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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Know your way in Washington DC like a local!
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Check out our latest hidden gems in Washington DC
Things to do in Washington DC
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
Timber Pizza
The best pizza in D.C.
This is the best pizza place in Washington D.C. You don’t have to take just my word for it: Bon Appetit named Timber Best Pizzeria 2017...
by
Katya
Barannik
Hillwood Estate
Art collector’s museum
"Hillwood Estate" in Washington D.C. is one of the best art collector's museums I have been to - I even love the gardens and greenhouses...
by
Katya
Barannik
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
Spanish Steps
Lovely secluded spot
The "Spanish Steps" in Kalorama, Washington DC, are surrounded by trees and the sound of falling water. A lovely, secluded spot to catch up with a friend!
by
Katya
Barannik
Mitchell Park
Green space for hanging out
"Mitchell Park" is a much-welcomed green space within the Kalorama neighborhood in Washington DC. It's the perfect spot to bring a book and read for hours!
by
Katya
Barannik
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!
by
Katya
Barannik
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!
by
Katya
Barannik
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What to do in Washington DC?
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101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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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.
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