Interning in D.C.

The List of Things to Do in D.C.

August 8, 2019 /

At the beginning of my internship, I put together a bucket list of things I wanted to do before I left D.C. Throughout my two months living there, I went with my internship friends and suite-mates to do as many things on the list as physically possible and we found some other gems along the way. Here is that list with some modifications to include my favorite things I went to see and do this summer in Washington, D.C.

Museums

National Museum of American History
There was so much to see here, and so much I didn’t get to. I need to go back to see the rest!
The National Archives Museum
This was such a great thing to do on the 4th of July, but also good for any other time of the year.
National Gallery of Art East
This is the modern National Art museum, get up to the roof to see the Hahn Cock Sculpture!
National Gallery of Art West
It took me at least 2 hours and I did it on my own but I got through the whole museum and I recommend to anyone going to D.C. to take some time on your own to go through a museum.
National Portrait Gallery
  • This was my favorite free museum by far.
  • There were so many cool modern and historical art pieces. This is a must see museum!
National Holocaust Museum

I didn’t get to this museum, but I have also heard it is a must see Smithsonian. Tickets are online!

Udvar-Hazy Air and Space Museum in VA
I’m not big into planes and space, but this museum was very cool and worth the trip.
Renwick Gallery
This one is right by the White House and was suggested to us by a co-worker. I went on my lunch break and got to see the whole upstairs. I loved the art and all the woodwork in the main room!
National Museum of African American Heritage and Culture

I didn’t actually get to this one, so it’s on my list of places I need to get to next time but everyone I have talked to that’s gone have said it is a must see. If you’re looking to go make sure to get tickets in advance online!

Octagon House

I didn’t get any pictures of this one, but if you are big into American History, this house has a very interesting history and there is a lot to learn if you have a free hour.

National Building Museum
This was also suggested by a co-worker. Every year the National Building Museum changes their exhibit in the middle. This year is The Lawn where they host Yoga on the Lawn and movie nights.
Newseum
  • This was my favorite museum. It costs money to get in but I think it is worth every cent. I spent 4 hours going through this museum and if the museum wasn’t closing at 5 I could have stayed even longer. This museum is moving after December so get there while it’s still in this great location!

Instagrammable Places

NoMa Neighborhood
  • The murals were so cool in this neighborhood, go check out the walk!
  • While you’re there go to Union Market, it’s an awesome place for lunch and there are AMAZING pina-coladas outside!
Spanish Steps
Not much to see here, but if you are in the area this is a great spot for pictures or head shots or even a great spot to sit and read a book.
Meridian Hill Park
This is a great spot for pictures, we even saw a wedding party getting their pictures here!
Blind Whino
This is a little out of the way but the building is so unique it’s worth it for the pics!
Smithsonian Castle Garden
The flowers were beautiful here and I didn’t even get to fully tour the garden.
National Botanic Gardens
I love gardens and this one was stunning, definitely explore inside and outside.
Friendship Archway
While you’re there grab a Gelati from Rita’s!

Experiences

Hillwood Estate
  • We only got a half an hour here but it was beautiful!
  • These gardens were goals!
The Kennedy Center
A must do while you’re in the city! They even have student discounts for some shows!
City Center
Every season they switch out the decor at City Center, this summers was so cool when the light hit it just right!
Library of Congress
This was a great thing to check out on a hot day!
Capitol Hill Books
  • Super disorganized but it had a ton of hilarious markers of which books were where, so cool and funny- highly recommend.
Little Leaf
This was the cutest store! I love plants but have the worst time keeping them alive. Working hard on the one I got here, it’s a struggle.
Arlington Cemetery
The cemetery is a must see if you get to Arlington.
Nationals Game
Buy tickets off the National’s website- trust me. Anyone looking for tickets in September?
National Harbor
  • A great place for dinner and an outside movie!
  • Check out the ferris wheel!
National Cathedral
It was super cool to see the recording of mass at the National Cathedral. Check out the cafe next door for breakfast!
Embassy Events
  • thingstododc.com has a bunch of events happening at embassies. This was an event at the Belize Embassy which was outside- the food was amazing!
  • This was an event at the Italian Embassy- still looking for the guy I awkwardly danced with 😉
Kayak on the Potomac River
This was one of my favorite things I did while I was in DC. It was very relaxing and the water was warm and the views were great!
Wharf
  • Check out the swings, great for a breezy night after a hot day and worth the wait!
  • Go for the seafood!

Food and Drink around the city

Jeni’s Ice Cream
Wild berry Lavender is the best flavor, nothing will fill the gap this has left in my heart.
Founding Farmers
There are a few of these locations and sister locations around DC, no matter which you go to it will be amazing, a little pricey, but amazing.
Meze
Half priced mojitos for happy hour. I feel like that is enough said.
Chicken and Whiskey
Super cool bar in the back through the ice box door. Bar tender and regulars were super nice.
Archipelago
Hawaiian themed bar! So great! My friends got a drink in a pineapple on fire! Amazing!

By  Comments Off on The List of Things to Do in D.C.

You May Also Like

Lessons I’ve Learned in D.C.

July 30, 2019