DC Guide: National Mall & Monuments

November 14, 2020vacationvagabonds

Marvel at the national landmarks in Washington, DC that make up America’s front yard. Apart from the politicking, DC is perhaps best known for its stunning monuments and world class museums that spark awe in visitors and locals alike. Here is our DG Guide to the National Mall & Monuments for the highlights and helpful tips – from locals!

“There is nothing so American as our national parks…. The fundamental idea behind the parks…is that the country belongs to the people, that it is in process of making for the enrichment of the lives of all of us.”
-Franklin D. Roosevelt

Catch sunrise.

Wake up early and head down to the National Mall. Watching sunrise from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial is absolutely breathtaking. Plus, you’ll be rewarded with peaceful views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument with none of the crowds. Maybe even bring along some hot coffee and breakfast if you’re feeling extra – everyone around you will wish they had thought of that too!

Capture that perfect lighting and great memories with a photographer while you’re at it! Derek Calderon Photography is amazing and so easy to work with – Derek took all our photos in the gallery below.

Explore the sites by foot, rent a Capital Bike Share, or take a Big Bus Tour.

We recommend this route mapped out below to hit all the highlights if you have the good part of a day to spend, or pick and choose which sites you want to see.

Note: We highly recommend either walking or biking. While you can use a ride share scooter on the Mall, you will not be able to park and end your ride in this zone.

Lincoln Memorial – Try to time your visit at sunrise for one of the prettiest views in the city!
Korean War Veterans Memorial – Pop over before venturing on from Lincoln. Seeing the statues of soldiers marching onward is captivating and gives off a different mood in various types of weather and times of day.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial – The memorial has an unconventional design with its dark color and lack of decoration, but it has become a place of grieving, pilgrimage and healing; visitors have made a tradition of leaving mementos, letters and photographs of loved ones lost in the war.
Constitution Gardens – Rest on a park bench by the pond and weeping willows. You just might forget you’re in the middle of DC until you look up and take in a unique perspective of the Washington Monument.
World War II Memorial – One of our favorite monuments and very symbolic, take time to walk the entire monument and read the inscriptions on the walls.
White House – Located just off the National Mall. Not many people realize, but the prettiest view is from the south side coming from the Mall, so you don’t even need to walk around to the other side where most of the crowds congregate.
Washington Monument – Get a bird’s eye view of the nation’s capital. Timed tickets are required to ride the elevator to the 500 foot observation deck. Tickets become available daily at 10 am for the next day’s visits.
Martin Luther King Memorial – The memorial itself is based on a line from Dr. King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, which was delivered from the nearby steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963: “With this faith, we will be able to hew out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.” The memorial depicts Dr. King as the “stone of hope” and the two pieces of granite placed near him as the “mountain of despair.” The monument also serves as a gateway to the Tidal Basin, which is truly magnificent in the spring during Cherry Blossom season.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial – Stroll down the path along the Tidal Basin to the expansive FDR Memorial. In honor of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s four terms in office, the memorial is divided into four outdoor “rooms,” where statues and murals stand to represent issues from the Great Depression to World War II.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial – The memorial, which stands as a symbol of liberty, was designed as a smaller version of the Roman Pantheon with marble steps and monumental Ionic columns; its interior holds a bronze statue of Jefferson and the walls are inlaid with excerpts from his letters, speeches and the Declaration of Independence.
Smithsonian Castle – Completed in 1855, the Castle is home to the Smithsonian Visitor Center. Visit the vast gardens in the back, including the Enid A. Haupt Garden opened in 1987. The end of the garden nearest the African Art Museum contains an interpretation of an Islamic garden, and the end nearest the Sackler Gallery is accented with pink granite moongates, a traditional Chinese garden feature.
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden – Great place to sit and unwind among the lush greenery, bubbling fountain, and unique outdoor sculpture installations. The Pavilion Cafe is also a great spot for a casual bite.

Visit the Smithsonian Museums.

Smithsonian Museums are always free, and many are currently open and taking reservations. These museums typically do not require a reservation, except for the Museum of African American History & Culture which requires a reserved ticket and entry time in advance. Check for special measures and precautions during COVID-19 (i.e. timed entry passes, masks required).

Must see Smithsonian Museums: American History, Air & Space, Natural History, Hirshhorn, National Gallery of Art, National Portrait Gallery (located in Chinatown) and the National Museum of African American History & Culture.

Where to Eat.

Finding a spot to eat around the National Mall can be a challenge. Here are some of our favorite spots that are close by:

West end of the Mall (closer to Lincoln): The Hive – awesome rooftop, cozy interior, attached to &pizza ($$), Tonic at Quigley’s ($$), Founding Farmers DC – a DC classic ($$), Dunkin’ ($), and Starbucks ($)

Middle of the Mall (close to the Washington Monument/White House): Pavilion Cafe – located inside the Sculpture Garden ($$), Juan Valdez Cafe – Colombian coffee ($), W Hotel ($$$), Old Ebbitt ($$$), Astro Donuts & Fried Chicken ($$)

East end of the Mall (closer to the Capitol): We the Pizza – some of the best pizza in DC ($), Firehook Bakery ($), Ebenezers Coffeehouse ($), Le Bon Cafe ($$), Good Stuff Eatery ($)

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Tips for Planning Your Visit to Hillwood Estate: A Garden Retreat in DC

by vacationvagabonds October 20, 2020

Travel Guide: How to Plan a Trip to DC Safely During COVID-19

by vacationvagabonds August 22, 2020

A Local’s Guide to Visiting the Washington, DC Cherry Blossoms

by vacationvagabonds March 10, 2020

Tips for Planning Your Visit to Hillwood Estate: A Garden Retreat in DC

October 20, 2020October 20, 2020vacationvagabonds

With so many museums and attractions to visit in Washington, DC, we didn’t realize a hidden gem in the middle of the city like Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens existed until we finally discovered it this year, playing tourist in our city! Hillwood Estate is the perfect way to spend an afternoon, especially during COVID-19 since there’s tons of beautiful outdoor spaces, and they’re taking excellent safety precautions and limiting the number of visitors.

