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Everything you’ve heard about WASHINGTON, DC is true–it’s the most powerful city in the world, every street corner has a story, and most of the sights, sounds and cultural experiences are free for U.S. citizens. WASHINGTON is an inspiring city where walking is preferred and patience is a virtue. Every citizen’s history can be traced back to these hallowed streets and there’s something for every interest, young and old alike. I’m asked all the time to share what I love about my hometown, so here goes…

MUSEUMS + MONUMENTS
Visiting DC for the first time you’ll want to visit as many Smithsonian Museums as you can squeeze in, my favorites are American History, Natural History, Holocaust, and National Archives.

National Portrait Gallery
www.npg.si.edu

Portraits of great Americans from Elvis to Eisenhower.

U.S. Botanic Gardens
www.usbg.gov

This is one of my favorite places in D.C. Eight garden rooms totaling 30,000 sq ft of calm when you need some peace and quiet.

Phillips Collection
www.phillipscollection.org

A museum small enough not to be as intimidating as the other museums and a great place to spend a rainy afternoon.

Ford’s Theater
www.nps.gov/foth

The first time I was in this theater for a performance, it creeped me out a bit because this is where President Lincoln was shot, but the exhibit should not be missed.

International Spy Museum
www.spymuseum.org

If you love James Bond and other spy movies, like I do, you’ll love this museum.

C & O Towpath
www.bikewashington.org

The canal is 184 miles of scenic running from DC to Maryland.

Textile Museum
www.textilemuseum.org

A favorite of design enthusiasts, this museum teaches the history of textile arts through rotating exhibitions from oriental carpets to silks and wools.

RESTAURANTS

Ben’s Chili Bowl
www.benschilibowl.com

A Washington landmark. If you love chili half-smokes this is a definite can’t miss D.C. experience.

Breadline
www.breadline.com

Near the White House, try the grilled stuffed chicken and fennel flatbread. On Fridays, its all about the fish sandwich.

Chez Billy Sud
www.chezbillysud.com

Where to eat in Georgetown. Modern French bistro.

DBGB
www.dbgb.com

Daniel Boulud’s hotspot for sausages, burgers and DB classics.

Fiola Mare
www.fiolamaredc.com

Fabio Trabocchi’s fine Italian seafood restaurant mandatory for special occasions.

Good Stuff Eatery
www.goodstuffeatery.com

A Spike Mendelsohn joint. Home to the 5-napkin burger and milkshakes so good they should be illegal.

Kaz Sushi Bistro
www.kazsushi.com

Popular Japanese for classic-creative dishes.

Le Diplomate
www.lediplomatedc.com

THE see and be seen spot for French classics.

Michel Richard Central
www.centralmichelrichard.com

American-French comfort food. Try the Kit Kat bar for dessert!

minibar by José Andrés
www.minibarbyjoseandres.com

I’m not a fan of molecular gastronomy, but José Andrés is truly a mad food scientist that creates some really inventive see-to-believe dishes.

Restaurant Nora
www.noras.com

One of the first 100% organic restaurants, everything is topnotch and beautifully presented.

The Source
www.thesource.com

Wolfgang Puck’s modern Asian in Penn Quarter.

HOTELS

Hotel Monaco
www.monaco-dc.com

This historic landmark is one of D.C.’s best boutique properties.

Hotel George
www.hotelgeorge.com

An easy walk from the Capitol and Union Station, one of the hippest places to be seen in Washington.

Mandarin Oriental
www.mandarinoriental.com/washington

I don’t love the location, but with great views of the Tidal Basin, topnotch service, a wonderful spa and City Zen, its one of D.C.’s best.

Ritz Carlton Washington, DC
www.ritzcarlton.com

In D.C.’s West End close to Georgetown with luxury amenities and Sports Club/LA.

The Jefferson
www.jeffersondc.com

Of all the grande dame hotels, this is a favorite for service and exclusivity.