Washington D.C. NOW Visitor Guide 2022-2023

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Scan here to plan your visit. What’s in it will surprise you. 25% OFF general admission with code NOW25 JUST TWO BLOCKS OFF THE NATIONAL MALL.

DC is back, baby! Everything is open, visitors are once again flocking to their favorite memorials and museums, and restaurants are regularly opening rather than closing. With so many anniversaries to celebrate there couldn’t be a better time to come!

The Smithsonian Institution just finished its year-long 175th anniversary with several events to culminate the milestone. 2022 is the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln Memorial, and you can learn plenty of little-known facts here (like how 40% of the monument is actually underground). People think of musicals, plays, and other performances when they hear about the Kennedy Center, but it's so much more than that! The Nation's 35th president, John F. Kennedy, had a huge impact in creating a place where all forms of art could shine. Learn how the Kennedy Center came to be and its 50th Anniversary season in this issue.

As always, NOW lets you know where the newest and hippest places are to dine, and you won’t want to miss the list we’ve compiled for you in this issue, from the newest restaurants, to all the best pizza places, we have got you covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fall is the perfect time to get outdoors and not worry about extreme DC temps. What better place to go than Rock Creek Park? There are so many activities (most of them free) and NOW gives you plenty of options for how to spend the perfect fall day. We are so happy you’re here!

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Above: Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument

Front Cover: Lincoln Memorial

Editor Brittany Ryan

Designer

Matt Van Dyke

The NOW Washington DC Guide is a tri-annual publication of Essential Media Partners. Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission. While every effort is made to ensure the timeliness and accuracy of all information and material, Essential Media Partners assumes no responsibility for accuracy, completeness, errors, changes, or omissions. For more information, contact us at: info@essentialmediapartners.com

2 nowguides.com Contents LINCOLN MEMORIAL AT 100 MUSEUM OF THE BIBLE DC MEMORIALS KENNEDY CENTER AT 50 SMITHSONIAN AT 175 DC DAY ESCAPE - ANNAPOLIS SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION ROCK CREEK PARK NOW SPOTLIGHT: NCA BEST NEW RESTAURANTS DC NEIGHBORHOODS BEST PIZZA HOW TO GET AROUND THINGS TO DO MAPS METRO SYSTEM NATIONAL MALL WASHINGTON, DC REGIONAL MAP OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 4 6 10 20 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 �4 46 8 20 �2 24 45
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nowguides.com 3 Ilili YOU’LL DISCOVER FAR MORE THAN A MANSION. Explore the first president’s historic Mansion, gardens and farm as you connect with more than 200 years of history. Save 20% on admission at mountvernon.org with code NOWVG20. mountvernon.org

“Four Score and Seven Years Ago...” a line from one of the most famous speeches in our nation’s history – the beginning of the Gettysburg Address. It was given by our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, who was also one of our most prolific presidents. This year we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln Memorial, as it first welcomed visitors in May of 1922.

While you probably know certain Lincoln facts, like he issued the Emancipation Proclamation which ended slavery, that you can find him on the back of a $5 bill, and that he is still our tallest President to date (6’4",) here are some lesser known facts that are specific to his memorial. Store these for your next trivia night!

Efforts to create a fitting tribute to Abraham Lincoln began immediately after the leader’s assassination in 1865, but since there was much disagreement on the elements of the memorial, it wasn’t completed until 1922 - more than 50 years after the fact.

The 19th century design was much more elaborate than the finished product. Original plans for the memorial included a 12-foot likeness of Lincoln signing the Emancipation Proclamation and a collection of 36 bronze figures housed within a 70-foot structure.

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Richard Nixon once visited the Lincoln Memorial at 4 a.m. to debate the Vietnam War. D.C.'s Union Station was a proposed alternate location for the Lincoln Memorial.

Alternative designs for a tribute to Lincoln included a traditional Mayan temple, a Mesopotamian ziggurat, and an Egyptian pyramid. Can you imagine if this was the final design?

About 40 percent of the Lincoln Memorial is underground. When viewers bask in the 99-foot-tall, 202-footwide Lincoln Memorial, they’re only seeing a little more than half of the construction. Rooted beneath the ground is the piece’s foundation, which extends 66 feet into the earth at its deepest point to support the weight of the marble structure.

Lincoln's son was at the monument's unveiling. In the end, the memorial took eight years to build. Among those present to observe the Lincoln Memorial’s official dedication in May 1922 was 78-year-old Robert Todd Lincoln, the only surviving son of the former president.

The memorial’s walls and columns tilt inward. Although the memorial looks perfectly symmetrical, it’s an optical illusion. The structure’s exterior walls, facades and columns were purposely built to lean slightly inward, according to the National Park Service, “to compensate for perspective distortions which would otherwise make the memorial appear asymmetrical.”

Not many people know that the Reflecting Pool is formally called the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and that it was finished around the same time as the monument itself. From the right vantage point, visitors can see both the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial in the reflection of the pool's water.

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Some information taken from the 2015 Mental Floss article by M. Arbeiter Above: Architectural drawing showing interior of the Lincoln Memorial, with the seated Lincoln statue, as elevation. Henry Bacon, Architect (1866-1924)

Museum of the Bible Spotlight

Since opening its doors in Washington, DC, in 2017, Museum of the Bible has welcomed millions of visitors to enjoy an immersive, personalized experience with one of the most influential books of all time.

Located just three blocks from the US Capitol, Museum of the Bible aims to be among the most technologically advanced and engaging museums in the world. Inside, you’ll experience interactive galleries, one-of-a-kind attractions and presentations, and hundreds of biblical artifacts that convey the global impact and fascinating history of the Bible.

On the Impact of the Bible Floor, the Bible’s influence is shown in familiar though often surprising places, including the arts, science, government, education, and throughout American culture.

Make sure to ride Washington Revelations, where you will virtually soar over the nation’s capital and see the profound impact of the Bible on Washington, DC’s monuments and buildings. This floor includes the Bible in the World gallery and the Bible in America exhibit.

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The Stories of the Bible Floor offers the THEA award-winning Hebrew Bible Experience, a 30-minute journey through the stories of the Hebrew Bible that will take you from the moment of creation to the return of the Judean community from the Babylonian exile. The floor also features a re-creation of a Galilean village during the time of Jesus, where our living history interpreters will welcome you to their homes and share about Jewish culture, the Roman occupation of Judaea, and a new rabbi whose teachings are stirring up controversy. The story of the New Testament, of how the followers of Jesus became a thriving community, is told through film in a specially designed 270-degree theater.

