5 Reasons Why We Love Washington, D.C.

Isn’t it a surprise to learn that Washington is so much more than federal buildings, government and the White House? Read on to find out how fun and exciting the city really is, and why so many of our Kaplan students love it!

 

1. Boat trip through the oldest neighbourhood

 

Take a boat trip down the Potomac through Georgetown, D.C.’s oldest neighbourhood. You'll spot parks, a glimpse of the Pentagon and look back at the infamous Washington, D.C. skyline.  

 

Georgetown itself is one of the oldest neighborhoods full of quaint coffee shops, bistros, quick-eat cafes and bakeries. There is the option to walk along the quiet canal for peaceful scenic views or along the Potomac River waterfront for a bustling vibe and array of delicious outdoor dining options. In winter the waterfront harbor turns into an ice skating rink.

 

Georgetown
Boat through the beautiful Georgetown neighbourhood 

 

 

2. Tour the largest complex of museums at the Smithsonian Institution

 

Open up your mind and discover something new with a visit to the Smithsonian Institution. With 19 museums and galleries, and the National Zoo, you can learn about art, design, technology, history, animals and culture. Many of the museums are within walking distance from each other and a short walk from the National Mall. Begin your day at the visitors center, which is the impressive and original Smithsonian Castle.

 

Smithsonian Castle
Begin your visit at the Smithsonian Castle 

 

 


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3. Tantalise your taste buds with DC’s food scene

 

When abroad it’s easy to justify spending those extra pennies on something you might not normally do. And in DC one way to do that is to on the expanse of culinary treats available. From amazing Michelin star restaurants dotted all over the city and markets where chefs serve up beautiful tantalising creations to delightful neighbourhood locals. The food scene in D.C. is endless. 

 

Feast of fresh seafood along the waterfront in Georgetown, or head to the hip area by Logan Circle where you can pick from top notch but oh-so trendy Italian, French or contemporary Spanish, right through to the bold flavours of South East Asia.

 

Enjoy the food scene in Washington
Enjoy the food scene in Washington, D.C. 

 

 

4. Head to NoMa, a bustling hipster neighbourhood

 

Mingle with locals at Union Market, which is a recently refurbished grocery and food hall featuring over 40 vendors, a mix of both pop-up stalls and permanent restaurants. It’s got an event space too that’s played host to a range of events.

 

This neighbourhood also features the most instagrammable spot in DC (forget the White House), it’s a beautiful mural created by LA-based graffiti artist Mr. Brainwash. Other parts of this neighbourhood have also been redeveloped, including the Hecht Warehouse. Here you can sip on a delicious brew from one of the many distilleries or enjoy late-night live music.

 

NoMa
Explore the unique NoMa neighborhood 

 

 

5. Enjoy DC’s Jazz scene

 

Head to Blues Alley, one of the oldest operating jazz clubs in the country. It’s a converted 18th century carriage house and plays jazz every single night of the week. With an old sign out front and a rusty front door, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped into the 30s. But that’s the charm of this little gem located in Georgetown. 

 

Jazz in Washington
See Jazz in Washington 

 

You see, there is so much more to Washington than just politics! All you need to do is explore the neighbourhoods and meet the locals. Join the Kaplan community and study English with us in Washington. 

 

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