We are excited to announce that our blog has now moved to http://www.new-todc.com/blog/, as part of our website. This should make it easier for readers to find information all in one place on relocating to the District. We look forward to helping you through this exciting time!

Best Tour Companies in D.C. Part 1

The sun is shining in D.C., daylight savings is right around the corner, and everyone is in a good mood. Spring is just about here. That means it’s time to turn off the space heater, throw off the heavy blankets, and get outside. We’ve already discussed a number of fun sightseeing activities in D.C., although some people might feel overwhelmed at the thought of approaching it all on their own. If you’re only in Washington, D.C. for a few days, how can you possibly get everything in? Well, you can’t. Don’t even try or someone’s bound to end up in tears, threatening to go home early. So don’t do it – it’s not worth it. One option you may want to consider is letting a tour company do the heavy lifting for you. There are several reputable tour companies in the District that offer a variety of fun tours.

Old Town Trolley Tours has almost become an icon in D.C. You can’t walk down the mall without seeing at least one of their trams narrating the highlights of D.C. What makes Old Town Trolley a great option is their “hop on, hop off” policy, where you can purchase a full day ticket (or even up to 3 days) and get on and off the trolley as much as you would like to. There are 3 routes that stop at major Washington, D.C. sites such as monuments, museums, and other historical landmarks. Hop off the trolley at whatever piques your interest, spend as long as you like there, then just head back to the trolley stop and wait up to 10 minutes for the next trolley to pick you up. Tours begin daily at 9:00am and end at 5:30pm. The one-day ticket price runs at about $35 for an adult, though you can get discounts by purchasing tickets online!

For you night owls out there, there are evening bus tours as well, with a similar “hop on, hop off policy.” D.C. Tours offers a double-decker bus tour of D.C. (as well as during the day). Evening tours will allow you to view all the monuments lit up, making for some great pictures. Evening tours last for one hour and depart from Union Station.

Bus tours are a great option for those with limited time in the city, wanting to pack as much in as possible. They are also a good option for those who cannot walk long distances. If you’re feeling adventurous, however, another fun way to cover some ground is by segway. Segs in the City offers a variety of tours featuring the monuments, city highlights, food, and more. Tours run both at night and during the day. A two-hour tour will put back about $70 per person and tours depart from different locations throughout the District. Another option is Capital Segway, where you can take a “Masonic Tour,” featuring several sites mentioned in Dan Brown’s Lost Symbol. Capital Segway also has tours of the traditional sites as well. The cost of a two-hour tour starts at $65 and goes up depending on the day and time you choose to tour.

Another way to tour the nation's capital is by a WWII amphibious vehicle, otherwise known as D.C. Ducks. The Duck Tour is great for families with kids, though be forewarned that everyone is provided with a duck quaker, which could drive you crazy by the end of the day. If you can put up with that, then this tour is otherwise a blast. D.C. Ducks departs from Union Station and drives you around to some traditional sites, before plunging into the Potomac River for a boat tour! Along the way, you will learn some interesting facts and stories about our nation’s history.

Before you commit to touring with one of these companies, first check out Living Social or Groupon because they frequently promote specials that you could take advantage of. There’s no point in paying full price when you don’t have to!

Best St. Patrick’s Day Activities in D.C.

March is here, which means that it’s time to start making plans for St. Patrick’s Day in Washington, D.C. This holiday is not just celebrated on March 17^th in the District, but all month long! So you don’t have to worry about committing to just one fun activity this year – you can celebrate the holiday to the fullest extent possible throughout the entire month of March.

Check out the District’s 41st Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on Sunday, March 11 at noon. Grab a spot along Constitution Avenue, between 7^th and 17^th Streets, NW or better yet, purchase grandstand tickets through the link above. This year’s grandstands will be located between 15^th and 16^th Streets, next to the judges’ stands so you will get to hear each group announced and enjoy their performances. The parade for this festive holiday will feature marching bands, school groups, dance troops, floats, and a variety of other community organizations. Because the streets will be blocked off, parking will be difficult so driving is not recommended. Buses will also have a hard time getting around, which means that Metro is your best bet or if you are able to walk there, then that’s even better since Metro will probably be packed.

