National Portrait Gallery Washington DC – Not just a pretty face
The name of this Washington art museum is technically correct, but it doesn’t even begin to describe the hidden treasures in the collections here. Take, for instance, one of the most visited exhibits: American Presidents. Organized from the first president on, the early part of the collection is, as one might imagine, paintings of the heads of old white men dressed in black. Then John F. Kennedy comes along, and the colorful, full-length portrait by Elaine de Koonig turns the exhibit on its head. The portraits become more personal – even Richard Nixon smiles.
But the crowning glory of the exhibit isn’t a President, but the Amy Sherard portrait of Michelle Obama, which is so stunning it replaced the photo of my dog on my home screen, though I do not know Michelle personally. That’s the surprise of this museum – predictable, but mind the twists. Look for Katherine Hepburn’s Oscars, Kurt Cobain’s attitude, and The Four Justices by Nelson Shanks. The building itself is art – a grand inner courtyard houses a café and a water feature no child can resist running through.
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in Washington DC
Tryst – Coffeehouse, bar, lounge
"Tryst" bills itself as Washington DC's living room. On a cold morning, I feel lucky to snag a couch by the gas fire, sink in & order a truly fine coffee.
By
Lydia
Strohl
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!
By
JR
Denson
Bar Charley – Craft cocktails cool vibe
"Bar Charley" in Washington DC is famous for its cocktails. Great creations - and the food is even better!
By
Lydia
Strohl
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
Surfside – Late night Tex-Mex
I always stop at "Surfside" whenever I go out dancing or hanging out in the Dupont Circle area for a late-night taco, enchilada or quesadilla...
By
JR
Denson
Glover Archbold Trail – Nature trail in urban DC
"Glover Archbold Trail" DC is a 3.5-mile flat and well-traveled trail popular with locals and their dogs. Worth the trek, especially the pedestrian tunnel.
By
Lydia
Strohl
US Botanical Gardens – A colorful city respite
The "US Botanical Gardens" in Washington DC is a nice change of pace from some of the more touristic attractions in the area. I always forget where I am...
By
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Dupont Italian Kitchen – Pasta and pride
"Dupont Italian Kitchen" (est. 1986) in Washington DC is a community hangout for loyal locals and a favorite among LGBTQ residents & their families!
By
Lydia
Strohl
McClellan’s Retreat – Whiskey bar
"McClellan’s Retreat", a small, cozy whiskey bar in Washington DC's Dupont Circle, is one of my favorite happy hour spots on Florida Avenue...
By
Kelley
Smith
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
AU Museum – Art from around the world
"The AU Museum" at the Katzen Arts Center in Washington DC is the region’s largest university facility for exhibiting art - it has a unique philosophy...
By
Katya
Barannik
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