Travel
The Washington, DC Travel Guide
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop in our HQ’s hometown: Washington, D.C.
The Washington, DC Look
Classic, elegant, and collected, with an on-the-go, city feel. Think smart-casual separates and feminine dresses in neutral, everyday palettes.
Getting There
Whether you’re driving, flying into Reagan National (DCA), or training into Union Station, getting to the nation’s capital takes just a few hours from most major cities. Our tip for flying into DCA: sit on the left side of the plane to catch a glimpse of the monuments as you land.
Tour a Museum
Some favorites: The African American, The Holocaust Memorial, and The National Gallery of Art. Most are free admission!
See The National Mall
Run, walk, or bike The National Mall. If you go in March, pack a picnic for cherry blossom season!
Spend a Day in Georgetown
Stroll the cobblestone streets to see the historic homes, shop and lunch on M Street, and don’t skip Dumbarton Oaks!
Explore 14th Street
Bar hop, make a fun dinner reservation, and explore the beautiful homes in the nearby Logan and Dupont Circle neighborhoods.
From old-school classics to mod boutiques, choose your home away from home.
The Hay Adams
Just steps from The White House, this hotel has beautiful, traditional interiors with dark wood molding and an old-school feel. Grab cocktails at their award-winning bar, Off the Record, and sneak up to the top floor for views of the Washington Monument, White House, and Jefferson Memorial.
The Jefferson
A five-star favorite for its grand but never over-the-top interiors and little nooks throughout the property. Enjoy your morning coffee in the cozy library, spend your evening in the jazzy piano bar, and pop into the TV rooms anytime of day.
The Rosewood
The perfect blend of boutique and high-end, the Rosewood is right off of M Street but still feels quiet and remote since it’s alongside the Georgetown Canal. Grab drinks in the moody lobby bar, dinner at Wolfgang Puck’s Cut, or head to the rooftop for a cocktail with a view.
The Ritz
Not as grand as your typical Ritz, but that’s what we love about it. Tucked away in a Georgetown alleyway, you’ll love it from the moment you step into the cozy, exposed-brick lobby.
The Riggs
Fun fact: This is an old bank converted into a chic hotel! And our favorite thing about it? The delicious all-day bistro in the lobby and downstairs bar, Silver Lyan, which is famous for its martinis.
The Poppy
This boutique bed and breakfast feels like your own Georgetown home. The best part: It’s next door to Apéro & La Bohème, the Michelin star bar and restaurant known for champagne, caviar, and seasonal tasting menus.
The Lyle
Book The Lyle for its convenient Dupont Circle location, stay for its popular on-site restaurant and bottomless weekend brunch with a DJ. Don’t miss the Dupont Circle Farmers’ Market every Sunday, around the corner!
The Four Seasons
Everything you love about an FS property —sleek decor, spacious rooms, and five-star service. The Georgetown stay is a destination for its great (while pricey) restaurant and bar, Bourbon Steak. Other perks? A mixology class, moonlight monuments tour, and afternoon tea.
From authentic French to classic American, the DC food scene is not to be missed.
Breakfast
Seylou
Between Logan Circle and Mt. Vernon Square, this whole-grain, fresh-milled sourdough neighborhood bakery is a must-visit. Aside from their delicious matcha lattes, stop by on Wednesdays for pizza nights!
Wine and Butter
Part coffee shop, part market right next to Capitol Hill’s Lincoln Park. Poke your head in the tiny window outside, order a hot hazelnut latte and morning glory muffin, then pick up wine, cheese, and pasta ingredients for dinner at home.
Bagels Etc.
A team favorite, this cash-only, hole-in-the-wall bagel shop has the best breakfast sandwich in town. There isn’t enough room to sit inside, so take your bagel and coffee to a bench in Dupont Circle.
Baked & Wired
Just off of M Street in Georgetown, their iced coffee and homemade breads are worth the walk through crowded streets. If we could only get one thing? The dirty chai cupcakes.