Hillwood Estate is a decorative arts museum housed in the former residence of businesswoman, socialite, philanthropist and collector Majorie Merriweather Post (yes, of the Post cereal family). Hillwood is known for its large decorative arts collection that focuses heavily on the House of Romanov, including Faberge eggs, as well as 18th and 19th century French art and one of the US’s most impressive orchid collections.

COVID-19 Precautions

Hillwood Estate is taking great precautions to keep visitors and staff safe. We were very impressed and comfortable thanks to all the guidelines they have in place. Face masks must be worn, and all visitors must maintain 6 feet “social distancing” at all times. Sanitation stations are located throughout the grounds

Book tickets in advance

Reservations are required and can be booked online or on the phone. Suggested admission is $18. Visitors are required to select an estate visit entry time to access the estate, and can also select an optional mansion and/or exhibit entry time. Note: Closed Mondays.

Plan Accordingly

Most visitors spend about 3 hours at the Estate, so plan to arrive early to have enough time to relax and enjoy everything the Estate has to offer, and try to plan your visit during the week (open Tues-Fri) since it tends to be less busy than weekends. Also, dress for comfort and bring along comfortable walking shoes, as there are some hills and gravel paths.

Sips + Bites

Pick up sandwiches, salads, snacks, and refreshments (looking at you, froze) from the Merriweather Cafe or bring your own picnic. For safe, contactless pick up and payment, the cafe is offering optional advance ordering. You can sit on the patio at a socially distanced table or grab a spot for a safety distanced picnic elsewhere on the grounds. Note: Cafe hours are from 11 am to 3 pm Tuesday through Friday and from 11 am to 3:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Explore the gardens.

There is plenty explore outside! You’ll come across a variety of gardens following paths around the estate with plenty of chairs scattered around to sit and enjoy the view. Perhaps the most well-known garden at Hillwood is the French Parterre. There’s also a Russian-style Dacha, Japanese garden with multiple water features, rose garden, cutting garden (hello stunning dahlias, pictured below), and a tucked away little putting green, plus an incredible green house with a vast collection of orchids.

We’ll plan another trip to explore the Museum inside the mansion next time!

Travel Guide: How to Plan a Trip to DC Safely During COVID-19

August 22, 2020vacationvagabonds

Life in general, not to mention traveling, looks pretty different right now. But there’s plenty of ways to enjoy DC in this new environment, whether you’re visiting from out of town or seeking a staycation and finding adventure closer to home these days. Important note: DC has mandated masks for everyone when outside. Remember to always be mindful of local travel and health advisories whenever traveling, especially now!

Choose a reputable, clean hotel. Go for one that has a backyard space or patio and a kitchenette if possible so that you can eat at least some meals (including take out!) at your “home base” and minimize exposure at restaurants for every single meal. Think beyond traditional hotels too, like bed and breakfasts. We enjoyed our recent stay at The Avery Georgetown, a local bed and breakfast, to celebrate our anniversary and rented a room with its own private backyard. We were super impressed with their cleaning standards.

The Avery Georgetown Bed & Breakfast
The LINE, DC
Hotel Hive
Yours Truly, DC
Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Riggs Hotel

Avoid public transit, if possible. Pack your best pair of tennis shoes and get those steps in! Or if you need to cover more ground efficiently, try renting a bike through Capital Bikeshare, Revel electric moped sharing, an electric sharing scooter, or a car sharing app (we’ve been impressed with the cleanliness of our limited recent experiences with Lyft and Uber) — just bring wipes and sanitizer to wipe it down.

Plan out your activities ahead of time. Museums and other attractions have started to reopen with new health and safety measures in place, like timed reservations. Plus there are plenty of outdoor-focused activities you can still enjoy!

