Hidden Gems for Washington D.C.

Find great things to do in Washington D.C.

Sure, it’s the political capital of the United States, but Washington D.C. is so much more than its politics. There is an incredible array of diverse eateries, cool bars, and a wealth of history, museums, and monuments. You could spend weeks in just the museums and still not see it all. It therefore isn’t just New York that belongs on your bucket list – Washington D.C. is most definitely worth a trip! In our travel guide you will find great things to do in Washington D.C..

1. Hidden Gem Washington D.C.: Astro Doughnuts

The concept is easy: two American favorite comfort foods, which can only mean doughnuts and fried chicken, with a modern twist of inventive, seasonal flavors. If you want a fresh, specialty gourmet doughnut to satisfy your cravings, this is the place to go. Astro Doughnuts started with two childhood friends who grew up playing hockey together and were rewarded with doughnuts after games – which apparently had a lasting effect! Their most popular menu item is the Crème Brûlée Doughnut, having been named “the best doughnut in DC” by the Washington Post. But besides their award-winning doughnuts, they also offer a variety of flavored chicken dishes, including the Sriracha and spicy garlic chicken wings (worth trying!!).

Astro Doughnuts / © Instagram: downtowndcbid

2. Hidden Gem Washington D.C.: Kramerbooks & Afterword

Opened in 1976, this was the first bookstore in the country to also offer dinner, lunch, breakfast and drinks in the evening. What a great mixture! Book lovers will be elated with the extensive sections of poetry, history, and travel. Everything from rare specialty books to the latest best-sellers can be found here. The café is a great place to hang out on a rainy day with a good book. From Wednesday through Saturday they even host nightly live music . The closest subway station is Dupont Circle.

Kramerbooks & Afterword / © Instagram: aqauariusofcolor

3. Hidden Gem Washington D.C.: Columbia Room

In this place cocktails and cuisine merge together to create a memorable experience. Columbia Room is comprised of three areas: the Spirits Library and Punch Garden are open seating, although there is limited seating available. The Punch Garden is a breezy rooftop terrace, shaded by a canopy and surrounded by planters filled with herbs that could perhaps be used for some cocktail. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing evening in the summertime with delicious drinks. One cocktail costs around 15$.

Columbia Room / © Instagram: aishjames

4. Hidden Gem Washington D.C.: Freshfarm Market

The best way to spend a Sunday morning is to go down to Dupont Circle’s Freshfarm Market. Freshfarm offers more than 40 farmer stalls with fresh and local produce. The selection covers fruits and veggies, meat and fish, and flowers and soap. At many stalls you can additionally taste some samples before buying. So just grab yourself a coffee, stroll around, do a little bit of shopping and snacking and enjoy the great atmosphere. We would recommend to come here early in the morning to avoid the crowds. You can visit the market all year. The closest station is Dupont Circle.