Lunch
Sara's Market
A Georgetown gem you’ll be glad to discover. Get the prosciutto pesto panini or the turkey sandwich for lunch, then stop by for a bottle of wine and snacks before hosting!
Green Almond Pantry
Crafted by a James Beard semi-finalist, you’ll have farm-fresh ingredients with a daily rotating menu. Pull up a chair or take your lunch to-go, but don’t skip the daily homemade focaccia!
Ellē
Your quintessential neighborhood cafe. The veggie burger and reuben are amazing, but don’t leave without one of their baked goods.
La Bonne Vache
You’ll be glad you stumbled upon this new corner bistro. It’s walk-in only but worth it for the creative burgers, fresh salads, and delicious spritzes.
Lutèce
Amazing French food in a cozy, casual setting on Wisconsin Ave. Our favorite omelette in DC for brunch!
Le Diplomate
Commonly known as “Le Dip,” this upscale bistro is a tried-and-true spot for a delicious lunch on the outdoor patio. Get the warm shrimp salad, steak frites, pot de crème—you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Yellow
Expect a line out the door of this Georgetown favorite. Yellow offers a taste of the Levant with baked goods, mezze, wood-fired pita sandwiches, specialty drinks, and the best soft serve.
Petite Cerise
This French hotspot by the owner of The Dabney is “part casual neighborhood café, part energetic bistro.” Go anytime of day—brunch, dinner, or their happy hour (it’s through the weekend till 7pm!).
Dinner
The Dabney
Reservations are hard, so book about a month out. Located in the hip Blagden Alley, The Dabney has a delicious 8-course tasting menu with farm-to-table cuisine.
Chez Billy Sud
Come for charming interiors and classic French food. Pro tip: Their cozy wine bar offers the full menu, so you can walk right in for drinks or dinner.
Minetta Tavern
The French bistro meets city pub has made its way from NYC to The District and is already a favorite.There’s only one right order: their second-to-none burger. And the upstairs bar, Lucy Mercer, is beautiful for drinks pre or post-dinner.
Pascual
Partners, spouses, and the chefs behind Lutece bring a taste of Mexico City to this neighborhood, corner spot in Capitol Hill. Since its opening in 2024, it has won several awards for its creative, upscale, and curated menu. Definitely order the chicken and the Al Pastor margarita.
Albi
This Navy Yard spot is the sister restaurant of Yellow, and it’s seriously delicious. Fluffy pita and fresh hummus, and labneh, fish and meat plates—it’s the best Mediterranean meals in the city. Do the wine pairing with your meal!
Pineapple & Pearls
While there isn’t an official dress code, consider this your excuse to pack your best outfit. With a (pricey) fixed 4-course menu and a mood-boosting playlist, dinner here feels like a party!
The Occidental
An institution since 1906, now reopened and reimagined at The Willard Hotel. Step back in time for a night of fine dining—waiters in tuxes, raw bar and caviar, and the coldest martinis included.
Osteria Mozza
The long-awaited Italian restaurant-meets-market is a new favorite. Order the grilled octopus, shaved Brussels sprouts, and any flatbread, and make sure to stop by the stunning circular bar.
Hidden Gems
Martin's Tavern
A DC institution, Martin’s is the go-to for classic pub fare (get the burger), drinks, or a late-night drop by in Georgetown. Fun fact: Each booth is named after a historical figure who was once a regular there!
Blues Alley Jazz
You’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time when you step into this red brick carriage house down a Georgetown alleyway. It’s the country’s oldest continuing jazz supper club, open seven days a week for two shows a night. Pop in for good music, drinks, authentic Creole cuisine.
Chicatana
A walk-in, hole-in-the-wall spot voted “Best Restaurant” by The Washington Post. All the tacos are fresh and flavorful, especially the carne asada.
Gemini x Happy Ice Cream
A tiny wine shop-meets ice cream shop-meets Italian restaurant. Think of a super casual, laissez-faire, indoor-outdoor dinner party. Shop for a bottle, order at the counter, grab a seat, take something home. No reservations, and carry out is only available online.
