Holiday Events
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Season’s Theater and Concerts
20
Fireside Dining
23
Magical Williamsburg
Everything in and around the Beltway
26
White House Christmas
December, 2013 – January, 2014
Tis the Season Everywhere You Go...
DCMetroMagazine.com @DCMetroMagazine
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In Thi s Is s u e
S t a ff
F e at u r e s
Publisher & Editor John Parisi Design & Layout Chris Mahon Events Editor Kathleen McDonough Alexandria Editor Kathleen McDonough Dining Editor Lisa Shapiro Contributing Writers Gabby Birkman Amy Trotter Houston Beth Kanter Kathleen Landrum Kathleen McDonough Eileen Ogintz Lisa Shapiro Account Executives Richard Mundy Rosalind Smith John Parisi CAP Media, Inc. PO Box 2356 Springfield, VA 22152 Issue 0506 All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material within the publication is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. Single copy $3.75. While every precaution is taken to ensure the accuracy of information herein, CAP Media, Inc. assumes no responsibility for losses incurred due to inaccurate information. CAP Media, Inc., 2356 Springfield, VA 22152 (703) 455-9223. Published 6 times per year.
Holiday Events
4
Season’s Theater and Concerts
20
Fireside Dining
23
Magical Williamsburg
Everything in and around the Beltway
26
White House Christmas
32
December, 2013 – January, 2014
Tis The season everywhere you Go...
23
Cozy, Warm Fireplace Dining
DCMetroMagazine.com @DCMetroMagazine
Photo Credits 2
The Nutcracker – Kennedy Center, photo by Paul Zambrana
12 Porgy & Bess – National Theater, photo by Michael Lutch 13
Tappin’ Thru Life – Arena Stage, photo by Tony Powell
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Gypsy – Signature Theater, photo by Christopher Muellen
14 Flashdance – Kennedy Center, photo by Jeremy Daniel 16 The Anchorman – Newseum, photo by Gemma Lemana 18 Elf, The Musical - Kennedy Center, photo by Joan Marcus 20 The Nutcracker – Kennedy Center, photo by Paul Zambrana
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20
Sights and Sounds of the Season
DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
26
Holiday Magic in Historical Williamsburg
December 2013 – January 2014
Sections
Welcome to Washington, DC.
One of the most popular destinations in the world! isitors and residents alike love this city year ‘round for its abundance of things to do and see, but when it’s time to ring in the holidays and the New Year, there’s no better place to be! Besides our firstclass museums, beautiful monuments and awe-inspiring institutions, the city’s vibrant neighborhoods of Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter and Old Town Alexandria are now buzzing with activity and decked out in holiday splendor.
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In & Around the Beltway
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Destinations
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Museums & Attractions
While away a day museum hopping, holiday shopping, or sightseeing. Then spend an evening viewing the National Christmas Tree or one of the area’s fabulous seasonal light shows. There’s also theaters and concert halls galore presenting yuletide stories both old and new: a performance of A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker or Handel’s Messiah – even Elf The Musical – will guarantee that you feel merry and bright. And of course there’s no better place to be on a cold winter’s night than fireside at one of the city’s world-class restaurants. And when it’s time for a change of scenery, you’re in for a treat, for it’s only a quick trip south to Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Garden’s Christmas Town where you’ll get a unique opportunity to experience holiday magic, past and present.
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Dining
53
Shopping
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Neighborhoods
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Using Metro
Chef Sebastian Rondier Decanter
So while you’re here, let DC Metro Magazine be your guide to the entire metropolitan area and all its holiday happenings. There’s so much to explore and so little time to experience all the history, culture, delectable dining, and shopping that’s waiting for you at every turn.
Have fun visiting our hometown, and enjoy your stay! The Staff of DC Metro Magazine
C ONTAC T
DCMetroMagazine.com For advertising or distribution (703) 455-9223
Follow us @DCMetroMagazine
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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In & Around
IN& AROUND the Beltway
Ice! At Gaylord Resort
Skating at National Sculpture Garden
Daily, Through February
Skating at Washington Harbour’s Ice Rink
Larger than New York City’s Rockefeller Center rink, the skating pond at Washington Harbour has the notable distinction of being DC’s largest outdoor ice skating venue. Transformed from its interchangeable use as The Harbour’s picturesque fountain, this 11,800 square foot rink brings an exciting winter energy to the already-bustling Georgetown waterfront every day – including holidays! – during the 2013-2014 winter season. Children/Seniors/Military: $8; Adults: $10; skate rental $5. Mon-Thurs: 12-9pm; Fri: 12-10pm; Sat: 10am-10pm; Sun: 10am-7pm. Washington Harbour, 3000 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007. www.thewashingtonharbour.com
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Through January 1 ZooLights
The National Zoo presents its seasonal display of more than 5000,000 sparkling animated lights, fun activities, live entertainments and more, sure to please visitors of all ages. Ride the Conservation Carousel, head to Lion/Tiger Hill for snowless Zoo Tubing or take a tour on the Zoo Choo-Choo! Admission to the Zoo is FREE! ($3 for carousel rides). 5-9pm. (Zoo closed December 24-25). National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008. www.nationalzoo.si.edu
Through January 1
36th Annual Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple
Downtown Holiday Market
Daily, Through Mid-March (Weather Permitting) Ice Skating at the Sculpture Garden
A favorite Washington winter tradition! View magnificent works of sculpture while skating in the open air and enjoying music from the rink’s state-of-the-art sound system. Child (12&under)/Student with ID/ Senior (50+): $7; Adult: $8. Mon-Thurs: 10am-9pm; Fri-Sat: 10am-11pm; Sun: 11am9pm. (Closed December 25th and January 1st.) The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, 7th and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20565. www.pavilioncafe.com
Saturdays and Sundays, Through December 22
Through December 23rd
9th Annual Downtown Holiday Market
DC’s annual sidewalk marketplace returns to the Penn Quarter with its festive shopping “village”. Enjoy a unique seasonal shopping opportunity with hundreds of diverse gift items offered by 60 exhibitors and artisans each day, including jewelry, pottery, paintings and textiles. While shopping, enjoy lively seasonal entertainment and festive treats. FREE! Noon to 8pm daily. Sidewalk on F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW, Washington, DC 20001. www.downtownholidaymarket.com
One of the D.C. area’s great community traditions, visitors will view more than 600,000 lights that illuminate the Washington Temple grounds as well as decorated Christmas trees and international crèche exhibit featuring nativities from around the world. Lights are illuminated at dusk, with live musical performances at the indoor theater at 7 and 8 pm. FREE! Tickets required for performances in the main theater and are available 90 minutes prior. Washington DC Temple Visitors’ Center, 9900 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895. www.dctemplelights.lds.org
Mormon Temple
Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Celebrate the holiday season in colonial style with a traditional yuletide evening with “Mrs. Washington” and other personages from General Washington’s world. Tour the Mansion by candlelight, sing Christmas carols by the fireside and partake of holiday refreshments. 5-8pm. Timed tour not included in daytime admission. Adult: $22; Child (11&under): $15. Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309. www.MountVernon.org
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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In & Around Christmas at Mount Vernon
Through January 2
The Art League’s Annual Holiday Ornament Collection
Find a unique, handcrafted ornament for yourself or someone else on The Art League’s tree this holiday season! Each ornament for sale is made by a talented Art League artist. Visitors can also tour this intriguing art gallery space to view original art created by skilled artists from throughout the DC and Mid-Atlantic region. FREE! Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat: 10am-6pm; Thurs: 10am9pm; Sun: 12-6pm. The Art League Gallery at Torpedo Factory Art Center, 1st Floor, 105 North Union Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.theartleague.org
Through January 5
ICE! Featuring ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
The thrilling, chilling one-of-a-kind holiday attraction ICE! returns for the holidays with an all-new theme and jaw-dropping scenes carved entirely of ice. The beloved classic Christmas poem comes to life in an interactive world of colorful ice sculptures and incredible 20-foot-tall ice slides carved entirely from two million pounds of ice. There’s even a larger-than-life “Christmas in New York” interactive area that brings the famous sights and sounds of the Big Apple a bit closer to home. This “cool” winter attraction (all kept at a frigid 9 degrees!) is sure to warm every visitor’s heart. Gaylord
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Scottish Walk Parade
National Resort at National Harbor, National Harbor, MD 20745. For schedules and tickets: www.gaylordnationaltickets.com
Through January 5
National Harbor Holiday Light Show & Friday Night Fireworks
Celebrate the season along the scenic Potomac River with a spectacular show at the 65-foot National Harbor tree every 30 minutes from sunset until 10pm. And on the Fridays preceding Christmas (December 6, 13 and 20) watch the sky light up with fireworks across the waterfront. Jingle all the way to National Harbor for family-fun holiday activities and entertainment. FREE! Holiday light show nightly from 5-10pm; Friday fireworks at 7pm. On the Plaza at National Harbor, 137 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD 20745. www.nationalharbor.com
Through January 5
Christmas Fountain Show & Indoor Snowfall
Visitors won’t believe their eyes as a leaping water fountain shoots 60-feet high, millions of twinkling lights dance in perfect unison, and a brilliant snow falls inside the Gaylord National Resort’s 19-story atrium! This delightful holiday show - occurring as part of the Sounds and Songs of Christmas/Nightly Tree Lighting show - is a “must-see” during
the Gaylord’s annual holiday celebration and is sure to put even the biggest Scrooge into the holiday spirit. FREE! Two shows nightly at 6pm and 8pm. The Atrium, Gaylord National Resort, 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD, 20745. www.christmasonthepotomac.com
Through January 6
Christmas at Mount Vernon
The halls will be decked for Christmas at Mount Vernon, with themed Christmas trees and festive holiday touches, including live demonstrations of 18th century chocolate making. Visitors will also get a peek at the rarely seen third floor of the Mansion! Christmas at Mount Vernon has been named as one of the “12 Places to Catch the Holiday Spirit” by AAA! 9am-4pm. Included with regular admission. Adult (12-61): $17; Senior (62+): $16; Youth (6-11): $8 (5yrs and under, FREE). Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22309. www.mountvernon.org
December 6
Del Ray Holidays on the Avenue Experience a Del Ray holiday tradition: tree lighting, visit with Santa and lighting of the luminaries. Enjoy carols, hot chocolate, cider and cookies while waiting for Santa to arrive at 6pm to help light the tree. Then view thousands of luminaries lit along Mt.
Arlington National Cemetery
Vernon Avenue, while leisurely browsing the shops. And don’t miss the opportunity to take a picture with Santa! FREE! 6-9pm. Along Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray, Alexandria, VA 22301. www.visitdelray.com
December 6-January 1
National Christmas Tree
Catch the seasonal spirit with a visit to the National Christmas Tree and the Pathway of Peace that will be illuminated each evening from dusk until 11pm. Enjoy musical performances held nightly on the Ellipse stage and don’t miss the chance to visit Santa’s workshop at President’s Park. FREE! The Ellipse, 1600 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20002. For Workshop hours and performance schedules: www.thenationaltree.org
December 6-8, 13-15, 20-22
Del Ray Artisans Fine Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market
This annual holiday market returns for its 18th year. Browse unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists - including pottery/ceramics, photography, jewelry, cloth, paper crafts, and glass - while sampling delectable bake sale items. Fri: 6-9pm (reception); Sat: 10am-4pm; Sun: 12-4pm. FREE! The Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301. www.thedelrayartisans.org
December 7
December 12
Ranked one of the “Top 20 Events of the South”, you know the holidays have arrived when the sound of bagpipes fills the air! Over 100 Scottish clans, pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dogs, dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus will march through the streets of Old Town in celebration of the city’s rich Scottish heritage. A local Christmas tradition. FREE! 11am. Route: Begins at the corner of Wilkes and South Saint Asaph Streets and ends at Market Square, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.scottishchristmaswalk.com
The Torpedo Factory celebrates the season with two holiday staples - chocolate and shopping! Studios and galleries will be open until 9pm for holiday shopping while indulgent treats will make for a decadent evening. FREE! 6-9 pm. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.Torpedofactory.org
43rd Annual Scottish Walk Parade
Second Thursday Art Night: Decadent December
December 14
Arlington National Cemetery Wreaths Across America
Each year volunteers place evergreen holiday wreaths on Arlington’s hallowed white Alexandria Holiday Boat tombstones in recognition of the sacrifices made by our nation’s fallen heroes. This Parade of Lights Alexandria’s harbor lights up when more than solemn event has continued to expand to recognize even more of our nation’s honored 50 imaginatively illuminated boats cruise the city’s historic waterfront, with a special dead, with volunteers expected to lay more appearance by Santa on water skis. Held than 100,000 wreaths in remembrance and at the Alexandria City Marina, with dock thanks. FREE! Wreath laying: 8am-1pm; festivities beginning at 3pm; boat parade wreaths to remain in place until mid-January. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA begins at 5:30 pm. FREE! City Marina, (behind the Torpedo Factory), 0 Cameron 22211. Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.arlingtoncemetery.mil www.VisitAlexandriaVA.com
December 7
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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In & Around December 14
December 14-15
Get your holiday “spirits” on and explore DC’s Dupont Circle area while celebrating the holiday season with thousands of festively clad bar crawlers as they amble from stop to stop on a jolly winter excursion. Come discover some of downtown’s best bars and enjoy some holiday shenanigans along with food and drink specials with friends old and new. $15 in advance, $20 day-of. 1-9pm. Must be 21 years or older. For details and tickets: www.dcsantacrawl.com
Jump in the sleigh and head to Hillwood Estate – the famed home of heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post – to celebrate the festive winter season in grand Russian style! Meet Grandfather Frost, Russia’s Santa Claus, and his granddaughter, the Snow Maiden and create and wear your own kokoshnik (lady’s headdress) or Russian gentleman’s winter hat. Guests will be treated to lively music and enchanting winter tales from Russia. Adult: $18; Senior $15; Child (ages 6-18): $5. Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 1-5 p.m.
2013 DC Santa Crawl
Russian Winter Festival
Hillwood Estate Museum and Garden, 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008. www.hillwoodmuseum.org
December 14-15
Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours
Come “home for the holidays” with a tour of some of Alexandria’s most notable places! This is a unique opportunity to travel through time and learn more about Alexandria’s history, with tours of historic Carlyle House, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Lee-Fendall House and Lloyd House. On this self-guided tour, visitors will experience each site by candlelight while enjoying live musical performances. Free shuttle bus service between sites available. Adult: $20; Senior (65yrs+): $15; Child (ages 6-17): $5. Fri: 6-9pm, Sat: 3-6 p.m. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Tickets: www.alexandriava.gov/historic
December 18-20
National Museum of Women in the Arts Holiday Market
Virginia Cup
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
This exciting trunk show features a wide range of holiday gifts and collections by five fabulous female artists displaying and selling their unique jewelry, textiles, and home and personal accessories. FREE! 10am-5pm, with extended hours on Wednesday until 7pm. NMWA Museum Shop, 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20005. www.nmwa.org
Lighting the National Christmas Tree
GYPSY THE GREAT AMERICAN MUSICAL
DECEMbER 17, 2013 – JANUARy 19, 2014
Photo of Sherri L. Edelen by Christopher Mueller.
Book By arthur LaurEntS Music By juLE StynE lyrics By StEPhEn SondhEiM directed By joE CaLarCo
TICkETS oN
SALE Now! Special New year’s Eve performance and party.
www.
@sigtheatre #siggypsy
@sigtheatre #siggypsy
-theatre.org 703 573 SEAT Media Sponsor
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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In & Around Water Skiing Santa
CONCERTS Beyoncé
December 24
January 10-12
Before he loads the sleigh, the “Fat Man” will be waterskiing the Potomac River - for a 28th year - along with his crew of high-flying elves, jet-skiing Grinch, Frosty the Snowman and more. Head to National Harbor for the best views. FREE! 1:00pm sharp (rain, snow or shine). National Harbor Marina, National Harbor, MD 20745. www.waterskiingsanta.com
Founded in 1955 as a fund raising event for local charities, the Washington Winter Show is one of the longest running antiques shows in the country. This year an exceptional loan exhibit, “Southern Celebrations: Traditions Handed Down” celebrates that South at its best, with items from Stratford Hall, the home of the Lees in Virginia. Premier dealers from
Water Skiing Santa!
The Fillmore Silver Spring 8656 Colesville Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-960-9999 www.fillmoresilver spring.com
Verizon Center 601 F Street NW Washington, DC 20004 202-628-3200 www.verizoncenter. monumentalnetwork.com
December 18
Steve Winwood 8pm
Beyoncé The Mrs. Carter World Tour 8pm
December 15
January 16
December 12
Andrew Dice Clay 8pm
December 27 Common 8pm
Jay Z Magna Carter World Tour 8pm Warner Theatre
January 28
Panic! At The Disco 8pm
513 13th Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 202-783-4000 www.warnertheatredc.com
The Howard Theatre
January 10-11
620 T Street NW Washington, DC (202) 803-2899 www.thehoward theatre.com
Jim Gaffigan The White Bread Tour 7 & 9:30pm
December 14 Ja Rule 11:30pm
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
December 31
First Night Alexandria
A great family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with more that 100 performances at 22 indoor venues featuring live music – including a Battle of the Bands - dancing and loads of activities for the kids! Dozens of Old Town’s shops, restaurants and buildings will turn into performance venues to showcase local talent. It’s festive, affordable, safe and venues are alcohol free. The fun begins in the afternoon, with entertainment performances beginning at 7pm and continuing throughout the evening, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display on the river at midnight. Adult: $20 ($15 on-line through 12/19); Child (12&under) and active duty military: FREE! 1pm-Midnight. For schedule, maps and tickets: www.firstnightalexandria.org
Washington Winter Antiques Show
Holiday Window – Old Town Alexandria
the United States and Europe are scheduled to participate. General Admission: $20.00 (good throughout the weekend). Fri-Sat: 11am-8pm; Sun: 11am-5pm. Katzen Arts Center at American University, 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20016. www.washingtonwintershow.com
January 17-26, 2014
Alexandria Winter Restaurant Week
Alexandria’s restaurants now proudly take their place as some of the best in the nation, with locally-owned-and-operated neighborhood restaurants as well as nationally recognized chef-owned eateries creating a flavorful melting pot in the truest sense. Now’s your chance to savor the flavors of Alexandria’s distinctive collection of eateries with special offers available exclusively during this event. For 10 days and two weekends, enjoy tantalizing multi-course meals as you sample the inventive culinary diversity offered throughout the city. View Restaurant Week menus and make reservations online at: www.visitalexandriava.com
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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IMnu & s e Au rmosu & n dA t t r a c t i o n s
Theater Porgy & Bess – National Theater
ARENA STAGE 1101 Sixth Street, SW Washington, DC 20024 202-488-3300 www.arenastage.org
Through December 29 in the Kreeger Theater
A Life of Song and Dance Broadway legend Maurice Hines teams up once again with DC’s dynamic dance duo, the Manzari Brothers, to tap through his incredible 40 years in show business. With song and dance, Hines pays tribute to his brother, Gregory, and the singers who have inspired him, from Frank Sinatra to Lena Horne. Get ready to laugh, smile and tap your feet during an infectious night of song and dance.
Through January 5
in the Fichandler Stage
Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner Television actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner (The Cosby Show) makes his Arena Stage debut in a new adaptation of the beloved film Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. A progressive white
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
couple’s proud liberal sensibilities are put to the test when their daughter brings her African-American fiancé home to meet them. Personal beliefs clash with the mores of the late 60’s in this warm and witty exploration of family and culture.
KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
IMAGINATION STAGE
Ongoing in the Theater Lab Sheer Madness
4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20814 301-280-1660 www.imaginationstage.org
Through January 10 Lyle the Crocodile When the Primm family moves into their New York City apartment, they’re surprised to find a crocodile in their bathtub! But Lyle is rather extraordinary and quickly becomes a part of the family despite a nasty neighbor who thinks poor Lyle is unfit for the neighborhood simply because he’s different. Can Lyle save the day and earn his place as a beloved friend and neighbor? This delightful new musical comedy is based on the beloved books by Bernard Waber. Best for children ages 4-12.
2700 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20566 202-467-4600 www.kennedy-center.org
Set in the Shear Madness hairstyling salon, this record-breaking comedy has been Washington’s favorite hilarious whodunit for 25 years. And after more than 11,000 performances, this show is still in great shape, retaining all the bounce, body, and shine of its opening night!
December 25-january 19 in the Eisenhower Theater
Flashdance – The Musical Celebrating the hit movie’s 30th anniversary, this inspiring stage musical adaptation includes all the favorites, like “Flashdance--What a Feeling” and “Maniac” to “I Love Rock and Roll”, plus 16 original songs!
A Life of Song & Dance – Arena Stage
NATIONAL THEATER 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20004 202-628-6161 www.thenationaldc.com
December 25-29 The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess The winner of the 2012 Tony Award® for Best Musical Revival premiers in Washington - for one week only! - with award-winning members of the Broadway cast in a stunning and stirring new staging. Accompanied by a lush 23-piece orchestra, this re-envisioned Broadway production is “can’t miss” theater and includes such legendary songs as “Summertime,” “It Ain’t Necessarily So,” and “I Got Plenty of Nothing.” Santa couldn’t have brought a better gift!
SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY
The Lansburgh Theatre: 450 7th Street NW Sidney Harman Hall: 610 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 202-547-1122 www.shakespearetheatre.org
Gypsy – Signature Theater
Through January 5 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum This hysterical Tony Award®winning musical features a beloved score by Stephen Sondheim and an uproarious book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbert. This bawdy and wild production is a gift from the gods for anyone’s holiday season.
January 16 – March 2 The Importance of Being Earnest Oscar Wilde’s most perfect of plays is a comedy of class, courtship, and avoiding burdensome social conventions that still delights more than a century after its 1895 premiere. This madcap farce has it all: eccentric characters, mistaken identities, secret engagements and romantic entanglements, and whose rapid-fire wit continues to drive audiences to uncontrollable laughter!
Christmas in new spain early music of mexico and peru
december 13-22
with vocalists, guitar, harp, strings, and winds
“Folger Consort gives the best Christmas concert in Washington...”— DCist.com
Folger Consort TickeTs & info at www.folger.edu • 202.544.7077
brave new World music of the tempest january 10 -11
at washington national cathedral with Baroque orchestra TeMPesTA Di MARe, soprano RosA LAMoReAUX, and baritone WiLLiAM sHARP
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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SIGNATURE THEATRE Shirlington Village at 4200 Campbell Avenue Arlington, VA 22206 703-820-9771 www.signature-theatre.org
December 17-January 19 Gypsy
Flashdance – Kennedy Center
Loosely based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, the famous striptease artist, and her mother, Rose, the ultimate show business mother (who easily puts today’s Dance Moms to shame!),
this musical about the highs and lows of show business is considered one of the “greats” of the American musical theater. With music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Signature’s “signature,” Stephen Sondheim, Gypsy features the beloved songs “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” “Together (Wherever We Go),” “Small World,” “Some People,” and “Let Me Entertain You”.
