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City Cast DC

A cheat sheet for getting beyond your block.

Kaela Cote-Stemmermann

Picture this: you’re a new grad spending $600 a month on a makeshift room in a Columbia Heights group home. You’re basking in the sun with friends on the Wonderland patio sharing a plate of tots just a 

hungover. Life is full of possibilities. That’s the beauty of the 11th Street strip.

While I’ve since moved (my tolerance for Craigslist roomies hit its limit) the area is still my favorite hangout spot in the District. You can garden, snack on crispy pig ears, and grab frozen margs — all within a few blocks.

, but you won’t catch me complaining. They may not have the most dialed-in espresso but the seasonal flavors (pistachio dragée latte?!) and complimentary side of animal crackers put my coffee snobbery to rest. A little farther out, you have 

 pulling shots from small-batched beans which are well worth the extra four blocks.

Check out one of the community events at the 

, a community run urban garden that hosts open mics and volunteer opportunities in the warm seasons. If that’s not your thing, head to the bougie bodega 

 to peruse expensive spices and kombucha before settling on a freshly made onigiri. On Thursday evenings you can find trivia at The Coupe 

(tip: the music played between rounds always includes a hint).

 is one of my all time faves. It’s an upscale Hong Kong-style restaurant with a rotating seasonal menu and impeccable interior design. But it's not an everyday affair. For that you’ll want to head to 

 for their dependable neapolitan pies with a neighborhood vibe.

Now that Makan has closed (RIP) I’ll also throw an honorable mention to the 

 rooftop for days when you really just need some al pastor and a frozen marg with Tajín on the rim.

 — it is a D.C. rite of passage. But in my old age (30 😉) I’ve come to prefer soaking up sun and mimosas on its patio instead. Plus, I’ll never say no to their greasy brunch (except the mac n’ cheese pancakes; they’re not made for human stomachs).

. I don’t follow sports, but luckily, Buddy’s is more of a good bar where sports just happen to be playing. The roomy outdoor bar is equipped with TVs, lanterns, and lots of seating — perfect for a lazy afternoon.

More DC Neighborhood Guides

11th Street in Columbia Heights is one of my favorite hangout spot in the District. You can garden, snack on crispy pig ears, and grab frozen margs — all within a few blocks.

Get to Know 11th Street NW in Columbia Heights

Everything to know about DC neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

DC Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

Harpers Ferry is everything a day trip should be: cute, accessible, packed with activities, and most importantly, has lots of great food (and beer 😏). As an avid hiker, I think it’s a great jumping off point for adventures and I find myself there often. Here’s how to make the perfect day in Harpers Ferry.

It’s a one hour drive (although you may have to park out of town and 

. The train ride takes an hour and costs about $15. The Harpers Ferry station is an easy five-minute walk from restaurants and hikes.

. Do not skip it. As a coffee snob, I was blown away by the quality of their espresso drinks, not to mention homemade pastries and syrups. It’s in an adorable refurbished old stone house and I left wishing we had one in D.C. If you can’t be bothered to walk up the hill though, 

 serves perfectly acceptable coffee and egg sandwiches that have gotten me through many a morning hike.

As the symbolic halfway point of the Appalachian Trail, Harpers Ferry is the jumping off spot for hikes of all levels. Hike to 

 where you can take in the classic three-state view of Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland. You can also climb the 1810s stone steps to 

 or cross the famous pedestrian bridge to walk along the 

 in the area, just steer clear of the falcon nesting areas!

 for a post-hike burger and beer overlooking the river. Plates are loaded high with beer battered fries and towering sandwiches. For something lighter check out 

, an all-vegan comfort food restaurant with tacos, burgers, ramen and oat milk soft serve. 

 is my favorite for grabbing a sandwich and snacks for the road (they also have the best ice cream in Harpers Ferry). And, of course, you have to stop by 

A history nerd's dream, Harpers Ferry has more than 20 small-scale museums all with their own historical niche. Visit 

 where abolitionist John Brown and several of his followers famously barricaded themselves after a raid in 1859. Learn about popular industries of Harpers Ferry 

, the only school in West Virginia where any person of color could receive secondary education for over 25 years.

More DC Day Trips

Harpers Ferry is everything a day trip should be: cute, accessible, packed with activities, and most importantly, has lots of great food. Here’s how to make the perfect day in Harpers Ferry.

How To Spend a Day In Harpers Ferry

Less than an hour drive away from D.C., Frederick is full of historic charm, bookshop nooks, antique emporiums, and quiet hikes. All this makes it one of my favorite daytrips — and can easily fill a whole weekend! Try to time your trip with one of their community festivals like the 

 is, indeed, perfect. Strong, cheap, (by D.C. standards) and outstanding breakfast sandwiches. I get the avocado breakfast sammy which comes with an 

 is also a classic local spot for espresso drinks that have the best latte art I’ve ever seen. You can also rent a bike here to cruise around Frederick!