Finally, the History of the Bible Floor features hundreds of artifacts documenting the Bible's preservation, translation, and transmission across the centuries. Drive History’s Dave Stotts tells the story in an engaging and entertaining way in an introductory film and in mini theaters throughout the floor. Trace the Bible from the earliest texts, available only to a small number of people in just a few languages, to the Bible’s global spread and its translation into thousands of tongues today. The exhibit also offers the guests a chance to chat with a master Torah scribe about the process of copying a new Torah scroll and to hear from the museum’s curators and specialists on a variety of topics relating to the Bible and the museum.

Museum of the Bible hosts a rotating slate of special exhibitions and performances in our theater. Be sure to check the website to see what’s on view and what events might be happening during your visit. Make plans to visit Museum of the Bible today. What’s in it will surprise you!

Museum of the Bible

400 4th St. SW

Hours: 7 days a week; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

www.museumoftheBible.org

(866) 430-6682

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8 nowguides.com VISITOR TIP: Find information regarding metrobus and metrorail service changes and delays on Twitter: @metrorailinfo | @metrobusinfo Metro Map

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery's most iconic memorial, stands atop a hill overlooking Washington, D.C. The neoclassical, white marble sarcophagus depicts three carved Greek figures representing Peace, Victory, and Valor.

The Tomb sarcophagus stands above the grave of the Unknown Soldier of World War I. To the west are the crypts for an Unknown Soldier from World War II and the Korean War. A white marble slab flush with the plaza marks each crypt.

Thousands come from all over the globe to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The tomb has been patrolled continuously, 24/7, since 1930.

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Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Built in 1982, this memorial honors the men and women who served in the controversial Vietnam War (19551975) and chronologically lists the names of 58,318 Americans who gave their lives in service to their country. The memorial includes the Vietnam Veterans Memorial “Wall," the “Three Servicemen Statue," and the “Vietnam Women's Memorial."

Those declared dead are marked by a diamond; those MIA are marked by a cross. If the person currently marked as MIA returns alive, a circle is placed around the cross. If his remains are identified, a diamond is superimposed over the cross.

The names of the first men killed (in 1959) start at the highest point of the wall, on the right arm, and continue toward the shorter end. The names resume on the far, short end of the left arm, continuing back toward the junction of the two walls. This way the first deaths and the last deaths (May 15, 1975) meet in the middle. Directories are placed near the wall for visitors to look up names.

A common ritual is for visitors to take a piece of paper and place it over a name on the wall and rub a wax crayon or graphite pencil over it as a memento. The memorial wall dedication in 1982 was accompanied by a 56-hour reading at Washington National Cathedral of all the engraved names of the dead.

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Located in between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall. Open 24 hours. Metro Station: Smithsonian. The best photos of the Lincoln Memorial can be taken here.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial

World-renowned architect Frank Gehry's design is a combination of grand architectural elements, sculpture and green space, which highlights Eisenhower from his humble childhood in America's heartland, to his decisive role as Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in World War II and his two terms as President.

The Memorial features three bronze sculptures of Eisenhower by sculptor Sergey Eylanbekov, stone bas relief images and inscription panels with words from notable Eisenhower addresses.

Framing the entire park and Memorial is a first-of-its-kind stainless steel woven tapestry by artist Tomas Osinski, which depicts the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc on the Normandy coastline in peacetime.

NOW take our advice on this…

While artistic and unique during the day, go at night when the lights are on. It is absolutely majestic!

Located in Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River.

Hours: 8am-5pm

Metro Station: Arlington National Cemetery

Free admission. Tram Tours Available.

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World War II Memorial

The WWII Memorial honors the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the U.S., the more than 400,000 who died, and all who supported the war effort from home. Symbolic of the defining event of the 20th Century, the memorial is a monument to the spirit, sacrifice, and commitment of the American people.

The memorial is divided into two sides, representing the Atlantic and Pacific fronts, and 56 pillars. Each pillar has two wreaths, one inside and one outside. One wreath consists of oak leaves, representing industrial might. The other consists of wheat, representing the agricultural might of the U.S.

From the steps of the Lincoln Memorial the World War II Memorial is almost invisible. This is not by accident. The designers wanted to preserve the picturesque view from the far end of the National Mall.

The 4,048 Gold Stars on the Freedom Wall honors the 416,800 American servicemen who died in uniform during WWII (each star represeting 100 service members).

Look for “Kilroy” hiding on the outside of the memorial on the side closest to Lincoln. Kilroy was a symbol of American Serviceman, and writing “Kilroy was here” was a claim of victory.

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Photo Credit: Nicolas Raymond via Flickr Located in between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall. Open 24 hours. Metro Station: Smithsonian. The best photos of the Lincoln Memorial can be taken here.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Built in 1995, the Korean memorial pays tribute to the soldiers who fought in the Korean War (1950-1953). The main memorial is in the form of a triangle intersecting a circle. More than 2500 images of troops moving by sea, land and air are sandblasted onto the surface of the wall, while a squadron of 19 stainless steel figures, including members from each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, are situated in the center of the memorial space.

When the 1,000-pound statues are reflected on the granite wall, there appear 38 soldiers, which represents the 38th parallel, the dividing line of North and South Korea during the conflict.

Located between the Lincoln and WWII memorials on the National Mall. NOW recommends viewing this memorial on the same trip to the World War II Memorial.

The Wall lists all 22 members of the United Nations that contributed to the war efforts, as well as a granite wall that states “Freedom Is Not Free.” This sentiment reflects the struggle and sacrifice of American soldiers in securing our freedoms when fighting overseas.

No visit is complete without a visit to the Pool of Remembrance, which has inscriptions that list the number of soldiers killed, wounded, missing in action and held as prisoners during the Korean War. The shallow pool, which is 30 feet in diameter, is surrounded by trees positioned so that the sun beautifully reflects off of the water.

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Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial was built to honor the 3rd President of the United States and Founding Father, Thomas Jefferson. He was a DemocraticRepublican who thought the national government should have a limited role in citizens’ lives. During his two terms in office (1801-1809), the U.S. purchased the Louisiana Territory and Lewis and Clark explored the vast new acquisition.

Although Jefferson promoted individual liberty, he was also a slave owner. After leaving office, he retired to his Virginia plantation, Monticello, and helped found the University of Virginia.

Construction commenced in 1938 amid significant opposition–many Washingtonians opposed the site because it did not align with L'Enfant's original plan for the city; and many well-established elm and cherry trees, including rare stock donated by Japan in 1912, were targeted for removal under the memorial's original plan. Some opposition included protestors chaining themselves to cherry trees.

