A Local’s Guide to Washington, D.C.

Sure, the nation’s capital is a popular tourist destination for people hoping to see the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument, but for those who want to skip the crowds and get a different view of the District, here’s your guide to following in the footsteps of locals.

What to See

Meridian Hill Park: Also known as Malcolm X. Park, this historic park in Columbia Heights echoes the style and design of an Italian garden. Head to the park every Sunday at 3 pm to join in or watch the weekly drum circle–a tradition in the park for more than 40 years.

Eastern Market: Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, Eastern Market is the perfect destination for shopping and dining. Grab a bite to eat from food vendors or shop for produce from local farmers markets. On the weekends, you can shop for homemade arts and crafts, or dig in on vintage finds.

Chesapeake and Ohio Trail: For nature lovers, go on a scenic bike ride along the Chesapeake and Ohio Trail (also known as the C&O Trail). The 184.5 mile long trail begins in Georgetown and concludes in Cumberland, Maryland.

Rhode Island Ave Murals: While there is an abundance of free art museums like the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum, Renwick Gallery, Freer and Sackler, art is everywhere on the streets of D.C. Take WMATA’s Red Line to the Rhode Island Ave stop, and discover a row of intricate murals that make up a colorful wall.

Where to Eat

Baked and Wired: Got dessert on your mind? Located right in Georgetown, this quirky coffee shop and bakery serves some of the best cupcakes in D.C. While tourists favor towards Georgetown Cupcakes, locals are familiar and drawn to Baked and Wired’s distinctive cupcake names including the ‘Elvis Impersonator’ and ‘Razmanian Devil.’

Union Market: For those who can’t decide where to eat, this food market gives you plenty of options. With vendors that sell everything from Korean tacos to artisanal gelato, the options are endless.

Sakuramen: Slurp on a big bowl of noodles at this Japanese ramen bar in Adams Morgan. In the heart of this bustling and vibrant neighborhood, you can grab a bite to eat and then join a group of friends at a rooftop bar.

How to Get There

Check out the Northeast Regional for a convenient and affordable ride to Washington, D.C.’s Union Station. This route services cities big and small along the Northeast Corridor, including Washington, D.C., Boston, New York, and many more. In a rush? Take the Acela Express. Our high-speed train ensures a comfortable and quick journey made complete with complimentary Wi-Fi.