Washington, DC: A Gay Foodie's Playground

Smithsonian Museums

Every Smithsonian Museum is FREE, so spend as much or as little time in every one you want! My top three recs are:

• The African American History and Culture Museum: This newest of the Smithsonian Museums pays tribute to the African American story in all of its beauty and struggle; a must-see for any travelers with a passion for American history, civil rights and social justice.

• The Portrait Gallery: Experience American history through pictures and take a jaunt through the Hall of Presidents, where every official presidential portrait is now displayed.

• Hirshhorn: This distinct cylindrical building hosts an incredible collection of modern and contemporary art as well as an outdoor sculpture garden.

Outdoor Landmarks

The city is packed with national landmarks commemorating leaders and events of the past. My top three recs are:

• The National Mall: If you didn't walk the mall, did you even go to DC? This 2-mile pathway will lead you from the Lincoln Memorial, past the Washington Monument and end at the US Congress building. You can stop in at Smithsonian Museums which line the path and take a break on a bench and watch the locals playing ultimate and reading on the green.

• Theodore Roosevelt Memorial: Off the beaten path, this monument may be DC's best-kept landmark secret, with its secluded location across the bridge on its own little island, surrounded by undisturbed forest and walking paths.

• The Tidal Basin: Take in a panoramic view of the city from the steps of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial located on the man-made lake that constitutes the tidal basin. Visit in late March/early April and catch the cherry blossom trees in full bloom.

Other quintessential DC bucket-list items

• Catch a performance at the JFK Performing Arts Center

• Get brunch and peruse the Eastern Market, Farmers and Artisan Market

• Take a walk or rent a bike and explore the endless paths in Rock Creek Park

Day Trips

• Shenandoah National Park: Just an hour and a half drive will take you to the gorgeous rolling hills of Shenandoah located in Northern Virginia, go for the day or camp overnight

• Baltimore: Spend the day in DC's sister city. Drive an hour by car or take the MARC train

• Harpers Ferry: Less than 2 hours outside of the city, check out this historic Civil War-era West Virginia town

Brunch

Le Diplomate: an essential DC eatery with great brunch vibes

Boqueria: Spanish fair and wine pairings

Lunch/Dinner

Iron Gate: Seasonal, farm-to-table tapas and craft cocktails

Thip Khao: Out-of-this world Laotian cuisine for the adventurous eater

The Hamilton: a quick walk from the downtown monuments and museum, 1/2 off sushi every day during happy hour

Dive Bars

Ivy and Coney: Midwestern football team representation, cheap beer and Chicago-style hot dogs

Showtime: bring some takeout in, grab a chap beer/shot combo and catch the house band, Granny and the Boy's-- a funk band led by an 84-year old grandma vocalist.

Upscale Bars

Top of the Gate: Located on the top floor of the Watergate hotel, amazing views of Georgetown and the Potomac river, upscale cocktails and small plates

Roofer's Union: Located in the bustling nightlife scene in the Adams Morgan neighborhood

Gay Bars

Number Nine: packed and dancey

The Dirty Goose: welcoming vibes for all genders, indoor and rooftop bar

Pitchers/A League of Her Own: Multi-floor bar with video games, dance floors, rooftop bar and several chill spots

Coffee/Snack/Chill

Busboys and Poets: bookstore with fantastic coffee, bar and dining offering; plan your visit to coincide with one of their many weekly speaking or poetry events

A Baked Joint: large open-air space with coffee and fresh bakery items