Five unique things to do in the Washington, D.C. area

Are you visiting the D.C. area sometime in the near future? Are you looking for different activities to do besides the National Mall? Here are five unique things to do in our Nation’s Capitol.

DC Metro Food Tours

Besides being a city of historical significance, the D.C. area is also home to a thriving food scene. An awesome manner of eating delicious food while exploring the city is through the DC Metro Food Tours. If you want to burn some calories while eating your way through town, this food tour offers fourteen different kinds of walking tours. A few of the neighborhoods available for the walking tours are the areas of Old Town Alexandria and Capitol Hill. In addition, the tour also plans various culinary events around the city and organizes private tours too! If you are a foodie, this is one activity that you do not want to miss at all!

Old Town Alexandria

Another place that you do not want to miss while visiting the Nation’s Capital is Old Town Alexandria. Founded in 1749, this area of Virginia is a visual representation of colonial America. Its cobblestone streets and red brick sidewalks will make you feel as though you have time traveled back in time to the 18th century. On top of the area’s historical significance, Old Town Alexandria is also home to hundreds of restaurants and shops. One of the restaurants that is located within  Old Town Alexandria is Magnolia’s on King. The restaurant serving Southern style cuisine with a twist. One dish on the restaurant’s menu that represents their manner of cooking is the Fish and Grits. However, be sure to save some room for some good ol’ Southern dessert at this place! One dessert to try on their menu is the sweet potato pie with vanilla ice cream. The pie tastes even better than it sounds!  If Southern Cuisine is not your preferred cuisine, there is no need to worry. Old Town Alexandria also serves up different kinds of cooking, such as seafood. If you are a seafood eater and want to get a taste of the area, why not come on down to Blackwall Hitch! One dish on their dinner dinner menu that represents their promise to local ingredients and its seafood cuisine is the Maryland Crab soup. Additionally, do not forget to order some dessert at this place too to get the full experience of Blackwall Hitch. 

Georgetown 

Located in the Northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C., Georgetown is a place to visit if you love, history, architecture, or just want to enjoy some local D.C. flavors. This colonial neighborhood preserves the old charm of the city in a city that is constantly evolving through all facets. If you love sweets, head on down to Georgetown Cupcake where you will be able to consume different flavors of cupcakes that you may not have known existed. After consuming many cupcakes, you may want to get some exercise. If so, then head on over to the Georgetown Waterfront where you can walk the trails to see the natural beauty of the District. 

Eastern Market 

Since 1873, Eastern Market has been a central focal point in the Capitol Hill neighborhood for visitors and locals alike. Some of the items that can be purchased from the market are flowers, deli meats, fruits and vegetables to name a few. 

In addition, the market also has vendors that sell non-food items, such as photography services, pottery, furniture, and many different styles of art. You will for sure not be bored at this place! 

An interesting fact about the market is that each Tuesday and weekends local farmers are able to sell their goods to the general public. Not only are you supporting local businesses, but you also have the opportunity to learn more about the Washington, D.C. area from a local perspective.

Nationals Park

Last, but not least is Nationals Park. Similarly to other large cities, the D.C. area is a huge sports town. The local are especially passionate about their local baseball team the Washington Nationals. 

Since moving from Montreal in the mid 2000s, the Nationals have put Washington, D.C back on the map as a serious baseball town. If you are a sports fan, attending a game at Nationals Park (Nats Park if you are a local) is one thing you for sure you do not want to miss. 

The easiest mode of transportation to the ballpark is the Washington Metro. Follow the metro map and you will be on your way.If you cannot make it to a game, there is no need to fret! The ballpark also holds tours too. 

As you can see, there are many things to do in the D.C.area besides the National Mall: do not be afraid to explore beyond the touristy landmarks. Most importantly though, have fun exploring our Nation’s Capitol. Who knows, you may even learn something while having fun at the same time!