpson
During my trip this spring I made sure I checked out some of the most exciting places to lunch, brunch and all that's in between. Zaytinya (which is the Turkish name for olive oil) does as suggested by serving up mezze from the country, plus Greece and Lebanon. It's a cool lunch spot and comes from José Andrés, famed for having top notch outlets around the US, and also for pulling out of a restaurant contract with Trump Hotels after Donald Trump made negative comments about Mexican people.
In fact, if you're in the mood for a little Mexican food, head to global brand Toro Toro, or Mi Vida which is located at a new waterside development named The Wharf.
Great breakfast spots include Founding Farmers, which makes a delicious basket of beignets, and Bidwell Restaurant at Union Market, for an incredible brunch spread that includes charcoal base pizza.
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Hit the bar or try a tasting
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Calico in Blagden Alley is that unpretentious spot you look for on vacation but need a local to guide you to. They serve single drinks in pouches so you look like you're slurping on a Capri Sun but there's actually rose inside. In the chillier months you can even enjoy he outdoor space by popping on a onesie and heading out into the fairy lights. Otherwise stay snug inside on their communal-style bench seating.
If you prefer to learn about your drink while you're enjoying it, visit the Cotton & Reed Distillery for some homemade rum or The Next Whisky Bar at The Watergate Hotel for some awesome whisky options.
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Stage a photo shoot in front of the monuments and memorials
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With so much history in Washington D.C. there are plenty of places to go to remember just how far we've come. The Washington Moment can be seen all over the city and is situated on the National Mall, where you've seen presidents' inauguration speeches. Speaking of speeches, Martin Luther King is recognized with his own memorial close to where he delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" message, it's stunningly lit at night. Other striking spots to get a picture include the Abraham Lincoln memorial and the Thomas Jefferson memorial which sits beside the Tidal Basin, a beautiful place to see Cherry Blossoms in spring.
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And don’t forget the political places
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Don't even think about leaving without at least getting a snap in front of the White House and if you're lucky, get a tour of the United States Capitol building, the tallest structure in the city and the place where US Congress is based. Highlights include the National Statuary Hall, containing sculptures of prominent people from each state (the only person not representing a state is Rosa Parks). Other sculptures can be seen in the Visitor's Center, including Helen Keller and Apollo 13 astronaut, John L. Swigert Jr.
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Feel the culture at an art gallery or two
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Remember that viral photo of the little girl staring up at a picture of Michelle Obama earlier this year? Well, you can channel those vibes at the National Portrait Gallery where her painting got so popular it had to be moved. It's also where her husband, Barack Obama's official portrait lies, as well as those from past presidents. DC is full of loads of galleries; another one I'd recommend visiting is the National Gallery of Art.
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Brush up on your history at a museum
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Like galleries, there are plenty of museums to keep you occupied during your visit, but I especially enjoyed the African American Museum of Culture and History. You'll definitely need to book a time slot to go, there are no walk-ins on most days and even for those who have booked, queues wrap around the building because it's that popular. Opened by Barack Obama in 2016, Oprah Winfrey donated $21million to the project which is set over several levels and contains areas dedicated to telling stories of slavery, the civil rights movement, as well as celebrating African American music and sports. If you're lucky enough to get Karen Gray as a guide, you'll be in good hands.
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Enjoy a night at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
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The Potomac River venue often plays host to some fantastic events from across music, dance and theater (and puts on free performances at 6 p.m. daily before its main performance later). The Kennedy Center building itself is also worth dressing up for an even out; the welcome hall is filled with colorful flags from around the world and features a huge sculpture of JFK's head.
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Stay at a scandalous hotel
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The Watergate Hotel is known for being the place where the Watergate Scandal break-in team set up to listen into conversations from the Democratic National Committee headwaters adjacent. Guests can book the exact room it happened in during President Nixon's time in office (for a higher cost) but even if it's not available, it's still worth checking in. Friendly staff wear uniforms designed by the Mad Men costume designer, the Kennedy Center is across the street and it's walking distance to places like Georgetown (the pretty university neighborhood) and the National Mall.
