History. Art. Power. Food. Culture. Sports. Nowhere represents this collision of interests better than Washington, DC. The heart of America, a tiny non-state making up only 68 square miles & yet somehow defines & leads America. Whether you’re here for America’s pastime with the Nationals, unparalleled art & history with the Smithsonian, culture & comedy with the live performance scene, your time will never pass slowly in this town!

DC is a confusingly laid out city, so a rental car isn’t the way to go. Within neighborhoods, it’s eminently walkable & taxis & Lyfts are easy & everywhere. There is a bus system although it’s not the most time efficient. The Metrorail is clean & efficient, but only runs until midnight if you’re planning to stay out late. The whole city is designed on a grid, with all points leading back to the Capital.

There are two airports that are easily accessible to DC. Reagan is closest to town, about 15-20 minutes away & costs $15-20 in a Lyft. Dulles International is larger, about 30-35 minutes away from city center & costs $45-55 in a Lyft. There is also Baltimore Washington International which is farther away but often cheaper. Grab a seat on Amtrak for about $15-30 & you’ll be dropped off right at Union Station

DC has a storied history. With its location between the north & south & along the Potomac River, George Washington declared it to be the nation’s first capital in 1790. Interestingly, it was as a district so as to not be mixed up with state or federal issues, but also kept separate for its own safety. American history grew through the capital & survived attacks & battles & fires. Later, it became the epicenter of the Civil Rights movement. It is a city of contrasts but one that proudly highlights the history that pulses through the streets.

DC is an amazing place to visit with a wealth of things to fill your days. Shopping in Georgetown, wandering through the Smithsonian museums, touring historical landmarks, attending sporting events & concerts, there is something to always keep you entertained. Every neighborhood is proud of its own history & style, so you never run out of things to explore. The history is amazing & around every corner, so enjoy!

Due to its location near Virginia & Maryland, DC is a fairly temperate climate. The winter is usually between 30-50, but very cold with the winds off the rivers. Spring warms up going from 40-80 & rainy. Summer is warm & muggy, 60-90, & fall is the same as spring in temperatures with less rain.

If DC has one love, it’s the half smoke. A hot dog like sausage, a little spicier & half pork/half beef, topped with chili. Who has the best is debated, but we like Ben’s Chili Bowl. Because of its international population, you’ll find it all, which is DC’s other specialty — every cuisine the world has to offer. And don’t leave without a famous Georgetown cupcake!

Anything from the Smithsonian is fun. At the Bureau of Engraving & Printing you can get unique items like uncut or shredded bills. Another collectible is the annual White House Ornament – a tradition since 1981. For a presidential favorite, Feridies Peanuts are from Jimmy Carter's farm, or mulled cider from Mt. Vernon, a favorite of Washington.

Washingtonians are all about sophistication & they dress the part. There’s a lot of cobbled streets, so look sharp & wear walking shoes. DC isn’t a fashion mecca but you’ll see lots of politicians in suits running around & out for dinner or drinks. Don’t forget layers as museums are often kept chillier.

You’ll want to see a lot, but the monuments & museums are spread out so be prepared. The cherry blossoms bloom March-April & are breathtaking but be prepared for it to be more crowded this time of year!