TEXT Washington DC Entertain | Citybuzz - A Vidicom and Christy Ferer Guide to Travel

Entertain

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+ House of Washington – Tudor Place Historic House and Garden

Hidden in Georgetown’s Historical District, the Tudor Place was originally built in 1816 by George and Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter. This beautiful estate was home to the next six generations of her descendents over the course of 180 years. Currently, it is open to the public and exhibits more than 8000 pieces of silver, ceramics, jewelry, paintings, manuscripts, photographs, and furniture dated from 1750-1983. The collection brings to life the cultural and social history of over 200 years of the family and the city. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the Garden’s history, there are free docent led tours Tuesday through Saturday!

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+ Riding Down Memory Lane at the National Mall

Carousel rides have always been a fond childhood memory for many. Who can say no to those colorful, bright horses and fancy round cups? Just like the good old days, the Smithsonian Castle offers a charming carousel on the national mall for both children and kids-at-heart. The Smithsonian Carousel was built by Allan Herschell in 1947, with brilliantly 60 hand-carved and painted animals. If touring the National Mall with kids, taking a spin is a refreshing break for the restless kids tired of site-seeing and touring museums. At times, the line may be a bit long, but you can still enjoy the spectacular views of the monuments.

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+ Pentagon Memorial – A Day to Remember

The Pentagon Memorial honors lives lost during the 9/11 terrorist attack on Washington, D.C. in 2011. Adjacent to The Pentagon in Arlington, this outdoor memorial is a beautiful tribute to the 184 men and women who died in the tragedy. With its sleek and simple designs, this memorial helps visitors remember and reflect on the appalling incident. Every year during the event’s anniversary, an American flag is hung on the section of the Pentagon hit by Flight 77. If interesting in participating to commemorate the event, check online for related events.

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+ Reenact Hunger Games at TagParty RECON

An outdoor laser tag game or two would definitely satisfy your fantasies of reenacting scenes from your favorite video game or movie. Gather your friends, take a ride twenty miles north of Washington, DC and divide into two opposing sides! After a quick introduction and explanation of the equipments, you can jump into 50 minutes of intense plays. Don’t forget to devise tactical strikes and stratagems. It’s time to hammer out those old grudges. Shhhh… its only $25 per player and discounts are offered for groups of 8 or more! Don’t forget to reserve and book online!

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+ A Trip to the Past at George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill

History and booze go so well together at the George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill! A short three miles away from George Washington’s estate at Mount Vernon is the recently reopened distillery and gristmill that will guarantee your trip with a happy ending. For only $4 entrance fee, the costumed distillers will show demonstrations and walk visitors through the historic process of whiskey-making in this reconstruction of the largest 18th-century distillery in America. Furthermore, the distillery is adjacent to the reconstructed Gristmill, a water-powered mill where Colonial millers grind corn into meal and wheat into flour just as it was done more than 200 years ago. Before you leave, don’t forget to grab a pint of the scarcely made whisky of the original recipe. Even if it costs $84 per pint, it’s worth every single penny.

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+ To be or not to be at the Folger Shakespeare Library

The Folger Shakespeare Library is home to the world’s largest and finest collection of Shakespeare materials and to major collections of other rare Renaissance books, manuscripts, and works of art. It proudly serves as the primary repository for rare materials from the early modern period (1500-1750). Not only is this a world-renowned research center and a leading conservation lab, the Folger Library is also known for its plays, concerts, literary readings, exhibitions, and family activities year-round! The Folger Shakespeare for Kids program offers beginners’ activities, while local family workshops introduce the world of Shakespeare to kids and parents together. Believing that learning has no age limits, Shakespeare for Seniors strives to engage senior citizens with activities of the Elizabethan style. Most notably, the biggest event is hosted on the Sunday closest to Shakespeare’s Birthday where the whole Folger is open to visitors with cakes, entertainments, crafts and tours!

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+ Art, Music, and Exercise: The Perfect Trio at Sculpture Garden Ice Rink

Who knew exercising could also be so musical and artistically graceful?