SYNETIC THEATER
Synetic Theater 1800 South Bell Street Arlington, VA (Crystal City) 22202 800-494-8497 www.synetictheater.org
January 9-February16 Twelfth Night Set in the roaring 20s, this is a tale of fraternal twins, Viola and Sebastian, separated in a strange new land. Having survived a shipwreck and believing her brother Sebastian has been lost, Viola falls hopelessly in love with Duke Orsino and disguises herself as a man to enter his services. Once again Synetic presents its uniquely physical style of theater with this “Silent Shakespeare” and creates a confluence of comedy and tragedy, a social commentary that brings laughter to sobering truth, without ever uttering a word.
THEATER J
1529 16th Street, NW Washington, DC 20036 202-777-3210 www.washingtondcjcc.org
November 29-December 14 Woody Sez: The Life & Music of Woody Guthrie A special encore presentation of last season’s sold out and award-winning production (Helen-Hayes award winner for Outstanding Lead Actor and Non-Resident Production) this boisterous musical celebrates America’s troubadour, the man behind ‘This Land is Your Land,’ ‘The Ballad of Tom Joad’ and more, with musical numbers, ample humor and heart-break from Woody’s rich life. Followed by rousing weekly hootenannies after select performances.
WOOLLY MAMMOTH THEATRE COMPANY 641 D Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 202-393-3939 www.woollymammoth.net
December 12-January 5 Just the Two of Each of Us
Presented by:
Restaurant Partner:
The HRH Foundation
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Blending their trademark wit, characters, improv, and fast-paced physical comedy with plenty of new surprises, comedy duo The Pajama Men return to Woolly this holiday season with their newest show: a thrilling, time-warped, joke-ridden tale, whose seemingly unrelated storylines come crashing seamlessly together in breathless Pajama Men fashion!
SPORTS
NBA Basketball
NHL Hockey
NFL Football
Verizon Center 601 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com
Verizon Center 601 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com
FedEx Field Landover, MD
WASHINGTON Wizards
Home Schedule December:
Monday, December 2 – 7pm vs. Orlando Magic Friday, December 6 – 7pm vs. Milwaukee Bucks Monday, December 9 – 7pm vs. Denver Nuggets Saturday, December 14 – 7pm vs. L. A. Clippers Saturday, December 28 – 8:10pm vs. Detroit Pistons
January:
Wednesday, January 1 – 6pm vs. Dallas Mavericks Friday, January 3– 7pm vs. Toronto Raptors Sunday, January 5 – 6pm vs. Golden State Warriors Saturday, January 11 – 7pm vs. Houston Rockets Wednesday, January 15 – 7pm vs. Miami Heat Friday, January 17 – 7pm vs. Chicago Bulls Saturday, January 18 – 7pm vs. Detroit Pistons Monday, January 20 – 2pm vs. Philadelphia 76ers Wednesday, January 22 – 7pm vs. Boston Celtics
WASHINGTON CAPITALS
Home Schedule December:
Tuesday, December 3 – 7pm vs. Carolina Hurricanes Saturday, December 7 – 7pm vs. Nashville Predators Tuesday, December 10 – 7pm vs. Tampa Bay Lightning Sunday, December 15 – 3pm vs. Philadelphia Flyers Saturday, December 21 – 7pm vs. New Jersey Devils Monday, December 23 – 7pm vs. Anaheim Ducks Friday, December 27 – 7pm vs. New York Rangers
WASHINGTON REDSKINS (Individual game tickets may be of limited availability or sold-out, but may possibly be obtained at www.Ticketmaster. com, or from other fans at the official NFL Ticket Exchange, www.ticketexchangebyticketmaster.com)
www.redskins.com
Home Schedule December:
Sunday, December 1 – 8:30pm vs. New York Giants Sunday, December 8 – 1pm vs. Kansas City Chiefs Sunday, December 22 – 1pm vs. Dallas Cowboys
January:
Thursday, January 2 – 7pm vs. Carolina Hurricanes Friday, January 10 – 7pm vs. Toronto Maple Leafs Sunday, January 12 – 3pm vs. Buffalo Sabres Tuesday, January 21 – 7pm vs. Ottawa Senators
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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In & Around
EXHIBITS Anchorman: The Exhibit – Newseum
FREER GALLERY of ART ARTHUR M. SACKLER GALLERY MUSEUMS of ASIAN ART Freer Gallery of Art: Jefferson Drive at 12th Street, SW Arthur M. Sackler Gallery: 1050 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20013 FREE! www.asia.si.edu
Through January 26 Yoga: The Art of Transformation
Through masterpieces of Indian sculpture and painting, this new exhibit explores yoga’s goals, manifestations, its means of transforming body and consciousness and its profound philosophical foundations while also examining the roles that yogis and yoginis played in Indian society over two thousand years. Borrowing from twenty-five museums and private collections in India, Europe, and the United States, “Yoga” presents more than 120 works dating from the third to the early twentieth century. Highlights include an installation that reunites for the first time three monumental stone yogini goddesses from a tenth-century Chola temple; ten folios from the first illustrated compilation of asanas (yogic postures) made for a Mughal emperor in 1602, which have never before been exhibited together; and Thomas Edison’s Hindoo Fakir (1906), the first movie ever produced about India. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY 201 East Capitol Street, SE Washington, DC 20003 FREE! www.folger.edu
Through January 12 Here is a Play Fitted
As scripts intended for performance, Shakespeare’s plays have always been subject to the individual interests of actors and cultural sensibilities of audiences, as well as the conditions of the theatre, conditions that have changed considerably over time. Focusing on the play texts, this exhibit highlights broad shifts in the theatrical production of Shakespeare’s work over the centuries and the sometimes surprising changes made through an examination of the scripts and promptbooks of Othello, Richard III, Romeo and Juliet, and Midsummer Night’s Dream from the sixteenth through the twenty-first century. Designs for sets, lights, and costumes, production images, props, models, playbills, letters, and reviews shed light on the motivations behind the differing approaches to the plays in production.
HILLWOOD ESTATE MUSEUM AND GARDEN 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008 Adult: $15; Senior:$12; Student:$10; Child (ages 6 – 18):$5 www.hillwoodmuseum.org
Through January 12, 2014 Living Artfully: At Home with Marjorie Merriweather Post
From the glamour of Palm Beach, to the rustic whimsy of the Adirondacks, to the distinguished social scene of Washington, D.C.,
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Heaven and Earth – National Gallery of Art
Marjorie Merriweather Post —the fabulously wealthy Post Cereal heiress — brought to her multiple residences a flawless style of living and entertaining that was made possible only through the gracious management of loyal staff. For the first time, the personal stories of family, staff, and former guests will echo throughout transformed spaces at Hillwood some never before open to the public — to bring to life the formal dinners, charity events, garden parties, and weekend retreats that made an invitation from Marjorie Post the most sought after in her time. One of the premier art collector’s museums in the United States, Hillwood also houses one of the country’s greatest collections of 18th-century Russian and French decorative arts and twelve acres of enchanting formal gardens include a Japanesestyle garden, a rose garden, and a French parterre.
Marjorie Post – Hillwood Estate Museum
INTERNATIONAL SPY MUSEUM 800 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 Adults: $19.95, Seniors (65+): $15.95; Youths (7-17): $14.95 Children (6&under)/Members: Free www.spymuseum.org
Ongoing Exquisitely Evil: 50 Years of Bond Villains
Blofeld. Jaws. Octopussy. Drax. Le Chiffre…Meet the Bond’s villains, uncover their evil schemes, and explore their exotic lairs and weapons in this special exhibit commemorating the 50th anniversary of the James Bond films. The Museum has partnered with EON Productions, the Bond film producers, to showcase over 100 artifacts from the films - from airships and underground lairs to nuclear weapons and hungry sharks - at the International Spy Museum, the first and only public museum in the US solely dedicated to espionage. The experience is fully interactive and suitable for all ages.
MADAME TUSSAUDS
1001 F Street NW Washington, DC 20004 Adults: $22; Child (3-12yrs): $18 (See discount coupon in this issue or visit the website for advance ticket discounts) www.madametussaudsdc.com
Marilyn Monroe is Here!
York’s Grand Central Terminal – the name, the accomplishments, and the architectural legacy of Rafael Guastavino and his family company remain virtually unknown. Not only did the Guastavinos help build many great American public spaces between 1881 and 1962, they also revolutionized architectural design and construction. Their patented vaulting techniques made it possible for the greatest architects of the day to create the breathtakingly beautiful spaces that represent the nation’s highest ideals. This fascinating exhibit sheds light on the little-known story of a man and the company he created around a patented tiling system—based on a centuries-old Spanish building method – that transformed America’s architectural landscape.
family attractions. And in celebration of the holiday season, the NCM invites families to join them from 5-7pm on December 20 for a Free Family Night, featuring hands-on activities and interactive play in the theater and exhibit areas. FREE admission on December 20 only on a firstcome, first-served basis.
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
In the first-ever exhibition of Byzantine art at the Gallery, some 170 works of art, many never before lent to the United States, will be on view—among them mosaics, icons, manuscripts, jewelry, and ceramics. The works include newly discovered and unpublished objects and reveal the rich and multifaceted culture of Byzantium. Divided into five thematic sections, the exhibition explores the coexistence of paganism and Christianity, spiritual life in Byzantium, secular works of art used in the home, the intellectual life of Byzantine scholars, and the cross-influences that occurred between Byzantine and Western artists before the fall of Byzantium.
151 St. George Boulevard, National Harbor Fort Washington, MD 20745 Adult/Child: $10; Seniors: $8 www.ncm.museum
Celebrate the Holidays with the National Children’s Museum
Greater Washington is proud to be home to the only national museum dedicated entirely to children age 8 and younger. With exhibits and innovative educational programs that spark the imagination and celebrate the true power of children, this world-class cultural and educational center has become one of the area’s premier
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART 401 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20565 FREE! www.nga.gov
Through March 2 Heaven and Earth: Art of Byzantium from Greek Collections
Located in the West Building, Main Floor
Here’s the chance to immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood and share the red carpet with an American Icon, thanks to the arrival in DC of Madame Tussauds newest figure: Marilyn Monroe. Actress, singer and sex symbol, she left an indelible mark on Hollywood, film and American culture.
The President’s Gallery
As part of the “capital” experience, don’t miss this chance to meet all 44 US Presidents at the ultimate three-dimensional tribute to America and its commanders-in-chiefs! The Presidents Gallery, a unique exhibit found only at Madame Tussauds in Washington, DC, displays all the Presidents in an exciting, educational and interactive environment where visitors can view the wax figures in settings that bring these historical figures to life in a way that visitors can touch, see and hear.
NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM 401 F Street NW Washington DC 20001 Adults: $8; Youths (3-17yrs), Students w/ID & Seniors (65+): $5 www.nbm.org
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES NOW
STAY & PLAY HOTEL PACKAGE
Through January 20, 2014 Palaces for the People: Guastavino and America’s Great Public Spaces Although their soaring tile vaults grace many of the nation’s most iconic structures –including DC’s U.S. Supreme Court building and New
Overnight Accommodations, $25 Game Play, 20% Off Spa Services and $25 Resort Voucher Advanced reservations suggested. Call now to book your day or overnight trip 866-312-5596. Must be booked by 1/31/14. Restrictions apply. Mention code DCMETRO for current packages.
866.312.5596 ✦ CBResortSpa.com 4165 Mears Ave ✦ Chesapeake Beach, MD HOTEL
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In & Around Palaces for the People – National Building Museum
– traces the trajectory of King’s career, from his rise to prominence as the leader of the national civil rights movement to his work as an anti-war activist and advocate for those living in poverty and marks the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington as well as King’s stirring “I Have a Dream speech”.
NATIONAL POSTAL MUSEUM 8th and F Streets NE Washington, DC 20001 FREE! www.postalmuseum.si.edu
NATIONAL MUSEUM of AMERICAN HISTORY 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20001 FREE! www.americanhistory.si.edu
Ongoing American Stories
Take a journey through time and discover both well-known and less-familiar stories about the American experience. Featuring an engaging mix of more than 100 artifacts from the Museum’s vast holdings, this exhibit directs visitors through a chronology that spans the Pilgrims’ 1620 arrival in Plymouth, Massachusetts, through the 2008 presidential election. Highlights include a fragment of Plymouth Rock, the ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, a signed baseball from the 1937 All-Star Game, a Kermit the Frog puppet, and Apolo Ohno’s speed skates from the 2002 Winter Olympics. Located on the Second Floor East
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY 8th and F Streets NW Washington, DC 20001 FREE! www.npg.si.edu
Through January 5, 2014 Mr. Time: Portraits by Boris Chaliapin
On view are 26 portraits by artist Boris Chaliapin, most of which appeared on Time magazine’s cover during his 28-year career. Chaliapin was the portrait artist Time magazine’s editors turned to first when they needed a cover in a hurry. As Time’s most prolific artist, he created 413 covers for the publication between 1942 and 1970. Week after week, millions of faithful readers recognized Chaliapin’s familiar signature on the cover, and his coworkers aptly nicknamed him “Mr. TIME.”
Through June 1, 2014 One Life: Martin Luther King, Jr.
Under the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr. non-violent protest became the defining feature of the modern civil rights movement in America. This exhibition – utilizing historic photographs, prints, paintings and memorabilia
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
The National Postal Museum explores America’s postal history from colonial times to the present. Visitors will learn about the importance of letters, the creation and wondrous diversity of postage stamps and how mail has been transported over the centuries.
Through January 6, 2014 Fire & Ice: Hindenburg and Titanic
As the largest, fastest, and most glamorous ships of their eras, Hindenburg and Titanic shared many similarities. As anniversaries of the disasters were marked in 2012—seventy-five years since Hindenburg burned and a century since Titanic sank—many questions remain unanswered. Original objects displayed include mail, postcards, menus, photographs, keys from the Titanic post office, and the salvaged postmark device from the Hindenburg.
NEWSEUM
555 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC Adults: $21.95; Senior (65+): $17.95 Child (7-18): $12.95; Child (6 & younger): Free www.newseum.org
New!
Anchorman: The Exhibit
In anticipation of the December release of the highly anticipated movie sequel, “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues,” the Newseum presents “Anchorman: The Exhibit,” featuring props, costumes and footage from the 2004 hit comedy “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.” Included in the exhibit are costumes worn by the Channel 4 Evening News team as well as notable props such as Burgundy’s jazz flute. The exhibit also includes a re-creation of the KVWN-TV anchor desk and news set where visitors can pose for photo ops and have the opportunity to step in front of the camera and participate in an Anchorman-themed TV spot at one of the Newseum’s Be a TV Reporter stations. Clips from the movie and special commentary by star Will Ferrell will be part of the exhibit.
Through January 5, 2014 JFK
To mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, two new exhibits –”Creating Camelot,” and “Three Shots Were Fired” – as well as an original documentary film, “A Thousand Days”, chronicle the presidency, family life and death of America’s 35th president.
THE PHILLPS COLLECTION 1600 21st St. NW Washington, DC For hours, admission pricing and tickets: www.phillipscollection.org
Through January 5, 2014 History in the Making: 100 Years After the Armory Show
The Phillips celebrates the centennial of New York’s controversial 1913 Armory Show, the first major modern art exhibition in the U.S., with paintings, drawings, and sculpture from its permanent collection by several leading American and European artists represented in that landmark exhibition. It features acquisitions made by Duncan Phillips in the decades following his transformative encounter with international modern art at the Armory.
Through January 26 Van Gogh Repetitions
While recognized for the intensity and speed with which he painted, Vincent van Gogh could also work with careful deliberation, creating numerous versions of some of his most famous subjects. The first exhibition in Phillips Collection history devoted to the artist, this exhibition takes a fresh look at van Gogh’s artistic process and goes beneath the surface of some of his best-known paintings to examine how and why he repeated certain compositions during his 10-year career, inviting viewers to look more closely than ever before at van Gogh’s celebrated works. The exhibition brings together portraits and landscapes from some of the world’s most renowned museum collections, with masterpieces showcased alongside paintings from the Phillips’s permanent collection by artists van Gogh admired, including Gauguin, Honoré Daumier, and Rembrandt van Rijn, to create a richer, more meaningful picture of his personal life and artistic production. Advance ticketing strongly suggested.
US BOTANIC GARDEN 100 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC (next to the U.S. Capitol at First St., NW) FREE www.usbg.gov
Through January 5 Season Greenings
The Botanic Garden’s annual seasonal exhibit, Season’s Greening, returns for the holidays and is more enchanting than ever! Despite the cold winter outside, the Conservatory boasts a tropical paradise, one of the largest indoor decorated trees in Washington, D.C., a poinsettia showcase and a grove of conifer trees. Visitors won’t want to miss this popular exhibit which includes Washington landmark buildings, all created with plant materials, set amidst pathways and pools of blooming poinsettias and other holiday plants, as well as the famous garden railway train display in the East Gallery.
The Kid’s Page A Visitin
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Kid Says “I enjoy : e d seeing t Ford’s T he old a heatre r t i fa c t s and about h at ow L i n c h e a r i n g t h e s ad stor oln died Jo h n W y . I learn ilkes Bo ed that ot h m a de it p h e s h ot L i n co l n u b l i c t h a t .” -R achel, 9,
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Ford’s Theatre
When Abraham Lincoln was president. Ford’s Theatre was a popular stage for plays and musical productions. On April 14, 1865, President Lincoln visited Ford’s for his 12th time. At this performance, Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth, a young theater star who had performed at Ford’s Theatre.Lincoln died the next morn ing in the Petersen House. a boardinghouse located across the street. Ford’sTheatre (511 10th St. NW; (202) 347-4833; fordstheatre.org) remained closed for more than I 00 years. It reopened in 1968 as a national historic site and working theater (you might be able to see a play here). It is operated through a public-private partnership between Ford’s Theatre Society and the National Park Service.
Kids During the holidays you can see a wonderful production of “A Christmas Carol” featuring Tiny Tim, his family and Mr. Scrooge.
Today, the museum tells the story of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, from his arrival in Washington in 1861 to the legacy he left.The exhibits also paint a picture ofWashington, DC andthe United States during Lincoln’s presidency. The Ford’s Center for Education and Leadership, which is located at 514 10th St. NW, across the street from the theater and adjacent to the Petersen House, where Lincoln died, will tell you more about Lincoln’s legacy.There’s even a re-creation ofthe Virginia tobacco barn where John Wilkes Booth was ultimately captured and killed.Today you can learn about the day Lincoln died during special theatrical performances and hear talks by National Park Service rangers.At the museum, you can see what it was like to live in Civil War-era Washington.You can even take a special History on Foot walking tour led by an actor dressed as a Civil War character.
Excerpt from the book: The Kids Guide to Washington, DC by Eileen Oginitz , which is available at fine bookstores and online.
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In & Around
Sights and Sounds of the Season
Holiday Concerts and Theater Elf-the Musical – Kennedy Center
Hanukkah songs with choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan area. Admission is FREE, no tickets required. And be sure to bring along a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots, a candle for the traditional exit processional, and a bell for the musical “Jing-A-Long”! 4pm. The Filene Center, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
www.wolftrap.org
December 7 An Irish Christmas Enjoy an unforgettable evening of seasonal music from the Emerald Isle, featuring Irish musical icon Moya Brennan. This festive program offers the timeless, soulful atmosphere of her music in a special holiday show. Drawing on a rich selection of classic Irish songs and carols, as well as her own solo material, Moya and her band will fill you with the spirit of the season. 3 and 7pm. National Geographic, 1145 17th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036
www.events.nationalgeographic.com
December 12 Andrea Bocelli – December Tour Andrea Bocelli is returning to the US for a select series of concerts in December, making this the perfect welcome to the holiday season. 7:30pm. Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
www.verizoncenter.monumentalnetwork. com
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And as the 2013 holiday season arrives with its glitter, glitz and festive lights throughout the capital city, you can be sure that performance halls will be decked and lights will be burning bright on stages throughout the DC metro area with seasonal concerts and theater of every description. So sit back and relax with beautiful and familiar music, stage spectaculars, beloved ballet and audience sing-alongs, sure to get you in the holiday mood! With dozens of holiday productions to enjoy, come celebrate the season and perhaps discover some new holiday traditions! Here are some of the best.