The protests ultimately helped limit the projected footprint of the new memorial, so that it would peacefully co-exist with the spring-blooming cherry orchard flanking and abutting it.

Located at the south end of the tidal basin. Open 24 hours a day. Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom, Smithsonian. NOW recommends visiting the two memorials on the opposite page during the same trip to the Jefferson Memorial, walking around the Tidal Basin.

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Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and social activist who became a notable figure during the U.S. civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until he was assassinated in 1968. He played a pivotal role in ending the legal segregation of African American citizens in the U.S., influencing the creation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, and is famously known for his iconic “I Have a Dream" speech that he delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington in 1963.

Located between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, along the tidal basin. Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom, Smithsonian. The memorial’s official address alludes to the landmark 1964 Civil Rights Act.

King's memorial is the first to honor an African American individual on the National Mall. The space is a place to contemplate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy: a non-violent philosophy striving for freedom, justice, and equality.

The Memorial’s location along the line connecting the Thomas Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials helps to reinforce the connection between these three leaders at three important moments for civil rights in our nation’s history: from the promise that “all men are created equal,” to the freeing of slaves, to the final push for full and equal rights.

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Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial was built to honor the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The memorial has been the site of many famous speeches, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, and is visited by more than seven million annually. 36 states border the top of the exterior marble (the number of states at the time of Lincoln's death).

When viewers bask in the 99-foot-tall, 202-foot-wide Lincoln Memorial, they’re really only seeing a little more than half of the construction. The piece’s foundation, which extends 66 feet into the earth at its deepest point, supports the weight of the marble structure.

Lincoln Rumors – what do you believe?:

• Legend has it that Lincoln is shown using sign language to represent his initials, with his left hand shaped to form an “A” and his right hand to form an “L“. The National Park Service denies this theory, calling them urban legends. However, there are a lot of facts to back this claim up! Like this one...

• ...Lincoln himself was particularly invested in the cause of furthering the study of sign language and had authorized the creation and signed the charter of Gallaudet University, the school for the deaf, also in DC. Daniel Chester French, designer of Lincoln's Statue, also designed the school as well.

• Some claim that the face of General Robert E. Lee was carved onto the back of Lincoln’s head, and looks back across the Potomac toward his former home, Arlington House, now within the bounds of Arlington National Cemetery. If you see people trying to get a good look at the back of his head while visiting the Memorial, now you know why!

Located at the west end of the National Mall. Open 24 hours a day. The early evening and morning hours are beautiful and tranquil times to visit.

Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom and Smithsonian

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Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Known simply as FDR, Franklin Delano Roosevelt guided America through the Great Depression and World War II as our nation's 32nd president.

It traces 12 years of U.S. history through a sequence of four outdoor rooms and gardens (one for each of FDR's terms of office), animated by water, stone, and sculpture. As one moves from room to room, the waterfalls become larger and more complex, reflecting the increasing complexity of a presidency marked by the vast upheavals of economic depression and world war.

Twenty two quotations from Roosevelt's presidency are engraved in the red South Dakota granite walls of the memorial.

Fala, the Scottish Terrier, was quite possibly America’s favorite presidential pet. So popular, in fact, that his statue receives a prominent position next to the statue of his owner, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, in the third room of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The bronze statue of Murray the Outlaw of Falahill, Fala’s full name, is the only presidential pet honored in such a way.

This memorial is located between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, along the tidal basin. Metro Stations: Foggy

Bottom, Smithsonian

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DC War Memorial

Chances are you pass it at least once during your time in DC. It doesn’t stick out, there are never large crowds around it; it doesn’t look anything like the massive memorials and monuments you have been visiting. But just steps away from Independence Avenue, surrounded by a grove of trees, sits the DC War Memorial - a DC hidden gem.

Officially named the District of Columbia War Memorial, it commemorates the 26,000 citizens of Washington, D.C., who served during World War I. The domed peristyle Doric temple made of Vermont marble stands as the only memorial on the National Mall dedicated to local residents.

Inscribed in the base of the memorial are the 499 names of Washingtonians who lost their lives during World War I. The structure was intended to serve as a bandstand and is large enough to accommodate the entire U.S. Marine Band. In 1931, President Herbert Hoover dedicated the memorial in an address at 11 am. That was the same hour—the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month—the war ended, otherwise known as Armistice Day- or the official end of the World War.

After many years of neglect, the memorial was restored and reopened in November 2011, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014.

Located on the National Mall just west of 17th Street. Metro Station: Smithsonian Free admission.

The DC War Memorial was the first memorial on the Mall to list women and African Americans with white men.

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Arlington National Cemetery

Since 1864, Arlington National Cemetery has been a national shrine to those who have honorably served our Nation during times of war – including every military conflict in American history – and during times of peace. The cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 active duty service members, veterans and their families. The original cemetery was 200 acres, and has since grown to 639 acres. The grounds honor those who have served our nation and provide a sense of beauty and peace for our guests. Rolling green hills are dotted with trees that are hundreds of years in age, complementing the gardens found throughout the property.

Located across the Potomac River in Virginia.

Hours: 8am-5pm

Metro Station: Arlington National Cemetery

Free admission. Tram Tours Available.

Arlington officially became a national cemetery on June 15, 1864, by order of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. Arlington became a segregated cemetery, just like all national cemeteries at the time, and remained segregated by race and rank until 1948, when President Harry S. Truman desegregated the military.

Guests are encouraged to download the app ANC Explorer, to help navigate gravesites and places of interest, obtain walking directions and photos, and find events. The app is available on the cemetery’s website, on-site kiosks or through online app stores.

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The Kennedy Center at 50

The Kennedy Center has been celebrating its 50th Anniversary this past year! It first opened to the public in September 1971. However, its roots date back to 1958, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed bipartisan legislation creating a National Cultural Center Act that had four basic components: it authorized the Center's construction, spelled out an artistic mandate to present a wide variety of both classical and contemporary performances, specified an educational mission for the Center, and stated that the Center was to be an independent facility, self-sustaining, and privately funded.

A lifelong supporter and advocate of the arts, President John F. Kennedy frequently steered the public discourse toward what he called "our contribution to the human spirit." Kennedy took the lead in raising funds for the new National Cultural Center, kicking off a $30 million fundraising campaign in November of 1962, holding special White House luncheons and receptions, appointing his wife Jacqueline and Mrs. Eisenhower as honorary co-chairwomen, and in other ways placing the prestige of his office firmly behind the endeavor.

Two months after President Kennedy’s assassination, by an Act of Congress signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on January 23, 1964, the nation’s National Cultural Center was designated as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. By this Act, President Kennedy’s devotion to the advancement of the performing arts in the United States was recognized.