The National Mall and monuments: Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, WWII, Smithsonian Castle, Capitol Building exterior, etc.
Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Timed entry for free tickets and limited capacity. Some indoor exhibits remain closed.
Hirshhorn Museum Sculpture Garden – The sculpture garden is now open, while the museum remains closed.
Tudor Place gardens – Beautiful free gardens at a historic Georgetown manor that sits on 5.5 acres. Requires timed entry tickets, and donations are suggested. The museum portion of the house remains closed and has virtual programming available.
Glenstone Museum – Reopened offering visitors an outdoor-only experience. Tickets must be reserved in advance and are released two weeks in advance on Mondays at 10 a.m.
The National Cathedral – While the Cathedral is currently closed to visitors, you can still experience the beautiful gardens and building exterior.
United States National Arboretum – The Arboretum has reopened on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1-5 pm and will limit the number of guests with some areas currently closed.
Heurich House aka The Brewmaster’s Castle – The Castle Garden is now open to the public during the day and Thursdays evenings in the summer at their socially distanced happy hour, selling beers and wine on-site. You can also pick up some Senate Beer to-go – the Chr. Heurich Brewing Co. Senate Beer brand was popularized in the 1890s and and has been recently recreated and produced by a local brewery in partnership! From personal experience, this lager is tasty!!
Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts – Visitors may visit the JFK Memorial bust in the grand foyer if they follow safety procedures. The outdoor campus at THE REACH is accessible, including pop-up wine garden and cafe Victura Park Friday-Sunday all summer long.
Bike or run the C&O Canal – The trail connects in Georgetown near the waterfront and continues east for hundreds of miles, but you’ll only need to go a few miles to see some historic lockhouses, which are available for rent (open with new protocols).
Artechouse – This art + tech exhibition hall is such a unique experience and rotates seasonally. Admission is limited and a timed ticket is required; AR Bar remains closed (see above note about virtual drinks via Colada Shop).
Explore DC virtually – Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and others have launched some cool virtual events.

When dining, go for patios over indoor seating. DC has plenty of fantastic rooftops and patios for drinks and dining and has even expanded several parts of the city into “streeteries,” converting roads into expanded patios to keep patrons safe.

Restaurants:

Union Market – Grab a spot on the benches outside after choosing from the several dining options, plus there’s a rooftop patio.
Boulangerie Christophe – A hidden patio in the back transports you to France and is perfect for brunch or lunch with pastries that are incredible.
Zorba’s Cafe – Longtime Dupont Greek restaurant with the most charming patio that has been extended to the streetery outside its doors on 20th St NW.
Mission – This popular Tex-Mex spot slings up great queso, margs, and mains. It can get pretty busy, so recommend visiting around non-peak hours.
Floriana – Arguably the best Italian food in DC, Floriana has fully embraced the patio set up that is perfect for a romantic night out.
Rakuya – Enjoy their delicious sushi and take advantage of lounging at their spacious streetery located on 19th St NW.
Le Diplomat – One of DC’s finest and most popular French establishments with a beautiful outdoor patio and big open windows. Save room for their bread basket (yep, it is actually worth the calories), oysters, and wine.
Founding Farmers – any location!
Il Canale – This restaurant and the surrounding restaurants have transformed this quite side street into a fully expanded patio!

Bars:

L’Annexe – Fantastic Georgetown cocktail lounge (now with an expanded patio) with creative and delicious drinks.
Lulu’s Winegarden – Cute urban oasis that transports you to Morocco, with two lush garden patios, reimagined dinner party fare, and a fun and affordable under-$50 wine list.
Residents Cafe & Bar – Great little jungle oasis in the heart of Dupont. Make reservations in advance and be mindful of their current minimum spend $.
Colada Shop – Awesome Cuban-inspired coffee and drinks with rooftops and patios. Locations on 14th St and the Wharf.
Rooftop at Riggs – Sophisticated rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Penn Quarter and Mediterranean inspired aperitifs.
Kennedy Center’s The REACH Outdoor campus – see note above.

There’s so many places to visit near DC as well!

Alexandria, VA – Old Town
Great Falls Park
St. Michael’s, MD
Fredericksburg, VA
Harpers Ferry, WV
Tons of nearby wineries in Virginia and Maryland
Historic battlefields

A Local’s Guide to Visiting the Washington, DC Cherry Blossoms

March 10, 2020March 10, 2020vacationvagabonds

Cherry blossom season in Washington, DC is a much anticipated time in the nation’s capital signifying the start of spring. The cherry blossoms are one of the biggest tourist attraction to the nation’s capital with over 1.5 million visitors.

Every year, the National Park Service predicts the much anticipated “peak bloom,” which is the period when 70% of cherry blossoms flower along the Tidal Basin. NPS has updated information for the latest. Peak bloom varies annually depending on weather conditions. The most likely time to reach peak bloom is between the last week of March and the first week of April, but if you visit DC outside this time frame, you may still catch sight of blossoms around the city. With self-guided walks to admire the blossoms up close plus lots of related events throughout the capital, cherry blossom season in DC will be sure to capture your heart.

Planning Ahead & Getting to the Blossoms

When it comes to one of the busiest times of years in DC, earlier is typically better (booking accommodations, visiting in the early morning, etc.). Plan accordingly!

The highest concentration of cherry blossom trees is along the Tidal Basin, which is a narrow path on the National Mall near the Martin Luther King, Jr. and Thomas Jefferson Memorials. Given the high volume of tourists, walking is the least stressful if it is an option. Metro to the Smithsonian (blue/silver/orange lines) or L’Enfant (blue/silver/orange & green/yellow lines) stations or bus to West Basin Drive near Independence Avenue SW. Enter the Tidal Basin area path from anywhere. Keep in mind that the area by the MLK Memorial is typically the most crowded. Equally beautiful spots can be found on the opposite side of the basin near the Jefferson Memorial.

If you want to take a break from walking, hop in a paddle boat from Tidal Basin Paddle Boats (1501 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024) — see photo bombers in background below.

Cherry Blossom Activities

The Cherry Blossom Festival is March 20 – April 12, 2020 and is full of events that honor both American and Japanese cultures. Highlights of the festival include the Blossom Kite Festival, which sees hundreds of kites take to the sky on the National Mall, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, and Petalpalooza.

