Things To Do
National Portrait Gallery & Smithsonian American Art Museum
Located in the same building, the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum are two of our favorite museums. We've taken both of our families here multiple times. This is also where we had our engagement photos taken in case you want to recreate some of the shots :)
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
While admission to the zoo is free, timed entry passes are required. The Small Mammal House is Lauren's favorite, but we know everyone is really excited about the pandas.
United States Botanic Garden
Especially recommended for plant/garden enthusiasts
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
As you may know, Lauren loves a good house museum. This one is particularly charming. Hillwood was the home of Marjorie Merriweather Post and has beautiful gardens/grounds and huge collections of art, gems, antique furniture, etc. When Cheryl visited last summer, there was a special exhibit on the gowns of Grace Kelly! Hillwood is open from 10am-6pm Tuesday to Sunday. Tickets are $15-$18 depending on weekday/weekend and if you book online.
Sixth & I
If you're in town and are looking for a place to attend Friday Night Services, this is our community. This is also a great spot for author talks, concerts, etc. Check out the event calendar at the link below for more information.
Eastern Market
Indoor/outdoor market open on Saturday and Sunday mornings/afternoons.
Union Market
We always make the mistake of going here after we've eaten. Don't be like us.
Zaytinya by José Andrés
A DC classic conveniently located near the Portrait Gallery. We went here after our engagement photos.
Sababa
Yes, we know we're throwing out an Israeli restaurant to a good number of experts. But if you want something familiar, this is the place.
Anju
If you're an adventurous eater like we are, Anju is a great spot for Korean fare. This is one of our new favorites.
Maxwell Park
Cheryl & Tom's favorite wine bar. Lauren & Kelly's favorite place to complain about wedding planning.
Baked by Yael
A nut-free and Kosher bakery right near the zoo with the best cake pops in town. They also have the best challah we've tried in the city - other than homemade of course.
Baked & Wired
If you need to have a cupcake while in Georgetown, please just go here. If you want to recreate some of our early dates, then bring a big purse and sneak some treats into the AMC around the corner for a Saturday/Sunday matinee.
Beuchert’s Saloon
Great food, great cocktails, good wine list. Best buffaloes in town. The location of Erika's favorite cocktail of all time.
Kaliwa
A blend of Korean, Thai and Filipino classics. We may have taken some of you here to eat!
The Salt Line
Who doesn't love an oyster bar right on the river?
Albi
This is our go to for celebrations when we want to be close to home. The coal-fired mushroom hummus is Lauren's favorite. Dining room service is limited to a tasting menu but the bar serves the full menu on an a la carte basis. If trying to sit at the bar, we recommend arriving by 5:30 or 6pm to get your name on the list. If sitting in the dining room, reservations book a month out.
Rasika West End
This is where Lauren & Jeremy went on their "official" first date. There are lots of vegetarian options here and there's a second location in Penn Quarter.
The Dabney
We went here after getting engaged! If you're looking to splurge, this is a great option. Tables in the dining room are on a prix fixe tasting menu and there is an a la carte menu available at the bar. Reservations book 3 weeks out.