Of course, Washington DC is chock-full of monuments remembering famous presidents and free-of-charge museums and galleries, but these venues limit us from the true Washingtonian culture found outside our front doors. Take a look beyond the Washington Monument and the National Zoo to find hundreds of unconventional places to visit, and experience, possibly for the first time, true DC culture.
Eastern Market
Bored on a Saturday morning? Take the Orange Line down to Eastern Market Station behind the Capitol. This area is always bustling on the weekends, full of venders selling homemade and unique items for low prices. The environment is full of culture and you can come home with an eclectic item of your choice. Beyond the market itself, which includes both and outdoor and indoor venue, try taking a walk around the area to get a feel for DC beyond just the National Mall.
United States Botanic Garden
Even in the dead of winter, the National Botanic Garden remains warm, cozy and blooming with effervescent life. Filled to the brim with plants for a variety of purposes, including economic, therapeutic and even just aesthetic, the garden immerses you in a completely different atmosphere when when you step through the door. George Washington’s vision for this garden—to promote the importance of plants to the nation—is certainly fulfilled with this free-of-charge venue.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
If you’re looking for a tasty meal but don’t want to pay the high prices often found in DC’s restaurant scene, stop by Ben’s Chili Bowl. This famous chili joint, located on U Street Corridor, satisfies every one of its customers with any sort of meal topped with chili, including but not limited to hot dogs, sausages and burgers. The bright yellow sign is impossible to miss when walking down U Street, and the 1950s decor makes this restaurant irresistible to even President Obama.
Street Smart
Rather than a place to visit or a sight to see, Street Smart is a small DC newspaper written almost entirely by homeless people in the city. Pick up a copy for a small price and uncover the underground culture in Washington. Getting in touch with a completely different point of view in DC will help you learn more about the area and experience what our nation’s capital is all about: uniting diverse cultures in a seamless and expressive manner.