In addition to the official festival, there are lots of other special events and drink and food specials around town to celebrate. One of our favorite cherry blossom related experiences is the seasonal exhibit at Artechouse, an art space displaying interactive technology. Bonus: sip on a creatively themed drink at their augmented reality bar. Restaurants and bars will also be getting in on the fun with themed food, drinks, and decor.

Etiquette

DO NOT TOUCH THE BLOSSOMS. Really, please don’t. The flowers are very delicate and only last for a short time. The blooms die a lot faster when people touch them. You may see others touching the blossoms or branches, but please be respectful and do not touch so that others can continue to enjoy. OK, we’re done.

It will be crowded throughout the city and especially near the cherry blossom trees, so be courteous and mindful as you snap photos away to your heart’s content!

Fun facts about Washington, DC’s cherry blossoms

The first donation of 2,000 trees, received in 1910, was burned on orders from President William Howard Taft. Insects and disease had infested the gift, but after hearing about the plight of the first batch, the Japanese mayor sent another 3,020 trees to DC two years later.
First Lady Helen Herron Taft planted the first tree in West Potomac Park. Many First Ladies, including Mamie Eisenhower, Lady Bird Johnson, Hillary Clinton and Laura Bush, have officially commemorated the blossoms. On March 27, 2012, Michelle Obama took up the cause by planting a cherry tree to mark the centennial of the blossoms.
One of the earliest recorded peak blooms occurred on March 15, 1990, while the latest recorded peak bloom occurred on April 18, 1958.
The majority of the cherry blossom trees around the Tidal Basin are of the Yoshino variety. But another species, the Kwanzan, usually blooms two weeks after the Yoshino trees, giving visitors a second chance to catch the blossoms.

Tell us what you think? Any other questions about the DC Cherry Blossom Festival or visiting DC in general? Leave us a comment!

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Boulder, Colorado

October 20, 2019October 20, 2019vacationvagabonds

Boulder has a college-town meets low-key mountain vibe. With a pedestrian-only main street, plenty of coffee shops and breweries, and surrounding natural beauty, it is easy to fall in love with. Boulder is one of those places that has something for everyone!

What to Do

Take a hike. The Flatirons are a fantastic hiking option for any age and any level. Start at the Chautauqua Park, which has a small parking lot and starts off relatively flat, and pick your trail as you ascend.

Or drive or hike up Flagstaff Mountain (roundtrip 3 miles beginning near Gregory Canyon Trailhead) to reach Artist Point. Enjoy aerial views of the town, Continental Divide, Rockies, and foothills. For those looking for more challenging hikes, Royal Arch Trail and Mount Sanitas and Sanitas Valley Loop Trial are harder. Check out AllTrails for more detailed hiking information.

Looking for other things to do out West? See our guide for Jackson Hole, skiing Taos, and why you should visit Yellowstone.

Explore town. Wander in and out of shops on the main pedestrian street through central Boulder. From mountain-chic apparel to local artisan goods, throwback posters, and books, there’s something for everyone.

One of our favorite shops we explored was the Savannah Bee Company. The store with floor to ceiling displays of packaged honey offers free tastings of their varieties. Visitors aged 21+ can also do an informative mead tasting of 6 samples.

Catch a college football game. Imagine breathtaking views of the mountains in the backdrop of a Division I Pac-12 stadium. Fans are friendly, beer is sold inside the stadium, and the Buff’s mascot Ralphie the Buffalo charges the field at the start of the game and halftime. What more could you ask for?

Pick up something unique at the farmers market. Taking place every Saturday in Central Park from April through November. Stroll through the stalls of local vendors offering plants, produce, crafts, and eats. You never know what treasures you’ll find!

Sample local breweries. West Flanders has a wide selection of craft beers that we were impressed with. Other local breweries include Boulder Beer Co., VisionQuest Brewing, Sanitas Brewing Co., The Post Brewing Co., Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery, Twisted Pine Brewing Co., and many more.

Where to Eat

Boxcar Coffee Roasters. Custom brewed coffee in a quaint setting. The large space is shared with other vendors selling artisan food products, locally-sourced cheese, fresh bread, charcuterie, and wine. We ordered lattes to wash down Mexican dark chocolate and a massive cheese plate with sliced baguette – it was heavenly!

The Laughing Goat. Cozy local coffeeshop feel with live music and big servings of coffee and espresso drinks. Great place to relax, socialize, or get work done, as long as you can mentally block out the buzz of activity.

Dushanbe Teahouse. This famous teahouse was a gift to the city from Tajikistan and was shipped and assembled piece by piece at its current location on Pearl Street. The interior is colorful and captivating and so worth the visit, as if the food and tea weren’t enough. Come for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or tea time, and make a reservation ahead of time — this spot gets packed with hour-long wait times or more. If you do get stuck with a wait, wander Central Park and the scenic Boulder Creek that runs through.

The Mediterranean. One of the most popular spots in Boulder, “the Med” serves up top notch lunch, dinner, and tapas during a regular and late-night happy hour. Great accommodation for large groups too. We personally recommend splitting some tapas and digging into a pizza or paella.

Pasta Jay’s. If you’re looking for no-fuss classic Italian cuisine, this is the spot for you. Popular with the locals and student crowd, Pasta Jay’s dishes up reasonably priced Italian dishes in generous portions.

