ABC’s hit show Scandal (and everyone’s secret- or not so secret- Thursday night guilty pleasure) and the fashionable Olivia Pope, played by Kerry Washington, inspired our in-depth look at where to go, what to see, and what to do on your next trip to Washington D.C.
By Jessica Quillin
Some people think of Washington, D.C. as “The American Rome;” while others share the skeptical view of Charles Dickens, who called it “The City of Magnificent Intentions.” John F. Kennedy called D.C. “a city of Southern efficiency and Northern charm.” Despite the labels, Washington, D.C. is, by all rights, one of the most powerful and beautiful cities in the world. The nexus of power in the West, it’s full of history, activity and intrigue.
The Romantic Couple
D.C. is not only a historic city, it’s also romantic. Rich with top-tier restaurants, cozy galleries, and interesting things to do à deux,the city is the perfect place for a quick, romantic weekend getaway, which might explain its political affairs. D.C. insiders recommend staying in a hotel outside of the city like the über-luxurious Morrison House Hotel in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia. An easy commute to the downtown via the Metro subway line, the Morrison House is a beautifully-designed hotel with a historic feel in the heart of colonial Old Town. After perusing the farmer’s market, take the Metro to downtown D.C. and check out the National Gallery of Art, which is home to masterpieces like the Ginevra da Benci, the only Leonardo da Vinci painting in North America, as well as iconic pieces like Alexander Calder’s mobiles. For food, there are several requisite restaurants on Capitol Hill, like the 1789 restaurant on 36th street or the Blue Duck Tavern at the Park Hyatt. Afterward, take a romantic evening stroll through the National Mall and the monuments for a dose of calm and a little history to boot.
The Single Business Person
For those on business, there are plenty of activities to fill a few hours of free time. One not-to-miss site is the Newseum, not far from the Senate, which showcases the history of journalism and news from its inception, including a wall dedicated to journalists who have lost their lives on the job. Also check out the Freer & Sackler Galleries, twin museums that house the Smithsonian’s Asian art collections. For an evening of music, visit The Kennedy Center, the iconic performing arts venue situated right on the Potomac, where you’ll hear the National Symphony Orchestra, known as one of the best orchestral ensembles in the world. When it’s time to eat, head to Jaleo, a favorite Spanish tapas restaurant created by famed chef José Andrés. Be sure to treat yourself to some sangria.
The Scandal Buff
Bring your TV and ABC’s Scandal to life by visiting the city that forms the backdrop for the series. Start off your trip by staying at the historic Willard InterContinental Hotel, situated across the street from the White House, and the site of many a hush-hush deal and political scandal. Once you settle in, spend your day exploring the history behind espionage at the International Spy Museum on 14th Street, which is not too far from the Willard. For some hard core snooping, sign up for the American Scandal Walking Tour, designed with the Scandal fan in mind. You’ll take a tour of the nation’s capital through the lens of major scandals throughout history, from the days of our founding fathers to more recent incidents such as the Watergate and Clinton scandals.
The Traveling Family
If quietude is only a dream because you travel with an army of small people, then you’re in luck. D.C. offers a host of activities that cater to families. There is no better place to start than the National Mall museums, mainly the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum and the National Museum of American History. Whether your kids prefer planes and spaceships or Mr. Rogers and Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, they will get a thrill from both places. For newer places off the beaten path, take a water taxi to the National Harbor, which hosts the National Children’s Museum, a huge waterfront Ferris wheel, and a mini sandy beach from which to gawk at the beautiful skyline, no matter what the temperature.
The Girls’ Weekend Party
Don’t let the suits fool you. D.C. is an incredibly stylish place, full of great places to shop and be seen. On Friday night, head straight to Co Co. Sala, a chocolate-themed bar and restaurant with delectable cocktails, an unbeatable menu and a perfect lounge setting. On Saturday, if you’re staying in the downtown, take the Metro to Old Town, Alexandria in the late morning and plan to spend the day perusing the boutique district, a collection of shops and galleries along and around King Street near the Old Town Waterfront. While you’re there, be sure to slip into Circe, a local Aveda salon, for a manicure and pedicure. Finally, end your weekend on Sunday with a lazy brunch at the local favorite chain, Chadwicks, which has excellent food and even better mimosas. Whether you are in town for business, leisure, or family, Washington, DC offers a rich variety of things to do and see that go way beyond the postcard images of the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument.
To read the full article in the February/March issue, click here.
