I love to travel domestically in the fall. The weather is perfect in so many parts of the country, and air travel is often cheaper and easier.
I was lucky to find a cheap ticket to D.C. on Southwest last weekend and enjoyed a girl’s trip with lovely sunshine to keep us warm as we shopped, ate, and toured. Flights to D.C. can be expensive, but you have to be persistent in your search. Once you find a cheap one, don’t hesitate – snag it immediately!
I’ve planned a weekend trip to D.C. for you that focuses on local gems and easy outings:
The Kimpton Glover Park Hotel & The Graham Georgetown
Friday – Arrive late morning
Rideshare to one of my two boutique hotel picks, The Kimpton Glover Park Hotel or The Graham Georgetown.
The Kimpton Glover Park Hotel is close to Georgetown, but sets you in the charming Glover Park neighborhood for a quieter stay. It hosts the popular dining spot Casolare Ristorante + Bar, where you can indulge in breakfast, lunch, or dinner. There’s also a outdoor garden bar next door! This is where I stayed, and the rooms are clean, spacious, and comfortable.
The Graham is nestled in the heart of Georgetown and provides a pricier, luxury stay. The rooftop lounge at this hotel is a must, but you can go whether or not you’re staying at the hotel.
After you get checked in, head straight to lunch at SUNdeVICH, a plant- and light-filled sandwich shop with a darling patio. Highly recommend the Capri, a fresh choice with pesto, mozzarella, basil, tomato, and balsamic reduction. One of the best I’ve ever had, anywhere.
After, walk up Wisconsin Ave. and pop in any shops that catch your eye! Don’t miss Bluemercury, a luxury beauty retailer that we don’t have in Nashville. I loved their products: La Mer, Kiehl’s, Molton Brown, Bumble and Bumble, NARS, and MoroccanOil, just to name a few.
After, walk back to the Kimpton or the Graham to refresh before dinner.
That night, feel French at Le Diplomate for an exquisite dinner. Try the fresh farmer’s cheese to start, followed by the salade verte. Consider splitting an entree, and finishing off with the creme brulee.
Sleep well.
Saturday
In the morning, stroll the gorgeous streets of Georgetown and admire the architecture and bright colors.
After, walk or rideshare to the National Mall. Walk from The Lincoln Memorial to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. See the Washington Monument and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
That afternoon, don’t miss the Newseum, a museum all about news. This place is too cool. I loved the Kennedy photography exhibit on the top floor. The first floor features Pulitzer Prize winning photography, which was moving and powerful.
It’s impossible to do everything in D.C. over a long weekend, so we didn’t get to see the new National Museum of African American History and Culture, but it’s supposed to be amazing – I would add it to your list if you have time!
Then, head back to your hotel for a rest before getting dressed up for drinks and dinner that night.
Start your evening at the Graham Georgetown Rooftop Bar for sweeping views of Georgetown, cozy couches on which to lounge, and tasty rosé. Don’t miss it!
Lupo Verde is a must for dinner for an authentic, cozy Italian dining experience. Sit upstairs by the windows if you can. Start by sharing the prosciutto e mozzarella plate. Next, get the lupo verde salad. For an entree, try the cappellacci with butternut squash and fresh ricotta.
After, walk next door for ice cream at Ice Cream Jubilee. Try the Honey Lemon Lavender.
Sleep like a rock after a busy day!
Sunday Morning
Start with breakfast at Casolare if you’re staying at the Kimpton. Next, wander back into Georgetown and hit any shops you might have missed. Also consider walking up the road to the Washington National Cathedral – it is quite a sight.
Late morning, grab your bags and head to the airport.
Fini!
Your trip is planned! All you need to do is pick a date, make your reservations, and pack your bags.
What are some of your favorite things to do in D.C.? Tell me about it in the comments!
Love, Bee
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