Where to Stay

We recommend staying in an Airbnb or hotel near Pearl Street to be close to a lot of the action with easy access to shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.

Or stay in a nearby charming little mountain town. We stayed in Louisville (pronounced LOUIS-VILLE with an audible “S”), a short 20 minute drive from Boulder, and absolutely loved it! Main Street was packed with cool cafes, restaurants, and shops, and nearby local parks offered views of the distant mountains. We almost just wanted to stay put right there.

Why the Idyllic Eastern Shore Town of St. Michaels Should Be Your Next Weekend Getaway

September 22, 2019vacationvagabonds

The quaint, bustling Eastern Shore town of St. Michael’s has a lot to offer and is the perfect weekend getaway for those seeking some R&R. Located off the Eastern Bay and Miles River, St. Michaels dates back to the mid-1600s when it served as a trading post for area tobacco farmers and trappers. The town still reflects its colonial past with its many preserved historic homes dating from the late 1700s and 1800s. Whether you’re looking for historical charm or nautical adventure, St. Michael’s is the place to be. Here’s our suggested day itinerary, whether you plan to stay for either the day or an extended weekend trip in one of the many charming inns.

What To Do

1. Explore the historic downtown’s Talbot Road. Wander into whichever stores look interesting for fun oddities, apparel, and art, then get a coffee and pastry at the Blue Crab tucked just behind the main street to keep you fueled.

2. Stroll around historic neighborhoods. We swear, simply strolling around the picturesque town is an art form here – especially when you have to also pay attention to the uneven brick sidewalks. Once you’re finished meandering Talbot Road, pop down the side streets to admire the historic and beautiful homes. If you’re interested in learning more about the building’s histories, the St. Michaels Museum put together this helpful guide.

3. Walk down Cherry Street and cross Honeymoon Bridge towards the pier. The bridge has connected the foot of Cherry Street to Navy Point for pedestrians since the late 19^th century when the first summer guest cottages opened along the Navy Point waterfront. From the small foot bridge, you’ll spot the Museum’s Hooper Strait Lighthouse straight ahead. The bridge is a worthwhile stop for a quick photo.

4. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is home to a collection of Chesapeake Bay artifacts, exhibits, and vessels. The 18-acre interactive museum is located on the water at the site of former seafood packing houses, docks, and work boats, plus the Hooper Strait Lighthouse dating from 1879. Come in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and a gorgeous view of sunset over the bay.

5. Muskrat Park is a cute little park off the water and close to the main street shops. Sit and enjoy the view.

6. Get out on the water and take a boat ride or kayak to enjoy the water and get a different perspective of the town.

7. Christ Church Episcopal and Union Methodist Church are both unique and historic structures. Plus, you may spot some of the local families’ headstones at the Christ Church graveyard – pay attention, and you’ll notice these names come up over and over again.

8.Sample local beer and wine at Eastern Shore Brewing and St. Michaels Winery. Located right in town and across the street from one another, you hardly have to move to get a taste of these popular local watering holes.

Where To Eat

The Blue Crab Coffee Co. – a sweet local gem tucked right off the main street. Erected in 1883 and former home of the Freedom’s Friend Lodge of Odd Fellows, the building is now home to a coffee shop serving up delicious coffee, espresso and tea drinks plus a café style menu with quality ingredients. Rest your feet and sip coffee while playing board games located in the back.

Foxy’s Harbor Grill – slightly elevated bar style food inspired by the mid-Atlantic with a great view of the bay. Watch boats pull up and dock as you enjoy the fresh breeze coming off the water. Try the crab pretzel and crab sandwich, and don’t forget to cool down with a tasty cocktail. Dog friendly.

Ava’z Pizzeria & Wine Bar – Spot with fantastic pizza (we do not claim this lightly) with a solid beer list. If there’s a wait, we promise it will be worth it. Check out their creative beer tap fountain on the twinkly light back patio.

Bistro St. Michaels – New American restaurant with a fresh menu sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Limoncello Restaurant & Wine Bar – Charming bistro serving up very good Italian fare with wonderful service. Ideal for a special date-night spot.

The Inn at Perry Cabin – The restaurant at this tucked away resort is impeccable. Enjoy the outdoor patio tucked into beautiful landscaping under shaded awnings. Plus the entire grounds are absolutely stunning.

Looking for a place to stay? We’ve personally stayed at Wade’s Point Inn On the Bay and couldn’t recommend it highly enough. Think beautifully decorated rooms in a historic structure (our room even had a claw foot tub) with picturesque views of the bay and super friendly staff. Check out photos from our stay below!

How to Do DC Restaurant Week Right

August 13, 2019August 13, 2019vacationvagabonds

Washington, DC is known for its monuments and powerful figures who call the District home, but did you know that DC also has one of the hottest food scenes? Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week is going strong, showcasing some of the best DMV cuisine — all at an affordable price! Restaurant Week, which runs this summer from Aug. 12-18, offers a chance to enjoy both new and tried and true dining spots with brunch and lunch priced at $22 and dinner at $35. Remember to make a reservation, since participating restaurants get especially busy this week. Here are our top picks for this summer edition of Restaurant Week.

Impress a date

For just $35 for three to four dinner courses, now’s your chance to indulge at some of DC’s finest dining and favorite classics without any of the guilt.