To fulfill the mission as the nation’s cultural center, the Kennedy Center presents world-class art by the artists that define our culture today, delivers powerful arts education opportunities nationwide, and embodies the ideals of President Kennedy in all the Center’s activities provided throughout the living memorial. The Kennedy Center presents more than 2,000 performances in a typical year, in over 12 genres and stages — including free events and exhibits.

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The Kennedy Center

SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS:

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This year-long free exhibit celebrates the Center’s rich history through the people who have brought it to life these past fifty years. Engaging video, powerful visuals, and novel archival content tell the story of the Kennedy Center’s history in the voices and memories of the leaders, staff, artists, donors, audiences, and larger community that make it a “living” memorial.

Curated by International Programming, this exhibit publicly launches the Kennedy Center Archives as a resource for preserving and providing access to the Kennedy Center’s legacy. Enjoy in person, or from the comfort of your own home as much of this exhibit is also available for access online!

Opening this September in the Center’s atrium comes a new permanent 7,500-square foot exhibit exploring Kennedy’s presidency and commitment to the arts. This immersive exhibit of archival photographs, videos, and the latest in digital technology explores how the arts infused and informed the Kennedy presidency. Visitors to the new JFK Gallery will be able to:

• Trace the power of the arts in influencing politics, culture, and style.

• Step into the words of Presiden Kennedy’s speeches.

• Create your own guest list for a White House dinner.

• Capture an artistic selfie in the style of President Kennedy’s portrait by artist Elaine de Kooning.

The Kennedy Center invites everyone to share a memory of their experience at the Kennedy Center over the past 50 years on social media using #KenCen50th and #KenCenStories on Instagram and Twitter.

For more information and hours, visit: kennedy-center.org

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Smithsonian's 175th Anniversary

NOW reported on a gigantic feat in our last summer issue, however due to Covid restrictions, locals and tourists alike were unable to celebrate this giant milestone. On August 10, 1846, the U.S. Senate passed the act organizing the Smithsonian Institution, Therefore August of 2021 marked its 175th anniversary!

THE HISTORY:

James Smithson (1765–1829), a British scientist, drew up his will in 1826 naming his nephew, Henry James Hungerford, as beneficiary. Smithson stipulated that, should the nephew die without heirs (as he did in 1835), the estate would go to the United States to found “at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.”

On July 1, 1836, Congress accepted the legacy bequeathed to the nation by James Smithson and pledged the faith of the United States to the charitable trust. In 1838, following approval of the bequest by the British courts, the United States received Smithson’s estate – bags of gold sovereigns, then the equivalent of $515,169 (almost $16 million today).

On Aug. 10, 1846, an Act of Congress signed by President James K. Polk established the Smithsonian Institution. Just think, if Henry had had a kid, none of this would have ever happened!

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The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum & research complex, with nineteen museums with over 137 million objects, and nine research centers across the globe. Explore resources on the history of the Institution, beginning with James Smithson’s 1829 bequest to the people of the United States.

Which museum came first?

The Smithsonian Institution Building, commonly known as the “Castle,” was designed by architect James Renwick (yes, of The Renwick Gallery!) and constructed between 1847 and 1855. The Castle houses the Smithsonian Visitor Center and offices, as well as the James Smithson crypt.

How big is the Smithsonian collection?

The total number of objects, works of art, and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at nearly 155 million, of which nearly 146 million are scientific specimens at the National Museum of Natural History. Many artifacts are donated to the Smithsonian by individuals, private collectors and federal agencies; others come to the collections through field expeditions, bequests, exchanges with other museums, and purchases.

What’s next for the Smithsonian Institution?

Congress passed legislation in late December 2020 establishing two new museums at the Smithsonian: the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum. Both are in early planning stages.

FEATURED EXHIBITIONS:

For more information on all Smithsonian museums, visit: si.edu

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“It is in knowledge that man has found his greatness and his happiness”
-James Smithson
The Outwin 2022: American Portraiture Today National Portrait Gallery Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience. National Museum of African American History and Culture ¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States National Museum of American History

Established in 1649, and from its earliest days as a colonial capital city, Annapolis was known as the “Athens of America." Today it is a place to spend the day (or the weekend) walking historic streets full of shops, cultural landmarks, and amazing views of the water. Located just a short drive from the District, the capital of Maryland is a great town to explore while you are in the area. Take in a dose of culture and try some of the best seafood the east coast has to offer.

Mango + Main

88 Maryland Avenue

Mango + Main is a global boutique that connects patrons with talented artisans across the globe and in over 25 countries. This is the place to go to if you’re looking for authentic, handmade products. Shop one of a kind bags, apparel, jewelry, accessories, and the perfect gift for anyone on your list.

United States Naval Academy

52 King George Street

The Naval Academy has been training officers for the U.S. Navy and the Marine Corps since 1845. Attend the Midshipmen's Noon Formation, visit the Naval Academy Museum, the crypt of naval hero John Paul Jones, and more. Please note, anyone 18 years and older needs to bring two forms of id in order to enter the campus.

Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub

7 Church Circle

Come for Afternoon Tea, Lunch, or Dinner, and stay the night in one of three well-appointed rooms. Dating back to1747, it's a great place to enjoy happy hour or a bite to eat while getting a glimpse into history, as it was once the “hat shop” and kitchen of William Reynolds. Beer garden with live music in the spring months.

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O’Brien’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Tavern

113 Main Street

Opening in 1774 as the Rose & Crown, this tavern was once a local gathering spot for both Royalists and Revolutionaries. Enjoy steak, seafood, and live local entertainment all year long. Fun Fact: O’Brien’s has partnered with the Oyster Recovery Partnership to help repopulate the oyster environment in the Chesapeake Bay!

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Historic London Town and Gardens

839 Londontown Road

This 23 acre park features history, archeology, and horticulture on the South River. Take in views and learn about working class colonial history and heritage through its historic 1760 tavern-turned-almshouse, reconstructed colonial buildings, and a large interactive exhibit featuring artifacts unearthed onsite.

Thanksgiving Farm Winery

195 Harwood Road

With a place on the National Register of Historic Places and located just minutes away from Downtown Annapolis, you can spend the day at this family-owned business, where all Thanksgiving Wine brands are made exclusively from grapes grown in the vineyard.

The Annapolis Collection Gallery

55 West Street

The Annapolis Collection Gallery is devoted to six Annapolis masters. Each artist has achieved international recognition for their artistic talents. Several works by all six artists are continuously on view. Special gallery events are held throughout the year to focus on new works by each of the six individual artists.