Coffee in hand, you’re ready to hit the shops. Frederick is an antiquer's dream. My go-to is 

, a massive store with hundreds of dealers with everything from weird miniatures to old lobster crates. Be careful, it’s too easy to get sucked in and spend all day here! For something less overwhelming, 

Other favorite shopping spots include the 

, which has an extensive collection of new and used punk and metal vinyl.

Frederick is definitely a gastropub kind of town (and if you’re into that, the best is 

 IMO) but there is a huge array of options for when you’re not feeling a burger. I am not vegan, but one of my favorite meals was from 

. The buffalo cauliflower wrap goes crazy and they have kombucha on tap. For amazing Italian deli sandwiches you can’t beat 

. Or for something more upscale, check out 

 for their $11 chai pear gin sour. Many of their cocktails use their in-house made liquors from the distillery next door. Make sure to ask the bartender about the secret menu 🤫

Alright, enough indulgence. Let's go for a hike! Frederick is located right next to the Appalachian Trail and Catoctin Mountain Park, which provide a plethora of great hiking. I love hiking to 

. It’s a seven-mile round trip and gets you great views from both Annapolis Rocks and Black Rock. For something more chill, check out the one-mile 

 in Catoctin Mountain Park. For kids, the 

 is a 50-acres preserve with lots of animals the National Zoo doesn’t have, like bison, antelope, and kangaroos!

Itching for more daytrip itineraries out of D.C.? What town do you 

How To Spend a Day In Frederick, Maryland

How To Spend a Day In Frederick

Ashe Durban

D.C. is a famously walkable city, but why walk when you don’t have to? You all blew up 

 about finding the best block in the District (thanks 🥳). So, we wanted to bring it, along with some of your suggestions in the comments, over here!

Today we’re starting with 4th St. NW right next to Takoma Metro. Let’s go 🙌

Take the Red Line to the Takoma stop. The C75 or D5X buses will also get you there, albeit a fair bit slower.

, a small-batch specialty coffee roaster located in the old Takoma Theatre. Their London Fog Latte is absolutely mental, as is their matcha. Expect a bit of a wait on weekends though, as we discovered.

Next let’s head north. Mom and pop run convenience store 

 has everything you need, from surprisingly good Jamaican patties to random daily necessities and groceries.

Our favorite stop of the day is just next door. 

 — run by some of D.C. punk scene’s finest — also makes the best vegan donuts in town. We grabbed a blueberry cake donut, which is apparently always sold out (why?!).

, where you can have a drink and catch some live music. We passed because it was like 10 a.m., but 

So many of you recommended Takoma Wellness Center 

 so that was next up. It’s D.C.'s longest running, family-run weed dispensary. We didn’t buy anything (working hours and all that) but the staff was incredibly friendly and the options plentiful.

The last spot that really brought this block over the top was 

. It’s the perfect place to find that niche hardcore record you’ve been looking for or some vintage swag for the winter months.

So, what do you think? Could this be the best block in D.C.?

What Block Should We Do Next? 

Finding the Best Block In DC: Takoma 

Annie Rees

Welcome to the another installment of our walking series, where we pick a D.C. street to walk a mile on and see what cool stuff we can find along the way! Check out our mile guides along 

Kaela’s been having all the fun, so I decided to walk a mile along 

 starting near the Congressional Cemetery and walking West toward Eastern Market.

We pick a mile on that street (Pennsylvania Ave. between the Congressional Cemetery and Eastern Market Metro)

We recommend ~10 things to do on that mile.

Take the Orange, Blue, or Silver Lines to the Potomac Ave. stop. Or, take the D1X or D10 bus. Both buses run along the whole mile.

Technically, I’m starting my journey just 

One of my favorite places in the city, this 35-acre historic-yet-active burial ground doubles as a dog park in the mornings and has a quirky mashup of old and contemporary gravestones.

After my sojourn in the Congressional Cemetery, my walk begins for real! Ok, well maybe a quick stop at 

 for some caffeine first. I’m feeling fancy, so I get their horchata de cafe and a leek and parmesan croissant.

As I leave the Roost, I mourn the fact that it’s too early for either 

 to be open. Do yourself a favor and visit both next time you’re in the neighborhood (luckily I live here)! Pro tips for the cocktail drinkers among us: Get the caprese martini if you’re at Caruso's and the boozy Dr. Pepper slushie if you’re at Hill East Burger.