Ambar (Capitol Hill and Clarendon locations)
Clyde’s (Gallery Place and Georgetown)
District Winery
Filomena
Farmers & Distillers
Farmers Fishers Bakers
Founding Farmers
Old Ebbitt Grille
Supra
Via Umbria
Whaley’s

Lunch just got more interesting

Take your team out for or indulge in a getaway from the usual lunch spot for just $22 for two or three courses. If we could hit up one Restaurant Week lunch per day, these are our priorities.

Agora (Dupont Circle and Golden Triangle locations)
Ankara
Chiko (Dupont)
Copa Kitchen & Bar
District Commons
Pisco Y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar
Zaytinya

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Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Brunch like a boss

Washingtonians know how to do brunch right. It’s basically its own culture here. These deals during DC Restaurant Week are the right move to end your weekend on a high note.

City Winery DC
Convivial
Logan Tavern
Momofuku
Tacos, Tortas & Tequila
Whaley’s (so good, we listed it twice)

Check out the full Restaurant Week list of participating eateries and menus.

Planning the Perfect Trip to Yellowstone

July 17, 2019July 17, 2019vacationvagabonds

Morning steam rising from thermal features, an erupting geyser in the distance. Bison herds grazing across the plain. The occasional bear lumbering in the woods, pawing through fallen logs for insects. Cascading waterfalls plunging into a rising, hissing fog. Yellowstone is a magical place, full of beauty, wonder, and wildlife. There’s nothing like visiting this national treasure. Follow these tips to plan your Yellowstone trip like a pro.

Decide how to get there.

Whether you’re driving your own vehicle, renting one, or going with a tour group, this will be a huge factor in what you will be able to do or see in Yellowstone. Driving yourself will allow more freedom to make stops and detours as you please, while going with a group organized by a tour company allows you to relax and absorb your surroundings.

Go off grid.

Cell service is very limited in Yellowstone, so plan ahead to ensure you have what you need while in the park. Download the Yellowstone map and new app ahead of time as well as anything else you may need to access. Before arriving, in the app, select the “Settings” option and tap the choice “Download Offline Content” in order to access most of the app’s features while out of service range. Lastly, pick up a hard copy of the map for free at a park entrance or any visitor center for back up. Visitor centers typically also have some cell signal and pay phones.

Photo by ian dooley on Unsplash

Plan ahead.

If you want to overnight in Yellowstone at one of the lodging options, plan to make a reservation at least a year in advance. Even campsites quickly fill up. If you are having trouble finding availability, check back daily, as people frequently cancel reservations as plans change, or consider doing a long, full day and staying outside the park near one of the five entry points where there are more accommodation options.

Pack a picnic.

While there are some nice places to eat in the park, they can be crowded and eat into your time that could be otherwise spent exploring. There are plenty of picnic areas located throughout the park where you can pull off and enjoy a homemade lunch or snack along a beautiful river or overlook.

Photo by Lucie Capkova on Unsplash

Look for wildlife along the way.

Part of the fun of exploring Yellowstone is the opportunities for wildlife sightings. Keep a sharp lookout for bears, bison, elk, and more throughout the drive, especially in the middle and north parts of the park. Early morning and evening are prime animal-viewing hours. Remember to keep a safe distance from all animals, even if they appear docile. The National Park Service asks visitors to keep 100 yards between themselves and bears and wolves and at least 25 yards for everything else.

Consider human and wildlife traffic.

These can create delays in your itinerary. While ambitious travelers could feasibly drive the entire loop in one day, it is a very long day of driving, and these unexpected traffic jams can add delays to your trip.

Have more questions? Comment below and we’ll be happy to reply!

Travel Guide to Tbilisi in 48 hours

March 24, 2019March 24, 2019vacationvagabonds

After all, a city that was founded in the 5th century is basically guaranteed to have quite the story with incredible sights to discover. Take in the colorful sights of Old Town and stroll down Rustaveli Street, which runs north through south through most of the city.

Admire Sioni Cathedral and pop into the surrounding shops on Sioni Street. This is the oldest structure in Tbilisi, dating back to the 5-6th centuries, and it is also one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the city. People come into town to sell their goods off of carts along the street outside, and all the Tbilisi locals recommended buying the traditional Georgian candy churchkhela (shaped like a candle and typically made from grape must, nuts and flour) from one of these carts since they’re the best homemade ones you can get –– they weren’t wrong. I also bought some delicious churchkhela from a vendor down the street from his open air shop to bring home to friends and family. There’s also a really nice rug shop with gorgeous traditional Georgian rugs of all shapes and sizes you can bring home, which the country is famous for.

Grab a bite at the Bakery at Sioni. You can walk right by this hidden gem without even knowing what it is. The sign to the oldest bakery on Sioni Street is in faded Georgian, but is the last building right next to a swanky looking restaurant with a golden statue on its outside wall, then walk down the stairs. This bakery produces Georgian bread (puri) in cylindrical ovens. I’m so bummed that I didn’t discover this bakery until my last day in Tbilisi, but you can bet I bought all the pastries I thought I could fit in my bag to last me through my return flight the next day. My favorite was a sweet bread with white cheese inside.

Walk through Rike Park and across the Peace Bridge. Rike Park is so charming and visited by tourists and families alike. Enjoy the Tbilisi sunshine on a bench and snap some great IG-worthy shots in front of the odd tubular structure, which is the unfinished Concert Hall & Exhibition Center.