HOLIDAY CONCERTS December 4 Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Lost Christmas Eve Tour TSO will celebrate their first 15 years of touring with an encore and final performance of their multi-platinum rock opera, “The Lost Christmas Eve”. 7:30pm. Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
www.verizoncenter.monumentalnetwork. com
December 6-8 Handel’s Messiah at Washington National Cathedral
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Enjoy this musical masterpiece as it was meant to be heard! The Cathedral Choir, a Baroque period orchestra, the cathedral setting, and the Christmas season all combine to make this an experience you won’t want to miss! Fri: 7:30pm; Sat-Sun: 4pm. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20016
www.nationalcathedral.org
December 7 Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap. This annual musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and
December 12-14 NSO Pops: Happy Holidays! Tony Award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell headlines this annual Pops tradition. The spirit of the season is yours to enjoy in an evening of joyful song led by the versatile Stokes, with a visit from Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick and even some snowflakes in the Concert Hall! Evening and matinee performances. In the Concert Hall, Kennedy
The Nutcracker – The Kennedy Center
A Christmas Carol – Ford’s Theater
Rida. 7pm. Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
ww.hot995.com/go/ jingleball2013
December 16-24 The Choral Arts Society of Washington: An Enchanted Christmas
Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566
www.kennedy-center.org
December 13 Vienna Boys Choir: Christmas in Vienna The spirit of the Christmas season comes to life when these angelic voices rise together in song for a joyous holiday concert! The Vienna Boys Choir performs a program of classical and popular music that includes traditional Christmas carols, Gregorian chants, songs from around the world, and popular holiday favorites. This spectacular concert is a heartwarming evening of music for the entire family to enjoy. 8pm In the Concert Hall, George Mason University’s Center for the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
www.cfa.gmu.edu
December 13–22 The Folger Consort – Christmas in New Spain: Early Music of Mexico and Peru Engaging Washington-area audiences since 1977, the Folger Consort is an early music ensemble-in-residence at the Folger Shakespeare Library who will be bringing to DC this holiday season the exuberant Christmas music by 16th- and 17th-century Latin American and Spanish composers along with the lively rhythms of early baroque dances. With vocal ensemble, guitar, harp, violin, viol, and bassoon. Special discussions, early music seminar, reception and family-friendly events also scheduled. In the Elizabethan Theatre, Folger Shakespeare
Library, 201 East Capitol Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003.
www.folger.edu
December 14-15 The Joy of Christmas The Cathedral Choral Society presents a perennial holiday favorite. Celebrate the season in the magnificent setting of Washington National Cathedral with a program that features the Advent wreath procession, seasonal favorites, and carols for all to sing. Sat: 12pm; Sat-Sun: 4pm. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20016
www.nationalcathedral.org
December 15-22 The Washington Chorus: A Candlelight Christmas Celebrate the splendor of the season with this beloved holiday event. With brass, organ, percussion, harp, and the 200-voice chorus, the program features Christmas classics, singalongs, theatrical lighting, and the glorious candlelight processional. These concerts sell out early! In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566
www.kennedy-center.org
December 16 Jingle Ball This second annual holiday concert, sponsored by Hot 99.5 Radio is part of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2013 Tour, the season’s biggest annual music event. This year’s star-studded lineup includes top recording artists Miley Cyrus, Robin Thicke, Enrique Iglesias and Austin Mahone, Fall Out Boy, Paramore, Jason Derul, Fifth Harmony and Flo
This is the holiday concert that warms hearts with nostalgic memories of yesteryear Christmases and renews the goodwill and hope of the season. This year, Choral Arts collaborates with the Italian Embassy, promising a concert mixed with Yuletide classics, Italian carols, and the always-popular sing-along. Experience the glorious sounds of 170 voices with a chamber orchestra playing your favorite holiday hymns and songs. Buon Natale! In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566
www.kennedy-center.org
December 19-22 National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah Get in the holiday spirit with Handel’s epic masterpiece, performed each year with a fresh perspective by the NSO and acclaimed guest artists. In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566
www.kennedy-center.org
December 19 and 23 The Washington Chorus: A Candlelight Christmas Pure joy! With the splendor of brass, organ, percussion, and the 200-voice, Grammy Awardwinning chorus, this beloved holiday event features Christmas classics, sing-alongs, and the magic of the candlelight processional. Buy early - these concerts always sell out! 7:30pm. The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
www.strathmore.org
December 21 The Irish Tenors: The Premiere Irish Holiday Celebration There’s a bittersweet ache in Ireland’s musical heritage, along with a melodic loveliness and emotional intensity—and no one mines the tradition better than this
trio. You’ll find “a full measure of joy” in this concert that combines The Irish Tenors’ greatest hits with holiday classics. 4 and 8pm. The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
www.strathmore.org
December 23 Messiah Sign-along Be part of Washington’s most popular free holiday event! Back by popular demand, this evening concert features conductor Barry Hemphill as he leads members of the Opera House Orchestra, professional soloists, and a very enthusiastic audience in Handel’s masterpiece. A family and community tradition since 1971! FREE! In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566
www.kennedy-center.org
December 31 A Jazz New Year’s Eve: Straighten Up and Fly Right: The Nat King Cole Tribute Ring in 2014 with NEA Jazz Master pianist Ramsey Lewis and guitaristvocalist John Pizzarelli as they pay homage to Nat King Cole, whose smoky, smooth vocals spawned a long string of solid hits starting with “Straighten Up And Fly Right.” In the Terrace Theater. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566
www.kennedy-center.org
HOLIDAY THEATER FORD’S THEATRE 511 Tenth Street NW Washington, DC 20004 www.fordstheatre.org
Through January 1 A Christmas Carol Ford’s Theatre has delighted Washington audiences with A Christmas Carol for more than 30 years! Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. This music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Charles Dickens’ ageless tale.
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In & Around KEEGAN THEATRE 1742 Church Street, NW Washington, DC 20036 www.keegantheatre.com
December 13-29 An Irish Carol The Keegan holiday tradition continues! An homage to Dickens’ classic, this is a modern fable told with the biting humor and incisive candor of its Irish playwright. Since its premier in 2011, this new holiday classic has continued to play to sold out houses and rave reviews.
KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2700 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20566 www.kennedy-center.org
December 14-22
In the Terrace Theater
Holiday Family Opera: The Lion, the Unicorn, and Me Most everyone knows the story of the Nativity, but probably not from the donkey’s point of view! The Washington National Opera brings the award-winning children’s book to vibrant life in this
heartwarming, world premiere holiday family opera.
December 17-January 19 In the Opera House
Elf The Musical One of Hollywood’s most beloved holiday hits is born again--on stage! Elf is the hilarious tale of Buddy, an orphan who leaves the North Pole to find his true identity. This modern Christmas classic will make everyone embrace their inner elf!!
THE LITTLE THEATRE OF ALEXANDRIA 600 Wolfe Street Alexandria, VA 22314 www.thelittletheatre.com
December 5-22 A Christmas Carol The LTA rings in the holiday season with a return of the classic by Charles Dickens. Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly Victorian humbug, travels with ghostly guides through Christmas past, present, and future to find the true meaning of the holidays. Complete with special effects, Victorian carols, and Tiny Tim, A Christmas Carol is a must for the entire family.
METROSTAGE 1201 North Royal Street Alexandria, VA 22314 www.metrostage.org
Through December 22 (Thurs.-Sun.) A Broadway Christmas Carol” A MetroStage holiday tradition! A delicious cross between the classic Dickens’ tale and uproarious song parodies of 33 of your favorite Broadway show tunes by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Sondheim and many more. A can’t miss way to ensure a merry holiday season with infectious hilarity.
WARNER THEATRE 513 13th Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 www.warnertheatredc.com
December 5-29 The Washington Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” A holiday must-see! Septime Webre’s one-of-akind Nutcracker, set in 1882 Georgetown, stars George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker, King George III as the villainous Rat King, and features Anacostia Indians, frontiersmen, and many other all-American delights. Glorious music, swirling snowflakes, magnificent sets and costumes have made this Nutcracker a DC tradition with raves from critics and sold-out crowds. Discover, rediscover, and celebrate this all-American Nutcracker production!
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Equinox
Cozy warm fireplace dining
by Lisa Shapiro While the weather outside is frightful, dining by the fire is so delightful. Once the cold sets in, there is nothing more comforting than dining and enjoying a glass of wine or cocktail beside the warmth of a roaring fire. The nation’s capital offers a variety of fireside dining to enjoy a hearty meal while listening to the crackle of flames.
In Washington, DC Some of the city’s oldest buildings are located in Georgetown, including the RitzCarlton Georgetown, (3100 South St., NW) a restored turn-of-the-century brick factory, featuring a blazing lobby fireplace and a towering 130-foot smokestack, offering a cozy respite from the cold brisk DC air. If the fire doesn’t warm you up sufficiently, enjoy complimentary s’mores every evening from 6:30-7p.m. in front of the wood burning fireplace or create your own customized s’more at the outdoor fire pit Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Named after the year that the original site was purchased by Archbishop John Carroll, the founding father of Georgetown University, 1789 Restaurant (1226 36th St., NW) is the perfect spot to dine during the cold winter months. The festive holiday décor and elegant wood-burning fireplace enhances the cozy feeling of this treasured two-story Federal townhouse. The American menu selections change daily to reflect the freshest ingredients and flavors of the season. Situated in the 150 year-old restored Canal Square Building located just steps from
the charming C & O Canal, Seacatch Restaurant & Raw Bar (1054 31st St., NW) offers fresh seasonal seafood in a dimly-lit cozy dining room warmed by two historic stone fireplaces. Enjoy fresh oysters on the half shell from their raw bar. Don’t miss their popular $1 oyster happy hour. Dinner will run a little pricey but worth it, especially to celebrate a special occasion. The blazing fireplaces throughout Ristorante Piccolo (1068 31st St., NW), an Italian trattoria sets the mood and makes it an especially romantic spot to get cozy. Enjoy fresh and seasonal rustic fare,
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including hand-rolled pastas. Their sunset 3-course prix-fixe menu is a steal for just $18 offered Monday through Friday (4:306:30p.m). A strolling violinist sets the mood on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Trummers on Main
La Chaumière (2813 M St. NW) instantly transports you to a charming thatched roof French country inn with a cozy central stone fireplace. Romance your senses with traditional French cuisine while listening to the crackle of flames. Moving from Georgetown and into the bustling neighborhood of Dupont Circle, the iconic Tabard Inn (1739 N St. NW), an old-English style hotel, offers turn-of-thecentury charm with a fireplace-lit lounge and cozy atmosphere, the perfect remedy for an evening chill. Relax near the flames with a glass of wine in the cocktail lounge. Don’t miss their Brunch, considered one of the best in the city. Circle Bistro, located in the One Washington Circle Hotel (1 Washington Circle, NW), with a fire in the hearth, the soothing lounge radiates a warm glow. Perfect for visitors headed to the Kennedy Center, the $35 three-course pre-theatre (5-7 p.m.) dinner menu is an incredible value. Partake in their vibrant happy hour scene weeknights 5-7p.m. with half-price cocktails and $5 martinis. Dine like the Obamas at Equinox (818 Connecticut Ave., NW) located just steps away from the White House, where chef Todd Gray prepares innovative Mid-Atlantic Tabard Inn
dishes using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Request a seat in the atrium next to the naturalistic eco-friendly fireplace with textured glass, perfect for nourishing cold souls beside the smoldering fire. In Penn Quarter, OYA (777 9th Street, NW) offers an Asian-fusion innovative menu in a contemporary backdrop showcasing a 12 foot-long fireplace in the main dining room. The hipster red crocodile bar and white marble fireplace in the lounge with ultracomfortable high-backed white banquettes provides an ideal setting for romance. The new but hot Petworth neighborhood French bistro, Chez Billy (3815 Georgia Ave., NW) features two wood-burning fireplaces, one in the bar area, another upstairs. Their moules-frites are straight out of Paris. Each Monday they offer a 3-course menu inspired by a particular region of France. Friday and Saturday guests enjoy a live jazz trio.
In Northern, VA Inside the elegant Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City, Fyve Restaurant and Lounge drape over a settee in front of the lounge’s glowing fireplace while enjoying their modern American cuisine. Enjoy light fare for only $5 each and a musical treat for your ears every Friday and Saturday night. In Old Town Alexandria, known as one of the top restaurants in the country, Restaurant Eve (110 S. Pitt St.), quaint yet sophisticated actually has one of the coziest bar and lounges in the DC area with
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
rustic fireplace. Don’t miss one of the best lunch deals around ($13.50 for any two items on the bar menu) and make sure that you get the birthday cake for your dessert (even if it’s not your birthday). The dessert is cause enough for celebration. Also in Old Town, known for its picturesque views of the Potomac River, Indigo Landing is an all-season sanctuary unlike any in the area. Enjoy the tranquility of a natural setting while viewing the monuments of Washington, DC. With incredible water views and fireplace lounge, you’ll be immersed in beautiful surroundings while enjoying a roaring fire. Located in Clifton, VA, a historic town born out of the Civil War, Trummer’s on Main (7134 Main St.) is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Formerly the Hermitage Inn, guests relax beside the fire, while enjoying creative American cuisine and an innovative, expertly crafted cocktail program. You won’t want to miss this stunning destination rich in main street charm.
Ristorante Piccolo
Russia House
As recommended by www.thepurplepassport.com
DC’s Coziest Bars for the Winter Months
When the capital is in a deep freeze, thaw out with a warming cocktail, beer, or glass of wine at these cozy U Street and Dupont Circle bars and lounges. Brixton
This British pub on lively U Street looks like something straight out of London− especially the “snug” factor. While the first floor dining room serves hearty plates of comforting fare like bangers ‘n mash and braised short rib pie, The Lodge Bar on the second floor is the place to be for warming brews and cozy cocktails. Leather couches, fireplaces, and rustic touches like antler chandeliers lend the feel of a toasty hunting lodge. Upstairs, there’s even an enclosed, heated deck for enjoying the rooftop bar in cold months.
Cork Wine Bar
Cork is a quintessentially cozy neighborhood wine bar in the U Street Corridor. Exposed brick walls, dark wood furnishings, and industrial-chic light fixtures create a warm, urban-chic backdrop for the 50+ European wines by the glass and 160 different bottles on offer. Pair your vino with hot, foodieminded small plates like roasted eggplant flatbread or crispy lemon-black pepper calamari and rock shrimp. A grown-up spot amid the rowdy clutch of U Street bars, Cork is ideal for a romantic, candlelit date or a laidback evening with a friend or small group.
The Gibson
The Gibson
The secretive speakeasy setting of this sophisticated U Street Corridor lounge makes it quite a cozy den. Finding the black, unmarked front door is a bit of a task (hint: it’s right next to the entrance to Marvin), but so is getting a table without a reservation. There’s no standing allowed here−every party is seated, which adds to the quiet, exclusive feel, so reservations are highly recommended. Mismatched furniture, glowing sconces, and candlelight provide a snug yet elegant living room vibe, and the mixologists serve up a custom set of stellar cocktails.
Russia House
Tucked into a Dupont Circle townhouse, this plush lounge/restaurant transports patrons
Brixton
to Imperial Russia. Multiple bars over four floors are set amid dramatic flourishes like heavy drapes, studded burgundy velvet, and gilded mirrors. The smoldering décor complements a collection of about 200 vodka brands, infusions, and flavors. A sexy international crowd gathers to sample the vodka tasting menus and nibble on caviar blinis; dark mood lighting ups the sultriness.
Tabard Inn
This historic Dupont Circle bar and lounge in the Hotel Tabard Inn dates back to 1922, and it’s retained all the charms of a cozy Victorian sitting room. Lived-in touches like the working fireplace, curved sofas, worn armchairs, and wood-paneled walls make this a welcoming place for the civilized mix of journalists, politicos, and young professionals to unwind. While top-notch craft cocktails are the house specialty, any selection off the wide menu of wines, beers, and spirits is equally warming, as are light bites like the cup of soup. From fireside seats to cozy candlelit nooks, clearly there’s a lot more than just the drinks to “defrost” you up at these chic watering holes. Undoubtedly, they’ll warm your spirits too.
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Destinations
Exploring
outside of Washington
ashington, D.C. ranks as one of the best day tripping starting points in the country. In addition to being a city packed with its own collection of places to explore, Washington neighbors states with an unbelievable number of parks, historic homes, waterfalls, monuments, farms, beaches, lakes, archaeological excavations, mountains, Civil War battlefields, campgrounds, trails, horse stables, wineries, museums and even an amusement park or two. Along the way there are also world-class inns, restaurants and performance venues as well as plenty of lesser known but equally as appealing greasy spoons, farm stands, coffeehouses, regional theaters and artisan cooperatives The diversity of the sites within driving distance from the city means most everyone can find something that will make them happy. Whether you prefer urban streets, cobblestone sidewalks, sandy beaches, dirt roads or historic pathways, the region surrounding the nation’s capital holds many destinations where you’ll want to leave your footprints over and over again.
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Holiday Magic in Williamsburg
An illuminating experience A m y T r o tt e r H o u sto n
C
lose your eyes and imagine candles flickering in wreath bedecked windows, carolers strolling streets at sunset, the comforting smell of wood burning in fireplaces, the glow of cressets lighting the path that is guiding you back in time. This is a taste of what is in store when in Williamsburg at yuletide, and there’s much more.
Street to Market Square where baskets of fire illuminate the scene and celebratory gunfire resounds throughout town. Strewn throughout is the warmth and good cheer of citizens, and inviting scent of pine.
throng of students like a crowd surfer at a rock concert. While the public is not invited to participate directly in the W&M events, there may be room at the back for onlookers.
This annual festival is a special experience says Director of Revolutionary City Programs, Timothy Sutphin. “Cressets, which are the baskets full of fire, line the streets so after dark it’s very magical,” he says. With dozens of events for visitors of all ages and families alike, “you can come back and have a different experience every year.” A full schedule of events is found in the Holiday Planner, which may be downloaded from the Colonial Williamsburg website: www. colonialwilliamsburg.com/holidays.
After the Holidays
The holiday season full of interesting programs, good music and delectable dining options opens with a bang on December 8th with the Grand Illumination starting at 4:45 p.m. The Historic Area, now called Revolutionary City, is awash in the white light of electric candles placed in every window. Hot cider, tasty treats and festive music add to the jovial atmosphere. Opening day entertainment plays out on multiple stages, and then at 7:00 p.m. incredible fireworks displays are set off from three locations. Low to the ground, they cast an extraordinary glow over the cobblestone streets causing gasps of delight.
Williamsburg Celebrations
The following weeks are filled with activities. Partake in a wine dinner hosted by Thomas Jefferson, listen to the great-great grandson of Charles Dickens retell A Christmas Carol, learn how the Rockefellers celebrated the holidays, take the Christmas Decorations Walking Tour or enjoy an evening of traditional 18th-century music. Don’t miss the Christmas tree at The Folk Art Museum decorated with handmade ornaments. At 5:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve attend the Firing of the Christmas Guns. The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums led by torches march down Duke of Gloucester
From traditional merriment to modern lights, Williamsburg offers visitors a peek at the past and present. Nearby Busch Gardens theme park is transformed into Christmas Town, a visual feast of sparkling delights with vast lighting displays, special shows and even penguins. Each year, Williamsburg hosts a Christmas Parade and the lighting of a tree where the story of Williamsburg’s first Christmas tree is told. The president of the College of William and Mary reads a holiday story to students sprawled on the lawn of the Wren Building and a giant Yule log is hoisted over the
Come January, Revolutionary City is quieter and not as crowded. This is the perfect chance to visit with craftsmen and women, and to interact with the interpreters. “It’s really about the more intimate experiences in getting to talk with some of the expert staff,” says Sutphin. Colonial Williamsburg is open 365 days a year so whether you go at the height of summer or in the middle of winter, there is always something to see, to do and to learn.
If You Go… Start your trip at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitors Center (101 Visitor Center Drive) where you can purchase admission tickets, special event tickets and plan your visit with the helpful staff. Be sure to watch the orientation video which gives you a feel for the layout of Revolutionary City and introduces the history of Williamsburg. Take it a step further and rent colonial attire for the entire family, or just for the little ones. Leave your car in the parking lot and walk over the pedestrian bridge or take one of the complimentary December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Destinations
H o l i day M ag i c i n Wi ll i amsb u rg
shuttle buses into Revolutionary City. Due to the volume of events, it is important to have a copy of the Holiday Planner and the weekly schedule of events entitled “This Week” that includes a handy map and program guide.
Where to Stay Williamsburg natives Billy and Sharon Scruggs welcome visitors to The Fife and Drum Inn (441 Prince George Street) adjacent Merchant’s Square. Nine individually decorated rooms are available including the romantic Conservancy Room and the colorful George Washington Room. The nearby Drummers Cottage is suitable for a family and is handicap accessible. This charming inn is located on the second floor of the Hitchens Building built by Sharon’s grandfather in 1933. Breakfast made using family recipes is served in the airy Common Room. Enjoy perusing the collection of folk art and memorabilia. Make reservations in advance.
Where to Eat Enjoy “serious comfort food” at Blue Talon Bistro (420 Prince George Street) with a mix of French and Southern dishes from Steak Frites and Vegetable Pie to salads and decadent desserts. The atmosphere is casual and there is often live music. Retro’s (435 Prince George Street) takes diners back to the soda fountain days with fresh squeezed limeade, frozen custard, hotdogs with toppings and fresh cut fries. Heartier appetites will enjoy the meatloaf. Order at the counter, take a seat and your meal will be brought to you. Need caffeine? Aromas (431 Prince George Street) serves coffee beverages, pastries and a full menu. If the sun is shining, grab a seat on the patio and enjoy the chatter of students from nearby
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College of William and Mary. Pair a quick sandwich with a glass of local wine at The Cheese Shop (Merchant’s Square). For a truly unique experience, enjoy an authentic meal served by costumed waitstaff at one of the historic taverns in Revolutionary City.
Where to Shop Merchants Square located at the end of Duke of Gloucester Street is a modern shopping area with boutiques and souvenir shops. Here you will find jewelry, apparel, crafts and specialty foods. Shops within Revolutionary City sell a variety of colonial wares. The work of local silversmiths is showcased at Golden Ball (406 E Duke of Gloucester Street), while John Greenhow Store (108 W Duke of Gloucester Street) has 18-century décor to spice up modern homes. The William Pitt Shop (313 E. Duke of Gloucester St.) is a children’s boutique, and the Post Office (304 E Duke of Gloucester Street) sells writing materials. Have a stamped postcard or letter hand-canceled here. Bibliophiles will want to descend the stairs to Mermaid Books (421-A Prince George Street) and peruse the vast collection of pre-loved books that range from military history and geography to children’s books and modern classics. The well-stocked Williamsburg Booksellers at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitors Center (101 Visitor Center Drive) offers a wide variety of history books, biographies, cookbooks and a nice section for children and teenagers along with CDs and DVDs. Across the atrium Williamsburg Revolutions has souvenirs to include replica powder horns, tri corner hats, t-shirts and Christmas decorations.
How to Get There Williamsburg is a two-hour drive south from the Washington, DC area. Take Interstate 95 south to Richmond and follow the signs to Interstate 64 east. Williamsburg is just off the interstate. Other options include taking the train, as Amtrak services Williamsburg and the station is only a few blocks from Merchants Square. Greyhound offers bus service from Washington, DC. Or, clamber atop a horse and ride down just like George Washington.
Historic Williamsburg’s Only Downtown Lodging
Steps away from Colonial Williamsburg historic area and the College of William & Mary Stay with us and make a little history of your own. Reserve your room today!
1.888.838.1783 441 Prince George Street Williamsburg, VA 23185
www.FifeAndDrumInn.com
Destinations
H o l i day M agi c in W i lli amsb u rg
Experience Busch Gardens®
Christmas Town™ Celebrating its fifth season, Christmas Town™ features more than six million glittering lights, breathtaking shows, unique shopping experiences and traditional culinary delights. A visit to Christmas Town lets families create their own holiday traditions. Guests can take a step into the not-so-distant-past at Holiday Hills™ where mid-twentieth century Christmas celebrations come to life, or stroll through the park and let the warmth of the season take over while they sip a mug of Busch Gardens’ signature peppermint fudge hot chocolate. The lights of Christmas Town turn on November 22 and twinkle select days until December 31. For more information including operating schedule, visit www.christmastown.com/va.
Dining
Enjoy a mug of Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town decadent peppermint fudge hot chocolate or enjoy a holiday pretzel creation in the park’s Oktoberfest village. Fill up at a traditional Christmas feast in Das Festhaus or head on over to Dasher’s Diner™ for an old-fashioned, homecooking inspired buffet. Be sure to save room for dessert, the elves have been hard at work preparing a selection of tempting holiday treats.
Shows
Three shows, three chances to be amazed and inspired. Performed in Italy’s Il Teatro Di San Marco Theatre, Miracles will stir the heart with its blend of beautiful dance choreographed to uplifting traditional and contemporary music. Abbey Stone Theatre comes alive with Gloria! the greatest story ever told. Watch as soulful singers and musicians bring to light the true meaning of Christmas. Gather round the Festhaus fireside for Deck the Halls and sing along to everyone’s favorite holiday carols.
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Shopping
Guests can check off their Christmas lists at Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town. Choose among a vast selection of beautiful ornaments or take home one of Busch Gardens’ unique carved candle creations to bring a little light to the home of someone special. Create a one-of-a-kind plate at Caribou Pottery for a gift that proves that sometimes the best presents are those that are handmade with love. Mistletoe Marketplace is a bustling traditional outdoor market bursting with artisan-made crafts.
