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.
City guides by those who know Washington DC best!
Travel Guides by these Washington DC Locals!
Know your way in Washington DC like a local!
Spotted by Locals
✓ Discover Washington DC through the eyes of a local!
✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks
✓ Our locals share their personal favorite spots in Washington DC
Check out our latest hidden gems in Washington DC
Things to do in Washington DC
The Salsa Room
Dance all night
There are a lot of places to dance salsa in DC, but "The Salsa Room" is one of my favorites. I like how patrons who show up are really here to dance....
by
JR
Denson
East Potomac Golf Links
In the shadow of the Mall
"East Potomac Golf Links" in DC is probably my favorite place to play golf in the whole world. The view is amazing - and it's surprisingly affordable!
by
JR
Denson
Hill Center DC
Events on Capitol Hill(ish)
"Hill Center DC" is an events facility with all kinds of activities, from wine tastings to ASL & cooking classes. It's a real under-the-radar location!
by
JR
Denson
The Bullpen
Chill outdoor hangout
"The Bullpen" in DC is a great outdoor venue to go and hang out. I like going when they have special happy hour during Nationals home baseball games...
by
JR
Denson
DC Brau
The DC beer
Dublin has Guinness. New York City has Brooklyn Brewing. And DC has "DC Brau." It isn't just a local beer. It's the local beer...
by
JR
Denson
NoVA Ultimate Frisbee
Play near the Pentagon
There's an ultimate frisbee pick-up game that's been going on for years in a park across from the Pentagon City Mall in DC. It's so friendly and laid back there!
by
JR
Denson
Port City Brewing Company
Local brew
"Port City" isn't just one of my favorite beer companies locally in Washington DC, it's one of my favorite beer companies ANYWHERE. Try their porter...
by
JR
Denson
Canal Park Ice Rink
Chill ice skating
The "Canal Park Ice Rink" in Washington DC is somewhat of a hidden gem in a quiet neighborhood but w/ plenty of nice things to do around...
by
JR
Denson
Studio Gallery
Longest running artist cooperative
"Studio Gallery" in Washington D.C. is a great place to pop into for a quick dose of inspiration. It's the longest-running artist cooperative in D.C.!
by
Katya
Barannik
Looped Yarn Works
DC's happiest yarn shop
"Looped Yarn Works" calls itself D.C.'s happiest yarn shop, and I can't argue with that. The shop is like your best friend's living room...
by
Katya
Barannik
The Phillips Collection
Modern and contemporary
"The Phillips Collection" in Washington DC praises itself as America’s first museum of modern art, which encompasses art from the 1800s to today.
by
Katya
Barannik
Categories
What to do in Washington DC?
Heading to Washington DC?
101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Going to Washington DC?
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
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
Hi! Nice to meet you.
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.
As featured on:
