The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Washington, D.C. Now
WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
PUBLISHED DECEMBER 2021 • 4 min read
Founded on July 16, 1790, Washington, D.C. is unique among American cities because it was established by the Constitution of the United States to serve as the nation’s capital. From its beginning, it has been embroiled in political maneuvering, sectional conflicts and issues of race, national identity, compromise and, of course, power.
1. THE SHOPPING
Find great gift ideas or a fresh new look for your home, significant other or yourself in and around Washington, D.C. No matter where you are in the city, you’ve got options. Indie storefronts populate some of the hot places to see and be seen, like 14th Street.
Shopping on M Street in Georgetown, D.C.
Live out a Georgetown fantasy on M Street and browse its one-of-a-kind boutiques and designer stores. Sift through the racks of some of the globe’s most highly regarded brands at CityCenterDC and Tysons Corner Center.
2. THE ART
The streets of D.C. are bursting with beautiful works of art and gorgeous murals you absolutely have to see. Street art is an expression of a city’s past, the issues it grapples with present day, and its aspirations for the future.
Across D.C., neighborhood walls are covered with vibrant and unique murals, celebrating everything from hometown heroes to Founding Fathers and even fruit—there are literally hundreds of outdoor artworks and street murals to behold! Here are a handful of the most color-popping, popular works for an Instagrammable street mural tour through the nation's capital.
3. THE COCKTAILS & CUISINE
Home to James Beard nominated chef Jerome Grant, JACKIE is an American bistro where one goes to see and be seen. International flavors, innovative cocktails, an extensive wine list, and a beautiful setting come together under the gaze of the iconic Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis and President John F. Kennedy—the First Couple that dazzled the world with youth and style, revitalizing American culture during the darkest days of the Cold War. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying the Sleepy Hollow—concocted with bourbon, blackstrap rum, sherry, pumpkin, baking spice, and ginger beer.
JACKIE American Bistro in Washington, D.C.
Highlighting classically delicious cuisine with international flavors, JACKIE features dishes highlighted by Chef Grant's childhood, travel, and extensive professional career. Favorite dishes include Pan Seared Salmon with coconut braised greens and heirloom carrots, Roast Chicken with heirloom beans, longanisa, butternut squash, and pumpkin seed gremolata—as well as Grilled Octopus with sofrito, black eyed peas and shishito chimichurri.
And don’t forget brunch at JACKIE. Indulge on Chicken and Waffle, made with a sweet potato waffle, spiced maple syrup and served with seasonal fruit or Stuffed French Toast with cream cheese and guava.
4. THE GARDENS
Steeped in history, rich with tradition, the United States Botanical Garden is a living plant museum that displays the importance, and often irreplaceable value, of plants to the well-being of humans and to earth's fragile ecosystems. More than 200 years ago, George Washington had a vision for the capital city of the United States that included a botanic garden that would demonstrate and promote the importance of plants to the young nation.
Established by the U.S. Congress in 1820, the United States Botanical Garden is the oldest continuously operating botanic garden in the United States. Since 1934, it has been administered through the Architect of the Capitol. For the 21st Century, the garden has committed itself to sustainability, educating the public about ways to live by supporting the interconnected web of life that is the environment, and in particular, by nurturing the plants that support the life on our planet.
5. THE ARCHITECTURE
If you’re a lover of architecture, you might want to know where to find different architectural styles around Washington, D.C. There’s a little bit of everything from the most simple to the most ornate. For Federal-style homes, head over to Capitol Hill and Burleith neighborhoods. Classic turrets, brick facades, and a grandiose style define Victorian-style homes and you’ll find these in Columbia Heights, Dupont Circle and Georgetown.
If you’re looking for Beaux Arts, you’ll find plenty in the elegant and chic Kalorama neighborhood. Home to the former President Obama, and the sixth U.S. president to live there, you’ll discover spectacular 'period' turn-of-the-century architecture and grand city homes. The neighborhood is also home to 28 embassies, as well as ambassadors' residences and is a 13-minute drive from the White House.
WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
For nearly a century, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. has welcomed world leaders, dignitaries, royalty, and Hollywood icons. Ideally situated in DC's famed downtown district, this historic luxury hotel’s prestigious address is just steps away from the White House, and within walking distance to the monuments and museums of the National Mall. You’ll surround yourself with unparalleled luxury from the moment you arrive, with the hotel’s magnificent grand lobby featuring ornate Florentine gold ceilings, dramatic two-tiered crystal chandeliers, and sumptuous decorations and furnishings. The hotel’s gorgeously appointed rooms and suites feature rich decorations and bespoke amenities, including the treasured St. Regis Butler Service for all suites. Those wishing to explore will find Washington, D.C.’s most noteworthy points of interest within easy reach.
