All eyes are on Washington this year, but there’s more to the District than monuments and power suits. With fresh cultural exhibits and a rising culinary scene, here’s what I’m excited to do in DC this month.
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| Rocking Out – 9:30 Club This iconic music venue celebrated its 35th anniversary in January and debuted a Hall of Records containing an album for every act that’s ever headlined. Can’t make a show? Snag the anniversary book to hear DC legends like Ian MacKaye and Dave Grohl reminisce. |
Power Lunch – Momofoku CCDC David Chang’s lauded noodle empire has landed in DC’s swanky CityCenter complex. Limited reservations mean dropping a delegate’s name won’t score you a table, but the pork belly ramen and shrimp buns are worth waiting in line. |
| A Local’s Lens – #iseeDC Exhibit The District Architecture Center challenged DC Instagrammers to show off the city’s best spaces, from stunning buildings to their daily commute. The winning entries are featured in the #iseeDC Exhibit, highlighting unique facets of the city that visitors rarely see. |
Cultural Wonder – Renwick Gallery The Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery is back after a $30 million renovation. America’s first built art museum features craft and design. Its current exhibit, WONDER, doubled attendance with immersive works that highlight nature in contemporary craftsmanship. |
| Eat and Be Seen – Rose’s Luxury Even dignified DCers don’t blink at waiting in a chilly line for the hottest table in town. It isn’t just District bravado, Aaron Silverman’s eclectic American was Bon Appétit‘s Best New Restaurant of 2014 and my favorite meal last year. Don’t miss the pork and lychee salad. Better yet, order the entire menu. |
Escape To – The Saloon Looking for an underground lair to enjoy Belgian beer and garlic fava beans in peace while supporting humanitarian efforts? The Saloon might be the last chill spot on U Street. This being the Capitol though, there are rules like “No pretending” and “No martinis.” |
I also advise to embrace the elements! The East Coast’s recent snowfall provides a new perspective on familiar sights. One of my favorite DC memories is getting stuck in a blizzard last winter. The stillness of the Capitol and Union Station in fresh snow sticks with me, as does seeing cross country skiers whiz through Rock Creek Park.
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger.’ Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