Attractions
Bask in the dazzling glow of six million lights while strolling through the world’s most beautiful theme park. Get hearts racing with a ride on the Peppermint Twist and Reindeer Run™ over in Holiday Hills or brave the Black Forest aboard Verbolten®, Busch Gardens’ newest roller coaster. Hop aboard Nacht Tower™ for a Santa-eye view of the holiday splendor, no flying reindeer required. O’Tannenbaum how high up are your branches? Fifty feet tall, to be exact. Complete with glittering lights that dance to the music, this tree is a must-see. Slide on over to the Ice Palace to learn about, and get close to, a colony of penguins.
Santa
Christmas Town wouldn’t be complete without the jolly old elf himself. Join the man in red as he recounts a classic Christmas story during Santa’s Fireside Feast. Mrs. Claus and the elves are there too, handing out Christmas cookies, but don’t worry, there’s always a cookie or two saved just for Santa. Guests who peer through the frosted windows of Santa’s Workshop might spy the reindeer stables, an elf busy in Santa’s study or even Mr. and Mrs. Claus as they prepare for Christmas. Venture inside to snap a photo with Santa and start a tradition that will be fondly remembered for seasons to come.
Holiday Hills™
Journey back to the yuletide of yesteryear at Holiday Hills, where the garland glistens and the painted lights twinkle just like the Christmas of yesteryear. Grab a plate at Dasher’s Diner, pick up a vintage toy at the Stocking Stop, ride the Snowman Summit and relive cherished memories or create a new one in this Americana winter wonderland. Brimming with nostalgia, Holiday Hills is the Christmas celebration that will warm guests inside and out.
Select days and hours. See website for operating schedule. Operating schedule is subject to change without notice. Christmas Town™ is a separate-ticketed event not included with Pass Membership or Waves of Honor™. © 2013 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
Even under millions of lights, their smiles will shine the brightest. Make Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™ your family tradition. Enjoy the magical glow of over six million twinkling lights. Experience dazzling shows that will fill you with Christmas cheer. And don’t miss the O Tannenbaum light show, featuring our 50-foot Christmas tree. Visit the Christmas Town website to purchase tickets or for more information. SEEING IS BELIEVING.
christmastown.com/va
SELECT DAYS NOV. 22–DEC. 31
Christmas at the White House:
Through the Years A tourist magnet for millions of visitors a year, Washington, D.C. really pulls out all the stops during the holiday season. The city becomes a magical wonderland, bathed in twinkling lights from the Washington Harbor to the National Zoo, from neighborhoods in Georgetown to Alexandria.
T
he White House is no exception to the season; it is a beautiful establishment to begin with, but it undergoes a fascinating transformation for the holidays. At the forefront of American history, the mansion is infused with generations of holiday traditions, with the first family setting a decorative theme. Christmas trees adorn every room, a White House gingerbread house graces the State dining room, and outside on the ellipse, the National Christmas tree lights the way to the Mall. The White House holiday season begins with the selection of the Blue Room Christmas tree, the official indoor Christmas tree at the residence of the President of the United States. This year, the tree was chosen months in advance from John and Leslie Wyckoff’s Christmas tree farm in Belvidere, New Jersey. The nearly eighteen-foot blue spruce was received by the first family shortly after Thanksgiving along with much fanfare. Since 1961, this Blue Room tree has had a themed motif at the discretion of the First Lady. Jackie Kennedy chose to use ornaments that reflected Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite; Lady Bird Johnson selected an early American theme using popcorn strings and gingerbread cookies; Pat Nixon’s theme included ornaments that reflected each state’s flower made by local disabled workers. This year, Michelle Obama dedicated the tree to U.S. military members, veterans and their families, with
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ornaments decorated by children living on military bases worldwide. It was 1923 when Grace Coolidge arranged to have a tree outdoors on behalf of the Washington D.C. schoolchildren. Since then, the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse has been an ongoing tradition. Surrounding this tree are more than 50 smaller Christmas trees, which celebrate the US states and territories. The National Christmas Tree remains decorated until January 1, and during that period, it is illuminated every evening. This year’s lighting will take place on December 6th at 5:00 p.m. Three thousand seated tickets and 14,000 standing-room tickets are available through lottery at recreation.gov or (877) 444-6777. One of the few exceptions to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place during wartime in 1942, when, in order to conserve electricity, the tree was decorated with ornaments hand-made by the children of Washington, D.C. In 1963, the White House postponed the lighting of the tree until after the 30-day mourning period of President Kennedy’s assassination. During Jimmy Carter’s administration, his daughter, Amy, remotely lit the tree – only the top half– in honor of the 53 Americans held hostage in Iran. In 1980, President Carter lit the tree for 417 seconds, with each second representing each day the hostages were held captive. On Ronald Reagan’s
At Christmas time, we deck the hall With holly branches brave and tall, With sturdy pine and hemlock bright And in the Yule log’s dancing light We tell old tales of field and fight At Christmas time. Old English Rhyme
Inauguration Day, January 20, 1981, the hostages were released, and workers quickly decorated the tree with lights and ornaments to celebrate the release of the hostages.
The Official Card It must be quite a thrill to actually receive a Christmas card from the President of the United States! For more than half a century there have been official greeting cards from the White House mailed out to select people for the holidays. The practice has endured through times of peace and conflict, though historians do not always agree when the practice began. In the 1920s, the President Calvin Coolidge issued the first official Christmas message to the American people. In 1931, the president and Mrs. Hoover reproduced favorite family photographs for family, friends, and staff. As an added touch, Hoover personalized the holiday greetings photographs with hand-written messages in the margins. Eleanor Roosevelt created a personalized card asking the White House engraver to create hand lithographs of the White House and signed the cards, “With Christmas Greetings and our Best Wishes for a Happier New Year.” Twenty years later, the White House Christmas Card came from the talented President Dwight Eisenhower who painted a portrait of President Abraham Lincoln from a photograph. Eisenhower then consulted Hallmark President Joyce C. Hall to emboss these cards with the Presidential seal for Eisenhower to give to White House staffers as a gift. In 1962, Jackie Kennedy chose a photo of their daughter’s pony, Macaroni, pulling a sleigh that carried herself and her children across the south lawn. In 1963, even though they were printed, the White House never distributed the Kennedy’s official cards due to President Kennedy’s assassination. In 1978, First Lady Rosalyn Carter found, in the White House furnishing’s warehouse, an 1877 hand-colored engraving of a photograph by L.E.
Walker. The engraving was of a horse-drawn carriage arriving at the North Entrance of the White House. So enamored with the artwork, the First Lady chose an antique theme from the late 1800s for the Blue Room tree. The Obama’s 2012 card featured a painting by Larassa Kabel. The Des Moines, Iowa-based artist beat out competitors from around the country for her rendering of Bo, the Obama family dog, knee-deep in snow on the White House lawn. Aside from the card itself, Kabel’s reward was an invitation to the White House Christmas party! Many truly authentic White House greeting cards remain. In 1998, a simple holiday card, an image of angels hovering over a creche in the East Room of the White House, sold at auction for $11,000. According to the Los Angeles Times, it was one of 30 or so signed by John Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy before they left for Dallas in November of 1963.
Events and Parties The first holiday invitation on record from the presidential mansion came from John Adams when he held the first White House Christmas party during his initial year in office. First Lady Abigail Adams planned the festivities that included a small orchestra, caroling, and games. Since then, it has been a tradition to celebrate this annual winter holiday in a relaxed fashion. In 1805, widower President Thomas Jefferson asked Dolly Madison, James Madison’s wife, to host the White House Christmas party. Guests ate delicacies and children danced while President Jefferson played his violin. Some presidents chose to reserve the White House Christmas party only for family members, making it a small event. One year President Abraham Lincoln had a simple celebration with his wife and children. For First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln, this effortless and meaningful event gave her Christmas “so much bliss.”
Children’s parties in the White House have been an ongoing tradition since Jefferson played his fiddle. During President Theodore Roosevelt’s tenure, First Lady Edith Roosevelt celebrated Christmas Eve by hosting a party for the Administration’s children. Six hundred children filled the White House, and parents could only accompany “timid” children during the party’s festivities. Otherwise, White House staff instructed parents, nannies, and nurses to stay downstairs until after the party. In 1959, President Eisenhower attended a goodwill mission abroad during the holiday season. In his place, First Lady “Mamie Bangs” Eisenhower substituted for Santa “Ike.” She wore red silk dresses and handed out presents at the White House parties. At one event, she had staffers decorate the State Dining Room with a miniature train set that carried little gifts around the table. In 1978, Rosslyn Carter hosted a party for children of diplomats. The First Lady and her daughter, Amy, held the party in the East Room of the White House. In attendance were Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch. Big Bird danced to the White House Marine Band, and Oscar the Grouch asked them all to have a “grouchy” Christmas. Esteemed journalist Walter Cronkite also attended and read the traditional children’s poems. However, not all White House Christmas parties went as smoothly as intended. In 1929, during Herbert Hoover’s party, a fire broke out in the West Wing. President Hoover had to leave the party to oversee the removal of important documents from the Oval Office. Meanwhile, First Lady Hoover kept the band playing and the party going! The celebrations continue, as do eras and presidencies. This year, the Obamas will celebrate their second White House Christmas through time held traditions, personal customs, events, parties, and community service. As with past presidents and their families, historians will document these moments in history books for White House occupants to seize and share in the future.
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Museums & Attractions
Museums& Attractions
2013 Guide
Sightseeing on a nice DC fall day The White House 34
DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
VIRGINIA AIR FORCE MEMORIAL
This memorial honors the millions of patriotic men and women who have served and 54,000 who have died while in the U.S. Air Force. Located off Columbia Pike near VA-244, the memorial overlooks the Pentagon and all of Washington, D.C. Features three stainless steel spires that soar skyward evoking flight and the flying spirit. Metro: Pentagon Metro Station (Blue/Yellow lines) Memorial is within walking distance One Air Force Memorial Drive Arlington, VA 22211 (703) 247-5808 Open: Daily. Admission: Free www.airforcememorial.org
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
Situated on 612 acres, the cemetery is a resting place of nearly a quarter-million military veterans and dignitaries. An eternal flame flickers at the grave of John F. Kennedy. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and two of the couple’s children are also buried there. Also view the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, attended 24 hours a day by members of the 3rd U.S. Infantry. Entrance at west-side of Memorial Bridge. Self-guided or paid shuttle tour available. Parking lot. Free Visitors Center - closes an hour after the Cemetery. Metro: Arlington Cemetery Station (Blue Line) Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, VA 22211, (877) 907-8585 Open: Daily, 8AM-7PM (5PM October- March). Admission: Free (Ticketed trolley tour is available; see price and special activities on website www.Arlingtoncemetery.mil
CARLYLE HOUSE
A Georgian Palladian manor house built in 1753 by Scottish merchant and Alexandria city founder John Carlyle. Here, five royal governors and General Braddock met to discuss funding the French and Indian War. Metro: King Street Station (Take Trolley 11:30AM-10:15PM) 121 N. Fairfax St. Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 549-2997 Open: Tues. – Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. Noon-4 p.m. (see website for special events and activities). Admission: Adults $5, Child (5-12) $3 www.carlylehouse.org
COLVIN RUN MILL
19th century water wheel and operating gristmill. Miller’s house has exhibits about historic Great Falls community life. Metro: NA (Parking lot available) 10017 Colvin Run Road Great Falls, VA 22066 (703) 759-2771 Open: 11AM-4PM (closed on Tuesdays - See website for tours, mill grinding, etc. and winter hours). Admission: Free www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crp
DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) MUSEUM AND VISITORS CENTER
Since 2001, this interactive museum traces the impact of drugs on American society and the efforts of Federal law enforcement to educate the public and to combat this problem.
Metro: Pentagon Station (Blue/Yellow lines) 700 Army-Navy Dr. Arlington, VA 22202 (202) 307-3463 Open: Tuesday – Friday: 10AM-4PM Admission: Free www.deamuseum.org
FAIRFAX COUNTY VISITOR CENTER
Stop by the Visitor Center in the Tysons Corner Center to get current information on where to stay, what to do, and how to get where you’re going in Fairfax County and the region from one of the service counselors. They are even giving out free gifts, maps and coupons for stopping by to say hello! Metro: NA (take Capital Beltway (I-495) near intersection of State Routes 7 and 123, parking available) Tysons Corner Center, Level 2 1961 Chain Bridge Road McLean, VA 22102 (703) 752-9500 Open: Monday – Saturday, 10AM-6PM; Sunday, 11AM-6PM (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas) Admission: Free www.fxva.com
GADSBY’S TAVERN MUSEUM
The building was named for its 1796-1808 operator, Englishman John Gadsby. The Museum consists of two buildings, the 1785 Georgian tavern and the 1792 City Hotel that have been authentically restored to their 18th century appearance. George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and the Marquis de Lafayette all tipped a few here in Old Town Alexandria. Now it’s a museum with regular guided tours. Metro: King Street Station (Yellow/Blue lines). Take King Street Trolley 11:30AM-10:15PM or taxi 134 N. Royal St. Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 746-4242 Open: April – Oct., Sun. and Mon. 1-5PM, Tues. – Sat. 10AM-5 PM; Nov. – March, Wed. – Sat. 11AM-4PM, Sun. 1-4PM. Admission: Adults $5, Child (5-12) $3 www.gadsbystavern.org
GEORGE WASHINGTON MASONIC MEMORIAL
Modeled after one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Pharaoh’s Lighthouse in Alexandria, the Masonic Temple is visible from the Potomac and surrounding areas. The memorial displays a magnificent 17-ft. bronze statue of George Washington and an outstanding collection of Washington artifacts. Daily 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Metro: King Street Station (Blue/Yellow lines) Parking lot at memorial 101 Callahan Drive Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 683-2007 Open: Daily, Apr. 1 – Sept. 30, Mon – Sat., 9AM-4PM, Sun. 12PM-4PM; Oct. 1 – Mar. 31, Mon. – Sat. 10AM-4PM, Sun. 12PM-4PM. Admission: $5.00 for those 13+ for the First and Second Floor exhibits. For Guided Tours, including tower and observation desk - $8.00. See website for tour times. www.gwmemorial.org
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Museums & Attractions Union Station
GEORGE WASHINGTON’S DISTILLERY & GRISTMILL Costumed distillers demonstrate the distillation process in the two-story building, which also features a storage cellar, office, and two bedrooms where the site manager and assistant would have lived. On the second floor can be seen a History Channel video called “George Washington’s Liquid Gold” and a museum exhibit, “Spirits of Independence: George Washington and the Beginnings of the American Whiskey Industry,” which tells the story of whiskey at Mount Vernon and its history in America.
Mount Vernon
George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-11, and free for children 5 and under. When combined with admission to Mount Vernon, tickets are $2 for adults, $1.50 for children ages 6-11, and free for children 5 and under. Metro: Huntington Station (Yellow Line) - Located just three miles south of Mount Vernon. Open: Daily, March 31 – October 31, 10AM-5PM, open through October. Admission: $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-11, and free for children 5 and under. Special pricing when combined with admission to Mount Vernon.
now through aug. 31, 2014
visit our glass case of emotion. #stayclassynewseum
GEORGE WASHINGTON’S MOUNT VERNON ESTATE AND GARDEN
The riverside estate of George Washington is an American landmark of the life of America’s first President, George Washington. It includes the Ford Orientation Center and Donald W. Reynolds museum and Education Center, new facilities with 25 galleries and theaters, and more than 700 artifacts, and interactive displays that introduce visitors to the real George Washington. The most famous dentures in the world are on permanent display, along with three life-size models of Washington created from a forensic investigation. An action adventure movie, video presentations produced by the History Channel, and an “immersive” Revolutionary War experience with falling snow, rumble seats, and fog all help tell Washington’s life story. The historic area features the restored Mansion, original outbuildings, the tomb where the Washington’s are buried, beautiful gardens, and heritage breed animals who work at a four acre farm site near the river. See website for Estate admission. Metro: Huntington Station (Yellow Line) Take taxi or bus 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, VA 22309 Open: Daily, Mar. 31 – Aug. 8AM-5PM; Mar., Sept., Oct. 9AM-5PM and Nov. through Feb. 9AM-4PM. Admission: Ages 0-5: Free; 6-11: $7; 12-61: $15; 62+: $14 (See website for group prices) www.mountvernon.org
Historic Herndon Visitors’ Center
Once a major rail stop in the heart of Virginia’s dairy farming country, the downtown has maintained its historic character with a visitor’s center in the old depot with surrounding boutiques and cafes. Metro: N/A (minutes away from Dulles International Airport) 730 Elden St., Herndon, VA 20172 (703) 437-6366 Open: Daily. Admission: Free www.herndondulleschamber.org
HISTORIC BLENHEIM & CIVIL WAR INTERPRETIVE CENTER
Newseum newseum.org
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Washington, D.C.
anchorman 2: the legenD continues opens nationwide Dec. 20, 2013
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
See Fairfax’s newest Civil War site, recently opened to the public, featuring 12 beautiful acres and the famous Blenheim House with more than 115 Union soldier inscriptions still left intact in the attic; some of the best preserved graffiti from the Civil War. A new 4,000-square-foot Civil War Interpretive Center includes an illustrated timeline of Fairfax’s role in the Civil War. Metro: N/A 3610 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 591-0560 Open: Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-4PM with daily 1pm site tour. Monthly Civil War lectures. Admission: Free www.visitfairfax.com
and disembark a helicopter into the landing zone atop Hill 881 South in Vietnam. Welcoming over 3 million visitors since its opening in 2006, the National Museum and Marine Corps Heritage Center includes Semper Fidelis Memorial Park and Chapel that sits amid natural woodlands and has landscaped pathways with impressive views of the Museum. Metro: N/A (Take I-95 to the Marine Corps Base Quantico exit #150) 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, Triangle, VA 22172 877-653-1775 Open: Daily, 9AM-5PM. Closed December 25. Admission & Parking: Free. www.usmcmuseum.com
RESTON MUSEUM
Ongoing exhibits tell the unique story of the innovative, world-renowned, planned community of Reston. The museum also offers archives, walking tours, special events and a one-of-a-kind shop. Metro: N/A 1639 Washington Plaza Reston, VA (in the Lake Anne Historic District), (703) 709-7700 Open: Tues. – Fri., Sun. 12-5PM and Sat. 10AM-5PM Admission: Free www.restonmuseum.org
LOUDOUN MUSEUM
A featured site on the Virginia Civil War Trails, the museum offers exhibits, events, walking and driving tours, and educational programs. Metro: N/A Two hour metered parking on Loudoun Street - parking garage one half block from museum. 16 Loudoun Street SW Leesburg, VA 20175 (703) 777-7427 Open: Fri. – Sat., 10AM-5PM and Sun. 1-5PM. Closed federal holidays. Admission: Adults -$3.00; Students/ Teachers/Students $1.00; Children under four Free. www.loudonmuseum.org
SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM STEVEN F. UDVARHAZY CENTER Combined with the National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall in DC, this is the largest and most prestigious air and space museum complex in the world. Visitors can view nearly the entire collection of air and spacecraft memorabilia the Smithsonian has to offer. An open space with 10-story arched trusses and with a network of walkways and displays on the floor. Visit the Boeing Aviation Hangar, the James S.
