A weekend trip to Washington, DC can get jam-packed pretty quick. Between monuments, memorials, museums, restaurants, and historic sites, there's tons to see and do. Hitting up a few of DC's most iconic attractions makes for a great reminder of America's history and just why this country is pretty awesome.
If you think that suspecting the mysterious guy behind you in line for coffee of espionage is a sign of an overactive imagination, or the result of watching too many James Bond movies, then let the International Spy Museum prove you otherwise.
The museum tells the history of secret agents through firsthand accounts, primary sources, and a collection of gadgets, from cipher devices and enigma machines, to shoes with transmitters in the heel and glasses with cyanide capsules hidden inside.
Once you've learned everything you can from the exhibits, you can take your spy training a step further with one of their two interactive experiences. "Operation Spy" transports you to the fictional country of Khandar, where you'll collect evidence, evade capture, break codes, and escape from a high-security compound as you search for a stolen trigger device. The other hands-on adventure is called "Spy in the City", which is awesome because you get to combine a good, old-fashioned tour of the monuments with an exciting espionage element. You're sent clues through a GPS device that sends you on a mission across town.
After dinner at Rasika, you might never look at Indian food the same again. The sophisticated, modern restaurant serves up dishes that are both familiar, and a little more exotic than you'd find at an average Indian eatery. Classics like naan, tikka masala, vindaloo and more are all elevated and served alongside dishes like palak chaat, black cod, kulcha, and more. Plus, the cocktails are the perfect way to wash it all down.
Beyond the world-renowned Smithsonian museums (we'll get to those later), there are some other really great museums in DC. The Newseum is a little more serious than the Spy Museum, but it's no less fun and interesting. Dedicated to the history of journalism, the news, and media, the interactive displays here are super informative, and there's no better place to learn about the "fourth estate" than here in DC!
Few hotels have the history and charm of old DC like the Hotel Tabard Inn. Actually made of several brownstones that have been converted into one hotel, the rooms are all different and a little quirky, and decorated with unique antiques. It's more of a B&B-type experience, but the beautiful buildings, and touches like live jazz, a patio, and breakfast, make this an unforgettable place to spend the night.
Eat like (American) royalty at the elegant Blue Duck Tavern. Their menu changes seasonally, and you can tell that the chef has a massive amount of respect for the ingredients: not only is everything here prepared to bring out the best of each item, they even tell you where the meat, seafood, and veggies came from. If you order one thing here, make it the bone marrow appetizer...it's rich and totally satisfying.
An homage to DC native Marvin Gaye, Marvin's blends his Southern roots with his time in Belgium to create an interesting concept restaurant and bar. A neighborhood joint with a good crowd, boozy cocktails inspired by the singer, and an awesome rooftop, it's a great place to toast your trip to DC.
Kapnos is a chic, modern, Greek restaurant that serves up quite the brunch spread. Baklava waffles, Greek coffee waffles, flatbreads, their famous kegged lemonade spiked with various liquors, and good people-watching on the patio make this a prime brunch destination.
Whatever kind of mood you're in, you'll be satisfied grabbing a drink at The Brixton. The lower level is more laid-back, while the second floor has more of a dance party-vibe. Plus, their rooftop patio has an incredible view of the city!
"American Ice Company" might sound more like a business than a bar, and that's because it was actually a factory before it was converted into one of DC's coolest bars, and most laid-back spots. Get a sense for how varied the population of Washington really is, from hipsters to suit-clad grown-ups, as you enjoy a craft beer.
If you want to continue the party, head to Dodge City. This club-esque venue has DJs playing great music, cheap beer, and a funky, art-filled setting... so basically, everything you could want for a more wild night out in DC!
The best time of year for a 48-hour adventure in Washington DC: Generally a bustling city any time of year, spring and fall mean cooler temperatures while you're walking from attraction to attraction...although there are so many free museums with A/C that summer isn't that unbearable. Winters get chilly, and spring sees a big uptick in tourism thanks to the famed Cherry Blossom Festival, so if you visit then, expect higher prices, bigger crowds...and stunning flowers.