Cantler's Riverside Inn

458 Forest Beach Road

Located just minutes from Annapolis waterside dock, Cantler’s waterfront restaurant and crab house has been serving the area’s freshest seafood for nearly four decades. From the freshest fish, lobster, scallops, oysters to their can’t-miss Maryland Blue Crabs, this is a true local icon.

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American History Museum

View the popular First Ladies exhibit which showcases 24 gowns, including Michelle Obama’s, Dorothy’s ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz, and the Star-Spangled Banner.

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Natural History Museum

Dedicated to showcasing the natural wonders of the world such as plants, animals, rocks, and even gems including the Hope Diamond. Watch a tarantula feeding and view the largest elephant ever found in the world. The kids will love the hands-on Discovery Room or the popular Dinosaur Hall with skeletons over 90-feet tall.

Smithsonian Castle Information Center

Located in the famous “castle” Smithsonian building, this is where visitors can get information about the Smithsonian’s 19 museums.

African Art Museum

The National Museum of African Art is devoted to the discovery and appreciation of the visual arts of Africa. This museum highlights art representing various regions and cultures of the African continent.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The newest museum on the Mall, the NMAAHC seeks to understand American history through the lens of the African American experience. Due to high popularity, please consult website to obtain timed tickets for this museum

Freer Gallery of Art

These galleries, focusing primarily on Asian art and artifacts, reopens this October with new exhibit space and works of art.

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AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM NAAMAC National Mall Washington Monument NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM HIRSHHORN MUSEUM AFRICAN ART MUSEUM SMITHSONIAN CASTLE INFORMATION CENTER FREER GALLERY OF ART

Hirshhorn Museum

This museum and sculpture garden is one of the world’s leading institutions of international modern and contemporary art. The drum shaped building exhibits pieces from the late 19th century to the present day.

American Indian Museum

The first national museum dedicated to the preservation, study, and exhibition of the life, languages, literature, history, and arts of Native Americans. Established by an act of Congress in 1989, the museum works in collaboration with the Native peoples to protect and foster their cultures by reaffirming traditions and beliefs.

Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

Housed in a unique underground building, the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery maintains a collection of Asian art, from the ancient to the contemporary. The gallery opened in 1987 with a gift of nearly 1000 artworks from collector Arthur M. Sackler (1913-1987).

The S. Dillon Ripley International Gallery

The International Gallery is home to a revolving and exciting array of visiting exhibitions. Check the information desk in the Castle for show information. Enter at the copper-domed kiosk on Jefferson Drive next to the Castle.

Air and Space Museum

The most popular of the Smithsonian museums, the Air and Space maintains the world’s largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft with some 50,000 artifacts that range from Saturn V rockets to jetliners to space helmets.

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Madison Dr NW Jefferson Dr SW 3rd St SW Independence Ave SW LouisianaAveNW Pennsylvania Ave NW U.S. Capitol NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART AMERICAN INDIAN MUSEUM AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM HIRSHHORN MUSEUM
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Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our Nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history. There are three visitor centers scattered throughout DC and they each offer a different experience.

The Rock Creek Park Nature Center

5200 Glover Road NW

Serving as the park's main visitor center and offers hiking information, brochures and maps, a bookstore, and exhibits on area plants and animals. Many of the park's ranger-led programs start or take place at the Nature Center. The facility includes a children's Discovery Room offering environmental education books and games and a “Discover Rock Creek" bilingual (Spanish and English) exhibit geared for elementary school audiences. The Nature Center also includes live turtles, and snakes, a bird observation deck, and “water-wise" garden.

Old Stone House

3051 M Street, NW

The Old Stone House in Georgetown provides visitors with information on early life in the American Colonies. Built in 1766, it is the oldest structure on its original foundation in the city. The exterior grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Peirce Mill

2401 Tilden Street NW

Come visit the only 19th-century gristmill operated by the National Park Service. A Quaker farmer built the stone structure in 1829 to process grain, and later, during the Civil War, it was transformed into a sawmill and orchard. In 1918, Peirce Mill became a Tea House; today it serves as a historic landmark.

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Things to Do in Rock Creek Park

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Experience a one of a kind adventure in the middle of the city! The Rock Creek Park Horse Center is located between the Nature Center and the Maintenance Yard. The horse stables offer boarding, lessons, and trail rides, pony rides, summer camps, and therapeutic riding.

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There are two primary trails that run north-south in Rock Creek Park - the Western Ridge Trail and the Valley Trail. Think of them as the sides of a ladder. There are many connector trails running mostly east-west joining the Western Ridge Trail with the Valley Trail. Think of these connectors as the rungs of the ladder. Using this principle, it is possible to create an almost infinite number of loops in varying lengths from about 1-mile to 10-miles.

A one-half mile self-guiding interpretive trail, the Woodland Trail, begins behind the Nature Center, while a one-fourth mile wheelchair -accessible Edge of the Woods trail begins right out the front door.

Rock Creek Park offers several areas to have a nice relaxing picnic out in nature. Some areas require a permit or reservation so make sure to double check before you go!

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NOW Spotlight: National Concierge Association

Here are a few recommended business from our friends at the NCA.

Arnold Limousine Service

240-876-4453

Arrive in luxury to your next special event! Arnold’s Limousine & Hearse Transportation Service, LLC. has been servicing the metropolitan area with dignity since the 1980s. We take pride in accommodating all passengers with our clean, safe, prompt, and reliable service. Contact us today!

thenelsonmanor.com

The Nelson Manor is a Luxury Vacation Rental designed for comfort with upscale amenities. Nestled in a mature community, we provide a unique and private experience minutes from the National Harbor, MGM Casino, Tanger Outlets, Washington DC and Old Town Alexandria, VA.

Webster Street Gifts

websterstreetgifts.com

Welcome to Webster St. Grifts, Washington DC’s premiere and neighborhood fit basket service. We offer an array of gifts for any personal or professional needs. Each gift is made to order and we customize the theme to match your needs. Our joy is bringing your unique and particular gift to life!

First Baptist Church of Glenarden

fbcglenarden.org

The First Baptist Church of Glenarden International has been called and appointed by God to serve this community for His glory. We purpose and are committed to fulfilling our mandate and vision, “Developing Dynamic Disciples through Discipleship, Discipline and Duplication."

Superette superette.com

Superette (4238 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA) is a craft sandwich shop and cocktail bar in the heart of Arlington Virginia in the popular Ballston neighborhood. Enjoy artisanal sandwiches and cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients.

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The Nelson Manor

The National Concierge Association is a networking organization for concierge of all types and the a liate businesses that support them. NCA prides itself in being a welcoming organization that is there to serve its members and assist in their professional growth.