McDowell Hanger with the newest addition of the Space Shuttle Discovery, The Donald D. Engen Observatory and the Airbus IMAX Theater. Among them will be such icons as the Space Shuttle Enterprise, a Lockheed SR71 Blackbird reconnaissance airplane, the Enola Gay and much more. Metro: NA (South of the main terminal at Washington Dulles International Airport, Chantilly) 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway Chantilly, VA 20151 (202) 357-2700 (voice) Open: Daily, 10AM-6:30PM through September 3, 2012; then 10AM-5:30PM (Closed December 25 - see website for early event closures). Admission: Free www.airandspace.si.edu/museum/udvarhazy
THEODORE ROOSEVELT ISLAND
Accessible by wooden footbridge just off the George Washington Memorial Parkway, Theodore Roosevelt Island is an oasis of calm in the city. It is a 91-acre wilderness preserve that serves as a memorial to the nation’s 26th president, honoring his contributions to conservation of public lands for forests, national parks, wildlife and bird refuges, and monuments. Theodore Roosevelt Island has 2 1/2 miles of foot trails where you can observe a variety of flora and fauna. A 17-foot bronze statue of Roosevelt stands in the center of the island. Metro: Rosslyn Station (Blue/Orange Lines) The Island is located at GW Memorial Parkway, just north of the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Bridge. It’s accessible by car only from the northbound parkway.) Southbound traffic: Take Theodore Roosevelt Bridge to Constitution Ave. Take a right on 23rd St and cross the Memorial Bridge. Once on the bridge, return to the George Washington Parkway. Open: Daily, 6AM-10PM. Free (Limited parking) Admission: Free www.nps.gov/this
THE LYCEUM: ALEXANDRIA’S HISTORY MUSEUM
Once used as a Civil War hospital, the Lyceum tells the story of Alexandria, once one of the busiest ports in America. Archaeological finds, old photography, maps, original artworks and a wide variety of historic artifacts provide the visitor with a picture of the City’s past. In 1985 The Lyceum became the History Museum for Alexandria, VA. Metro: King Street Station (Blue/Yellow lines) King Street Trolley from 11:30AM-10:15PM 201 S. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 838-4994 Open: Mon. – Sat. 10AM-5PM and Sun. 1-5PM. Admission: $2.00/person www.alexandriahistory.org
NATIONAL FIREARMS MUSEUM
With world class historical and modern firearms spanning over six centuries, the National Firearms Museum displays the finest firearms collection in the country. Exhibits range from the best sporting guns and masterworks of firearms engraving to Presidential, Olympic, law enforcement, and military arms. Metro: N/A (Parking on site) NRA Headquarters Building 11250 Waples Mill Rd. Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 267-1600 Open: Daily, 9:30AM-5PM. Closed major holidays. Admission: Free. www.NRAmuseum.com
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE MARINE CORPS
Experience American history through the eyes of Marines. Interactive and immersive experiences allow guests to witness and feel the rigidity of boot camp and the force of drill instructors. To edge through a stand of trees at Belleau Wood and come up behind a German machine gunners’ position. Travel along the frozen TokTong pass in Korea amidst enemy troops,
The shop aT presidenT’s square 1610 h sT nW, WashingTon, dC
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Museums & Attractions FDR Memorial
BASILICA of the NATIONAL SHRINE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
The World’s Largest Shakespeare Collection
tours exhibits plays
The largest U.S. Roman Catholic Church/Shrine containing the largest collection of contemporary Christian art in the U.S. This Byzantine- Romanesque style church is one of the ten largest churches in the world with 70 chapels. Metro: Brookland -CUA (Red line) 400 Michigan Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20017 (202) 526-8300 Open: Daily, April 1 – October 31, 7AM-7PM and November 1 – March 31, 7AM - 6PM www.nationalshrine.com
BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING
August 29, 2012 marks the 150th Anniversary of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. See millions of dollars printed during your tour of the BEP. The 40 minute tours are free but tickets are required during peak season (first Monday in March through the last Friday in August). There is an introductory film and gallery tour of the production process. Metro: Smithsonian Metro Station (Blue/Orange lines) 14th & C Sts, SW, Washington, DC (202) 874-2330 or 1 (866) 874-2330 Open: Tours are: Mon. – Fri. 9AM (every 15 min.)-7PM (April - August). Mon – Friday 9AM (and every 15 min.)3:30 pm The ticket booth on Raoul Wallenberg Place (formerly 15th Street) is open at 8 AM Monday through Friday, with the exception of Federal holidays, from 8:00 a.m. until all tickets are distributed. www.moneyfactory.gov
CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART
One block from the US Capitol 201 East Capitol Street, SE 202.544.7077 or www.folger.edu
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
The Corcoran Gallery of Art, America’s first dedicated art museum, was founded in 1869 by William Corcoran and stands as a major center of American art known internationally for its distinguished collection of historical and modern art as well as contemporary art, photography, European painting, sculpture, and decorative art. Metro: Farragut West Station or Farragut North Station (Orange/Blue/Red lines). 500 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20050 (between E St. and New York Ave. one block from the White House) (202) 639-1700 or for tickets 1 (800) 745-3000 Open: Wed., Fri., Sat., Sun.,10AM-5 PM, Thurs., 10AM-9 PM. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission: Adults $10; Seniors (62+)/Students w/ valid ID $8; Children under 12 years of age are free; Members enjoy free admission year-round. www.corcoran.org
CRIME MUSEUM
This interactive and simulated situation museum in Penn Quarter dissects both the concept of crime and the dark side of the criminal mind. It explores the techniques used by law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute. Enter a crime scene to solve a case in a real crime scene lab. Drive in a police academy training pursuit. Check out an authentic electric chair, gas chamber and jail cell. The John Walsh “America’s Most Wanted” actual stage set is located in the museum. Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown Station (Yellow/Green/Red lines) Exit Arena- Street parking and garages nearby 575 7th St., NW Washington, DC 20004 202-393-1099 Open: Daily, May 21 – Sept. 4, Sun. 10AM-7PM, Mon. – Fri. 9AM-7PM, Sat. 10AM-8PM.; Sept 5 – May 20, Sun. – Thurs. 10AM-7PM, Fri. – Sat. 10AM-8PM. Last ticket sold an hour prior to close (check website for event closures). Admission: Adults ($19.95); Seniors, Military & Police ($16.95); Children over age 5 ($14.95) www.crimemuseum.org
DUMBARTON HOUSE
Visit this Federal period historic house museum, ca. 1800. The historic structure and collection of Federal-era decorative arts, paintings and furniture are preserved to educate the public about life in Washington, DC during the early years of the Republic. The life and times of Dumbarton House’s first resident, Joseph Nourse (1804-1813), are the interpretive focus; Nourse served as first Register of the U.S. Treasury through six U.S. presidencies and is known as “America’s First Civil Servant.” Dumbarton House is accredited by the American Association of Museums. The Dumbarton House is the headquarters for The Society of The Colonial Dames of America. Metro: Dupont Circle Station (Red Line - Exit Q St. N; walk six blocks or take D-2/D-6 bus) 2715 Q St., NW, Washington, DC 20007 (Georgetown) (202) 337-2288 Open: Tue – Sun 11am-3pm year-round (last museum entry 2:45 pm). Admission: Adults $5 www.DumbartonHouse.org
FOLGER SHAKESPEARE THEATRE-LIBRARY
This is the home of the world’s largest and finest collection of Shakespearean materials and Renaissance books, manuscripts and works of art. The Folger Shakespeare’s Library captures the Bard of Avon, his times, and his legacy through changing exhibitions and the permanent Shakespeare Gallery. The landmark building includes a replica of the Globe Theatre. It was a gift to the nation donated by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Clay Folger in 1932.
FREER GALLERY OF ART ARTHUR M. SACKLER GALLERY
MARIAN KOSHLAND SCIENCE MUSEUM
INTERNATIONAL SPY MUSEUM
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. NATIONAL MEMORIAL
The galleries house a world-renowned collection of 6,000 Asian art objects. The artists are from China, Japan, Korea, South and Southeast Asia. Metro: Smithsonian Metro Station (Orange/Blue lines) FREER – 1200 Jefferson Dr., SW Washington, DC 20013 SACKLER – 1050 Independence Ave., SW Washington, DC 20013 (202) 633-1000 Open: Daily 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (Closed on Dec. 25th) Admission: Free. Limited street parking. www.asia.si.edu
Metro: Capitol South Station (Blue/Orange lines - 4 blocks) Union Station Station (Red lines - 6 blocks) 201 East Capitol Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003 (202) 544-4600 or Box Office for tickets (202) 544-7077 Open: Open Mon.-Sat., 10AM - 5PM, Sun. 12- 5 PM. Closed Oct. 1-12 (installation of exhibit) Nov. 22 and Dec. 25. Admission: Free. Group tours arranged by calling (202) 675-0395 www.folger.edu
FORD’S THEATRE MUSEUM
The newly renovated museum transports visitors to 19th-century Washington, tracing Lincoln’s presidency from his arrival to his assassination using environmental re-creations, videos and three-dimensional figures and a remarkable collection of historic artifacts. The theatre is a working historical theatre, historical monument, world-class museum and educational center. Ford’s Theatre celebrates the legacy of our nation’s 16th President and explores the American experience through theatre and education. It is the best place to explore and celebrate Lincoln’s ideals, leadership principles; courage, integrity, tolerance, equality and creative expression. Metro: Metro Center Station (Red/Blue/Orange lines) – Exit G and 11th Streets (Street parking and garage parking). 511 10th St., NW, Washington, DC 20004 (202) 347-4833 Open Daily: Theatre 9AM-4:30PM; Petersen House and Education Center 9AM-5:30 PM. Closed Nov. 22 and Dec. 25. Admission: Free; but you must have a ticket that may be reserved online (www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 982-2787 – processing fee $2.50/person) or at the Ford’s Theatre box office. www.fords.org
FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT MEMORIAL
7.5 acre river-front park with waterfalls and a monumental bronze sculpture of the president seated in his wheelchair with his beloved Scottie, Fala. Site near the Jefferson Memorial and designed especially for wheelchairs. Metro: Smithsonian Metro Station (Orange/Blue lines) Ohio Drive Bordered by the Tidal Basin and the Potomac River S.E., Washington, D.C., (202) 426-6841 Open: Daily except Dec. 25. Admission: Free www.npr.gov/fdrm
Celebrating its tenth anniversary, this is the nation’s first public institution dedicated solely to espionage, shedding light on an all-but-invisible profession. The Museum maintains the largest collection of international espionage artifacts ever placed on display. Visitors are invited to test their espionage skills throughout the museum. Take on the role of a former spy experiencing memorizing specific details and see if you can keep your “cover.” Metro: Gallery Place Metro Station (Yellow/Red/Green lines) Exit Galleries - 9th and G Streets NW 800 F St., NW, Washington, DC 20004 (202) 393-7798, (866) 779-6873 Open: May through Sept. 2, 9AM-7PM; Sept. 3 – Nov. 21, 10AM-6PM. Closed Nov. 22, Dec. 25th (see website for seasonal holiday hours). For Admission: (Adult ages 17-64) $19.95; (Senior ages 65+, Military/Law Enforcement) $14.95; Child ages 7-17) $13.95. Parking: meters and lots. www.spymuseum.org
KREEGER MUSEUM
The Kreeger Museum is a private, non-profit art museum located in the former residence of David and Carmen Kreeger. It showcases the Kreeger’s permanent collection of 19th and 20th century paintings and sculptures. Highlights include works by Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Renoir, Cezanne, Chagall, Rodin, Miro, Moore, Kandinsky and various local artists. Metro: Tenleytown – AU Station (Red Line) exit Wisconsin Ave for taxi or 45 minute walk. 2401 Foxhall Road, NW, Washington DC 20007 (202) 338-3552 Open: Tues-Fri reservations are required for a guided tour given at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.kreegermuseum.org
KOREAN WAR VETERANS MEMORIAL
The museum uses engaging interactive exhibits to bring to life the numerous reports conducted by the prestigious National Academies every year. Metro: Verizon Center Station (Green/Red/Yellow lines) Judiciary Square Station (Red line) 6th and E Sts., NW Washington, DC (202) 334-1201 Open: Daily (except Tues.) 10AM-6PM (last ticket sold at 5PM) Closed: Tuesdays and Jan. 1, Nov.22 and Dec. 25. Admission: Adults $7; Seniors/Military/Students/ Children $4 www.koshland-dc.org
This newly dedicated memorial honors Dr. King’s legacy of national and international contributions to world peace through non-violent social change. As the first monument on the National Mall to honor a man of color – and only the fourth to honor a non-president - its location on the Tidal Basin creates a visual and historical continuity between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials and is designed to be an engaging visitor experience tied to other landscapes and monuments, not as a single object or memorial dominating the site. The composition of the memorial utilizes natural landscape elements - including water, stone, and trees - to powerfully convey four fundamental and recurring themes throughout Dr. King’s message: justice, democracy, hope and love. A 450-foot inscription wall features more than a dozen King quotes engraved into granite which serve as a lasting testament and reminder of Dr. King’s humanitarian vision. The memorial includes the “Mountain of Despair” and the “Stone of Hope,” and features a 30-foot sculpture of Dr. King. Metro: Smithsonian and Foggy Bottom (Closest stations and then walk) Entrances to the Memorial site are located at Independence Avenue, SW, west of West Basin Drive; Independence Avenue, SW, at Daniel French Drive; Ohio Drive, SW, south of the Ericsson Statue; and Ohio Drive, SW, at West Basin Drive. Parking is extremely limited in the area, with public transportation suggested as the best way to reach the memorial. Open: Daily www.nps.gov/mlkm; www.mlkmemorial.org
Korean War Memorial
Built by the Korean War Veterans Memorial Advisory at a cost of $18 million in donated funds, this memorial, located on a 2.2 acre site adjacent to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, features a sculptured column of 19-foot soldiers arrayed for combat with the American flag as their symbolic objective. A 164-foot mural wall is inscribed with the words, “Freedom is Not Free” and is etched with 2500 photographic images of nurses, chaplains, crew chiefs, mechanics, and other support personnel to symbolize the vast effort that sustained the military operation. Metro: Foggy Bottom Station or Smithsonian Station both (Blue/Orange lines) Daniel French Dr., Washington, D.C. South of the Reflecting Pool (202) 426-6841 Open: Daily 8AM-12AM. Admission: Free www.nps.gov/kwvm
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
The world’s largest library with Thomas Jefferson’s own collection and currently housing over 20 million books. Visit the three buildings that have scheduled tours and enjoy free exhibits, concerts and films. Explore the Jefferson Building, know for its impressive 19th century architechture. Don’t miss the Gutenberg Bible. Metro: Capitol South Metro (Blue/Orange lines) 101 First Street, Washington, DC (202) 707-8000 Open: Mon. – Sat. 8AM-5:30 PM Admission: Free
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Museums & Attractions National Air & Space Museum
National Museum of Natural History
NATIONAL ARCHIVES
No trip to DC is complete without viewing our country’s founding documents including the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence. Tour the Public Vaults exhibits that take you on a journey through time and the changing technology of records. From George Washington’s handwritten letters to Abraham Lincoln’s wartime telegrams, most of the textual records in the Record of America are originals and will change from year to year. You may want to call this treasure “the nation’s attic”. Metro: Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station (Blue/Yellow Lines) Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20408 (between 7th & 9th St. NW) (202) 357-5000 Open: Mar. 15 - Labor Day – Sept. 2, 10AM-7 PM. Sept. 3 – March 14, 10 AM-5:30 PM www.archives.gov/nae
NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
The winner and still champion! That’s right – DC (not Paris or Rome) is home to “The World’s Most Visited Museum.” You’ll see why when you spend the day watching the history of aviation unfold starting with the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Flyer and Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis through the advances into space and the Apollo 11 lunar command module (just to name a few). Also worthy of note is the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater (admission), Flight Simulators (admission) and the Albert Einstein Planetarium (admission). Metro: L’Enfant Plaza Station (Blue/Green/Orange/Yellow lines). Very limited 2 hour meter street parking. 6th St. and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20580, (202) 357-2700, (202) 633-2214 Open: Mar. 17 – Sept. 3, 10AM-7:30 PM; Sept. 4 – Mar.16, 10AM-5PM. Closed December 25. See website for early closures. Admission: Free, www:nasm.si.edu
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
The beautifully designed multi-building museum houses the nation’s most complete permanent collection of American and European art as well as captivating special exhibits. Metro: Judiciary Square Station (red line), Archives Station (Yellow/Green lines), and Smithsonian Station (blue/orange lines) 401 Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20565 (202) 737-4215 Open: Mon.-Sat. 10 AM-5 PM.; Sun. 11AM.-6 PM. Closed Jan.1 and Dec. 25 Admission: Free - Limited Street Parking www.nga.gov
Museums on the Mall
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MUSEUM
Located at National Geographic’s DC headquarters, past and current expeditions, adventures and scientific research come to life. Enjoy a wide variety of changing and permanent displays reflecting the richness and diversity of the world. Some exhibits are ticketed. Metro: Farragut North (Red Line) and Farragut West (Blue and Orange Lines) 1145 17th St., NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 857-7588 Open: Daily 10AM – 6PM (Closed December 25) www.nationalgeographic.com/museum
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART
See how people from Africa transform religious beliefs and cultural ideals into various art forms. Daily 10 a.m.5:30 p.m. Free. Limited street parking. Metro: Smithsonian (Orange/Blue lines) 950 Independence Ave., SW (202) 357-1300
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY
Explore major themes in American history and culture, from the War of Independence to the present day. This is the museum that houses Archie Bunker’s chair, Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers, Seinfeld’s “puffy shirt”, Abraham Lincoln’s top hat, Dizzy Gillespie’s angled trumpet and the First Ladies’ dress collection. Recent renovations added a new visitor’s center and a state-of-the-art display gallery for the original StarSpangled Banner. Don’t miss “The Price of Freedom” exhibit. Metro: Federal Triangle (Blue and Orange Lines) or Smithsonian, 14th Street at Constitution Avenue Washington, DC, (202) 357-2700 Open: Daily 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (Closed Dec. 25) Free. www.americanhistory.si.edu
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Everyone in the family is sure to find something amazing while exploring the largest, most comprehensive natural history collection in the world. Kids’ favorites include the Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in the dinosaur exhibit, the live interaction with over 65 species of arthropods at the Insect Zoo and the new live butterfly house. Moms won’t want to miss the National Gem Collection which houses the world-famous Hope Diamond. The museum also has an IMAX theater and a great cafeteria. Metro: Smithsonian Station (Blue and Orange lines) 10th St. and Constitution Ave., NW Washington, DC 20560 (202) 633-1000 Open: 10AM-5:30PM (Open some holidays until 7:30PM - Check website. Closed Dec. 25) Free www.mnh.si.edu
This architectural masterpiece took seven years to build and cost over $219 million. The museum opened to the public in 2004 and has attracted millions of people interested in learning about the languages, culture, history and art of Native Americans. It is the first national museum in the country dedicated exclusively to Native Americans. The five-story, 250,000-square-foot curvilinear building is clad in a goldencolored Kasota limestone designed to evoke natural rock formations shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Metro: L’Enfant Plaza (Blue/Orange/Green/Yellow lines) Exit Maryland Ave/Smithsonian Museum 4th & Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC 20560 (between the National Air & Space Museum and the U.S. Capitol Building. (202) 633-1000 Open: Daily 10AM–5:30PM; closed December 25. Free www.nmai.si.edu FNA_DCMetroMag_7x4:Layout 1 9/11/13 2:26 PM Page 1
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery tells the history of America through individuals who have shaped its culture. Through the visual arts, performing arts and new media, the Portrait Gallery portrays poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists whose lives tell the American story. Metro: Gallery Place, Chinatown - Exit Galleries (Red, Yellow and Green lines) Eighth and F Streets, NW, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 633-8300 Open: Daily 11:30AM-7PM (Closed Dec. 25), Free www.npg.si.edu
NATIONAL POSTAL MUSEUM
The museum explores America’s postal history from colonial times to the present. Visitors learn how mail has been transported, emphasize the importance of letters, and spotlight the creation and wondrous diversity of postage stamps. The collection contains prestigious U. S. and international postal issues and specialized collections, archival postal documents and three-dimensional objects that trace the evolution of the postal services. A Smithsonian Institution, the museum is located conviently in the old Post Office building next to Union Station. METRO: Red Line to Union Station 2 Massachusetts Ave., NE, Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 633-5543 OPEN: Seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except December 25. Admission is free. www.postalmuseum.si.edu
DEMOCRACY STARTS HERE
Experience the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other landmark documents from America’s recordkeeper. Bring this ad in to the Archives Store for 10% off your purchase.
NATIONAL ARCHIVES 9th Street and Constitution Ave. NW www.archivesfoundation.org December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Museums & Attractions NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL
Located poignantly between the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument this memorial is dedicated to the 16 million who served in World War II. Two 43-ft. arches to the north and south represent the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters. The 56 pillars represent the U.S. States, territories, and D.C. at the time of the war. Freedom Walk has a field of 4,000 sculptured gold starts, each representing the death of 100 Americans in the war (400,000). Dedicated on May 29, 2004. Metro: Smithsonian Metro, (Blue/Orange lines) 17th St. between Constitution Ave. and Independence Ave. NW Washington, DC (800) 639-4992 Open: Daily - Free. www.wwiimemorial.com
NEWSEUM
The Newseum is a dazzling, high-tech roller coaster ride through 500 years of headline history, featuring dozens of galleries, theaters and interactive exhibits that bring you face to face with the greatest events of our time. Stand in the shadow of the Unabomber’s cabin, touch the Berlin Wall and hear never-told stories from the journalists and photographers who have stood on the front lines of history. Main galleries explore electronic news, photojournalism, new history and world news. Unique artifacts, powerful photography and moving images invite you to remember, relive and share moments that changed our lives. The Newseum, in partnership with Hewlett-Packard, just opened a 2,500-square-foot HP New Media Gallery which will give visitors a chance to step into a three-dimensional social network. The gallery features five groundbreaking interactive experiences and two video presentations that illustrate the evolution and progression of global media. Metro: Archives/Navy of MemorialPenn Quarter (Yellow and Green Lines), Smithsonian (Blue and Orange Lines) or Gallery Place-Chinatown 555 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20001 (888) 639-7386 Open: Daily 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Thanksgiving, December 25, January 1) Admission: Adults - $21.95 (all plus tax); Seniors - $17.95; Children - $12.95; 6 and under: free www.newseum.org
THE PHILLIPS COLLECTION
The Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art, opened in 1921 in the home of Duncan Phillips (1866-1966). The museum, internationally recognized for the incredible collection, includes nearly 3,000 works by American and European artists—among them, Degas, Cézanne, Gauguin, van
Gogh, Bonnard, Matisse, Picasso, Braque, Klee, Homer, Whistler, Hopper, Stieglitz, O’Keeffe, Calder, Rothko, and many others. Discover for yourself this international treasure and one of Washington, DC’s best-loved museums. Some special exhibits offer audio tours. Limited street parking. Metro: DuPont Circle (Red line) 1600 21st St., NW, Washington, DC 20009 (202) 387-2151 Open: Tues.-Sat. 10 AM -5 PM.; Thurs. open to 8:30 p.m.; Sun. 11 AM - to 6PM; Closed Federal Holidays. Price Info: 18 and under free admission. www.phillipscollection.org
THE RENWICK GALLERY OF THE SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM
Steps away from the White House, this museum will celebrate its 40th anniversary in November. The permanent collection of the Renwick Gallery, a branch of the American Art Museum, features contemporary American crafts in glass, ceramics, metal, wood, and fiber. Metro: Farragut North Station (Red line) & Farragut West Station (Blue/Orange lines) 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20006 (Corner of 17th and Pennsylvania NW) (202) 633-7970 (recorded message) (202) 633-1000 Open: Daily - 10AM – 5:30PM. Closed December 25 Admission: Free www.americanart.si.edu/renwick
THE PRESIDENTS GALLERY BY MADAME TUSSAUDS WASHINGTON, D.C.
