A Day In DC

Hello there!

The summer has been getting the best of me and I’ve been spending my days relaxing and exploring, but I’ve finally gotten the blogging bug again!

If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen that I visited Washington, DC recently. This was the latest of many trips – I’ve been down quite a few times since one of my oldest friends went to college there and is now living and working there as a teacher. Since I’ve been there multiple times, I’ve been lucky enough to experience some more “local” activities outside of the places you’d typically think of as tourist destinations in DC – and that’s what I’m sharing with you today!

Washington DC is actually the perfect place for a quick day or weekend trip, especially if you live along the East Coast. If you leave at the right time, it’s super easy to drive there. Even better though is taking an Amtrak train – I took one to and from New York City for a couple of days, and it was extremely comfortable and quick. Plus, Union Station in DC is absolutely stunning!

Now for your actual itinerary!

 Start the day with brunch at one of DC’s many bottomless brunch spots. My friend always takes us to Scion and I have nothing but great things to say – the food is affordable and delicious, and how can you complain about endless mimosas or poinsettias (champagne and cranberry juice) ?!

Front of the Mansion on O Street - from the outside, it looks just like a regular row house!

Next up, head on over to a well-hidden DC attraction, the Mansion on O Street. This was by far my favorite part of the trip and I could have easily spent hours and hours there. What once used to be a series of connected houses turned into a boutique hotel known for hosting notable guests and for its air of secrecy. There are over 80 secret doors throughout the building, but even more interesting to look at are all of the unique items ranging from knick-knacks to specialty furniture – and almost all of it is for sale! (Favorites included: a photo of Michael Jackson and E.T., a patriotic Santa figurine, and a glass from Harry's Bar in Venice!)

If you find yourself in DC, don’t take my word for it and check it out yourself.

Views from DNV Rooftop at the Kimpton Donovan Hotel

End the afternoon and start your evening with rooftop cocktails with a view. I planted myself at the Kimpton Donovan hotel’s rooftop bar and enjoyed the most refreshing cocktail called “Meme Culture” made of sherry, pamplemousse liqueur, sparkling wine, and best of all with a giant ice cube with a fresh twig of rosemary inside!

Enjoying my cocktail out on the rooftop patio.
Dress: francesca's

Bonus: if you’re not tired after all of this, the hotel is super close to the monuments, so after a late afternoon cocktail you can stroll around the National Mall and enjoy the views at sunset!