Hole-in-the-wall finds or hotel favorites, here are our spots for happy hours, nightcaps, or an afternoon spritz.
The Cellar
Tucked below The Dabney, this cozy spot feels like downtown NYC and is great for date night. Our secret tip? Order the catfish sliders from upstairs. They’re not on the menu, but you’ll want them.
The Eastern
An Eastern Market staple that’s a favorite for their cheese boards and signature cocktail, “Sunset on the Eastern,” a delicious take on a classic aperol spritz.
Dacha Beer Garden
The perfect Saturday group spot in Shaw. Grab a table outside for their brunch happy hour and enjoy pitchers, cocktails, and snacks with your friends.
Jane Jane
A favorite spot for drinks pre-dinner. The only downside? You might be in for a long wait time, but their Cheez-Its-topped deviled eggs are worth it. Wander around 14th Street before you get a spot!
The Dubliner
A Capitol Hill institution, this traditional Irish pub has been around for more than 40 years. Grab a Guinness and the chicken fingers!
The Fountain Inn
This cocktail bar is quintessential Georgetown - historic, upscale, and charming. Order the aperol spritz or their homemade margarita.
The Doyle
In the heart of Dupont Circle, this glam, lounge-like cocktail bar has a lively vibe and a seasonal patio. Grab spicy margs and fries for the table!
Flight Club
Drinks with a side of competition. Just a quick walk from Capital One Arena, this darts bar is a fun mix up from your typical night out, no matter how skilled you are. Get a big group together and enjoy fast-paced games,elevated bar food, and signature cocktails.
Explore museums, monuments, parks, and surrounding towns.
Grab Ice Cream at Thomas Sweet
There’s always a line out the door for good reason. Get the coffee oreo ice cream or peanut butter and oreo soft serve.
Visit Rock Creek Park
This landmark trail spans the whole northwest quadrant of DC, so choose any of the 1754 acres for a scenic walk or run.
Hike Roosevelt Island
A memorial to Theodore Roosevelt and his passion for the outdoors, this living memorial has miles of woodlands and swamps. Hike through the trails yourself or sign up for a guided tour!
Tour Hillwood Estate
Nestled about 5 miles from downtown, step inside Marjorie Merriweather Post’s home—a feast for the eyes and a reflection of the late businesswoman and philanthropist’s pristine aesthetic. There’s always something to discover, whether you’re on a guided tour, walking the 13 acres of gardens, or dining at Merriweather Café.
See Live Entertainment
Head to 930 Club and the Anthem for concerts, DC Improv for a comedy show, or the Kennedy Center for a classic DC performance.
Go to Eastern Market
This public market in Capitol Hill is housed in a 19th-century brick building and has everything from coffee and ice cream to fresh meats, fish, and sauces.
Go to Union Market
This hip indoor-outdoor market has tons of vendors, shops, restaurants, and a rooftop bar. New restaurants open frequently here, with the most recent addition being Pastis and El Presidente from the Starr Restaurant Group.
Visit Old Town, Alexandria
Go on a Saturday for the farmer’s market, and walk along King St. for shopping and lunch. Our top spots: Boxwood for home finds and gifts, Misha’s for coffee, and Cooper Mill for pizza and drinks.
Leave room in your suitcase! The best part of a trip is bringing a memory home.
Tuckernuck
Everything you know and love, in person! Shop our seasonal curated edits, find a gift for someone, and get all the outfit advice from our in-store stylists.
Manse
From scented candles and beautiful picture frames to boxwood topiaries and bar cart essentials, it’s almost as fun to browse as it is to buy something!
Ella Rue
For the girl that loves the hunt. Shop vintage treasures by designers you love, from Manolo Blahnik heels to Goyard bags and more.
Ann Mashburn
Think of this as an extension of former Glamour editor Ann’s closet—that’s why she started it! Curated clothing, accessories, and gifts—a piece from Ann Mashburn is one you’ll have for years. Plus, the store is stunning and connected to her husband’s, Sid’s.
We hope this inspires you to book a trip, pack your bags, and plan your itinerary!