Walking across the bridge will give you really neat views of both the bridge’s unique architectural structure and the city. But beware of tourist traps and pickpockets, since the bridge is quite narrow and a funnel for this type of unwanted attention.

Soak in the Autotubani. Soak in the beneficial natural sulphur hot springs. Legend has it that Tbilisi was founded when the King of Georgia discovered the springs, which gave the city its name, meaning “warm place.” These dome-looking structures are actually the roofs of bathhouses down below! Choose from a variety of baths across varying price points. The public bathhouses are the least expensive, or splurge a bit for your own private room. I had a great experience at Chreli Abano, which is housed in the beautiful blue mosaic building at the end of Abano Street (you can see it to the left of my head poking over one of the brick domes). Most bathhouses will show you their available rooms for you to choose from, but I highly recommend you booking a room in advance because the most popular ones get booked up quickly.

Hike up to Narikala Fortress & Kartlis Deda. Be prepared in somewhat study walking shoes – the hills and stairs up to the top are steep and on rough cobblestone. Climb the fortress walls and prepare for stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi. From the fortress, you can hike on a well-traveled path along a ridge with continued views of the city down below up to Kartlis Deda. The statue is dubbed the Mother of Georgia as she holds both a glass of wine and a sword, representing hospitality to those who come to Georgia as friends, and protector to those who wish to cause harm.

Stroll the narrow cobblestone streets of Old Town. Take in the unique architecture in this neighborhood. The district is full of peculiar wooden houses with open, carved balconies that cling to the mountainside under Narikala Fortress.

Enjoy brunch, coffee, or something stronger at the Stamba Hotel. The Stamba Hotel is one of the swankiest spots in all of Tbilisi, and its reputation is well-deserved. Housed in a former publishing house in Tbilisi, Stamba Hotel combines 1930s nostalgic references with a contemporary hotel concept and has enough charm to make you swoon. I got treated to a private tour – literally just upon request because I was interested in what the rest of the hotel looked like! – and this is hands down my favorite hotel I’ve never stayed in (not yet, anyways).

Cafe Stamba is a multi-functional space divided into several sections, including a swanky restaurant, coffee and chocolate bar where they make their own chocolates, an Asian eatery with food prepped before your eyes, and I mean, LOOK at this bar and massive chandelier! We hear the cocktails are also especially impressive. While you’re here, visit the Rooms Hotel bar, which is a fun, more casual spot in the Stamba Hotel’s sister hotel right next door.

Kick your feet up and enjoy the patio weather at Hotel Winery 1896 or Tbili Sio. I discovered this magical patio away from the bustle of Rustaveli Street by complete accident when I was wandering through a small flower market next to the Hard Rock Cafe. I noticed there was a cute-looking park that led to a cozy courtyard which several cafes opened onto around the backside of the building. The house red wine was fantastic, and really I don’t think this atmosphere could be beat. I was more than happy to sit back and listen to the cheerful banter in a language I can’t understand and just totally take in the magical evening.

Hopefully you’ll have more than just 48 hours to explore Tbilisi, but we hope this list is a great place to start.

What other questions do you have about Tbilisi? Let me know in the comments below, I’d love to hear from you.

Coming soon: Where to eat and drink in Tbilisi – according to locals!

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Undiscovered Paris: A Self-Guided Tour of Paris’ Hidden Gems

April 15, 2018April 15, 2018vacationvagabonds

We truly believe that Paris is best explored by wandering. Or as the French call it, flâner. And while we could spent a lifetime strolling around Paris, we thought we would save you some time and compiled a list of the top hidden spots in Paris!

Le Palais Royal

Despite its proximity to the Louvre, this spot gets passed up by many tourists. This garden oasis is a reprieve from the bustle just outside its walls in the heart of Paris. And its black and white columns make for a fun Instagram shot! People watch in the gardens or from atop a column and soak in some sunshine.

Courtyard of the National Archives

While the National Archives are a tourist destination, the gardens are worth exploring in themselves. For the quietest time, visit on a Tuesday when the archives are closed, but the grounds are still open. Walk through the main gates and to the right for more gardens and impressive building exterior views.

Passages of Paris

We came across several of these covered arcades, which are easy to walk right by without noticing. These arcades often have shops and restaurants housed on the interior. The Galerie Vero-Dodat is one of 25 remaining passageways built in the 19th century. The passage’s black and white diamond-shaped marble paving give it a beautiful effect, and the parts of the ceiling that are not glass are decorated with beautiful engravings. We found this arcade to be especially enchanting in the evening. And the Christian Louboutin store housed here is perfect for window shopping. After stopping by Galerie Vero-Dodat, catch happy hour in one of the small bars nearby.

Les Arènes de Lutèce

Did you know that Paris has a Roman Colosseum of its very own? Long forgotten, this remnant from the Gallo-Roman era resurfaced in the 1800s during construction in the area. Situated in the Latin Quarter, this amphitheater could once seat 15,000 spectators for gladiator fights. The Arènes de Lutèce is a fun stop for history buffs, and a walk around the perimeter past beautiful gardens is enjoyable for all.

