Discover our locals' 101 hidden gems in Washington DC

Let's uncover Washington DC’s hidden spots with Spotted by Locals! From cozy bookshops to breathtaking art collections, our Spotters reveal the city's best-kept secrets. Experience Washington DC like a true local.

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Things to do in Washington DC

Woodrow Wilson House

Home of the 28th President

"Woodrow Wilson House" in Washington D.C. is the only presidential museum in the city. It's made for history buffs, like me!

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Art & culture

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 27, 2025

Hains Point

Perfect day by the water

"Hains Point" in Washington DC is the perfect place to spend a sunny weekend afternoon. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day by the water with beautiful views!

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Relaxing

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Un je ne sais Quoi

French pastries

"Un je ne sais Quoi" in Washington DC is my go-to place for a sweet fix with a French twist - it's the most authentic French bakery in the city!

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Oak Hill Cemetery

Peaceful retreat

I come to "Oak Hill Cemetery" in Washington DC whenever I am walking through Georgetown on a slow afternoon and have some time for myself...

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Roosevelt Island

Outdoor monument to a president

"Roosevelt Island" in Washington DC is an 88-acre natural reserve area. How fitting it's dedicated to Teddy Roosevelt, a big nature conservation advocate.

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

The REACH

A living theater

Described as a living theater, "The REACH" in Washington D.C. is a performance hall, education center, and rehearsal space rolled into one...

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Art & culture
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Music
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Theaters

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Dumbarton Oaks Museum

Art and research

"Dumbarton Oaks Museum" in Washington D.C. is a historic estate that holds a rich collection of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art. Also visit the garden!

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Art & culture

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Tudor Place

America's story lives here

"Tudor Place" is the only property in Washington DC connected to George & Martha Washington and has a collection of objects that detail American history...

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

O St. Mansion

The wackiest place in D.C.

The "O St. Mansion" is one of the wackiest places I have been to in Washington D.C.! It's truly the embodiment of sensory overload... What a fusion!

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Art & culture
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Coffee & tea

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Dumbarton Oaks Garden

Garden of beauty

"Dumbarton Oaks Garden" in Washington DC is the work of love of Beatrix Farrand, who worked on this beautiful, colorful garden for 30 years...

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Katya

Barannik

Apr 25, 2025

Trusty's

A neighborhood bar

If you want to find a local bar in DC that does not have a tourist vibe, "Trusty's" is the place you're looking for do check out the school bus (!) inside!

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Bars

by

JR

Denson

Apr 24, 2025

The Perfect Liar's Club

Interactive game

"The Perfect Liar's Club" in Washington DC takes the game 'Two Truths and a Lie' to a whole new level of fun... It offers a show that's not to be missed!

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Art & culture
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Bars

by

JR

Denson

Apr 23, 2025

Heading to Washington DC?

101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

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What to expect?

Authentic & Unbiased Content

Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!

Go off the Beaten Path Gems

We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.

Responsible Travel

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.

Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.

With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.

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