It all seems like such a blur, almost as if it were a dream. Still, there was a time before we’d even collectively heard the term ‘coronavirus.’ Now, it seems, things are moving back towards a level of normality that is both very much needed and long overdue.
Going about our daily business should now start to become a far more pleasant process, albeit there are still a fair few restrictions in place, especially when venturing indoors. However, it is important to try to adapt to the new circumstances and not cower in fear indoors.
For some of us, it’s been almost two years since we’ve been able to enjoy a genuine holiday, one that doesn’t entail sitting at home and completing the 14th jigsaw puzzle of the week. A trip overseas, or for those Americans looking to see more of the country, a vacation is the opportunity to unwind and try out new experiences.
As 2024 starts to head towards winter, now may be the time to start making plans for a getaway, and we’d heartily recommend a trip to Washington DC, a location quite like no other.
Washington has plenty of opportunities when it comes to enjoying a day or night, and to help you make the most of the current situation, here are a few places to check out. Places to view places to eat and drink as well as other activities you may not have been able to enjoy all that much of late.
1. National Air and Space Museum
If you like a good museum, then you can’t go wrong with the National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall. As far as spectacle is concerned, this museum takes some beating. As you step into the place, you’ll be greeted by massive nuclear missiles (not live), and these are next to the moon rock station, which allows visitors to see a lunar sample that returned on the Apollo 17 mission.
On top of this, you have the 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of Louis, and the Hubble Space Telescope test model. In short, this place is resplendent in jewels from the history of aviation and the space race. It’s not to be missed and is now fully open to the public.
2. Jimmy T’s
If you are looking for a great place to dine and experience a quintessentially DC location, then Jimmy T’s is the place for you. From the outside, it looks old-fashioned, and that’s because it’s not changed all that much since it first opened in the last 60s, and we love that the decor is not pretentious, such as the seating you can see by clicking here, and you’ll find this restaurant all the more welcoming when you order any of the delicious items on their breakfast menu.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself shoulder to shoulder with a politician or reporter; this place is loved by locals and tourists alike. Remember, though; it’s cash only.
3. All Souls Bar
This corner bar, situated in the Shaw neighborhood, is a back to the basics type of drinking den, but its character (and choice of drinks) is more than enough of a reason to give this place a go.
This reasonably priced bar has been a popular hangout for years, and though it’s busy, it’s a location you should pop into on a night out on the town. Much like with Jimmy T’s, you will more than likely be rubbing shoulders with the political folk of DC, and these are the types you can usually count on for entertainment.
Be aware that you will need proof of vaccination to enjoy their fantastic range of beers and cocktails, and you won’t regret it!
4. Take a Walking Tour
You may have been cooped up far too much during the pandemic, and therefore on your visit to Washington DC, you should take advantage of this great city. Take a walking tour and let the place wash over you.
There are many great sights to see while walking around DC; some take in the National Mall or Historic Georgetown. For those who are perhaps on a more macabre taste, there are plenty of true crime walking tours, as well as those based on the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.
Of course, you can just elect to take a walk by yourself, without the aid of a guide, in which case you’ll just need a sturdy guidebook to lead you on your way.
5. The Weeknd
Live music is one of the main things that was sorely missed during the first year, and more, of the coronavirus pandemic. Fortunately, concert halls are opening up again, and venues are welcoming crowds to see great acts once again.
Early next year, Washington DC welcomes The Weeknd to the Capital One Arena, and it’s sure to be quite the spectacle. The hideously talented singer-songwriter’s most recent album, After Hours, was a critical success and topped the charts in no less than 20 countries.
It spawned three US number-one singles, including the anthemic Blinding Lights, and if your visit to DC coincides with the visit of this awesomely gifted performer, then you need to get your tickets!
What Are You Waiting For?
If you are from overseas and considering potential destinations for a great trip, then DC may be the right place for you, and if you live in the States and are looking for an adventure, you too need to get yourself down here.
As a location, Washington DC is something of an eclectic paradise. It offers a wide range of experiences and activities and is a city quite unlike any other. So now that the coronavirus situation is starting to improve and things are stabilizing, it’s time for you to make your way to the nation’s capital. Well, what are you waiting for?
