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Washington, D.C. is so much more than the political epicenter of the U.S.

The property was named thebest hotel in Washington, D.C. in 2022 by T+L readers.

Once a national bank headquarters, the hotel combines its past and present beautifully.

USA, Washington DC, Capitol Building dome and statue

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The property features 55 rooms, 12 suites, and six town houses designed for long-term guests.

Enjoy a meal on-site at Cut, a Wolfgang Puck steakhouse.

The restaurant is open seven days a week and hosts brunch on the weekend.

Book Room at The Jefferson Hotel

Courtesy of The Jefferson

Pendry Washington, D.C.

It provides a great respite for anyone seeking knowledge or just a break from the D.C. humidity.

The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays, and all visitors must reserve a timed-entry pass before visiting.

The Hay-Adams

Courtesy of The Hay-Adams

you might reserve them for free online.

There are also seasonal events here as well, including whiskey tastings, a colonial market, and fireworks.

The estate is open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “The easiest way to get around the National Mall is theD.C.

Reading Room of the Library of Congress

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Circulator,” Kevin Fanning noted when asked about the two-mile-long stretch of monuments.

“There’s a city bus that runs around the National Mall every 10 minutes.”

double-check you check its website for regular and seasonal schedules.

The Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of African American History and Culture - NMAAHC

Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post via Getty Images

“[It] includes the city’s oldest synagogue building.

you could also stop in at some national favorites, like Patagonia, Urban Outfitters, andBrandy Melville.

For exclusive discounts and perks, become a Politics and Prose member for just $35 a year.

United States Botanic Garden (USBG), Washington DC, USA.

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Carolyn Crouch recommends visiting some of the gourmet food stores while you’re here, too.

Chef de cuisine Nicholas Fulginiti created a delicious vegetable-forward menu inspired by local ingredients.

Their seven D.C. locations are open every day, though each has its own set hours.

Bacon egg and cheese sandwich from Call Your Mother Deli

Tim Casey/Courtesy of Call Your Mother

Check the hours online before you go, and order in advance if you might.

Fiola Mare

Fiola Maredelivers high-end service, delicious seafood and beautiful waterfront views.

Jaleo celebrates Spanish culture through delicious signature tapas, paellas, and cured meats.

Fiola Mare Restaurant by Fabio Trabocchi

Courtesy of Fiola Mare

“Why not start with the original?

It’s where countless Washingtonians have fallen in love with Spanish tapas.”

Note that the restaurant is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Colorful buildings in Georgetown, Washington DC

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“Its 3,000-plus cherry blossom trees remain a visually striking symbol of renewal, hope, and friendship.”

May brings graduation season, and the city’s hotels start to book up with proud family members.

The Fourth of July is a big draw for the nation’s capital.

When the weather is nice, Carolyn Crouch urges tourists to “get out on the water.

Take a water taxi from the Southwest waterfront to Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria.

You’ll see iconic sites along the way.”

If you prefer the bus, companies like MegaBus offer several different routes to the capital city.

MegaBus currently offers trips to D.C. from most major cities, including New York, Pittsburgh, and Boston.

(Keep an eye on its website to see when it will be open to the public.)

“The clock tower goes up 257 feet, giving you unparalleled views of Pennsylvania Avenue.

Georgetown:The neighborhood around Georgetown University is more than just your classic college enclave.

The Wharf:This trendy neighborhood is helping to reestablish D.C. as a waterfront destination.

Crouch says you might have the ultimate D.C. experience in this neighborhood.

Next door is a branch of Politics & Prose, one of Washington’s favorite independent bookstores.

Across the way is Surfside, a locally owned taco stand with an island vibe.

WMATA has createdBetter Bus, an initiative meant to completely revitalize the bus system.

The project is still in its planning stage, but changes are set to roll out in 2024.

To schedule a cab in advance, book through a local company likeD.C.

you could also schedule a local black car through services like ExecuCar.