Old Town Trolley Tours

trolleytours.com/washington-dc

Less stopping, more sightseeing! Free shuttle service from select hotels, and live narration by licensed conductors. Riding around the Beltway for over 30 years as DC's longest-running city tour!

morrisonclark.com

An eclectic combination of Victorian heritage and Chinese ecclesiastical atmospheres are elegantly designed and intermingled at The Morrison-Clark Historic Inn & Restaurant. Experience the rich past of our iconic hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Classic Concierge, Inc

classicconcierge.com

Classic Concierge has provided outstanding Tenant/ Resident services in the Washington DC Metro area for Corporate & Residential properties for over 20 years. We treat all clients with respect, courtesy and style. It’s the Classic way of doing business.

DNA Entertainment

dna-entertainment.net

DNA Entertainment is the premier entertainment company that offers options for all occasions. We specialize in Event Photography, props and our 360 Booth Rental Package: it includes: One Attendant, Online Gallery, Delivery, Set-Up & Break Down. Follow us on Instagram: @_dnaentertainment

Blue Thunder Productions

bluethunderproductions.weebly.com

Blue Thunder Productions is a production studio based in Washington DC specializing in photography, videography, and other creative needs.

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Morrison-Clark Historic Inn & Restaurant

Where Shall We Dine? NOW gives you the inside scoop on some of the district’s hottest new places!

The Side Door

1648 North Capitol Street NW (beneath The Pub & The People)

DC’s only retro speakeasy is complete with a pay phone on the wall, cozy seating, and hundreds of record albums adorning the walls. Not only is the Pub’s full dinner menu available, but there is a monthly rotating list of 15+ new creative cocktails that you can only get at Side Door. Our favorite right now is the Madame Butterfly, a perfectly refreshing magenta hue with gin, curacao, lemon, lime hibiscus and soda. The basement is open on Fridays & Saturdays from 7pm-1am for the time being but hours will expand in the fall.

Boogy and Peel

1 Dupont Circle NW

Rose’s Luxury alum Rachel Jennings left behind the world of fine-dining to open up her newbpizza shop in the heart of Dupont Circle. She describes her technique as ‘bastardized Neapolitan’ and guests can dine on funky pizza combos like “Harambe Loved Big Macs” with beef, american cheese, iceberg, onions, pickles and special sauce- an ode to McDonald’s Big Mac, or “This is Beans” an ode to Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza with chipotle ranch, beef, black beans, cheese, Saul's taco salsa, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and tortilla bites.

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DC Dining

No Goodbyes

1770 Euclid Street NW

The newest restaurant in Adam Morgan’s, The Line Hotel, has Chef Opie Crooks at the helm and features three district menus that will satisfy visitors morning, noon and night. Your perfect day starts with bacon, egg and cheese on a buttermilk biscuit, followed up with spicy pork rigatoni garlic chili bread crumbs for lunch, and for dinner? Get the Ember Roasted Trout withmaryland crab rice, green garlic butter and caviar. Don’t fret about the drinks!

Mi Vida

1901 14th Street NW

Following the success of their first location at the Wharf, comes Mi Vida’s newest location on 14th street. You won’t be able to miss the three-story bright pink building with beautifully painted flowers on the corner, where happy hour starts at 4pm at the bar, and the regular menu will include favorites from the Wharf like their signature guacamole with blue cheese, grapes and smoked almonds, as well as plenty of new items like tuna taquitos and skewers.

Fight Club

633 Pennsylvania Avenue SE

When the pandemic hit, Beuchert’s Saloon pivoted away from fine dining and opened a pop-up gourmet sandwich shop, Fight Club. Its success caused the pop up to become a permanent brick and mortar location in Capitol Hill, complete with an extensive bar program, including cocktails on draft like the Bruja Brew- silver tequila, alpine liquor , lime raspberry puree and mint syrup. Don’t miss the Blue Crab & Egg Salad sandwich.

Dovetail Bar & Restaurant

1430 Rhode Island Ave NW

Head over to the Viceroy Hotel in Logan Circle where diners share New American small plates like Corn Hushpuppies with Tomato and Bacon Jam and Korean Pepper Kimchi Deviled Eggs. Specialty cocktails are innovative and fun like the Taj Mahal, with bourbon, watermelon, curry leaf, lime and a berbere tincture. The restaurant has a fun, relaxed vibe and with an expansive dining room and patio, welcomes guests all year long.

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DC Neighborhoods

Ad a

m s Mo rg a n

Adams Morgan is one of the city’s most culturally and culinarily rich neighborhoods. By day, enjoy coffee shops and used book and record stores. By night , partake in the ample eating, drinking, and dancing options along 18th Street

A n a co s t i a

Anacostia is home to some of the city’s most beautiful parks, a growing commercial district , and some of the city’s most innovative galleries along Martin Luther King Ave and Good Hope Road. Also make sure to check out the Frederick Douglass House.

C a p i to l H i l l / E a s te r n Ma rke t

Capitol Hill is more than just the office space for the city’s power brokers. Locals love the restaurants and bars along Pennsylvania Avenue. Nearby Eastern Market is also a particular favorite, hosting the city’s famous food market and a weekly flea market

C h i n a tow n / Pe n n Q u a r te r

Few areas are growing as quickly as the Chinatown/Penn Quarter areas. At present , they are home to museums, hotels, and a thriving restaurant scene, hosting local talent like José Andrés and a slew of New York chain restaurants.

D u p o n t C i rc l e

The centrally-located neighborhood is home to incredible museums, historic homes, embassies, and a wide array of restaurants and bars. Both Dupont and nearby 17th Street also are the heart of the city’s vibrant gay community

G e o rge tow n

The neighborhood offers opportunities for shopping along M St . and Wisconsin Ave., walking along the waterfront , and getting lost along the beautiful houses and parks north of M St

G l ove r Pa rk

Up Wisconsin Avenue from Georgetown lies Glover Park, a quaint neighborhood filled with fine eating establishments including barbeque at Rockland’s and indian at Heritage India.

H S t re e t N E

The former commercial quarter has been transformed into one of the city’s most active entertainment districts. From the Joy of Motion Dance Center to Little Miss Whiskey’s, the venues cater to those seeking some culture or just a fun night out on the town. Shuttle service to H St . is available from Union Station.

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Nationa l Ma l l

Celebrate the best of America for free on the Mall. From a tour of the many presidential monuments, to exploring the ten Smithsonian Institution museums, and seeing the war memorials, the Mall is a beautiful and powerful reminder of our nation’s history

Th e Pa l i s a d e s

Travel out along MacArthur Boulevard to discover the charming hamlet of the Palisades. The neighborhood hosts a number of great restaurants serving everything from Italian to Lebanese to Japanese, along with a number of retail options.

