In addition to the essential first-timer visits - monuments and memorials, the museums, the White House and the U.S. Capitol here are some tips for other opportunities to see this beautiful city and all that it has to offer:
The wedding and reception will be held in the newly revamped Navy Yard part of town. Check-out what the Navy Yard has to offer: www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/washington-dc/things-to-do-washington-dc-navy-yard.
To explore other parts of town, we highly suggest you make use of public transportation – either Metro or cabs/ride shares. There is a Metro Station right in Navy Yard on M Street. The Navy Yard is on the Green Line. If you’re more adventurous there are bike shares all around town and there are Segwaytours if you want a fun way to take in the city sights!
National Museum of African American History and Culture You’ve heard about it. Now may be your time to see it for yourself, but you have to plan ahead! Timed entry passes for September will be made available online on June 6 at 9:00 a.m. ET. Same-day timed entry passes are also available online beginning at 6:30 a.m. ET daily until they run out.
National Portrait Gallery 8th and F Streets NW Washington, DC 20001 Open 11:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily Free Head straight to the America’s Presidents gallery on the second floor to see the stunning new portraits of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. Earlier the better, as lines can be long - but the wait is worth it. And check out the rest of the presidents after - some amazing, iconic portraits.
Some favorites: *Ford’s Theatre- Terrific small museum in the theatre where the president was assassinated. Hours, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for more information or to reserve tickets ($3), go here.
*National Archives- See the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights in a glorious, momentous setting. 10 a.m. -5:30 p.m. daily, 701 Constitution Ave. NW, free.
*Washington National Cathedral- Attend Sunday services at this glorious house of worship.3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW Join the beautiful people - The District Wharf This is D.C.’s newest hotspot. This new development has it all, from shops and hotels, to fantastic restaurants and people watching. Book lovers’ alert: There a great bookstore, too - Politics and Prose. Check out all the options here. If you’re driving, The Wharf is just off I-395/I-695 and 7th Street SW. Parking is at a new garage off Maine Ave. SW. Here’smore information about parking and locale. Easy taxi ride from downtown as well.
Get a taste of historic “Black Broadway” - The U Street corridoris a must-visit if you’re interested in not only the rich history of food and music in D.C., but in all the new spots that have made U Street and adjacent 14th Street a 24/7 parade of people and life and fun. You can wander yourself and check out the informational placards throughout the neighborhood, or head out on a guided foot tour - see some options here,including one incorporating food and history.
Shop, shop, eat, eat, shop, shop….. Georgetown is the place, with M Street lined with many familiar stores, and Wisconsin Avenue chock full of independent shops as well. (I believe the bride’s gown is from one of these lovely enterprises.) Many fun eating options -- from Georgetown Cupcake (the line will be long) to Martin’s Tavern, where JFK and Jackie, as well as lots of other pols, frequented. And the neighborhoods adjacent to the shopping area are lovely for a walk and gawk. Eastern Market is a D.C. must! It has something for everyone. There are indoor and outdoor vendors, fresh produce from local farmers and all types of prepared foods!