WASHINGTON DC: Living Like Locals: A 12-Day DC Adventure Guide
Zeke and Terri in Washington, DC (August 2024)
Washington DC offers more than just monuments and museums; it's a living, breathing city where history meets modern life on every corner. Our 12-day house-sitting adventure gave us an authentic perspective on the nation's capital, complete with a friendly dog named Charlie and a cat named Toby (RIP) as our temporary roommates.
In our 6-part video series, we share how we discovered DC's many layers, from tourist highlights to local haunts.
Base Camp: Shaw Neighborhood Living
Setting up in Shaw proved perfect for experiencing DC like locals. This vibrant neighborhood put us within easy reach of the city's excellent public transportation system (which became Zeke's not-so-unexpected obsession) and walking distance to local gems like Seylou Bakery for morning croissants and Petit Cerise for meal after incredible meal.
Our first days included must-see attractions with a twist. The US Capitol tour revealed the daily workings of government beyond the usual photo ops, while the US Botanic Garden offered a peaceful escape from city energy. Having a home base in a residential neighborhood meant we could balance tourist activities with local routines, like walking Charlie through tree-lined streets.
Navigating Museums and Neighborhoods
Even experienced travelers have their challenging moments, and DC's intensity can occasionally overwhelm. The powerful exhibits at the National Museum of African American History and Culture demanded emotional energy, while the Renwick Museum's innovative displays showed us art's ability to provoke thought and discussion.
We discovered that water taxis offer unique perspectives of the city, taking one to explore Alexandria, Virginia's historic streets. The newly developed Wharf area showed us how DC continues to evolve, blending historic architecture with modern amenities.
Sports and Culture Collide
DC's cultural scene defied expectations. We cheered at an NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League) match watching the Washington Spirit battle Kansas City Current, then spent hours lost in the Hirshhorn Museum's modern art collections. The National Gallery of Art's sculpture garden proved perfect for afternoon contemplation, showing how DC balances athletic energy with artistic reflection.
Solo Adventures in the Capital
Sometimes separation makes traveling together bearable. Our solo day let us each follow our passions: Terri explored the newly reopened National Museum of Women in the Arts and the American Art Museum, while Zeke cycled Georgetown's historic streets and the C&O Canal Trail. Reuniting over dinner at La Casina DC made sharing our different perspectives the day's highlight.
Presidential Treatment
The White House self-guided tour surprised us with its accessibility and engaging Secret Service agents eager to share stories. An afternoon watching Mamma Mia! at the Kennedy Center followed by dinner at Lapis showcased DC's vibrant cultural and culinary diversity. The city seamlessly blends political history with contemporary entertainment.
Final Days and Reflections
Our trip concluded with mixed success beginning with biking the National Mall's monuments (pro tip: avoid busy Saturdays and Sundays!), then cheering at a Washington Mystics WNBA game, and finally experiencing cutting-edge technology at the historic Carnegie Library's Apple Store. A farewell Ethiopian feast at Chercher perfectly symbolized DC's multicultural soul.
Essential Tips for Fellow Empty Nesters:
Transportation
Get a Metro card immediately - the system is clean, efficient, and extensive
Use buses and trains to avoid parking hassles
Consider Capital Bikeshare for short trips (but check those bikes!)
Museums and Attractions
Visit popular sites early morning or late afternoon
Take advantage of free admission at Smithsonian museums
Mix well-known attractions with lesser-known gems
Book White House tours well in advance (contact your House Rep or Senator for access)
Local Living
Explore beyond the National Mall
Try Ethiopian cuisine as DC's is among the best in the country
Use restaurants like Petite Cerise or other local cafes for recharging between activities
Take advantage of neighborhood parks and green spaces
Weather Planning
Summer heat can be intense so plan indoor activities during peak hours
Carry water and plan rest stops
Create a flexible itinerary that allows you to change things up as weather (and your energy) permits
Cultural Experiences
Check schedules for women's sports teams
Look for performances at the Kennedy Center
Explore neighborhood art galleries
Visit local farmers markets
Living temporarily as DC residents gave us insights no hotel stay could match. The ability to walk Charlie through quiet neighborhoods, chat with local shopkeepers, and develop daily routines helped us understand the city's true character. Whether you're interested in politics, art, sports, or simply experiencing authentic local life, DC rewards travelers willing to look beyond the obvious attractions.
Ready to plan your own DC adventure? Watch our complete video series above for detailed insights and ideas for making the most of your visit to the nation's capital.