Starting mid-November through mid-March the Ice Rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden will be open for general admissions. Skating in the cool crisp air while enjoying music from the state-of-the-art sound system and twirling amidst magnificent sculptures is truly a romantic, yet cultured experience.

Don’t forget to stop by the Pavilion Café to power up! The café boasts an unobstructed panoramic view of the Sculpture Garden. Did I mention that they serve fresh wraps, gourmet pizzas, hot coco, and even wine and beer?

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+ American History – One Portrait At A Time

The National Portrait Gallery archives portraits of people who made significant contribution to American history and culture from the era of our Founding Fathers to the current political arena. Each photograph and each portrait tells an expansive story which weaves into the tides of our cultural past.

Sauntering through the exhibits and taking a glimpse into the establishment of our great nation with portraits of proud Native American chiefs and those of revolutionary generals and explorers. From studying each expression of every portrait, you get a better glimpse of those who shaped out nation.

For more inspirations, take a trip up to the second floor to see the America’s Presidents collection.

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+ Sing Your Heart Out at Muzette

With over 70,000 songs in English, Korean, Mandarin, Japanese, Spanish, and much more, Muzette is DC’s first private-roomed karaoke joint. Located in the hustling and bustling Adams Morgan, this underground restaurant has a small dining area serving hot and spicy Korean dishes, a comfortable long wooden bar, and nine rooms of all sizes for karaoke without public humiliation. Depending on the number of your party, the room size you request, and the time and day of your visit, prices for karaoke ranges from $25 to $80 per hour. For more liquid courage to step up to your game and belt your heart out, Muzette has a wide variety of Asian beer, wines, and sakes for your choosing. Click here for more information.

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+ DC’s only Presidential Museum – Woodrow Wilson House

The Woodrow Wilson House is a national historic landmark and house museum that tells of President Wilson’s Washington Years from 1912-1924. Through informative guided tours and exhibitions, this museum promotes awareness of his celebrated life and ideals for the future as a world statesmen. Through visiting his house on S Street, NW, the Woodrow Wilson House allows visitors to peek into the private life of the twentieth century political icon. After a walk through the house, one can truly reflect on President Wilson’s accomplishments not only as a revered world leader who sought peace through finding the League of Nations, but also as a down-to-earth husband and loving father.

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+ A View From the Washington Monument

What else stands more proudly than the Washington Monument which overlooks the entire District of Columbia? This prominent structure marks the skyline of Washington, DC since 1884 and was built to commemorate President George Washington’s military leadership during the American Revolution. Standing 555’5’’ feet tall, the Egyptian obelisk offers an unobstructed view of the city for over thirty miles. For a bird-eye view glimpse of the District, reserve tickets at the National Park Service website, but reserve early since it is peak season from April to September and the tickets are very much in demand. Shh… Free tickets for same-day visitors can be obtained on a first-come-first –serve basis from the Washington Monument Lodge at 8:30 am.

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+ Finding Asia at the The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery is the Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of Asian Arts. It features intricate Japanese screens with cranes, colorful cloisonné, and Chinese calligraphies. Other than these historical beauties, the true star of the permanent collection is the breath-taking Peacock Room. Originally, the Peacock Room was once a lavish dining room of a wealthy British gentlemen, but was relocated for display at the Freer Gallery. Take some time to examine the intricate collection of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain bowls and vases from the Qing Dynasty. Perching on the wall are wooden shutters and leather wall hangings of peacocks in rich, dark blue and gold, displaying their plumes in pride. In addition to the promotion of Asian arts, the Gallery also hosts an ongoing series of public programs of concerts, films, and even special lectures.

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+ West End Cinema – Where Stories Are Told

The West End Cinema is a quiet sanctuary for unique movie lovers for non-mainstream type of films. Doesn’t matter if you prefer to watch the current blockbusters, venture into foreign films such as Kurosawa’s black-and-white samurai epics, or reminisce the beauty of Audrey Hepburn, this independent art house cinema constantly provides new genres for your choosing. Not only exposing Washingtonians to a more eclectic selection of art house films, West End Cinema also pampers by offering a full bar and a wide range of concessions, from popcorn to confectionaries, to even gourmet sandwiches. Come and Take your pick – whatever s tickle your fancy.