S out hwe s t Wa te r f ron t

Along the Potomac you will find the famous Maine Avenue fish market where you can stop in for lunch at one of the picnic tables overlooking the river, or pick up fresh fish to cook later Across the street is the Arena Stage, the largest theater in the country dedicated to American voices

U S t ree t Co rrid o r

U Street (centered around the intersection of 14th and U St .), once called Black Broadway, is the new center of D.C.’s thriving nightlife. Catch a show at Howard Theater, or eat and drink at the many bars along U St .

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www.nowguides.com Ask your hotel concierge for the NOW Map, Guide to DC Neighborhoods, dining, attractions, and more!

When the Moon Hits Your Eye Like a Big Pizza Pie, That's Amore!

Timber Pizza Company

809 Upshur Street NW

Metro: Petworth | @timberpizzaco

There is a view of the giant brick oven from every seat in the house in this cozy Petworth spot. One thing that sets Timber apart is being able to grab breakfast starting at 8am on the weekends. They don’t take reservations so make sure to get there early. Flying into DC? Check out Timber’s outpost in DCA!

Za’ to Try: The Norman, a white pizza with provolone and mozzarella blend, nectarines, bacon, jalapeños, spicy jam drizzle, and micro cilantro.

2 Amys

3715 Macomb Street NW

Metro: Tenleytown

@2amysneapolitanpizzeria

The longest running place on our list opened its doors and started serving up Neopolitan pizza in 2001. During the pandemic a second pizza oven took residence in the main dining room to keep up with demand. Authentic D.O.C. pizza is offered, as certified and defined by the ‘Denominazione di Origine Controllata.’

Za’ to Try: Cauliflower & Sausage, Roasted local cauliflower, 2amys sausage, tomato puree, garlic, grana, parsley and hot pepper.

Menomale

2711 12th St NE/33 N St NE Brookland Metro/NoMa Metro @menomale_dc

It means “thank goodness” in italian and this Brookland neighborhood staple is run by owners Ettore and Maria Rusciano, whom the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in Naples, Italy deemed certified pizza makers. All ingredients are strictly sourced from Campania, the southern region just south of the capital.

Za’ to Try: Quattro Formaggi, tomatoes, Fior di latte mozzarella, goat cheese, parmigiano, gorgonzola, fresh basil, evoo

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Andy’s Pizza

2016 9th St NW/2465 18th St NW/ 51 M St NE/ 1201 Half St SE

Shaw/North Dupont/NoMa/Navy Yard

Metro @andyspizza

This winner of the 2021 World Pizza Championship has had locations popping up all over the DMV. The secret in this award-winning New York Style pizza is all in the dough. Owner Andy Brown uses dough that is cold fermented for 72 hours and cooked in a New York deck oven, which creates a crisp crust and soft interior.

Za’ to Try: Pepperoni Pizza (house favorite) red sauce, mozzarella, ‘roni cups, burrata, basil, mike's hot honey, parmigiano

Pupatella

1801 18th St NW

Dupont Metro | @pupatella_pizza

Serving internationally certified Neapolitan Pizza, Pupatella started out as a food cart in Ballston and has grown to seven locations across the DMV. Notably, USA Today put them on their 10 Best Pizza Places in the US! Head over to Dupont Circle to grab a slice straight out of the 900 degree oven.

Za’ to Try: Tomato Artichoke- Garlic-roasted tomatoes, marinated artichokes, fresh mozzarella

Stellina

399 Morse St NE/508 K St NW Metro: NoMa/Gallery Place

@stellinapizzeria

Self-described as an upscale casual concept that modernizes the classic pizza counter with style and dynamic energy, Stellina offers fun specials like Pizza Bento Boxes for lunch; get a small pizza, chips, arancini and cannoli for $19.50.

Za’ to Try: Cacio & Pepe- Cacio di Roma, pecorino Romano, mozzarella, toasted black pepper.

Bacio

81 Seaton Place NW Metro: Shaw | @baciopizzeriadc

This cute little mom and pop pizzeria has been a Bloomingdale staple for over ten years. Using their own Buffalo milk cheese, their crust is prepared with the finest; extra virgin olive oil, high-protein flour and clear-filtered water for quality test. Bacio has several specialty pizzas to choose from, most of which are named after local neighborhoods. Grab a spot on the patio or take advantage of one of their many take-away specials.

Za’ to Try: The Shaw-Ham, baby arugula, cherry tomato, Bacio shredded mozzarella, pesto sauce

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Top Dining Picks

Present Company Public House

438 Massachusetts Ave., NW | (202) 289-1100 presentcompanydc.com | Metro: Chinatown/Union Station/ Convention Center

@presentcompanydc

From the group who brought you The Pub & The People, Present Company is a neighborhood pub built in DC’s oldest firehouse. Patrons will enjoy gastropub fare with fun twists like Eggplant Chip Nachos and Tempura Pickle Chips. The bar offers a solid beer selection, wine, and creative specialty cocktails like the Rouge & Rosemary, a rosemary infused vodka with fresh grapefruit and lemon juices and honey syrup.  Test your brain on Tuesday's Trivia Night, Happy Hour happening Wed-Sunday, and Bottomless Brunch is offered on the weekend. With a huge dog-friendly outdoor patio, and two unique dining rooms, Present Company will make any DC visit complete. Reservations can be made on Resy.com.

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Fully stocked bar with a wide selection Eggplant Chip “Nachos” | mozzarella, jalapeño, pico de gallo, avocado (V)

The Pub and The People

1648 North Capitol St. NW | (202) 234-1800 thepubandthepeople.com | Metro: Shaw/NoMA

@pubandthepeople

Offering a “pub-fusion” menu that focuses on local brews, craft cocktails, unique sandwiches and hearty entrees. Rustic and fun décor – tables are comprised of repurposed barn wood and the bathrooms are covered in framed doggy photos sent in by customers – gives this place a cozy neighborhood atmosphere.

The expansive outdoor patio is a can’t-miss on nice weather days and perfect to enjoy a cocktail or a pint in the Bloomingdale neighborhood. Try the Ango-Saxon, our twist on the classic Old Fashioned, or the Ruth Bourbon Ginsburg, a bourbon-based cocktail with sweet vermouth and caraway syrup. Hungry? The “Heidi” sandwich is a fan favorite - a fried boneless chicken breast with chipotle aioli, homemade guacamole, melted cheese and bacon on a brioche bun. Happy Hour is seven days a week. Trivia on Monday nights. Reservations on Resy.com!

