If you’ve been following me on IG then you know I just got back from a quick staycation in D.C. with Cambria Hotels! was so excited when they reached out about this fun blogger shuffle program where I traded spots with a local D.C. blogger Spicy Candy DC, who put together an itinerary full of a ton of amazing local spots which I’ve included below. A bunch of you guys also sent me some recommendations so I wanted to round those all up here in a full Washington D.C. travel guide. I would say that 2 days is definitely not enough time if you want to see everything, but you can still manage to see a lot! Thank you so much again to Cambria Hotels for sending me on this trip, and for SpicyCandyDC for all the awesome reccomendations!
(note: hours/activities are limited for most of these places due to COVID-19 restrictions in D.C., so make sure to check their websites/call for the most up-to-date information)
I stayed at the Cambria Hotels Washington D.c. Convention center which was ideally located in the heart of the city which made it easy to explore and even venture out to northern, VA and spots nearby if you wanted. Our entire weekend with Cambria Hotels was amazing and I highly recommend staying here next time you’re in town.
he hotel, franchised by Choice Hotels, feels super upscale and features modern conveniences that inspire and allow you to maximize your time in each destination, with personalized services and design forward amenities. When you travel, it’s almost impossible to bring all the comforts and conveniences of home with you, but Cambria Hotels does a great job of thinking of and adding in the little touches that really make it feel like a home away from home. For example, Cambria Hotels feature spacious guest rooms with expansive views, spa-like bathrooms with approachable indulgences (*ahem* bluetooth mirrors that are cooler than my bathroom at home lol), free WiFi, fully equipped fitness centers, locally curated craft beers and fresh locally inspired food options. Please note: Some amenities may be unavailable due to COVID-19 restrictions, so please call the hotel to confirm which amenities are available. The D.C. location (and several of their other properties) also has a rooftop bar and pool! Not only was the location pretty ideal, but our entire experience was top notch. I definitely want to explore another Cambria hotel once COVID restrictions lift. I can see myself hanging out at the hotel for meals, trying local brews on-site at happy hour and enjoying more of the R&R that the hotel has to offer.
Sequoia (3000 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20007) : Splurge on a beautiful cocktail and some seafood overlooking the water and The Kennedy Center.
Ristorante Piccolo (1068 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007) Great if you’re in the mood for Italian and a good glass of wine.
Chaia Tacos (3207 Grace Street Northwest, Washington, DC) Casual spot in Georgetown.
Ben’s Chilly Bowl (1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009), a staple in DC. They have been around for 62 years. (also eating here youre supporting a black owned business 🙂 !! )
Roaming Rooster (1301 U St NW #107, Washington, DC 20009) has the best chicken sandwiches in the city! (also eating here youre supporting a black owned business 🙂 !! )
Residents DC (1306 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20036). This place is the perfect oasis to treat yourself to a nice dinner. Reservations are encouraged, especially for outdoor dining.
Mission Dupont Circle Restaurant (1606 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009) for strong margaritas and tacos
Nobu Dc (2525 M St NW, Washington, DC 20037) You already know this was first on my list of must visits when I found out I was coming. I will say this location is definitely different than the NY location, (every locations menu is a bit different) and overall the vibe was different but I’m so glad we made time to go experience it and I can check another Nobu location off my list!
Casta’s Rum Bar (1121 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037). Reservations encouraged for outdoor dining. They have the cutest patio, good tunes and delicious rum cocktails.
Unconventional Diner( 1207 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001)Highly recommend for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Their pancakes are super fluffy, ad we also ended up grabbing dessert to from there (highly recommend the Cheesecake and Apple Cobbler!)
Georgetown: Spend your afternoon shopping and exploring the wonderful and historic neighborhood of Georgetown (also home to the famous Exorcist stairs). Theres tons of cute fashion boutiques, as well as several home decor stores as well! Some recommended local boutiques:
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Take Care (1338 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007)
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Reddz Trading (Thrift shop) (1413 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007)
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South Moon Under (The original store is in Ocean City 😊) (1065 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007)
Note: You will also find national retail stores such as H&M, TJ, Maxx, Rent the Runway, among other high-end designer boutiques.
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Home Decor Stores:
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Little Leaf (1401 S St NW, Washington, DC 20009) for a little plant therapy session, such a cute store!
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Salt and Sundry (1625 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009).
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Tweed and Twigs outdoor art installation (Georgetown, DC 3276 M St NW, Washington, DC)
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Walk around U Street and discover some cool murals from local artists. A few of SpicyCandyDc’s favorites:
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RBG tribute Mural (Between 15th and 16th Streets, NW, right by Flock DC, Washington, DC 20009).
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There’s NO place like home mural by No Kings Collective (1738 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, by Chicken and Whiskey).
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Washington Mural (Right by The Howard Theater, 620 T St NW, Washington, DC
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Visit DC’s monuments. I recommend doing this during the evening as seeing the monuments in the evening is truly a magical experience. Also, less crowds!
Due to D.C.’s COVID-19 safety guidelines, bars/nightclubs are not currently open to the public, but each neighborhood has a little bar/restaurant you can pop into and explore for a drink or two!
IF YOU VISIT WASHINGTON D.C. AND GO TO ANY OF THESE PLACES, BE SURE TO TAG ME IN YOUR PICS AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOUR FAVORITES ARE!