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+ Bike Towards The Sunset with Bike and Roll

With a wide array of sights and attractions to explore in the nation’s capital, there is no better way to travel and sightsee by cycling. With Bike and Roll, a bike rental provider with a wide array of bike models to choose from, you can check in and out of the three kiosks by the National Mall, the Union Station, and at Old Town Alexandria.

Each rental comes prepared with a helmet, lock, flat kit, and a city map to better help you whizz past this lovely city safe and prepared. Trust me, stopping to smell the roses is easier on a bicycle.

Insider Tip: Renting bikes from Old Town Alexandria not only gives you a chance to stroll King Street, but cyclists can easily take the scenic Mount Vernon Trail to the famous George Washington’s Estate!

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+ Treasure Hunting at the Library of Congress

In “National Treasure,” you may remember seeing Nicolas Cage scurrying across the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress in search of the fictitious Book of Secrets. However, what Cage didn’t tell you is all the other real treasures for you to find at the Library.

The Library truly is an unparalleled world resource with a collection of more than 144 million books, prints, recordings, and manuscripts in 460 languages. You have the option of joining the tourists and be rushed in and out of the visitor areas, or registering for a Reader Identification Card at the Madison Building and having access to the beautiful library with myriad of unique reading rooms, its vast collection, and the Internet for free!

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+ We Want You at RFK Stadium! – Join Olsen’s Army Now!

“How many trophies have you won..? How many trophies have you won..? Not a goddamn one!” This chant is often heard ringing throughout the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, home of the D.C. United. Obnoxious, you think? Well, as the proud winner of 12 domestic and international trophies, D.C. United is considered one of the most successful teams in US soccer history. After a successful campaign last season, in which United qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2007, excitement is building for the upcoming season. The Black and Reds are looking to return to the playoffs again under third-year coach – Ben Olsen, a former United player. This is the perfect season to join Olsen’s Army and become part of the dedicated and loyal fan base of D.C. United. With former MLS MVP Dwayne De Rosario and exciting players like Perry Kitchen, Joe Willis, and Chris Korb... gosh, these boys have never looked so good. The season starts on March 9. Click on dcunited.com for more information. rfk_3

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+ The City upon “The Hill”

Standing proudly as the epicenter of Washington, DC ,the United States Capitol is not only a historical complex housing the nation’s legislature, but it is also a symbol of the American people and the government. With a scheduled visit, you can take a peek at politicians bickering through bills, peruse through an important collection of American art, and tour the stately dome that has long served as the international symbol of democracy. The guided tour beings with a quick film, “Out of Many, One,” which highlights the important impact of Congress upon our daily lives. An informative tour detailing interesting facets of Capitol Hill’s unique history and its breathtaking beauty will definitely impress any visitors! Insider tip: If you visit when the Congress is in session, you can request visitor passes for the Senate and House Galleries to see your favorite politicians in action! intro_washington_dc

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+ The Phillips Collection: Have Cocktails with Renoir

For a more cultured look at the city, take a trip to popular Dupont Circle to America’s first museum of modern art, the Phillips Collection. Opened in 1921 and housed in the former home of the collection’s founder, Duncan Phillips, the Phillips Collection combines the charm of an intimate, private art institution with awe-inspiring works found typically at larger, government-run galleries (think stumbling upon Renoir’s “Luncheon of the Boating Party” while having tea with a friend). With priceless modern and impressionist works from both American and European artists, the Phillips Collection houses an impressive permanent collection with several works from Mark Rothko, Georgia O’Keefe, Renoir and van Gogh. The museum also includes works from contemporary, living artists to add to its diverse exhibits. Despite its size, the Phillips Collection seems to always be rotating new special exhibits to accentuate their impressive permanent collection. Insider Tip: Visit the gallery on the first Thursday of every month for their entertaining, “Phillips After 5” event from 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM. With live jazz, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, as well as gallery lectures and films, this artisanal party attracts young, cultured patrons from around the city looking to enjoy the gallery in a more social atmosphere! *Note: The Phillips Collection is closed on Mondays and holidays.