, an Italian hole-in-the wall sub shop that’s a Capitol Hill institution (and a vegetarian’s nightmare). I wish I was hungry enough to stop for a sub — real ones know you have to get the G-Man! But sadly, I don't have two stomachs.

, a tiny, cheerful, gluten-free bakery and make a beeline. Whenever I’m there, I get sweet treats for a celiac friend, and I pick up a small bag of cinnamon sugar donut holes for myself. Walking is hard work, okay?

, D.C.’s oldest continuously operating hardware store. Sometimes when I’m feeling overwhelmed, I stop here — it’s comforting to remember all the things I can fix with my bare hands. Today is definitely one of those days. I walk the aisles and pick up a paintbrush. (I’ve always got a project going.) Honorable mention to their plant store next door, although I fear for my relationship if I come home with any more plants (at least this week).

 sits to my left, which offers classes on 

 from cooking to painting to dance. I check, today is knitting. Probably not the class for me.

At last, I arrive at the Eastern Market metro station but I can’t not stop at 

 when it’s so close. The cozy lower level has comfy chairs where you can curl up with a book you’re considering. If you’re into board games, then 

 next door is a must-stop! See if you can get the right answer to their daily riddle (and earn yourself a sleeve of Smarties, which I did, nbd).

We’re now in Eastern Market and Barracks Row, which has too many cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops to name. But if you want to continue your adventure, stay here and go crazy.

However, if I can leave you with one favorite treat from the 

 — grab a spam musubi or three. Only $5!

Walk A Mile On Pennsylvania Ave SE

 is the most exciting strip mall you’ll ever go to. The outside is underwhelming but take time to wander into the back halls of the mall, and you’ll be met with dozens of Vietnamese bakeries, delis, billiards clubs, and pho joints.

 on the East Coast. In the ‘80s, Vietnamese merchants moved here after Metro construction displaced them from the "Little Saigon" area of Clarendon. It has since grown and become the go-to spot for Vietnamese food and groceries.

With five tea shops within one block, there are no lack of options for a little caffeine boost (fellow cheese foam fans, anyone?). 

 is a personal favorite both for the huge variety of add-ons and its wacky private jet-themed decor. 

 is also a stand-out, but mostly for its popcorn chicken side. If you must have coffee, 

 has a wonderful espresso and a butterscotch latte.

 get a lot of the love from visitors, but don’t limit yourself to what’s visible from the street. The best spots are tucked away in random back halls of the mall. 

 has unbelievable Bùn Bò Hué, a beef noodle soup, and vermicelli bowls. 

 specializes in silky steamed rice rolls that melt in your mouth. Try something new, you can’t go wrong!

If you’re a grocery nerd like me, take advantage of the Good Fortune Supermarket with aisle upon aisle of spices, curry pastes, and live fish. Skincare nerds can browse hard-to-find Korean beauty and skincare brands at 

. If you’re really feeling like a local, you can strike up a game of pool at the unnamed billiards club in the Saigon East Mall.

It’s unlikely that you're still hungry, but who says you can’t pick something up for later? Eden Center’s competing side-by-side bakeries whip out homemade candies, bao buns, Bánh Tét, and baked goods, as well as pickles and sauces. 

 sesame balls and Banh Bao are a good place to start. Make sure to bring cash!

Eden Center is the most exciting strip mall you’ll ever go to. It's back halls are packed with dozens of Vietnamese bakeries, delis, billiards clubs, and pho joints.

Where To Eat At Eden Center

 due to the government shutdown. It looks poised to end soon, but if you’re flying for the upcoming holidays, it's critical to plan ahead.

Here’s everything you need to know to get to your flight on time, and what to do at the airport.

✈️  Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

s? Yes, take the Blue or Yellow line to the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport stop.

 $29/day at Terminal Garages and $19/day for the Economy Lot.

José Andrés designed the menu behind this fancy new credit card lounge. It’ll cost non-card holders $90. But once you're in, everything from cocktails to elaborate charcuterie is free. (Post-security, Concourse D)

— YouTube famous chef Carla Hall opened this Southern cooking restaurant with dishes like pimiento cheese, Chesapeake oysters, and crab soup. (Post-security, Concourse A)

Everyone’s favorite Petworth Pizza joint can be found dishing up made-to-order pies by Gate E51. There are also seasonal empanadas. (By gate E51)

 Before you go through security in Terminal 2, be sure to stop and admire the new 

150,000-piece Lego model of Reagan National Airport

 located by the Alaska Airlines check-in counter!

DCA was designed intentionally with art built in so the main hall is almost like a museum! Ten giant floor mosaics line the floor of the main concourse with pieces by 

🚕  Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

 No, but it’s easily accessible via MARC and Amtrak train routes from Union Station.