Take a remarkable interactive, chronological journey through U.S. history. Featuring life-sized wax figures of all the U.S. Presidents from George Washington to Barack Obama, guests will explore the 44 presidencies. Some new interactive experiences include: crossing the Delaware River with George Washington, sitting with Franklin D. Roosevelt for a fireside chat, walking on the moon with Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, braving the Underground Railway with Harriet Tubman and meeting the founder of the Girl Scouts – Juliette Gordon Low – as well as sports, pop and musical icons. Metro: Red Line – exit Metro Center – 11th and G Streets NW; Yellow Line exit Galleries at 9th and G Streets NW - walk 2 blocks 1001 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004 (202) 942-7300 Open: Fall-Winter Hours: Sun-Mon, 10AM-6PM; TuesThurs, 12PM-6PM; Fri-Sat; 10AM-6PM (last tickets sold at 6 PM) Admission: Adults: $22.26; Children 4-12 - S16.96 -3 and under free. www.DCPresidentsGallery.com
SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM
The Smithsonian American Art Museum captures the aspirations, character and imagination of the American people throughout three centuries. It is the home to one of the largest and most inclusive collections of American art in the world. American Art has the largest collection of New Deal art and the finest collections of contemporary craft, American impressionist paintings, and masterpieces from the Gilded Age. Metro: Gallery Place – Chinatown Station (Green/Red/Yellow lines) Exit Galleries 8th and F Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004 (202)633-7970/202-633-1000 Open: Daily 11:30AM - 7PM. Closed December 25 (check website for private event closings) Admission: Free www.americanart.si.edu
SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL PARK
Holland & Holland Apollo Missions Side-by-Side Shotgun
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free admission daily 9:30am-5pm NRAmuseum.com 11250 Waples Mill Rd | Fairfax, Va 22030
DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
The National Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals of nearly 400 different species, including giant pandas, Asian elephants, tigers, lions, birds, reptiles and much more. The best known residents are the giant pandas, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang. The Zoo welcomes more than 2 million visitors a year, free of charge. Some popular highlights include seven lion cubs, born last fall; the Asia Trail exhibit, which
includes red pandas, clouded leopards, fishing cats and otters; the invertebrate house, with an 11:00 a.m. daily octopus feeding; and Amazonia, the 15,000 square-foot rain forest habitat with Amazon river fish and dozens of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. A 163-acre urban oasis, the Zoo is located in Rock Creek Park. There are 30 animal demonstrations that take place every day. For the first time at the Reptile Discovery Center (opens at 10AM daily) impressed tortoises will be exhibited. Metro: Woodley Park/Zoo/Adams Morgan Station (Red line) - 3 block walk or take L2/L3 bus. Or, Cleveland Park Station (Red Line) 3 block walk or take L1/L2 bus. If driving parking maximum $22 per day. 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008 (202) 633-4888 Open: Daily. Grounds: Apr. – Oct. 6AM-8PM.; Nov. – Mar. 6AM-6PM. Exhibit Buildings: 10AM. Closed December 25. Admission: Free www.nationalzoo.si.edu
SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES
Walk the halls of our highest court and attend lectures every hour on the half hour. Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. when court is not in session. Metro: Capitol South (Blue/Orange lines) 1st and Maryland Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 479-3211 Open: Mon. – Fri. 9AM-4:30PM www.supremecourtus.gov
THE TEXTILE MUSEUM
The museum is devoted to the handmade textile arts. It’s mission it to expand public knowledge and appreciation— locally, nationally, and internationally—of the artistic merits and cultural importance of the world’s textiles. METRO: Dupont Circle- Q Street (Red Line) exit 2320 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008 (202) 667-0441 OPEN: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. through October 13, 2013. Closed federal holidays and December 24. Beginning October 14, 2013, The Textile Museum Shop will be open Fridays to Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Textile Museum will be closed to visitors Mondays through Thursdays as it prepares to reopen in 2014 at the George Washington University. Admission: $8 suggested donation www.textilemuseum.org
THOMAS JEFFERSON MEMORIAL
Beneath the marble rotunda, the 19-foot statue of the third U.S. president is surrounded by passages from the Declaration of Independence and other famous Jefferson writings. Metro: Smithsonian Metro (Orange/Blue lines) 1500 Maine Ave. SW, Washington, DC (202) 426-6841 Open: Daily 8 AM-12AM
UNITED STATES CAPITOL
The United States Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. It houses the meeting chambers of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Since its opening in 1793, the Capitol has been built, burnt, rebuilt, extended and restored. Today, it stands as a monument not only to its builders but also to the American people and their government. If you wish to tour The Capitol, you’ll need to plan ahead. Reservations are required. Passes may be booked in advance online at www.visitthecapitol.gov, through the offices of your Senators or Representatives, or through the Office of Visitor Services by calling (202) 226-8000. Metro: Union Station Metro Station (Red line) or Capitol South Station (Blue/Orange lines) East Capitol St. at First St. Washington, DC 20515 (grounds) Closest parking garage Union Station (202) 225-6827 Open: Mon. – Sat. 8:30 AM-4:30PM (first tour at 8:50AM last tour at 3:20PM). Closed Jan.1, Inauguration Day,
Nov. 22, Dec.25. Admission: Free www.visitthecapitol.gov or www.aoc.gov
UNITED STATES CAPITOL VISITOR CENTER
The Visitor Center, the new main entrance to the U.S. Capitol, is located beneath the East Front plaza of the Capitol, at First and East Capitol Streets. Guided tours of the U.S. Capitol begin at the Orientation Theaters on the lower level. In this 580,000 square foot addition to the historic building you’ll learn about the history, architecture and art of the U.S. Capitol as well as our unique legislative process. Metro: Capitol South (Blue/Orange lines) East Capitol St. at First St., Room SVC-101 Washington, DC 20002 (East Plaza of the Capitol, between Constitution and Independence Avenues NE) (202) 226-8000 Open: Mon.-Sat. 8:30 AM-4:30PM (first tour at 8:50AM last tour at 3:20PM). Closed Jan.1, Inauguration Day, Nov. 22, Dec.25. Admission: Free www.visitthecapitol.gov.
UNITED STATES BOTANIC GARDEN
The United States Botanic Garden, run by the Congress of the United States, is located on the U.S. Capitol Grounds campus near Garfield Circle. The building itself, which includes a large Lord & Burnham greenhouse, is divided into separate rooms, each one simulating a different habitat. The United States Botanic Garden traces its beginning to 1816, when the Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences proposed the creation of a botanic garden to collect, grow, and distribute plants of this and other countries that might contribute to the welfare of the American people. Metro: Federal Center SW Station (Blue/ Orange lines) Metro-buses: # 30, 32, 34, 35, and #36 stop at Independence & First Streets NE Main Entrance: 245 First Street SW and another at Independence Ave, SW & 3rd Streets, SW Washington, DC 20024 (202) 225-8333, (202) 225-1116 (tours) Open: Daily Bartholdi Park - Dawn to Dusk; Conservatory - 10AM-5PM; National Gardens 10AM-7PM May 28 Sept. 3, then 10AM-5PM Admission: Free – Cell phone tours available www.usbg.gov
WHITE HOUSE/WHITE HOUSE VISITOR CENTER
National Zoo
NOTE: As of press time, White House tours have been eliminated as the result of Sequester. If you want to tour the home of every U.S. president except George Washington, you must make a tour request (up to 6 months in advance) through your member of Congress (Senator or Representative). If planning in advance isn’t you, then at least visit the White House Visitors Center. Located at the South East corner of 15th and E Streets NW. The center includes exhibits on White House architecture and furnishings, first families and social and diplomacy events and a thirty-minute video. Advance reservation made through your member of Congress required. Metro: Farragut West, Federal Triangle or McPherson Square (all Blue/orange lines); Metro Center (Blue/ Orange/Red lines) White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 15th and 17th Sts. Washington, DC Visitor Center 1450 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 456-7041 Recorded White House Line (202) 208-1631 White House Visitor Center Open: WHITE HOUSE - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY through member of CONGRESS Tues. – Thurs. 7:30 AM-11AM; Fri. 7:30 AM-12PM; Sat. 7:30 AM-1PM. Closed: Jan. 1, Nov.22 and Dec. 25. Admission: Free White House VISITOR CENTER - Daily 7:30AM-4:30 PM Closed: Jan. 1, Nov.22 and Dec. 25. Admission: Free www.nps.gov/whhow
VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL
The famous black granite wall, inscribed with the names of 58,209 American servicemen and women lost in Vietnam, serves as a venue for reconciliation between those opposed to this war and those that sacrificed their lives for it. The memorial consists of three distinct sections. “The Wall,” the three servicemen statue and flag pole, and the women in service to the Vietnam War statue. Metro: Foggy Bottom Station (Blue/Orange lines) or Smithsonian Station (Blue/Orange lines) 21st St. NW at Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC (Constitution Ave & Henry Bacon Dr NW) (202) 426-6841, (202) 634-1568 Open: Daily - Park ranger available - 8AM-12AM Admission: Free www.nps.gov/vive
WASHINGTON MONUMENT
Towering higher than any building in DC, the Washington Monument exemplifies the simplistic elegance and enduring presence of our first president. The Monument is the most prominent structure in DC and built to honor President George Washington. Although a long restoration was recently completed, an August, 2011 earthquake created significant structural damage that has necessitated its temporary closing. Metro: Smithsonian Station (Blue/Orange lines) 1 Harry S. Truman Dr.,Washington, DC (15th and Constitution Aves NW) (202) 426-6841, (800) 967-2283 TEMPORARILY CLOSED www.nps.gov/wamo December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Di n i n g The Price reflects the estimated price of a dinner for one with one drink and tip. Lunch usually costs 25% less.
$$ = $30 and under
$$$ = $31 to $50
$$$$ = $50 and over
Dining Guide
Washington, D.C. 701
Bibiana Osteria Enoteca
Located just steps away from the White House, 701 is a modern American restaurant with exquisite food framed by an elegant decor. Try their popular pre-theater prix-fixe menu for $32 per person before a show 5:30-6:45p.m or light fare in the lounge for those tight on time.
Dubbed one of the “Best New Restaurants in America” by Esquire magazine in 2010 and one of the District’s hot spots, Bibiana offers authentic regional Italian cuisine in a chic modern backdrop. Executive Chef Nick Stefanelli offers a variety of well executed small plates, antipasti and regional specialties such as black spaghetti with Maryland Crab.
Penn Quarter | American | $$$
701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (202) 393-0701 www.701restaurant.com
Decanter at St. Regis Downtown | French | $$$
With the talents of Executive Chef Rondier, Alain Ducasse’s fresh and contemporary concept in the opulent St. Regis hotel, radiates casual elegance. The restaurant is ranked No. 6 on Washingtonian Magazine’s list of 100 Very Best Restaurants; it’s one of DC’s most romantic restaurants. The Macarons are a must try! 923 16th St., NW (202) 509-8000 www.Adour-WashingtonDC.com
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Downtown | Italian | $$$
1100 New York Ave., NW (202) 216-9550 www.bibianadc.com
Cuba Libre Penn Quarter | Cuban | $$$
Taste the Old Havana with a menu inspired by the cuisines of various Latin regions and their expansive rum menu, with more than 75 premium varieties. Try one of their 15 mojitos, made with fresh sugar cane juice. Inside looks like a movie set with a streetscape of ornate carved wood replicated from vintage photographs. 801 Ninth St., NW (202) 408-1600 www.cubalibrerestaurant.com
DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
District Chophouse & Brewery
Downtown | American | $$$
Located a block from the Verizon Center, the ChopHouse serves steakhouse classics and hand-cut chops, paired with handcrafted Ales brewed on site. Also fresh seafood and an extensive wine list, all in a unique turn of the century bank transformed into one of Washington’s hot spots. 509 7th St.,NW (202) 47-3434 www.chophouse.com
Ella’s Wood-Fired Pizza Penn Quarter | Pizza | $$
Considered one of the best pizza places in the city, this is a popular restaurant features traditional, Neapolitan-style, thin crust pizza baked in a blistering-hot, wood-fired pizza oven. Enjoy happy hour seven days a week with $5 personal pizzas and $3.50 sangrias. 901 F St., NW (202) 638-3434 www.ellaspizza.com
Fogo de Chao
Penn Quarter | Brazilian | $$$
Meat lovers rejoice at this Brazilian Steakhouse where savory cuts of meat and old world traditions are celebrated. Enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet and the ‘Passadores’ or meat waiters offering table side service of ‘rodizio’ such as, beef, pork, lamb, or chicken. It truly is a one-a-kind experience! 1101 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (202) 347-4668 www.fogodechao.com
Founding Farmers - DC Foggy Bottom | American | $$
Founding Farmers offers a fresh Farm-to-Table American menu in a modern and eco-friendly setting. Dishes are made from scratch, inspired by the heartland with sustainably farmed products, with locally sourced items and in-season vegetables and fruits whenever possible. As the Greenest Restaurant in DC, Founding Farmers is a Certified Green Restaurant, a first for a Washington, DC, restaurant. 1924 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (202) 822-8783 www.WeAreFoundingFarmers.com
D ining
Hard Rock Café
Penn Quarter | American | $$
With locations all over the world, the Hard Rock in the nation’s capital is especially patriotic. The restaurant is very family friendly, affordable and has the best rock-n-roll memorabilia from stars such as Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and more! Always fun with great music. For the late night set, the restaurant has been hosting more and more live music. 999 E St., NW (202) 737-ROCK www.hardrock.com/washington
Jaleo Penn Quarter | Crystal City | Arlington | Spanish | $$$
With three DC area locations to tempt you, Jaleo brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain with a menu of tapas, or small plates, including savory paellas in a festive, yet casual atmosphere. Enjoy a glass of superb sangria or chose from a fine selection of Spanish wines. www.jaleo.com
La Tasca Penn Quarter | Alexandria Arlington | Spanish | $$
Located in Chinatown, walking distance from the Verizon center, expect delicious tapas or small plates that are easy to sample and share, and the sangria is a must. Head out for the happy hour between 4-7 p.m. for discounted sangria and $3 selected dishes. Thursday nights the Sangria Pitchers are half price. Has five locations in the D.C./Baltimore area. 722 7th St., NW (202) 347-9190 www.latascausa.com
Matchbox Penn Quarter | Pizza | $$
Known for its brick oven pizza and incredible mini-sliders, Matchbox offers American food in a modern setting. This restaurant includes a full bar, complete with a good beer and wine selection. Call ahead for reservations – it’s a popular place. Now with locations at 1901 14th St., NW and on Capitol Hill. 1901 145h St., NW (202) 289-4441 www.matchboxdc.com
Decanter at St. Regis
Oya Restaurant & Lounge Penn Quarter | Eurasian | $$
In a uberchic space, Oya offers an innovative menu of creative sushi, small plates and entrees that blends the best of Classic American with an Asian flair. Expect exceptional food for a modest price with its $38 3-course prix fixe dinner every night of the week. Even better, Oya offers a 3-course lunch for just $20 weekdays. 777 9th St., NW (202) 393-1400 www.oyadc.com
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana Penn Quarter | Mexican | $$
Part of internationally acclaimed Chef José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup, Oyamel is a vibrant fine dining Mexican restaurant offering innovative spins on ceviche, tacos, and moles. Sip a delicious $4 margarita at the bar Sunday through Friday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. or enjoy half-price wine. 401 7th St., NW (202) 628-1005 www.oyamel.com
Rasika Penn Quarter | Indian | $$$
Rasika offers modern Indian cuisine exuberantly conceived and executed with precision and is considered one of the area’s best restaurants. The Palak Chaat is a must try! The dining room is opulent with plush fabrics, shimmering silk panels, stone floors
and rich spice colors throughout. Now with a new location in West End, 1190 New Hampshire Ave., NW. 633 D St., NW (202) 637-1222 www.rasikarestaurant.com
R.F.D. Penn Quarter | American | $
Beerlovers will revel in this brew heaven with hundreds upon hundreds to choose from, some even the most fanatic connoisseur may not have heard of. The menu is familiar bar fare. Did we mention they have beer? 810 7th St. NW (202) 289-2030 www.lovethebeer.com/rfd.html
Rosa Mexicano Penn Quarter | Mexican | $$$
Offering high-end Mexican food, enjoy freshly-made guacamole mixed table-side and wash it all down with a refreshing margarita. Sip sangria, premium tequila or chose a glass from their expansive wine list while enjoying the festive, stylish and comfortable ambiance. 575 7th St. NW (202) 783-5522 www.rosamexicano.com
Zaytinya Penn Quarter | Mediterranean | $$$
Offering an innovative menu of mezze or ‘little dishes’, inspired by Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisines, in a sleek and modern
setting. Under the direction of internationally renowned chef José Andrés, Zaytinya is a popular spot for happy hour, with its generous specials, creative cocktails and unique Mediterranean wines reflecting its rich regional diversity. 701 9th St., NW (202)638-0800 www.zaytinya.com
Georgetown 1789 Restaurant Georgetown | American | $$$$
Situated in an elegant two-story Federal townhouse, 1789 is the perfect spot to dine during the cold winter months with its festive holiday décor. In the main dining room, table #14 has the best view of the elegant historic fireplace. 1226 36th St., NW (202) 965-1789 www.1789restaurant.com
Bangkok Joe’s Georgetown | Asian Fusion | $$
Located on the Georgetown Waterfront, Bangkok Joe’s has been rated the best spot for dumplings by Washingtonians. Enjoy authentic, yet modern Thai cuisine. They also offer a discounted Happy Hour menu 7 days a week from 5-7 p.m. 3000 K St., NW (202) 333-4422 www.bangkokjoes.com
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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WEST OF ALEXANDRIA Di n E i n ND g Cafe Milano
Georgetown | Italian | $$$
Cafe Milano offers upscale Italian cuisine, top-notch service, and a place “to be seen” with any of the Hollywood celebs who frequent the area. Choose from their extensive wine list featuring vino from many Italian regions. 3251 Prospects St., NW (202) 333-6183 www.cafemilano.net
Proudly offering... The MOST entertaining grill tables! Extensive menu that satisfies everyone! LARGEST Sushi Bar in town!
4603 Duke Street • Alexandria, VA
05
703-823-3168
12.99
Reservations Suggested.
Lunch: Mon-Fri...11:30am-2:30pm, Sat & Sun...Noon-2:30 Dinner: Sun-Thurs...4:30pm-10pm, Fri & Sat...4:30pm-11pm
Il Canale Georgetown | Italian | $$
Serving authentic Italian cuisine and the best thin crust gourmet pizza in DC, cooked in a wood-fired oven imported from Naples. This is where Italians go to eat Italian. Tucked away near the C&O Canal in the heart of Georgetown. 1063 31st St. NW (202) 337-4444 www.ilcanaledc.com
J. Paul’s
Georgetown | American | $$
One of D.C.’s most popular watering holes for the last 25 years, J. Paul’s offers classic American fare such as burgers, steaks, BBQ and seafood, such as fresh oysters. J.Paul’s also hosts brunch Saturday and
Sunday. Don’t miss out on their complimentary signature soft pretzels! Drinks specials are also plentiful during their generous happy hour. 3218 M St., NW (202) 333-3450 www.j-pauls.capitalrestaurants.com
Martin’s Tavern Georgetown | American | $$
Established in 1933, the renowned tavern is one of Washington D.C.’s most historic family-owned enterprises. For 75 years, Martin’s Tavern has been a must-visit corner stone in historic Georgetown for everyone from sitting Presidents and media icons, to city residents and worldly travelers. 1264 Wisconsin Ave., NW (202) 333-7370 www.martins-tavern.com
Neyla
Georgetown | Mediterranean | $$
The menu by Lebanese born Chef Housh melds all exotic Mediterranean cultures and offers a variety of mezza or small plates of vegetables, salads, grilled meats and fish set off by light, and subtly spiced sauces. Enjoy the intimate but relaxed atmosphere with friendly service. The Belly dancers offer unique entertainment on Saturday evenings. 3206 N St., NW (202) 333-6353 www.neyla.com
Taverna Cretekou Nationally Recognized • Festive Atmosphere
“European & Californian cuisine consistently Award-winning French and Basque cuisine hits the high notes.”
La Bergerie is renowned for its Atlantic charming atmosphere and Old Joan Horwitt,Mid Magazine World setting. Among the house specialties are lobster bisque, One of Alexandria’s Best kept secrets... fresh foie gras, Dover sole, venison chops and dessert soufflés.
i Bar uffet
Celebrating our 40th year!
Nestled in the West End, this elegant but unpretentious neighborhood restaurant wheresince the locals Zagat rated. Featured inis DiRõNA 1997. dine.
Ample free parking. areWine suggested. All major creditofcards accepted. Extensive wine listReservations that has won Spectator’s Award Excellence.
enu
Private rooms for any occasion. Business Casual Attire. Reservations Recommended. Validated Garage Parking.
703.683.1007
www.LaBergerie.com 218 North Lee Street, Town Alexandria 4231 Duke StreetOld • Alexandria, VA
om
703-370-7900
Daily Lunch Buffet - 11:30am to 2:30pm | Dinner - 5pm to 10pm Saturday - 12pm to 10:30pm | Sunday Brunch - 11pm to 3pm Sunday Dinner - 5pm to 9:30pm
818 King Street, Old Town Alexandria, VA (p) 703.548.8688 (w) www.TavernaCretekou.com
Providing memorable dining experiences for over 30 years. 21
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
12/5/08 8:12:23 AM
Old Glory
Bastille
Old Glory captures the food, flavor and feel of America with good ol’ barbeque. Enjoy mouthwatering pulled pork, chicken, and ribs. Open 2-3 a.m. on weekend, perfect when out on the town.
Dine like an insider at this hidden gem in north Old Town. Transport to a rustic French village at this tucked away Gallic Bistro which offers seasonal authentic French cuisine but without the fine dining cost. Their 3-course $29 Sunday prix-fixe dinner is a steal! Bastille also has a terrific Sunday brunch.
Georgetown | Barbeque | $
3139 M St., NW (202) 337-3406 www.oldglorybbq.com
Pizzeria Paradiso Georgetown | Pizza | $$
Celebrating its 21st anniversary, Pizzeria Paradiso offers hot Neapolitan pies made from a woodburning oven centered in the main dining room. Ask to sit downstairs during colder weather and warm up by the wonderfully cozy cellar complete with fireplace. Their impressive beer list includes more than a dozen on tap and more than 200 bottles. 3282 M St., NW (202) 337-1245 www.eatyourpizza.com
Sequoia Georgetown | Seafood | $$$
Enjoy a gorgeous sunset at Sequoia situated on the waterfront overlooking the Potomac River. Enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the stunning riverfront view through the large glass paneled walls. 3000 K St., NW (202) 994-4200 www.arkrestaurants.com/sequoia_dc.html
The Tombs
Georgetown | American | $$
Unlike its fancy schmancy sibling, 1789, the Tombs, located in the basement beneath, is an outright college hang out. The menu offers reasonably priced bar and grill fare, such as burgers and fries; however their fried green tomato BLT sandwich is a favorite. It’s a cool place to people watch and meet some local youngins. 1226 36th St., NW (202) 337-6668 www.tombs.com
Alexandria Asian Bistro Old Town| Asian | $$
Don’t let the modest exterior fool you. This Pan-Asian bistro offers freshly prepared dishes from Thailand, China, and Malaysia — all for a reasonable price. Sushi lovers will love their “Fire Roll”. 809 King Street (703) 836-1515 www.abristro.com
Old Town| French | $$$
1201 N. Royal Street (703) 519-3776 www.bastillerestaurant.com
BRABO by Robert Wiedmaier/Tasting Room Old Town| Belgian/French | $$$
Located inside the sophisticated Lorien hotel, just a few blocks from the King Street Metro, the award winning chef Robert Wiedmaier offers his mouthwatering BelgianFrench fare in an elegant dining atmosphere. Stop in between 5-6:30 p.m. daily for steamed mussels and a glass of wine for just $15.00.
dinner cruise, as well as a champagne brunch each Sunday. Departs from the Old Town waterfront dock at Zero Prince Street.
1600 King Street (703) 894-3440 www.braborestaurant.com
Old Town | Spanish | $$
Gadsby’s Tavern Old Town | American | $$
Established in 1770, Gadsby’s Tavern (and museum) is considered the finest Public House in America visited by our founding fathers. Enjoy the authentic American Revolution-era decor while sipping a beer like Thomas Jefferson, sitting where George Washington and John Adams sat. Also offers Sunday brunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 138 N. Royal Street (703) 548-1288 www.gadsbystavernrestaurant.com
La Bergerie
Old Town| French | $$$
For more than twenty years, La Bergerie has offered guests classic French cuisine in a romantic and elegant ambiance. Diners revel in their signature light and fluffy soufflés, steak and frites, and exceptional wine list. For a more modest price point try their prix-fixe dinner menu. 218 N. Lee Street (703) 683-1007 www.labergerie.com
Nina’s Dandy Old Town | American | $$$$
Enjoy a dinner cruise aboard the Nina’s Dandy with an unparalleled view of DC’s majestic monuments and beautiful Potomac River. With two climate controlled boats in the fleet, visitors can opt for a lunch or
(703) 683-6076 www.dandydinnerboat.com
Las Tapas Offering the largest selection of authentic Spanish Tapas in the area with 76 appetizer varieties of lean grilled meats, fresh seafood and vegetables. Enjoy brunch every Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-3 p.m and their Flamenco dance performances every TuesdayThursday evenings; live Spanish bands Friday and Saturday nights. 710 King Street (703) 836-4000 www.lastapas.us
Le Refuge Old Town| French | $$$
Celebrating almost 30 years, this charming and intimate French country restaurant offers traditional fare and excellent service. The prix-fixe daily specials are a steal. Enjoy house specialties such as Bouillabaisse, Salmon in crust, Rack of Lamb, Beef Wellington and Soft Shell Crabs with an extended French wine list. 127 N. Washington Street (703) 548-4661 www.lerefugealexandria.com
RT ’s Delray | American | $$
Don’t let the interior fool you. This family-friendly neighborhood restaurant has served up fresh seafood and Creole and Cajun specialties for more than 25 years. Try their famous Jack Daniels Shrimp, Spicy She-Crab Soup, Cajun Veal Oscar, and their popular Crawfish Etouffèe.