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+ Spirited Performances at The Studio Theatre

Pull that curtain open and opt for an evening you won’t soon forget with an intimate performance at Logan Circle’s eclectic Studio Theatre. Founded in 1978 with a passionate mission of bringing innovative theatre to the performing arts community, The Studio Theatre boasts quality performances with a provocative, spunky edge

that's unique to Washington. With both American and European works performed in four intimate theatres, The Studio Theatre prides itself on setting the stage for an intimate interaction between actor and audience. From Mamet's American Buffalo to Nobel winning playwright Harold Pinter's Moonlight to portraying Joan Crawford in drag in The Passion of the Crawford, grab tickets to one of the Theatre’s one-of-a-kind performances and settle in to an eclectic evening full of incredible plays from some of the best playwrights in the world. Insider's Tip: Depending on the night, tickets range from about $35-$65. For risky patrons looking to save a few travel dollars, take advantage of the Rush Tickets, available for certain performances for just $30, 30 minutes before the show (select performances listed on the website). The Theatre also offers Pay What You Can deals for specific performances, 2 hours before the show (2 ticket limit).

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+ Fine-Tune Your Cultural Side at The National Symphony Orchestra

For a true taste of Washington sophistication, claim a coveted seat at a show-stopping performance by the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO). Officially founded in 1936, this world-renowned fleet of over 100 musicians calls the landmark Kennedy Center home, bringing musical bliss to dedicated patrons year round with over 175 concerts a year. Feeling a little culturally void? Add some refinement to your life and open your ears to the profound talent of a significantly well-tuned group of musicians. Led by Music Director Christoph Eschenbach, the NSO brings both traditional and contemporary pieces to the Kennedy Center stage. With talent spanning from around the globe, the NSO’s performers bring true excellence to a variety of shows at prestigious state and inaugural occasions, special pops and holiday performances, as well as several international concerts, representing the nation’s capital with exceptional instrumental fortes. Click here for more information.

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+ The U.S. Botanic Garden is Always in Bloom

Right next to bustling Capitol Hill is haven of breathtaking

flowers, roses and gardens at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Tracing its beginnings to 1816, The U.S. Botanic Garden the oldest of its kind in North America. It is divided into three locations: the Conservatory, Bartholdi Park, and the National Garden. The newly renovated Conservatory is one big greenhouse divided into separate rooms and holds over 4,000 living species. Each room simulates a different habitat and contains various types of plants that ordinarily would not survive in Washington D.C., from desert species to Southern plants to medicinal plants. Bartholdi Park serves as a home landscape demonstration garden and is home to a beautiful fountain that is 30 feet high. There is also the National Garden, which contains the Rose Garden and the First ladies Water Garden, as well as an outdoor amphitheater.

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+ Get Some Rhythm at Georgetown’s Blues Alley

For a little rhythm and blues, take a trip back in time to the na

tion’s oldest jazz supper club, Blues Alley, hidden between the quaint streets of historic Georgetown in an 18^th century, brick carriage house. With saxophones and bass guitars echoing off the intimate, exposed brick interior, you can’t help but tap your foot as talented artists from around the country liven up the nearly 45 year-old nightclub. Enjoy a leisurely, Creole-style meal (the menu has hardly changed since 1965) and a glass of wine while you are blown away by old school tunes that will have you scrambling for a CD on your way out. Over the years, Blues Alley has hosted jazz movers and shakers such as Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Byrd and Eva Cassidy, so you’ll get a little taste of history along with your dinner. Insider Tip: Blues Alley is open 7 days a week, but fills to the brim right before shows. Be sure to make a reservation and get there a little early – pre-show tickets are available online.

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+ Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate

George Washington’s plantation on the banks of the beautiful Potomac River offers visitors a chance to understand America’s first hero and the fascinating world in which he lived. Since the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association bought the nearly empty Mansion in 1858, it has gathered Washington objects and used archaeology and research to piece together clues about the buildings and gardens of a bygone era. Over 1 million visitors come to walk in Washington's footsteps each year, making Mount Vernon the most popular historic estate in America.

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