The Smithsonian Institute manages 19 museums and the National Zoo in Washington, DC, and entrance to all is free. This includes art galleries featuring Renaissance masters, Hudson School landscape painters, Andy Warhol and other modern artists, and art from around the world. The most popular Smithsonian museums, like the Air and Space Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the American Indian Museum, are located around the National Mall, making each a convenient stop in one central location. For budget-conscious travelers, the Smithsonian museums provide access to ancient artifacts, rare and priceless art, and historical treasures at absolutely no cost.
Washington, DC has experienced a foodie revolution, with world-renowned chefs like Jose Andres, Wolfgang Puck, and Eric Ripert opening multiple restaurants to great acclaim. The city hosts an eclectic and wide-ranging variety of nationalities, and each has contributed to the food scene in the city. Washingtonian magazine annually compiles its list of the best restaurants in the city, and tourists should make a note to reference this lists as local residents do. Besides fine dining, be sure to check out one of the many Ethiopian restaurants or jumbo slice pizza joints, both located in the Adams-Morgan neighborhood.
Driving in DC is tricky, even for locals. With drivers from around the country and world employing their own unique spin on aggressive driving, rush-hour gridlock, and often confusing streets and traffic circles, driving is best left to professionals. While there are countless taxis in the city, the quickest and cheapest way to get around is to use the extensive subway system, the Metro. Fares are charged based on your final destination, and daily, weekly, and monthly passes can be purchased to save the hassle of checking your balance. Keep in mind that during rush hour, the stations and trains get crowded. Also, be sure to remember to stand on the right side of the escalator and walk on the left side, lest you be quickly outed as a tourist.
Only 15 miles away from the heart of DC lies a wilderness that seems 15 hours away, Great Falls Park. Straddling the Maryland and Virginia sides of the Potomac River, Great Falls offers waterfalls, rapids, hiking trails, and the historic C&O canal. Another outdoor activity is kayaking the Potomac from Georgetown. Next to the Key Bridge are two kayak and canoe rental spots, Thompson Boat Center and Jack's Boathouse, which can get you on the Potomac quickly, either toward the Washington, DC city sights or the Great Falls wilderness. These outdoor activities offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown DC.
