History has not always been my favorite subject and to add to it, I married a history major. The first time that my husband ever mentioned traveling to Washington D.C. I was not certain that I would enjoy it but I was so wrong! Washington D.C. has become one of my favorite places to go. The capital of the United States will surely give you some of the greatest memories, delicious food and captivating experiences while you visit.
My family and I just returned from spending another week traveling and exploring the nations capital and it was such a wonderful time. This experience was one that I will not ever forget. My daughter was scheduled to sing in Baltimore, Maryland with the Lee University Campus Choir and so this allowed for the group to have a quick stop in D.C. on their way through. We were able to meet the group in the city and this would allow us to spend time with her. The pick up location just happened to be the Lincoln Memorial and as I walked up the 87 steps to the top of the memorial I was able to see the choir gathered for a group photo and as they gathered they started to sing. The sound that resonated from that beautiful memorial was something that I will never be able to explain. The words to “I Speak Jesus” were so powerful as they echoed out over the National Mall. The presence of God was so tangible in this moment.
I want to take a moment and share with you some of our favorite hotels, places to eat and things to do while visiting. This travel destination is one that will leave an impression and hopefully wanting to plan another visit time and time again.
Favorite Hotels in D.C.
Willard InterContinental Washington D.C. Hotel
Since the year 1818, this beautiful hotel has been the choice of many of the worlds highest social and political elite who visit Washington. It has welcomed many U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries and celebrities into this beautiful city for over 200 years. It is centrally located to the National Mall and sits nearly right next door to the White House. This charming historic hotel even allows pets for that perfect getaway with your fur babies.
One of my favorite memories of staying here is how impressed my son was with the fact that each room has its own individual doorbell. He thought that it meant that room services was necessary and so naturally he awaited the ringing of the doorbell as he ordered his fancy pizza and Sprite. This hotel remains at the top of my list of places to stay while in the city.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington D.C.
This beautiful historic hotel was built in 1839 and originally served as the General Post Office. The architecture and modern vibrant design is absolutely beautiful. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar and even a beautiful courtyard. The location of this hotel allowed for us to park our vehicle and be within walking distance to many of the places that we wanted to visit. The rooms are very large and spacious. There are only 184 rooms total! This hotel even offers 2 bedroom option suites which make it perfect for that family vacation getaway.
Other Hotels
Waldorf Astoria Washington D.C.
Hilton Garden Inn Washington D.C. Downtown
The Westin Alexandria Old Town (Alexandria, Virginia)
Favorite Places to Eat
Filomena Ristorante
This is an absolute must if you love Italian food! Filomena is also called Washington D.C.’s Favorite Italian Restaurant and it is ours too. The authentic Italian food is so delicious and combined with the excellent customer service and fun atmosphere, we make sure to place this on our itinerary every trip. I would recommend planning an afternoon of shopping at some of the nearby stores on the evening that you plan to visit, it will make for a perfect date night. (There is a parking garage located right across the street from the restaurant)
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
The Capital Grille Washington D.C.
Favorite Things To Do
The View of DC (1201 Wilson Blvd Arlington, VA)
On this last trip to Washington, I discovered The View of DC located in Arlington, VA which is not but a few minute drive from the city. This must see attraction is the best place to catch the greatest views of the entire city. The 360-degree panoramic view is absolutely breathtaking. It also includes an open air terrace where you can step outside and snap some of the greatest pictures or even sit and enjoy a nice refreshment. The best part is that this cost is $0! The parking for this attraction is located directly under the building and has an elevator that takes you straight to the level for entry. (Be sure to have a Photo ID with you to enter.
There are so many attractions, museums, and memorials that I could not possibly name all of them. Listed below are some of my favorites that you will not be disappointed in when you visit if you include them on your itinerary. Walking around the city and being able to experience history come to life is such a neat experience. You will find yourself wondering who is passing by in the unmarked vehicles as you make your way down the sidewalk and watching the Presidential helicopter land is always a fun experience as well!
Other Recommendations
Arlington National Cemetery – Be sure to take the day and visit one of the country’s oldest national cemeteries and do not miss The Tomb of the Unknown Solider.
The Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour has become one of our favorite things to do in the city. The monuments are absolutely beautiful at night as they are lit up for you to view as you make your way around the city. This is a 2.5 hour tour that is fully narrated by a tour guide. You will visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the US Marine Corps War Memorial. This is one tour that you can do time and time again and it will never get old.
You will want to be sure and plan a day to visit one or more of the Smithsonian Institute Museums. There are more 17 museums and galleries for you to visit. We love the Air and Space Museum and the National Zoo!
A day trip to visit Mount Vernon should be on your itinerary as well. This is the historic home of America’s first president, George Washington. We were able to visit for the first time on this last trip and we are so glad that we did. The tour of the home itself is such a great way to experience history in a different way. The tour guides were very informative. This would be a great outdoor activity for the family.
As a professional travel advisor and someone who has personally experienced Washington D.C. I would recommend that everyone visit this beautiful and historic place at least once. There is so much to do and so many great places to eat and of course so much to learn. This is a great experience for the entire family. If you are interested in visiting and would like to plan a trip here, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I would love to help you plan your next trip!
The Coen Compass 
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