A Baltimore classic serving up Southern comfort food and all day breakfast. Dishes include chicken and waffles and pimiento-cheese biscuits, and challah French toast. (Post-security, Concourse A)

 — Well-known for great steamed crabs and the freshest crab cakes in town (or maybe just the airport). (Post-security, between B-7 and B-9)

 in Concourse B with smart sensors and LED stall occupancy lights.

 consisting of two different loops through Concourses A and B. Each loop takes approximately 20 minutes.

 — Adjacent to Security Checkpoint C is 

 with model planes, binocular viewers, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s also perfect for kids!

🚇 Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

 Yes, take the Silver line to the Washington Dulles International Airport stop.

 $32/day at Terminal Garages and $12/day for the Economy Lot.

— A wine bar with small bites, sandwiches, and charcuterie. But mostly, go for the wine. (Post-security, Gate B63)

— You know her, you love her. It’s one of the few quick but not fast food options in Dulles. (Post-security, Concourse B)

 coming to IAD next fall (thank goodness) like Ellie Bird and Bonchon!

— if you have an eligible card or are willing to pay a few bucks to enter, IAD has some worthwhile lounges, The Capital One lounge and Etihad Lounge are especially nice with great food!

 recently including Burberry, Mont Blanc, and L’Occitane.

Your Guide to DMV Airports

Welcome to another of our walking series, where we pick a D.C. street to walk a mile on and see what cool stuff we can find along the way! Today I am walking a stretch of Florida Avenue NW starting from above the 9:30 Club.

We pick a mile on that street (Florida Avenue between W and North Capital Streets.)

Take the Green Line to the U Street stop. Or, take the D44 (getting off at Florida & W) or D53 bus, which run along almost the whole mile.

Once I decided on Florida Avenue, I knew I had to start the journey with the famous breakfast wrap from 

. Made with eggs, mashed kidney beans, crispy rice, and sofrito aioli it's in a league of its own. Now I’m powered up.

Continuing Florida Ave. I gaze forlornly over at 

, realizing it might have been a better idea to make this trip at night. But, It’s too late for regrets so I settle on buying some tickets on my phone to Night Tapes later that week.

Once I hit U Street, I take a left to stay on Florida Avenue and walk past 

. I can’t help but cringe at the wild (but fun) late night flashbacks that go through my mind. But today the sun's still up, at least for now.

I admire the Washington Graffiti Wall and cutesy Ledroit Park arch. Then I make a short detour to the weekly 

 to pick up a couple squash. With the weight of the squash in my tote I'm basically rucking now (#fitness).

But all that rucking tired me out quickly so I make a beeline for the best coffee in the city (IMHO) at 

. I get the seasonal golden pear cortado with browned butter, pears, and thyme and we’re soooo back.

 tempts me with its saucy homemade halfsmokes but I’m on a mission, the end is in sight! Finally, I cross over the finish line at North Capitol Street.

But the day isn’t over yet. After wasting a few lovely hours at 

 (gotta do my real job after all) I head back the way I came. I know, it’s against the “rules” of this guide but my favorite cocktail bar, 

, is on Florida Avenue and there’s no way I'm walking back without going.

I finish the night dancing at a Leith Ross concert at 

 (severely underrated) to bring home with me after. My dogs are tired but my will to live is replenished. 💪 

Walk a Mile On Florida Avenue 

Welcome to the first installment of our walking series, where we pick a D.C. street to walk a mile on and see what cool stuff we can find along the way! To kick things off, I walked a stretch of Georgia Avenue NW starting above Howard University.

We pick a mile on that street (Georgia Avenue between Upshur and Fairmont streets.)

Take the Green Line to the Georgia Ave-Petworth stop. Or, take the D4X or D40 bus. Both buses run along the whole mile.

I decided to walk south to north because that’s where the best coffee options are 🤭 And let me tell you, there’s a 

 of options. If you’re looking for somewhere cozy to work, head to 

. It’s got the best selection of books and tons of locked-in Howard students.

But I was on the go, so I grabbed an Ethiopian-style coffee from 

 I started chatting with the friendly owners, and before I knew it my coffee was gone. Luckily, just one more block up is 

Welcome to our walking series, where we pick a D.C. street to walk a mile on and see what cool stuff we can find! To kick things off, I walked a stretch of Georgia Avenue.

Neighborhood Guides

Get to Know 11th Street NW in Columbia Heights

How To Spend a Day In Harpers Ferry

How To Spend a Day In Frederick

Latest articles

Finding the Best Block In DC: Takoma

Walk A Mile On Pennsylvania Ave SE

Where To Eat At Eden Center

Your Guide to DMV Airports

Walk a Mile On Florida Avenue

Walk A Mile on Georgia Avenue

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