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The "Heidi" Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Blistered Shisito Peppers Tempura Fried Cauliflower a Spicy Hoisin-Sriacha sauce

How to Get Around

Dockless Bikes

You surely will notice brightly-colored bikes strewn around the city, seemingly ready for someone to run off on, but dockless bikes have built-in locks that are unlocked by a user pointing their phone at a bike’s QR code. The downloadable apps help you locate the bike and allows for payment.

Washington, D.C.'s Metro system is one of the safest, cleanest, and most convenient transportation systems in the world. But the Metro isn't your only option! Check out these alternative methods that will get you to where you need to go in no time.

DC Circulator

Providing public transportation to DC's biggest attractions and several neighborhoods, at only a buck a ride, this can be a great, easy option to get you around, especially if you are traveling with a few people. There are six routes across 136 stops going all over the District and into Rosslyn, VA. Buses arrive every ten minutes at each stop. Download RideDC app on iPhone or Android to get the most up-to-the-minute schedule.

Uber and Lyft

The two most popular ride share services are Lyft and Uber due to their dependability and relatively short wait times. Simply download the Uber or Lyft app on your smart phone, sign up with a credit or debit card, and begin requesting rides at the tap of a button. They do not accept cash or credit cards, and tip is handled on the app. Both apps have a variety of service levels and price points for the budget traveler.

Capital Bike Share

With over 650 stations and 5,400 bicycles, across DC, Virginia, and Maryland, CBS is an easy way to get you to your destination, while allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Download the app and sign up with a credit card and from there you can choose from either a single trip, 24-hour pass, or an annual membership, giving you the opportunity for unlimited rides and duration, all year long.

Electric Scooters

Following on the heels of dockless bikes comes the next big ‘it’ thing in DC transportation–electric scooters Very similar to how the dock less bike services operate, users download an app and register a credit card and phone number to locate scooters.

Revel

Revel is an electric moped app that cost an initial $1 per ride plus $0.25 per minute while driving, or $0.10 per minute while parked. Revel differs from traditional scooters in that they are larger, can fit two people comfortably, and can go up to 30mph.

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Things to Do

Mount Vernon: George

Washington’s Estate & Gardens

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy

Mount Vernon, VA 22309

(703) 780-2000

www.mountvernon.org

The most popular historic estate in America and home of George Washington, Mount Vernon is 16 miles south of Washington, D.C. on the banks of the Potomac River. Open daily, hours vary; admission fee.

National Children's Museum

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (202) 844-2486

www.nationalchildrensmuseum.org

Spark your young learner’s curiosity with a wonder-filled experience the whole family will enjoy! Interactive exhibits and programs explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math concepts through play.

Open every day except Tuesdays

9:30 am – 4:30 pm

National Museum of Natural History

10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW (202) 633-1000

www.naturalhistory.si.edu

Features exhibits on geology, biology, and natural history, as well as an IMAX theater. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Metro: Smithsonian; free admission.

Library of Congress

101 Independence Ave., SE (202) 707-5000

www.loc.gov

The country’s largest library system, it houses over 20 million books, including collections from U.S. presidents, as well as extensive magazine and music libraries. Open Mon.-Sat.

10 am-5 pm. Metro: Capitol South, Union Station; free admission.

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National Gallery of Art

Constitution Ave. NW (between 3rd and 9th Streets) (202) 737-4215

www.nga.gov/visit

The National Gallery of Art serves the nation by welcoming all people to explore and experience art, creativity, and our shared humanity. From Byzantine altarpieces to pop art, learn all about paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, photographs, and other works in the collection. Browse the collection and make connections among objects you know and newly discovered masterpieces.

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

400 Michigan Avenue, NE (202) 526-8300

www.nationalshrine.org

The largest Roman Catholic church in the United States and North America. Stunning art and architecture that rivals the great sanctuaries of Europe. Visited by nearly one million people annually. Over 80 Chapels and Oratories, Guided Tours, Gift Shop, and Bookstore. Open 365 days/yr. Free parking. Metro: Brookland/CUA; free admission

FDR Memorial

1850 West Basin Dr SW

https://www.nps.gov/frde

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Things to Do

National World War II Memorial

1750 Independence AVE SW

(202) 619-7222

www.wwiimemorial.com

This monument honors the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the U.S., the more than 400,000 who died, and all who supported the war effort. Open daily. Metro: Smithsonian; free admission.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

1964 Independence Ave SW

www.nps.gov/mlkm

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and social activist who becamea notable figure during the U.S. civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until he was assassinated in 1968. He played a pivotal role in ending the legal segregation of African American citizens in the U.S., influencing the creation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

U.S. Capitol

Capitol Hill

(202) 226-8000

www.aoc.gov

The U.S. Capitol is where the House and Senate make our nation’s laws. Tours can be arranged directly through the Capitol Visitor Center using www.capitol. gov. Tours M – Sat. 8:50 am-3:20 pm. Metro: Capitol South; free, tix required.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

National Mall

1023 15th St., NW

(202) 426-6841

thewall-usa.com

The black granite walls of this memorial have the names of over 58,000 Americans killed in the Vietnam War. There is also a bronze sculpture of soldiers that honors those lost during Vietnam. Open daily. Metro: Foggy Bottom-GWU; free admission.

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Washington Monument

National Mall

Constitution Ave., NW

(202) 426-6841

www.nps.gov/wamo

The Washington Monument is one of the most recognized images depicting the nation’s capital. The Monument is shaped like an Egyptian obelisk, stands 555 feet tall, and offers views in excess of 30 miles. Tickets should be bought in advance if visitors want to go up to its observation room. See website for more details.

Washington National Cathedral

3101 Wisconsin Ave., NW

(202) 537-6200

nationalcathedral.org

One of the most beautiful architectural sites in the District, the campus contains a magnificent cathedral, one of the most exclusive private schools in the country, and well maintained landscaping. Mon-Fri. 10 am-5:30 pm, Sat. 10am-4:30pm, Sun. 8am-5pm. Metro: Tenleytown-AU; $12 admission.

Washington Photo Safari

202-669-8468

www.washingtonphotosafari.com

Tour DC’s beautiful monuments with a professional photographer giving you tips in camera use and composition. See! Click! Learn! You’ll return home with great pictures and new photo skills.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (202) 456-2200

www.whitehouse.gov

The White House Visitor Center located at the southeast corner of 15th and E Streets is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Please contact your senator or representative for details about touring the White House. Metro: Federal Triangle; McPherson Square.

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