St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub Old Town | American | $
Enjoy an excellent selection of baked goods, from hearty cinnamon buns to sun dried tomato bagels, as well as, Seattle’s Best branch coffee, using local roaster, The Daily Roast. Open daily. 2300 Mt. Vernon Ave. (703) 739-9268 www.stelmoscoffeepub.com
T.J. Stone’s Grill House & Tap Room
North Old Town | American | $$
A new star on the Old Town restaurant scene, this spot - poplar with both locals and guests of North Alexandria’s nearby hotels celebrates American cuisine in the cozy settings of restaurant (Grill) or bar (Tap Room). Enjoy a wide range of delicious comfort foods and an outstanding selection of beers and wine by the warmth of the woodburning fireplace in the Grill or under the glow of multiple HD flat screen TVs in the lively Tap Room, a sports paradise able to satisfy every fan’s deepest desire! 608 Montgomery Street (703) 548-1004 www.tjstones.com
Taverna Cretekou Old Town | Greek | $$
The inviting décor and authentic Greek menu with excellent wine offerings transports you to the Greek Isles. Enjoy at this welcoming, friendly, quiet neighborhood gem. 818 King Street (703)-548-8688 www.tavernacretekou.com
3804 Mount Vernon Ave. (703) 684-6010 www.rtsrestaurant.net
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Di n i n g Warehouse Bar & Grill Old TownBrunch | American/Seafood | $$ Sunday
Walking distance from the King Street metro, this quaint seafood and steak house offers quality fare Monday - Thursday 11am - 10pm at a great value. Their best dishes are Crab Cakes Friday - Saturday 11am - 11pm and their Sunday DinnerCajun 4pm - 10and pm Creole inspired dishes. Locals rave about their New Orleans style Sunday Brunch.
10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Located inCenter Located in Lorton Town Lorton town Center 9020 Lorton Station Blvd Suite E Lorton, VA 22079
9020 Lorton Station Blvd Suite E 571.642.0605 Lorton, VA 22079
571-642-0605 Voted “Best Brunch in Northern Virginia” Sunday Brunch 10:30am - 3:00 pm
Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday Dinner 4pm - 10pm
214 King Street New Bar (703)Wine 683-6868 www.warehousebarandgrill.com Enoteca Monday - Closed
The Wharf
Tuesday - Thursday 5pm - 10pm
Old- Saturday Town | American/Seafood | $$$ Friday 5pm - 12am Sunday 5pm - 101pm Located just block www.paneevino-ristorante.com
from the Potomac riverfront, the Wharf has offered fresh traditional style seafood since 1971. Think meat and potatoes, but seafood. Enjoy whole Maine lobster, She Crab soup, local and soft shell crabs. 119 King Street (703) 836-2836 www.wharfrestaurant.com
West Alexandria Evening Star Café Delray | American | $$
Located in the quaint Delray neighborhood, this cozy neighborhood gem offers inventive American. Check out the extensive list of reasonably priced wines (from wine shop ‘Planet Wine’ next door). Also, enjoy live local musicians upstairs in the Majestic lounge. 2000 Mount Vernon Ave. (703) 549-5051 www.eveningstarcafe.net
Finn & Porter West End Alexandria | American | $$$
Na m e d the Be One of st I t a l ian Menu si Wa s h n t h e ington Area
5000 Seminary Road (703) 379-2346 www.finnandporter.com
Hana Tokyo Japanese/Sushi | $$
The Best Mimosa Sunday Brunch in Northern VA
Lunch Buffet Available Monday - Saturday
Separate, Supervised Children’s Dining Room
Japanese Seafood and Steakhouse way above the rest. Fare is always fresh and perfectly prepared at your table. Rated the freshest and highest quality Sushi in the region.
Fine Authentic Italian Dinner Served Nightly
4603 Duke St. (703) 823-3168 www.hanatokyo.com
Live Entertainment 6124 Franconia Rd. Springfield, VA
Mango Mike’s
703.922.6222 ParadisoRistorante.com
Within minutes of Springfield and Alexandria Hotels
Private Party Rooms and Full Catering for Corporate Meetings and All Special Events
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Located inside the Mark Center Hilton hotel, their menu offers fresh seafood (the FINNs) and dry aged Prime Grade beef (think PORTER house). Check out their 5-foot-long iced crustacean bar with a wide selection of fresh shellfish. Enjoy their vibrant happy hour from 5-7 p.m. weekdays with specials like $5 appetizers, $4 Wine, and $3 Drafts.
DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
West End Alexandria | Caribbean | $$
Take a trip to the Caribbean but leave your passport at home. Regardless of the temperature outside this Caribbean inspired restaurant is always bright and sunny! With the lively music and tropical cocktails, you can’t help but have a good time. 4580 Duke Street (703) 370-3800 www.mangomikes.com
Nick’s Nightclub West End Alexandria | American | $$
The area’s only live music venue with two huge dance floors and dance lessons every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Their menu features classic American favorites and homemade Tex-Mex specialties. Half-price burgers Wednesday and Thursday. 25cent Buffalo wings weekdays 4-7 p.m. Ample free parking. 642 S. Pickett Street (703) 751-8900 www.nicksnightclub.com
Shooter McGee’s West End Alexandria | American | $$
This popular neighborhood restaurant has been in business nearly 30 years. They boast an incredible menu at bargain prices. Voted “Best Ribs in Northern Virginia”, be sure to check their daily specials. 5239 Duke Street (703) 751-9266 www.shootermcgees.com
Tempo West End Alexandria | Italian | $$ Dine at one of Alexandria’s best kept secrets featuring northern Italian and French cuisine specializing in fresh seafood. Are you a dessert lover? Then don’t miss one of the best pastry trays around. 4231 Duke Street (703) 370-7900 www.temporestaurant.com
National Harbor Bond 45 National Harbor | Italian | $$$$
This Italian-themed steakhouse feels as historic as the Times Square original it was modeled after, but with gorgeous views of the Potomac River. Enjoy the plentiful antipasto bar with dozens of choices and their Prohibition style cocktails served in a tea cups. 149 Waterfront St. (301) 839-1445 bond45.com
Cadillac Ranch
National Harbor | American | $$
Step into this upscale saloon and transport to the wild west. Enjoy all American steaks, BBQ, and burgers. Stay for late night fun with cowboys who dare to ride the mechanical bull. 186 Fleet St. (301) 839-1100 www.cadillacranchgroup.com
Elevation Burger National Harbor | American| $$
Not your typical fast-food joint. Elevation is a quick and casual restaurant with a vision for fresh food that is better for you and for the environment by offering 100% organic, grass-fed, free range beef burgers. 108 Waterford St. (301) 749-4014 www.elevationburger.com
Fiorella National Harbor | Italian | $$
This New York pizzeria outpost offers more than 30 Roman style pizzas with house-made cheeses. Enjoy Italian specialty entrees, sexy wines and international beers in a dining room made entirely in Italy while enjoying picturesque views of the Potomac River. 125 National Plaza December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Di n i n g 1
WASHINGTONIAN’S TOP 100
PREMIUM ENTRÉES. MOUTHWATERING STEAKS. EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. Celebrated Chef Mike Cordero unveils Old Town’s newest steak destination
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Spectacular Seafood Creole & Cajun Specialities
EW
0777 808 KING STREET ALEXANDRIA, VA
!
3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria
703-684-6010 Tempo Advert
www.rtsrestaurant.net 10/27/04 3:19 PM Page 1
Reservations: 703 299 0777
808 KING ST. ALEXANDRIA, VA
Simple Elegance, Exceptional Food
“European & Californian cuisine consistently hits the high notes.” Joan Horwitt,Mid Atlantic Magazine
One of Alexandria’s Best kept secrets... Nestled in the West End, this elegant but unpretentious neighborhood restaurant is where the locals dine. Ample free parking. Reservations are suggested. All major credit cards accepted.
Fabulous Seafood Menu - Waterfront Dining Private Parties & Receptions - Experienced Event Planner Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday Nights
703.494.6373
4231 Duke Street • Alexandria, VA
703-370-7900
50
DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
www.madiganswaterfront.com
Located on the Historic Occoquan River 201 Mill Street, Occoquan, Virginia 22125
1789
(301) 839-1811 www.fiorellaspizzeriaecaffe.com
Grace’s Mandarin
National Harbor | Asian Fusion| $$$
East meets west with Grace’s eclectic menu of Pan Asian flavors that come together to arouse your taste buds. Enjoy an elegant yet casual atmosphere with views of the Potomac River from every table. Enjoy their Sushi bar, stylish cocktails, expansive selection of wines and large selection of sake. 188 Waterfront St. (301) 839-3788 www.gracesrestaurant.com
McCormick and Schmick’s National Harbor | Seafood| $$$
Located on the scenic banks of the Potomac River, McCormick and Schmick’s features the freshest selection of seafood offered in the DC area. The “Fresh List” changes daily and exhibits catches from around the globe. 145 National Harbor (301) 567-6224 www.mccormickandschmicks.com
Public House National Harbor | American| $$
Enjoy upscale American fare at this lively sports pub. With multiple big screen plasma televisions, you can be sure that you will have a view to watch the big game! Whether it is a DJ or Live Entertainment the late night atmosphere lets everyone enjoy their time away from work and the real world!
10403 Main St., (703) 293-2367 www.bellissimorestaurant.com
Cafe Oggi
McLean | Italian | $$
Celebrating 20 years, enjoy high quality light and contemporary Italian fare at this authentic trattoria at reasonable prices. Opt for one of their numerous daily specials and revel in their excellent friendly service by their Italian-speaking waiters.
199 Fleet St. (240) 493-6120 www.publichousenationalharbar.com
6671 Old Dominion Dr. (703) 442-7360 www.cafeoggi.com
Rosa Mexicano
Chef Geoff’s
Enjoy upscale Mexican cuisine in a stylishly festive atmosphere with incredible water front views. Try the Pomegranate Margaritas or Guacamole en Molcajete, made tableside in a traditional lavarock mortar.
Located on a cobblestone courtyard across from booming Tysons Corner shopping center, enjoy an upscale innovative American menu by Chef Geoff Tracy. Stop by for a terrific Sunday brunch and every Monday for half price wines. Enjoy the popular happy hour daily from 3-7 p.m.
National Harbor | Mexican| $$$
153 Waterfront St. (301) 567-1005 www.rosamexicano.com
Fairfax County Alto Plaza Centreville | Latin American | $$
Enjoy flavors from Latin American in this $16 million three-tiered mecca with various levels and comfort. The décor is contemporary, clean and upscale. Dinner on the third floor includes a pianist (Thursday through Saturday) and a jazz trio (following the piano on Saturday). 5800 Old Centreville Rd., (703) 266-8811 www.altoplaza.net
Bellissimo Restaurant Fairfax | Italian | $$$
If you like Italian food then you’ll love the huge menu, vast wine list, pleasant atmosphere and great friendly service complete with authentic Italian accents at this quaint family-owned restaurant.
Tysons Corner-McLean | DC | Contemporary American | $$$
8045 Leesburg Pike (571) 282-6003 www.chefgeoff.com
Chima Brazilian Steakhouse Tysons Corner | Brazilian | $$$
An experience like no other! Enjoy their unique style of “Rodizio” service where Gauchos bring a rotation of a variety of beef, pork, chicken and fish directly to your table. The expansive salad bar offers over 30 items to accompany your meal. 8010 Towers Crescent Dr. (703) 639-3080 www.chimasteakhouse.com
El Paso Mexican Restaurant Springfield | Mexican| $$
Enjoy authentic Mexican fare made with the freshest ingredients in a lively atmosphere with bright colorful decor. The menu offers a variety of traditional dishes and flavors. El Paso operates five restaurants in the area, with their newest location at 9715 Fairfax Blvd in Fairfax, VA.
6804 Commerce St. (703) 912-6166 www.elpasomexicanrestaurants.com
Mon Ami Gabi Reston | French | $$
Located in the bustling Reston Town Center, Mon Ami Gabi is a Classic French Bistro offering crepes, quiches, steaks and fresh seafood. French wines are served by the glass or the bottle from our rolling wine cart. 11950 Democracy Dr. (703) 707-0233 www.monamigabi.com
Nostos Restaurant Vienna | Greek/Mediterranean | $$
The newest restaurant by the Pagonis family, who has served traditional Greek fare in the DC area for over twenty years, presents a fresh, modern take on Greek culinary culture. Stimulate your senses with a wide variety of “mezedes”, or small sharing-sized dishes, and fresh fish from the Mediterranean Sea. 8100 Boone Blvd. (703) 760-0690 nostosrestaurant.com
Panache Tysons McLean | Mediterranean | $$$
Glamorous and grown-up, this stylish Mediterranean spot in Tysons Corner boasts “generous”, “varied” tapas selections, well suited to “share with friends” at the “chic”, “hopping” bars backed by “awesome” staff – or there’s a full menu for a “cozy dinner for two”; “nice” servers, upscale prices and an “interesting” red-and-white color scheme rule. A pasta menu unsurpassed! Zagat rated Pinnacle Towers South 1753 Pinnacle Dr. (703) 748-1919 www.panacherestaurant.com
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Di n i n g Ristorante Bonaroti
Dixie Bones Barbecue
Dine at Bonaroti’s where owner, Sergio Domestici makes you feel like family at this well-kept secret nestled in the heart of Vienna. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant dining room within a warm and intimate setting.
Looking for great tasting authentic Southern barbecue? You’ll find it here. Nelson Head lovingly recreates the pit barbecue cuisine of his Alabama home every day. He’s committed to continuing the tradition by serving the “World’s Best BBQ.”
428 East Maple Ave. (703) 281-7550 www.bonarotirestaurant.com
13440 Occoquan Rd. (703) 492-2205 www.dixiebones.com
TurCuisine
The Garden Kitchen
Herndon | Mediterranean | $$
Occoquan | American| $$
Feast on authentic flavors from Turkey and the Mediterranean at Herndon’s newest restaurant. The friendly staff will make you realize why Turkish people are considered to be one of the most hospitable people in the world.
Located in an 1850’s period colonial house in historic Occoquan, The Garden Kitchen has provided wholesome and satisfying homemade fare for more than thirty years.
Vienna | Italian | $$$
13029 Worldgate Dr. (571) 323-3330 www.turcuisine.com
The Tortilla Factory Herndon | Mexican| $$
Enjoy the finest Mexican and southwestern cuisine this side of the border. Try one of their refreshing margaritas, or mouth-watering enchiladas. Every Tuesday night, join in their folk music tradition at the weekly open-mike night. 648 Elden St. (703) 471-1156 www.thetortillafactory.com
Villa Mozart Fairfax | Italian | $$$
Pane E Vino Lorton | Italian | $$
Italian born Chef-owner Andrea Pace offers seasonal Italian fare in a chic and comfortable setting without being pretentious. Take advantage of their $20 3-Course Prix Fixe Lunch (Monday to Friday) and $39 3-Course Prix Fixe Dinner (Monday to Thursday).
Enjoy authentic Southern Italian fare at this family-owned in an atmosphere reminiscent of a fine trattoria. Enjoy half price wine on Wednesday nights and a Sunday brunch buffet with many stations of made-to-order (10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.). Also visit the recently opened Wine Bar-Enoteca next door.
4009 Chain Bridge Rd. (703) 691-4747 www.villamozartrestaurant.com
9020 Lorton Station Blvd. www.paneevino-ristorante.com
Woodbridge | French | $$
PassionFish Reston | Seafood | $$$
Located in the bustling Reston Town Center, this family-friendly neighborhood favorite is dedicated to providing the finest quality, sustainable seafood available, all in a casual fine dining experience. 11960 Democracy Dr. (703) 230-3474 www.passionfishreston.com
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Fairfax | American/Steak | $$$$
This well-known steakhouse serves the finest USDA Prime beef available. Enjoy a hot, juicy and delicious steak in a warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. 4100 Monument Corner Dr. (703) 266-1004 www.ruthschris.com/Steak-House/ 3503/Fairfax
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Prince William County Bistro L’Hermitage Located along the Historic Occoquan waterfront, this classic French Bistro offers diners a vision of a romantic French country brasserie. L’Hermitage is a great escape from the hectic DC restaurant scene, promises ‘relaxed good taste’ with the polish and sophistication of fine dining. 12724 Occoquan Rd. (703) 499-9550 www.bistrolhermitage.com
Carmello’s and Little Portugal Manassas | Italian | $$$
Located in the heart of Old Town Manassas, Carmello’s offers upscale fine dining in a romantic ambience. Enjoy innovative Northern Italian and Portuguese cuisine using the freshest ingredients. Their vast wine list carries over 50 Portuguese wines from various regions. 9108 Center St. (703) 368-5522 www.carmellos.com
Woodbridge| Barbecue | $$
404 Mill St. (703) 494-2848 www.gardenkitchen.com
Mackey’s American Pub Manassas | American| $$
Located in the heart of Historic Old Town Manassas featuring fine hand-cut steaks, seafood, and great American selections in a warm atmosphere at affordable prices. The downstairs is a dedicated “Smoking Club” with 12 HD and Plasma TV’s to catch your favorite game. 9412 Main Street, Manassas (703) 330-1534 www.mackeysamericanpub.com
Mandarin House Manassas | Chinese| $$
Enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine at this familyowned restaurant that owner Youjun grew up on in Xin Jiang. Their expansive menu has more than 70 main dishes and all the favorite Chinese food lovers expect – sweet and sour chicken, sesame beef, roast pork with snow peas, shrimp with lobster sauce and much more. 10167 Hastings Drive, Manassas (703) 257-7788 www.mandarinhousefood.com
Madigan’s Waterfront Occoquan | Seafood| $$
Located on the Occoquan River in the quaint historic town of Occoquan, Madigan’s specializes in fresh seafood. Their gorgeous waterfront location provides the ultimate setting for savoring the incredible variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as fine steaks, pasta dishes, and poultry. 201 Mill St., (703) 494-6373 www.madiganswaterfront.com
Okra’s Manassas | Cajun | $$
Enjoy the best authentic Cajun fare this side of the bayou. It’s Mardi Gras all the time at this festive small restaurant and bar. All your authentic Cajun favorites are well represented – gumbo, etouffèe, jambalaya, and more! 9110 Center St., (703) 330-2729 www.okras.com
Shopping
Shopping at Its Best
Capitol Hill
Historic Occoquan
Premium Outlets®
In addition to a variety of great shops and restaurants at Union Station, popular boutiques, cafes, and bars dot Barracks Row (south of the Eastern Market metro stop) in this friendly neighborhood that was founded in the 19th century. Metro: Union Station, Eastern Market
Nestled on the Occoquan River just minutes from I-95 in Prince William County, historic Occoquan is a charming town that was founded in 1758. The pedestrian-friendly streets offer an eclectic mix of art galleries, shops, restaurants, and businesses.
Discover Premium Outlet Shopping® at three convenient area locations. Shop Leesburg Corner (VA), Hagerstown and Queenstown (MD) Premium Outlets and find savings of 25% to 65% every day at stores including Burberry, Coach, Juicy Couture, Kate Spade New York, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Lauren, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and much more. (Stores vary by center.) For complete information and to join the VIP Shopper Club, visit premiumoutlets.com
Clarendon Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood has blossomed into a hub of activity over the last few years as restaurants, lounges, shops such as Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma, and Apple, boutiques, and luxury condo buildings have popped up in the booming neighborhood. It has become the place for young movers and shakers to live and play. Metro: Clarendon
Eastern Market A beloved city institution that was nearly destroyed by a devastating fire in 2007, the renovated public market is in full swing on weekends, when vendors offer a variety of food, produce, meats, breads and pastries, arts, antiques, crafts, and imported goods for sale. Metro: Eastern Market
Fair Oaks Mall Located in Fairfax at the intersection of Routes 50 and I-66, the centrally located mall is anchored by Macy’s and Lord & Taylor and features stores from Apple to Michael Kors to Williams-Sonoma. (703) 359-8300 www.shopfairoaksmall.com
Georgetown A vibrant, historic neighborhood on the Potomac River teeming with an eclectic mix of restaurants, chain stores, such as JCrew, Urban Outfitters, and Club Monaco, small boutiques, and bars that line M Street and Wisconsin Avenue. This is one of the most popular destinations for young, hip urbanites in DC. Metro: Foggy Bottom
Logan Circle/14th Street The reborn neighborhood has sprouted trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques over the last few years, most of them concentrated on 14th Street between N and S Streets. The buzz-y neighborhood is populated with sophisticated locals.
National Harbor Just over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge from Virginia, National Harbor is rapidly becoming a shopping and dining destination. Unique boutiques and art galleries line Waterfront St. in the heart of the area. Check out America! giving you the chance to purchase artifacts of American history in the making or Fossil with fashions and accessories for both men and women alike. A little more on the youthful side are the fashions of South Moon Under. There is even a Harley-Davidson store that caters to the passion for the brand. Easy in and easy to park.
Reston Town Center This busy outdoor mall in Reston combines the charm of an Italian piazza and a French boulevard. More than 50 stores and 30 restaurants, an open-air pavilion that features ice-skating in winter, and a movie theater make this a popular destination. 11900 Market St. Reston, VA (703) 689-4699 www.restontowncenter.com
Old Town Alexandria A beautiful colonial town on the Potomac River, just south of DC, features more than 200 boutiques, shops, galleries, and award-winning restaurants, many in renovated 17th century buildings along King Street and on many side streets. Metro: King Street, with connections via the King St. Trolley and/or DASH bus service.
