National Museum of Asian Art
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Embark on your own personal adventure through the nation’s capital, from free museums to concerts, outdoor recreation, tours and much more.
Few solo activities can inspire reflection and intellectual stimulation like a tranquil visit to one of DC’s awesome (and free) museums. For both contemporary and historic art, head to the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Renwick Gallery or the Hirshhorn Museum, among many others. History buffs can always have a field day in DC; must-sees include the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Quick tip: for the most contemplative experience, visit a museum soon after it opens (most Smithsonian museums open at 10 a.m.) or in the afternoon (2 p.m. or later).
With so many music venues across DC, your options for a music-filled night are plentiful. Venues like Capital One Arena, The Anthem and 9:30 Club are usually top-of-mind for visitors and the largest music acts that come into town. However, places like Black Cat, Union Stage and Howard Theatre also frequently host shows and provide a more intimate atmosphere. DC theaters also make for a great evening on the town, especially during the fall and winter when production slates are in full swing.
Eaton DC
From enhanced fitness facilities with natural light and outdoor workout areas to special amenities like hydration stations and morning group classes, DC hotels emphasize wellness with a passion. The Marriott Marquis, The Morrow Hotel, The Darcy, Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill and Westin Georgetown Washington, DC are just a few of the locales redefining healthy stays. Others include the Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown, which features 12 wellness rooms complete with air purifiers, Tempur-Pedic mattresses and Vitamin C showers. Eaton Hotel goes even further with crystal greetings and Himalayan salt lamps along with services like yoga, reiki and sound baths.
The variety of experiences found across the neighborhoods of the nation’s capital is what makes the District such a special place to visit. A solo stroll can be a great way to discover shops, restaurants, bars, attractions and activities you would not have encountered otherwise. Some standout neighborhood vibes include Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, the hustle-and-bustle of 18th Street NW in Adams Morgan, the bounty of businesses to be found along U Street, the plethora of shops and restaurants in Dupont Circle and Logan Circle, H Street’s revitalized digs and the vibrance of Downtown and Penn Quarter.
When it comes to walkability, DC is always at or near the top of any ranking of U.S. cities; some even position it as one of the most walkable in the world. The nation’s capital prides itself on providing both residents and visitors alike with plenty of space for recreation, with wide bike lanes on streets, more than enough space for taking in sights on foot and a variety of running trails. Outdoor activities and adventures are plentiful; you can take in the scenery of the National Mall, scamper through Rock Creek Park, admire the Capitol Columns at the U.S. National Arboretum or visit one of the city’s numerous national parks and spectacular gardens.
There’s just something about meandering through a market – the diversity of vendors, the smells, the samples, the atmosphere, the people, the languages, the sounds – that allows for a deeper look into the spirit and soul of a city. You will get that and more (plus buckwheat pancakes from Market Lunch on weekends) at Capitol Hill’s Eastern Market, a community hub for more than 150 years. Of course, no trip to DC is complete without a stop at Union Market, a breathtaking food hall that also features kitchenware boutiques and much more. The District is also home to a collection of farmers’ markets, many of which are year-round.
Solid State Books
There are few solo activities as relaxing as a cup of coffee (or hot chocolate) and a good book. Fortunately, DC loves to read and thrives on coffee. There’s a wealth of independent bookstores that offer great browsing and a healthy dose of charm as well as cafes and bakeries that beckon with the scent of fresh-brewed roasts and spaces to kick back with your current read. Local spots get especially creative with hot and cozy drinks in the fall and winter.
With so many free things to do in the nation’s capital, you’ll have some extra spending money for a shopping excursion. There’s so much high-end fashion to be found at CityCenterDC while neighborhoods such as Georgetown, Dupont Circle and 14th Street are known for their menagerie of stores. It doesn’t stop there: the city is also home to a vibrant collection of Black-owned and women-owned businesses (which are among the many locally owned shops in DC), indie boutiques, thrift stores and even museum gift shops.
Opaline
DC’s award-winning dining scene also features a litany of high-value spots. Some eateries/bars separate themselves from the rest with offerings that are particularly amenable to solo diners: Bistro du Jour (small Parisian-sized tables), Opaline (cozy bar seating), Chef Geoff’s West End (a big bar and high-top area), Love, Makoto (new foodie haven), Unconventional Diner (lively old-school diner atmosphere near the Convention Center), L’Ardente (a reservable pizza bar for solos), ilili (picturesque setting at The Wharf with signature cocktails), Residents Café and Bar (heated patio plus friendly bartenders) and The Grill (waterfront views and dirty martinis).
Thanks to its landmarks and easily navigable terrain, the nation’s capital is a joy to tour. For your solo journey, you can choose from all kinds of themed excursions, from a Mangia DC Food Tour to treks through the spooky side of DC to on-the-water adventures to architecture tours to info-packed expeditions to some of the most notable spots in the District.
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