Party Like a Rock Star: Spring Fling

Blog Written by christineHAN,

designDIRECTOR, jesGORDON/properFUN

Growing up in Baltimore, Washington D.C. was just a place with history and old buildings. I remember going on a field trip to the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian in 8th grade. Many of my classmates were bored out of their minds and literally spent the day kicking and screaming. Over the years, as I matured as a person and as a designDIRECTOR, I developed an eye for interior design, architecture, flowers, and all the other elements that create an environment. I was finally able to see the beauty of the city's architecture and gardens, and therefore appreciated my time there much more. As an event designer, exploring new places also helps develop my sense of space and enhances my three dimensional renderings.

After my most recent weekend getaway to the capitol region, I've wanted to share some tips on planning short, fun trips to Washington D.C.

WHERE TO STAY

Finding just the right neighborhood for your Washington hotel stay makes all the difference.

Here are a few unique neighborhoods in DC:

Downtown

The National Mall sits in the center of Washington's Downtown. Downtown is the most convenient neighborhood for visiting the museums and monuments that abound in the city. With its large selection of Metro stops, Downtown is never more than a short subway ride from the rest of Washington.

Dupont Circle

This neighborhood is located on north of the White House and George Washington University. Dupont Circle is chock full of fashionable boutiques, brasseries, and bars. Washington's largest concentration of international embassies lies along Massachusetts Avenue or Embassy Row. Therefore, the architectural structures of the buildings, restaurants, and cafes have a diverse flair.

I stayed at the QUINCY in Dupont Circle. It was very convenient (the location was superb), spacious, and affordable. If you want to experience both historic places and quality restaurants and nightlife, I highly recommend staying in Dupont Circle, you won't regret it. The hotel also has a private parking garage with a very reasonable $30 rate for 24 hours. On the weekends, you can find street free parking close to the hotel.

Georgetown

This neighborhood runs along the Potomac River west of the National Mall. Georgetown houses Washington's politicos as well as dozens of bistros, bars, antique stores, and designer boutiques. Georgetown's redbrick colonial architecture makes the trip worthwhile. I enjoy jogging along the Hudson River in the city. If you are a jogger, you should definitely try a jog along the C&O Canal Towpath or a stroll through Dumbarton Oaks.

WHERE TO EAT

Where to eat? Oh don't you worry! New York City has definitely spoiled me with quality food and drinks and I've become quite a restaurant snob, however Washington D.C. didn't disappoint me at all. The city offers a great selection of authentic and unique restaurants.

Scion: Try their delicious lobster reuben. DELICIOUS! (LINK)

Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe: A great bookstore with a BAR - Enough said! (LINK)

Agora Restaurant: Great outdoor seating enhances your dining experience. You must try this Mediterranean, Greek, and Turkish restaurant on 17th st. Another must try, Chef's Borek (Crispy phyllo roll filled with goat cheese, and savory Maras pepper, served with tomato marmalade). Also try their Turkish tea with mint leaf. (LINK)