As the nation’s capital, it’s no secret that Washington D.C. is full of monuments and museums, but that’s not all D.C. has to offer. Eclectic neighborhoods, great shopping and an amazing food scene have taken over the once “buttoned-up” city.

With ACEP17 just around the corner, we asked our team to share some of their favorite things to do while visiting the nation’s capital. Our list includes a guide through several D.C. neighborhoods with infamous historic stops and a few other local secrets. Take a chance to stop by one of these great places while you’re in town for ACEP17 – you might just find one or all of us there!

Adams Morgan

A culturally diverse neighborhood known for its crowded nightlife scene, you will find plenty of great places to eat and shop in the Adams Morgan neighborhood. Dine at the patio-friendly Tryst Café or enjoy the rooftop at Roofers Union. For those looking for an inexpensive bed and breakfast, visit Adam’s Inn on 18th Street among other historic row houses. Find fun, trendy looks at Meeps, a popular vintage clothing store with items from the 1960s and onward. For those looking to sing and dance the night away, enjoy live music at Madams Organ, Songbyrd or Jack Rose Dining Saloon.

Capitol Hill

One of the largest historic residential neighborhoods in D.C., Capitol Hill, is the seat of the U.S. government. Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol through the beautifully painted dome and past the Old Supreme Court Chamber. Schedule a reservation to visit Congress or the Senate (when they are in session). Enjoy a free visit to the U.S. Botanic Garden, established by congress in 1820 and one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America. If you are in town early for ACEP17, take a chance to visit the Eastern Market on a Saturday or Sunday where you will find produce, crafts and antiques. During the week, the market is full of vendors selling meats, pastries, cheeses and much more.

Capitol Riverfront

South of the U.S. Capitol along the Anacostia River is one of D.C.’s fastest growing neighborhoods, Capitol Riverfront. Although the season has ended, National’s Park is a great place to visit for Major League Baseball fans with incredible views of the Capitol. Explore the outdoors with a kayak rental from Ballpark Boathouse, or fly high in a class at the Trapeze School NY – DC. For a dose of history, stop by the U.S. Navy Museum to view the collection dating back to the 1800s.

Downtown D.C.

Sitting along the border of Downtown D.C. is one of the city’s most popular addresses: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, known by most as The White House. Register for a tour or explore the most infamous Smithsonian Museums on your own. Even better, the Smithsonian Museums are FREE! Take advantage of the two-a-day oyster happy hours at Old Ebbitt Grill, or enjoy the food trucks outside on the Metro Center (on the weekdays). If you’re looking for retail heaven, do some shopping at CityCenterDC. Be sure to check out some of the historic hotels such as The Willard Intercontinental and the Mayflower Hotel. It’s believed these places are where the term “lobbyist” was coined.

National Mall

We couldn’t make a tourism guide without including the National Mall, one of America’s most visited national parks. A well-known place where celebrations and movements took place throughout history. Visit the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, or enjoy the scenery in comfort on a Big Bus Tour.

Penn Quarter and Chinatown

Shopping, great food, culture and sports – you’ll find it all in Penn Quarter and Chinatown. Everything from intimate films, to professional sports and concerts can be seen at the Capital One Arena. While you’re in town for ACEP17 catch any of the following:

  • Washington International Horse Show
  • Washington Wizards vs. Phoenix
  • Washington Capitals vs. NY Islanders

An ApolloMD favorite and must-see is the International Spy Museum. Channel your inner James Bond 007 and meet us there on Sunday night for our ACEP17 VIP Party! For the history buffs, Ford’s Theatre is a wonderful artifact filled museum that has been renovated to look much like it did in 1865 on the night of Lincoln’s assassination and across the street is the Petersen House, the site of Lincoln’s passing.

Arlington, Virginia

A well-known historic spot just across the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery is a must see for many tourist. The final resting place for more than 400,000 military veterans and their immediate family members from the war fronts of Iraq and Afghanistan, World War I and II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam, the Cold War and America’s Civil War, as well as the burial place for President John F. Kennedy and  other elected officials. Open 365 days a year, you can take a guided tour or a walking tour on your own. Be sure to catch the Changing of the Guard ritual at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. Take in one of the best views of the city from the Arlington House, the former residence of Robert E. Lee.

Although ACEP is sure to keep you busy, make some time to explore and enjoy our nation’s capital this October. See you in D.C.!

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