Potomac Mills Outlet Mall 220 manufacturer outlets and discount stores offering brand and designer merchandise like Spiegel, Nordstrom, Polo, Nautica, Saks, Calvin Klein just to name a few. Just off 195 south of Woodbridge. 2700 Potomac Mills Circle Woodbridge, VA
Tysons Corner Center Boasting more than 300 shops, Nordstrom, L.L. Bean, Bloomingdale’s, five fine dining restaurants, and a 16 screen movie theatre, Tysons Corner Center is the area’s largest mall and is adjacent to the Capital Beltway at Chain Bridge Road, McLean (703) 893-9400 www.shoptysons.com
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Shopping
Alexandria Shopping Imperfections Antiques & Other Great Stuff Come to this warm and friendly shop chock full of antiques and “great stuff” all gathered by owner Nancy Deitchman to bring that special touch to your home. Nancy specializes in a wide variety of antique, vintage and collectible furniture with an eye to charm and quality at affordable prices. In addition to all kind of furniture, items include vintage chandeliers, bronzes, lamps, Staffordshire and Hummel figurines, along with rugs and original oil paintings, watercolors and lithographs. Paintings by listed artist Ron Van Sweringen and most recently, by impressionist Zakhar Sasim whose scenes of Washington D.C. and its surrounding landmarks are an exclusive highlight of the art collection. If you don’t find what you are looking for, just ask Nancy – she will be glad to go on the hunt for you – or make it! Monday-Tuesday by appointment; Wednesday-Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 12-5 p.m. 1210 King St. (703) 837-1670
Potomac West Interiors and Antique Gallery
Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery The gallery is located in Studio 18 of the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Old Town Alexandria on the waterfront. Washington DC’s first co-operative fiber gallery has 70 members some of whom are published, teach and have won awards in the fiber arts genre. New juried shows are installed monthly which include original works in jewelry, scarves, clothing, woven, knitted or crocheted items, as well as handmade paper, wall hangings, fiber sculptures and a variety of other innovative work. The gallery is open daily from 11 a.m-5 p.m.. Alexandria Art Nights are the second Thursday of the month with extended hours until 8 p.m. Free admission. 105 N. Union St., Studio 18 (703) 548-0935 www.potomaccraftsmengallery.com
Torpedo Factory Art Center One of the world’s premier art centers – 165 artists in 82 studios, 2 workshops, and 6 galleries! Engage with artists at work in open studios with an opportunity to commission pieces and purchase the finest original paintings, photography, sculpture, ceramics, fiber art and more. Open daily 10am-6pm (Thursdays until 9pm). Free admission. 105 North Union Street (703) 838-4565 www.torpedofactory.org
1677 Crystal Square Arcade, Arlington, VA 22202 703.413.6289 www.shipshatch.com
Collectibles, advertiques, furniture, clocks, lamps, quilts, depression and glassware , china, silver, copper, brass, prints, paintings, nutcrackers, books, records, pottery, bottles, dolls, jewelry, furniture in storage. Inventory sales. Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 12-5 p.m. 1515 Mount Vernon Ave. (703) 519-3555 (703) 548-3354
Why Not? WHY NOT? has toys for all ages. If you’re shopping for newborns, older youngsters or someone who is just young at heart, you are certain to find the perfect gift. MondayThursday: 10:00 to 5:30; Friday-Saturday: 10:00 to 6:00; Sunday: 12:00 to 5:00. 200 King St., (703) 548-4420
• military gifts for retirements & promotions • ships wheels • ships clocks • barometers • tide clocks • military flag cases • shadow boxes • military ball caps & tee shirts • decanters • glasses
All Things Vera Bradley
PLEASURE PLACE Washington’s Premier Erotic Boutique Since 1979
Arts Afire Glass Gallery Arts Afire Glsss Gallery, featured in American Style Magazine and similar publications, offers contemporary American and alternative crafts. Craft art includes beads, jewelry, glass, pottery, fiber, turned wood, kaleidoscopes and furniture; decorative and functional objects. The Gallery features more than 400 award-winning, artisans. Some artists are local, but most are national and international in origin. Many show their work exclusively. Others provide work rarely found elsewhere. A helpful staff stands ready to assist with your selections. Prices are affordable and gift wrapping is complimentary. The gallery is easily accessible. A parking garage is located nearby, as is the King Street Metro Station. Daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday 12-5 p.m. 1117 King St. (703)838-9785
Imagine Artwear Featuring a collection of contemporary clothing, jewelry and crafts by American artists. One of a kind, limited edition and custom order artwear. Great gifts. Winner of Top 100 Retailer of American Craft Award. Regular hours, Monday- Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1124 King St. (703) 548-1461
We specialize in SPICY gifts to HEAT up the holiday season. Georgetown
Ka Lei Pua 125 Mill Street Occoquan, VA
703-491-0635
1063 Wisconsin Ave., NW Washington, D.C. 20007
hours:
Monday - Wednesday 10am - 10pm Thursday - Saturday 10am - 12am Sunday 12pm - 9pm Phone 202-333-8570 • Toll Free 855-753-8787 e-mail pleasureplace1@gmail.com
Shop Online: www.pleasureplace.com Like us on Facebook. In store Workshops monthly.
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Neighborhoods
Neighborhood
Guide Alexandria, Virginia America’s Historic Main Streets hen a young George Washington surveyed the land that would later become his home town, he could not have imagined the fascinating future for which he was laying the foundation. Washington, of course, went on to become the beloved Father of our Country. His tiny hometown became Alexandria, Virginia, today a picturesque community with a rich and varied history located along the Potomac River just minutes from our nation’s Capitol – and one of America’s favorite historic destinations. From its early role as an 18th century seaport and home to America’s patriots, to its transition as a railroad center in the 19th century and its manufacturing days in the early 1900s, Alexandria has always been a center of commerce and innovation. Today it is home to high technology firms, national associations, retail and hospitality businesses, and the performing arts.But, it is the City’s historic ambiance and aura of historic significance combined with its urban sophistication that set Alexandria apart.
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
Its Old Town district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is filled with historic homes and commercial buildings that house trendy shops, galleries and restaurants. Set against this historic backdrop of Old Town, the City’s new Wireless Zone offers one the chance to catch up on emails, while enjoying a latte at an outdoor café. The Eisenhower Valley is home to the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, offices, restaurants, entertainment, and a regional park. The West End is home to historic Fort Ward Civil War Museum, Landmark Mall, restaurants, several hotels, as well as Winkler Botanical Reserve. Alexandria is many things. To the dog lover, it is a destination that caters to man’s best friend. For those who love the arts, it is home to the famed Torpedo Factory Art Center, the Alexandria Symphony, and a season of Fall for the Arts events. For the lover of history, Alexandria honors its Scottish origins and multicultural heritage with parades and festivals throughout the year.
Arlington rlington overlooks downtown D.C., with breathtaking views of monuments and memorials available from many locations. Besides having easy access to D.C. and walking distance to Georgetown, in the heart of Arlington lies the Arlington National Cemetery, final resting place of American war heroes and the Tomb of the Unknowns. Beyond the cemetery lies the Pentagon, home and headquarters for all American military operations. Whether here for business or pleasure, you’ll find plenty of places to relax or be entertained. Visitors can
enjoy nearly every type of cuisine and entertainment served up at dozens of restaurants and clubs seven nights a week. If shopping is your thing, this is the right place. Shopping includes major retailers such as Macy’s and Nordstrom’s as well as hundreds of unique and interesting stores of all sizes. With over 1,100 acres of parkland and more than 100 miles of jogging, hiking and biking trails, you’ll find that Arlington is committed to proving just how green an urban county can be.
Fairfax County also offers a shopping experience to visitors that some claim is the best on the East Coast outside New York City. The county’s six regional malls (Tysons Corner, Tysons Galleria, Fair Oaks Mall, Springfield Mall, Dulles Town Center and Landmark Mall) plus its many dedicated shopping areas such as Reston Town Center, Fair Lakes and Fairfax Square, offer an array
of shopping from Nordstrom’s, Bloomingdales and Macy’s to small specialty boutiques stores to large discounters like Old Navy, DSW Shoes, Target, and Walmart. Whether you are staying in Tysons, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, or Herndon you’ll find everything you need from exquisite dining, a superb shopping, entertainment and historical experience.
Fairfax County rom their beloved Fairfax County homes at Mount Vernon and Gunston Hall, George Washington and George Mason led the patriots in the cause of freedom during the 18th century. In the 21st century, Fairfax County draws visitors from around the world – whether they have an interest in the Civil War, national monuments or even such modern pursuits as shopping or outdoor recreation. Fairfax County’s historical sites tell the wonderful story of the development and growth of our nation. George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens is the most visited historic home in America. Gunston Hall, the home of George Mason, paints a vivid picture through tours and exhibits, of how this founding father was instrumental in developing strategies that allowed our young nation to prosper. The history doesn’t stop at our founding father’s doorstep as multiple Civil War sites await your exploration such as Sully Historic site, St. Mary’s Church, Chantilly Battlefield, and multiple Civil War trails in and around Historic Herndon and Centreville. If you want a more futuristic journey while in Fairfax County, the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center is the place for you. Over 120 aircraft, 135 spacecraft, and many other historic artifacts are on display. There is also an IMAX Theater, flight simulators, and informational programs going on throughout the year to give visitors one of the most complete museum experiences found anywhere. With its close proximity to Washington, D.C. many visitors to Fairfax County are surprised to find out that over 30,000 acres of parkland have been set aside so that nature can still be enjoyed today as it has been since Fairfax County’s founding. Great Falls National Park greets visitors with cascading rapids and several 20 foot waterfalls, with a total 76 foot drop in elevation over a distance of less than a mile. Nature lovers can find seclusion amidst Northern Virginia’s urban environment by visiting prime wildlife sanctuaries such as Huntley Meadows Park, Mason Neck State Park and Wildlife Refuge, Burke Lake and Pohick Bay Regional Park. Fairfax County is even home to the only National Park dedicated solely to the performing arts. Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts allows concertgoers to experience the great outdoors while enjoying music from some of the most famous musical artists in the world.
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Museums & Attractions
Alexandria Attractions
1
Ramsay House Visitor’s Center
Follow the signs to Ramsay House, the home of William Ramsay, Scottish merchant and city founder. Here you will find detailed brochures of historic attractions, a walking tour map and guided tour information. Free. Hours: 9-5pm every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day 221 King Street, 703-746-4200
2
Christ Church
Alexandria’s oldest church, “the Church Nigh Alexandria” was attended by George Washington and Robert E. Lee. Completed in 1773 this Colonial Georgian landmark is an active Episcopal parish today. Historic churchyard gravesites range from Yankee seamen in 1771 to Confederate prisoners-of-war. Charming gift shop. Open to the public. Donations accepted. Hours: 9-4 daily, 2-4:30 Sunday.
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Carlyle House
A lovely, imposing mansion built by John Carlyle in 1752. It was here that 5 royal governors were summoned by General Braddock to find a way to induce the colonists to pay for his campaign against the French and Indians. The Stamp Act which followed eventually provoked the American Revolution. Open to the public. Admission. Hours: 10-4 Tuesday through Saturday, noon-4pm Sundays. Last tour at 4 pm. 121 North Fairfax Street, 703-549-2997
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Boyhood Home of Robert E. Lee
Cameron and North Washington Streets, 703-549-1450
Before the War of 1812, Light Horse Harry Lee brought his wife and their five children to live in this beautifully furnished house, built in 1795. Robert E. Lee spent his growing-up years as a student here, and although currently a private residence, commemorative plaques relate the fascinating history of this historic home and famous residents. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 607 Oronoco Street, 703-548-8454
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7
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and the adjoining City Hotel (c. 1785 and 1792) provide the visitor with two outstanding examples of Colonial architecture. The Tavern was frequented by George Washington and was the site of the festive Birthnight Celebration. Today, Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant offers authentic fare and the servers wear 18th-century attire. The original Tavern houses a museum of colonial furnishings. Open to the public. Admission. Hours: 10-5pm Tuesday-Saturday, 1-5 Sunday & Monday. Last tour at 4:15.
134 North Royal Street 703-746-4242
The Lyceum
Alexandria’s History Museum. Originally built in 1839 as a lecture hall and reading room, the building today offers exhibitions, regular concerts and lectures, and The Lyceum Museum Shop. Open Mon.-Sat., 10-5pm and Sun., 1-5pm, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. Donation Accepted. 201 S. Washington Street, 703-746-4994
9
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
This apothecary shop was in operation from 1796 to 1933 and has a remarkable collection of herbal botanicals, hand blown glass, and medical equipment. Its manufacturing room is intact from the turn of the 19th century. Archival materials give a glimpse into history, with names of famous customers in documents. Admission. Wed.Sat., 11-4, Sunday, 1-4. 105-107 South Fairfax Street, 703-746-3852
11
Lloyd House
This gracious Georgian home was constructed in 1796 by John Wise, an early tavern keeper and tanner. In 1832, John Lloyd, a successful merchant bought the house and his family remained here until 1918. Lloyd House served as barracks for WAVES, a rooming house, and a library. The building now house the Office of Historic Alexandria. Open Monday through Friday, Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm. 220 N. Washington Street. 703-746-4554
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Lee-Fendall House
Philip Fendall built this 1785 mansion where Light Horse Harry Lee wrote the farewell address from Alexandrians to George Washington when Washington left Mount Vernon to become the first president. There are guided tours daily. Admission. Hours: 10-4pm Tuesday through Saturday, 12-4 Sunday. Last tour 3:45. Closed Monday. (Occasional private parties on weekends) 614 Oronoco Street,. 703-548-1789
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Torpedo Factory Art Center
Once an actual torpedo factory, this jewel of Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront is now a premier art center attracting more than 500,000 visitors a year. Browse 6 public galleries and engage with more than 165 artists in open studios. Also home to The Art League School and the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. Free. Hours: 10am6pm daily, Thursdays until 9pm. 105 North Union Street, 703-838-4565
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
14
Alexandria Black History Museum
Founded in 1983 by the Parker-Gray Alumni Association and the Alexandria Society for the Preservation of Black Heritage, the Museum documents the history of Alexandria’s African American community. The Center is housed in the Robert H. Robinson Library, which was built in 1940 as a segregated library for the black community. Open 10-4 Tues. through Saturday. Donations Accepted. 902 Wythe Street, 703-746-4356
15
Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site
Fort Ward Museum houses a fine Civil War collection. Also to be enjoyed are a 45.2 acre historic park with restored bastion, picnic tables and an outdoor amphitheater. Free. Hours: 9-5pm Tuesday through Saturday, 12-5pm Sunday. 4301 West Braddock Road. 703-746-4848
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George Washington Mason National Memorial
Towering over the King Street Metro Station at Russell Rd., the Memorial provides a dazzling view of Alexandria, the Potomac River and surrounding areas. The top (330 feet high) can be reached by elevator. George Washington memorabilia on display. Daily 9-5pm. 703-683-2007
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George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is America’s most popular historic estate. Visitors explore history first hand here, tour the Mansion and get to know the “real” George Washington. More than a dozen outbuildings are meticulously restored, including a major greenhouse, stables, slave quarters, and kitchen. The 500-acre estate also features museum exhibitions, active archeological digs, the Slave Memorial and Burial Ground, and new George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site. 703-780-2000, www.mountvernon.org
19
Freedom House
Built around 1812 as a residence, this three story brick and adjoining buildings served as the offices of Franklin and Armfield Slave Market. From 1828 to 1861 more than 10,000 slaves were sold, over 3,750 of which were sent to work on cotton and sugar plantations throughout the South. Early in the Civil War the house was a military prison for black soldiers. By the end of the war it was a hospital serving black soldiers and contraband slaves who fled the South. Free. Hours: 9-5pm Monday-Friday. 1315 Duke Street, 703-836-2858
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Neighborhoods
Georgetown ich in history and culture, Georgetown is a charming and vibrant neighborhood, located in the Northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C. along the Potomac waterfront. Once a placid 18th century port, it is now a hip, action-packed town where you’re sure to find trendy restaurants, designer shops, ultra-cool bars, picturesque gardens, historic homes-turned museums, and a healthy dose of political intrigue.
Georgetown is home to many historic landmarks including Dumbarton House, Tudor Place, and Old Stone House, the oldest original structure in Washington, D.C. On the west end of the neighborhood is the main campus of Georgetown University, founded as a Jesuit private university in 1789. The campus encompasses over 100 acres, accommodating student residences, athletic facilities and the medical school.
Georgetown was founded in 1751, and retained its separate municipality until 1871, when its 10-mile square boundaries were eventually assimilated into the city of Washington, D.C. Georgetown grew into a thriving port, facilitating the trade of tobacco and other goods from colonial Maryland along the Potomac River and C&O canal. As Georgetown was founded during the reign of King George II of Great Britain, some speculate that the town was named after him. Another theory is that the town was named after its founders, George Gordon and George Beall.
Surrounded by parkland and green spaces that serve as buffers from development in adjacent neighborhoods, Georgetown is situated on bluffs that overlook the Potomac. As a result, there are some rather steep grades running north to south, and for that reason, there is no metro station in Georgetown! The primary commercial corridors of Georgetown include M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, offering high fashion stores, outdoor bars, and restaurants with ring-side views of local boat and crew races.
National Harbor he area’s newest destination has popped-up on the Potomac, minutes from the Woodrow Wilson Bridge on Interstate 95. This spectacular urban-waterfront community offers incredible views of downtown Washington, DC and Old Town Alexandria. It is an exciting, sprawling community that includes fine restaurants, unparalleled shopping, pedestrian friendly plazas, three piers and harbors and an array of outdoor artwork which features the 70 ft long sculpture “The Awakening,” by J. Steward Johnson. Town Center includes familiar national retailers and many unique local boutiques. Restaurants range from white tablecloth restaurants to casual cafes, both acclaimed national restaurants as well as local and regional eateries, 2,000 SF of retail, dining, and entertainment space. You can set sail on lunch, dinner or sightseeing cruises and experience the beauty and splendor of the Potomac. During the summer, National Harbor’s Fleet Street comes to life at night with live music, dance and interactive entertainment. Visitors enjoy performances of jazz, blues and Top 40 music by national, regional and local entertainers every Friday evening all summer long. Check out all the unique and various
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
activities during the year such as the Yacht Show, Food and Wine Festival, the Weekly American Marketplace and entertainment such as the “Ice” show. Easily accessible by auto, there is also water taxi service from Old Town Alexandria, Georgetown and Mount Vernon. www.nationalharbor.com
D ining
Penn Quarter hether you’re a long time visitor or brand new to the sights of the city, there’s a new vibrant area of the city to explore. You’re in for a real treat and probably a surprise – when you visit the Penn Quarter downtown. Once down-trodden the neighborhood along 7th Street, N.W., extending from Chinatown to Pennsylvania Avenue not only has been revitalized but, in fact, is becoming the heartbeat of the city. The opening of the Verizon Center in 1997, which brought the Washington Wizards and Capitals to town from the suburbs, surged like an electric shock through the area. Suddenly, wherever you turn, there is something to see: a fascinating portal into the world of espionage at the International Spy Museum, the wonders of science revealed through fabulous interactive exhibits at the Mariam Koshland Science Museum, standing next to the life-like Barack Obama figure at Madame Tussunds, the first federal art collection at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the newly reopened National Portrait Gallery and the Washington Area Law
Museum’s adjoining café and incredible offshoot, Zola, to fan favorites like the ESPN Zone and Hard Rock Café.
Chinatown – Penn Quarter Enforcement Officers Memorial. And this just scratches the surface. Penn Quarter is at the center of a vibrant theater community that includes the Shakespeare Theater, the venerable Ford’s Theater, Warner Theater, National Theater, as well as the smaller but as exciting Wooly Mammoth Theater and Warehouse.
Street transportation is plentiful, but the Chinatown-Gallery Place Metro stop is one of the main hubs in the region’s world class subway system. It has sparked a revived Chinatown, the explosive growth of myriad shops and restaurants in Gallery Place and the luxury condominiums seemingly sprouting up everywhere around Penn Quarter. The city has long been one of the restaurant capitals of the world, from the Spy
Prince William County Manassas Stop
MANASSAS
Historic OCCOQUAN
In between are restaurants with some of the most sought-after tables in the city, funky kaiten sushi outposts, the terrific classics in Chinatown and the best steaks and seafood you can find. If it weren’t for the national monuments, the Capitol and other attractions down on the Mall, the bustling Penn Quarter would be reason enough to visit Washington. With DC Metro as your guide, we invite you to explore.
ocated just 30 miles from Washington, DC, Prince William County is perhaps best known for its unforgettable role in shaping American history during the Civil War. In July of 1861, Union and Confederate forces faced off near Manassas Junction for the first major battle of the Civil War. Union forces expected an easy victory at Manassas; instead they lost 900 men in a crushing defeat. In 1862, the blue and gray clashed again and proved to be one of the war’s bloodiest days; 24,000 men lost their lives as the Confederates claimed another victory. Visitors to Prince William County can traverse the hallowed grounds of Manassas Battlefield Park and rediscover the timeless stories of courage, loss and determination. Today, the county plays host to contests of a different, more genial type. Golf courses are the new battlefields in Northern Virginia. With 12 golf courses offering a wide variety of different play settings, travelers can tee up along the Occoquan River, in the foothills of the Bull Run Mountains, on the banks of Lake Manassas or near the historic Potomac River. For those that want to enjoy the natural beauty the destination offers there are two national parks, one state park and four regional parks. You can stroll historic streets in Occoquan and Old Town Manassas and visit the boutiques, antique shops and art galleries that give these towns a warm and hospitable feel. For the shoppers looking for luxury products at discount prices, Potomac Mills Mall provides some of the best value shopping in the region. From entertainment options to family attractions– there’s an endless array of exciting things to see and do in a destination where “history loves company”.
December, 2013 – January, 2014 Dc Metro
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Using Metro
Getting Around
t’s the best, most convenient and stressfree way to get around the metropolitan area. You can explore the city and its Virginia and Maryland suburbs without the hassles of traffic and parking or the expense of gas.
Farecards and Passes Each person needs his/her own farecard or pass to ride Metrorail. A pass or farecard cannot be shared with another person. Farecards hold between $1.50 and $45 and are available at fare vending machines in Metrorail stations. You can buy farecards worth $10, $15 or $20 online. If you have a group, call Group Sales at 202-962-1488 for assistance. Customers can also purchase a SmarTrip® card, which is a permanent, rechargeable farecard. It’s like a credit card, and is embedded with a computer chip that keeps track of the value of the card. SmarTrip® cards are usable on either bus or rail and must be used to pay for parking at Metrorail stations. Purchase at Metro sales offices or outlets for $5. SmarTrip® cards are also sold for $10 (with $5 value loaded) through vending machines at all stations where parking is available. Use Metro’s Trip Planner online if you wish to determine your exact fare and route.
$14.00 One Day Pass This Pass is valid for one day of unlimited Metrorail travel; no time restrictions. Pass expires at the end of the operating day: 3 am on weekends, midnight on weeknights. Buy online or at any Metro station from a Passes/Farecards machine. At Metro Sales Offices – Metro sales offices are located at the Metro Center station, the Pentagon station, and Metro Headquarters at 600 5th Street, NW, Washington, DC. Metro sales offices carry all visitor’s passes and senior/disabled farecards. Parking at Metro: Metro operates parking facilities at 42 Metrorail stations. All 42 stations offer daily or hourly parking.
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DC METRO December, 2013 – January, 2014
on
Yo u r hat to Wg E y e s S h o u l d A p p e ar? rin e d
W
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