Neighborhood courtyard parks

Paris has some incredible parks tucked into its neighborhoods that only locals know about. Square Georges Cain is a little park situated in the trendy Marais district, and provides an oasis of greenery to people who have been lucky enough to stumble upon it. This park is also popular among neighborhood regulars who would like to keep it a secret. Square Georges Cain has two pieces of artwork: ‘L’Aurore’, a bronze statue of a nude woman in the middle of a rose bed by the 17th-century sculptor Laurent Magnier, and ‘Le Rossignol Electrique’ by Eric Samakh (1990), a small electronic bird that starts singing whenever the wind blows.

Église St. Gervais & Rue des Barres

Rue des Barres is a stone’s throw from Île de la Cité but will transport you to a quaint village setting. Chairs line the cobblestone street in the warmer months and are ideal for people watching. Tucked into this street is Église St. Gervais. This church is overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Notre Dame de Paris, but is equally beautiful. The church was built between 1494 and 1657 and its facade was the first example of French baroque style in Paris.

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Everything You Need to Know: Planning a Trip to Paris

March 18, 2018March 18, 2018vacationvagabonds

Must read when planning a trip to Paris!

Packing

In summary, think minimalism. Stick to one small bag and a personal carry on (like a backpack or purse) if at all possible. You will be much happier to not be lugging giant suitcases up and down the metro stairs (escalators are rare). Classic clothes in dark colors with a scarf are standard for Parisians, plus a comfortable yet stylish pair of walking shoes. Bring just the essential electronics (including converter) and travel sized toiletries, or buy toiletries upon your arrival.

Money

We highly recommend exchanging money to Euros before traveling to avoid getting ripped off at airport exchange booths. Bringing sufficient cash to have on hand is useful since many places in Paris may not accept card or have a minimum. However, we have noticed that more establishments accept major credit cards now. If you end up needing to withdraw cash abroad, there are many ATMs around the city and most storeowners will know where the closest ones are. Check with your bank to see if any withdrawal fees apply.

IMPORTANT: Call your bank before traveling to inform them of your travel dates. This will prevent your bank from freezing your card due to potential fraudulent activity.

Accommodations

The earlier you book, the better the rates and availability. Paris accommodations fill up quickly, and prices fluctuate throughout the year, being the highest at peak summertime. Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Latin Quarter are centrally located, making it easy to visit most tourist destinations. If you’re okay with a longer commute, Place de la République, Oberkampf, and Montmartre all offer travelers affordable and authentic Parisian housing options in buzzing areas. Paris is full of unique boutique hotels like Hôtel Providence and Hôtel la Belle Juliette. We had great experiences with our two Airbnb’s, which were more affordable than most centrally located hotels we looked at during our travel dates.

Transportation

Metro is by far the best and most affordable way to get around. The metro’s expansive network will get you to practically anywhere you need to go. If you are in Paris for a full week, purchasing a Navigo card is well worth it. The Navigo pass permits transportation on the metro, RER, and bus systems and at a much better rate than the individual paper passes sold. Weekly pass covers travel Monday (start date) through Sunday (end date), no matter which day you happen to purchase the pass. So if you buy a pass on Wednesday, your “weekly pass” will still end on Sunday. Other Navigo pass options are also available for longer stays.

IMPORTANT: it is not very clear and the SNCF staff will likely fail to mention that you MUST write your name and attach a photo to your Navigo card ASAP before using. Failure to do so will result in a fine of about 35 euros per person if stopped by police in the metro. You can take a passport style photo in booths set up in train stations where Navigo cards are available for purchase. Or save yourself some hassle and money and print out photos prior to your trip.

What other questions do you have that you’d like us to answer? Comment below! Read more →

Best Indoor Activities to Do in Washington, D.C.

February 25, 2018February 25, 2018vacationvagabonds

Don’t let a bit of rain ruin your fun in Washington, D.C.! These indoor, rainy day activities are the perfect way to spend a weekend in the Capital City.

Museum exhibits

Some of our favorite Smithsonian museums include the Air and Space and American History Museums. If you have seen it all, or just want a break from the ever-popular Smithsonians, explore the Phillips Collection in DuPont. Opened in 1921, the Phillips Collection is the America’s first museum of modern art located in a converted Georgian Revival style home. Luncheon of the Boating Party by Renoir (pictured here) is among the museum’s personal collection.

U.S. Botanic Garden

Rain or shine, winter or summer, the U.S. Botanic Garden is sure to be green and warm any time of year. This living plant museum was established by the U.S. Congress in 1820 and is one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America. Wander among blooming orchids, cacti of all shapes and sizes, dramatic air plants, and gigantic trees.

Bookshop browsing

There is nothing better than snuggling up with a good book while the rain pours outside. Browse in these unique and quintessentially D.C. spots: Capitol Hill Books, Second Story Books, and Kramerbooks.

Library of Congress

Speaking of books… Did you know there are more than 162 million items stored here, making the Library of Congress the largest library collection in the world? Notable exhibits include a re-created version of Jefferson’s library, the first document printed with the name “America” (also known as America’s “birth certificate”), and Lincoln’s pocket items at the time of his assassination.

Coffee shops with a unique atmosphere

Heads up that many D.C. coffee shops have selective hours on Sundays. Our favorites are Baked & Wired in Georgetown (both the cupcakes and coffee are excellent), Emissary in DuPont (great brunch and happy hour every day 4-7pm too), and Sidamo Coffee & Tea on H Street (they roast their beans on-site and perform Ethiopian coffee ceremonies on weekends).