Planning a trip to DC but not sure where to start? Discover my favorite spots, local gems, and can’t-miss experiences to help you see the city beyond the usual tourist stops.
Sections
6
Travel Essentials
Food/drink
Gifts That Aren't Tacky Tourist Souvenirs
Toddler Essentials
DC Fashion
Things to do
Travel Essentials
Everything you need for exploring Washington, DC - from comfortable walking shoes and stylish crossbody bags to travel must-haves that make your day around the city easier. Perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned DC lovers alike!
I used to work at a local running store and we sold this shoe about 30% of the time. This is a great option for comfort and longevity.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 Shoes
This goes with me basically everywhere. During a long day of sightseeing on the National mall, having a portable charger will be a huge help!
45W Fast Charging Portable Charger
In the summer time, DC tends to rain several times throughout the day and be hot/humid when it's not. Having a packable rain jacket that you can store when you're not using it, is a huge help!
Women's Waterproof Lightweight Packable Raincoat
In between periods of rain in the summer time, you definitely need an umbrella that can be packed away in your bag but easily accessible if it starts to rain again.
Windproof Compact Travel Umbrella
DC can get very hot and humid during the summer time, so having a portable neck fan is an absolute must have.
Portable Neck Fan
I guarantee this will come in more handy than you think. Walking a lot can cause blisters!
BAND-AID Travel Ready Portable First Aid Kit
Food/drink
One of the best views in DC. At The Wharf/waterfront
Whiskey Charlie
If you're a music lover then check out any show at the 9:30 club or at the Atlantis next door.
9:30 Club
Tea time! Just be sure to make a reservation
Peacock Alley
Did you even go to DC if you didn't try jumbo slice? Pro tip either be very hungry or share with a friend.
Jumbo Slice Pizza
Gifts That Aren't Tacky Tourist Souvenirs
DC has a lot of rich history so looking at older maps can be very interesting.
Vintage DC Maps
Because you can never have too many reminders that it’s cherry blossom season in DC. A pretty little gift for locals, visitors, or anyone who wishes they could stay in DC a little longer. Cherry blossom season usually starts in mid/late March and las...
Enchanting Cherry Blossoms Original Large Jar Candle
This is an absolute must have if you want to taste DC. A staple in my pantry!
Capital City Mambo Sauce
A beautiful framed watercolor-style DC gift featuring cherry blossoms and iconic architecture.
Cherry Blossom Watercolor Stamp Framed Wall Art
Go-go music is the heart of DC. Known for its drum beats and rooted in African American culture.
Go-Go Live: The Musical Life and Death of a Chocolate City
Totally biased because this is my neighborhood, but nestled in Capitol Hill is the oldest standing continuous farmers market
Eastern Market, Washington D.C. Print
Toddler Essentials
Cannot recommend enough. Snacks can be hard to come by while you're sightseeing and if you find them, they will be overpriced. Always travel with snacks!
Bluey Snack Containers 3 Stackable Snack Cups
This is a must have. If you're travelling through crowds, you won't want a bulky stroller. Some metro stations don't have easily accessible elevators so you might find yourself needing to walk up the escalator and it's easier to do that with a foldab...
Dream On Me Aero Travel Stroller
The stainless steel water bottle makes a huge difference for making sure your kids stay hydrated during hot temps.
Owala Stainless Steel Water Bottle 16 oz
For snacks on the go! Food/drink can be really expensive, so make sure you pack enough snacks for when you're on the go.
10 Pack Reusable Food Storage Bags
For the airplane, long metro rides, or whenever you need to give your toddler a break.
Stick4Ever Jelly Sticker Book® for Kids
DC Fashion
A pair of loafers is a staple of any woman's closet in DC. Black, simple, timeless.
Cole Haan Women's Stassi Kiltie Loafers
Sleek brown bag, perfect for bringing to work every day, or for the woman that's always on the go.
Brown Melie Bianco Imelda Tote Bag
Probably the most timeless piece of a woman's closet.
Burberry Belted Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Clean, simple, timeless fake pearl stud earrings for an affordable price.
Lauren Ralph Lauren Faux Pearl Stud Earrings
DC is all about neutral colors. Brown for the fall, nudes for the spring
Not Afraid of the Dark Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish, Nudes/Neutrals/Browns - OPI | Ulta Beauty
Things to do
Rock Creek Park is a huge park in the middle of the city with lots of walking trails and natural features to explore
Rock Creek Park + Parking
The best way to visit DC is to do it by foot! Book a tour for the full experience