Shamrock Fest 2012 is back at RFK Stadium this year and you won’t want to miss it! Block off your calendar on Saturday, March 24 from 1:00pm – 9:00pm to check out over 50 bands and DJ’s including Gavin DeGraw and Dropkick Murphy’s. This year’s fest also includes games, beer trucks, food vendors, contests, and more. Tickets start at $24.99 per person and group discounts are available for parties of 5 and up. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time here.

St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, which means that you have no excuse to stay in! Stop by Shamrocks & Shenanigans at Rumors in Dupont Circle. Get there early (11:30am) to take advantage of $1.17 Coors Lights and $2.17 Blue Moons. Don’t forget to wear your dancing shoes and festive green gear because there will be contests for “Most Irish Garb” and “Best Irish Jig.” Rumors will also have a DJ and free souvenirs. There’s a $5 cover for this event.

Contrary to popular belief, drinking isn’t the only way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. On Sunday, March 11, the Capital Running Company will hold the St. Patrick's Day 8k at 9:00pm in Freedom Plaza. The start and finish lines are on Pennsylvania NW between 12^th and 13^th Streets. The event will feature bagpipers, Irish dancers, and a DJ. Prizes will be awarded throughout the day – including a 4-day cruise for 2! Same day registration begins at 7:00am, or you could register online in advance and pick up your packet at 1427 P Street NW on Friday, March 9 from 11:00am – 9:00pm. There is a bag check service for runners at the 14^th Street side of Freedom Plaza, though to avoid the chaos you may want to leave your stuff with friends or in the car.

If you’re in the U St. area, stop by Duffy's Irish Pub which offers a full week of St. Patrick’s activities. Starting on Sunday, March 11, the pub will supplement the parade celebration with an Irish buffet noon – 3:30pm and live Irish music. Monday, March 12, Ronan Kavanagh will perform 9:00pm – midnight. Wednesday, March 13, is trivia night at Duffy's, with a St. Patrick’s Day theme, starting at 8:00pm. Thursday, March 14, you can drink green beer while watching the NCAA tournament or listening to live Irish music at 9:00pm. On the big day, Duffy's will have bagpipers, Irish dancers, and Guinness girls. Doors open at 11:00am and there is a $5 cover all day.

Internship Programs in Washington, D.C.

As the days begin to get longer and the weather warms up, intern season lies right around the corner in Washington, D.C. Every summer, the District hosts somewhere around 20,000 interns from all over the world. Student, and even non-student, interns flock to the nation’s capital in pursuit of their big dreams to change the world. And they’re coming to the right place – D.C. is brimming with opportunity in every field imaginable. Most people think that you only move here to work for the government, but that’s not true! Interns and career professionals move here for any and every professional pursuit such as non-profit work, journalism, lobbying, consulting, law, and the list goes on! If you are considering an internship in D.C., I hope you will realize what a rewarding and thrilling adventure it truly is. The experience you’ll have working in the nation's capital will forever change the course of your career, providing you with rich opportunities you wouldn’t be able to obtain anywhere else.

For those flirting with the idea of an internship in D.C., the first thing you need to know is that there are three main ways you could approach it. First, if you’re a college student, then you can check with your academic advisor to see if your university offers any sort of formal internship program that you can go through. The benefit of participating in your university’s internship program is the reassurance that your course credits are all guaranteed to transfer. Sometimes your university will accept credits taken through outside programs, though you need to verify this with your academic advisor.

Not all interns are college students, however, so not everyone has access to university internship programs. If you find yourself in this camp, don’t give up! You still have several other options. You could consider going at it alone, which means that you would have to find your own internship (Yes, it is possible to apply to internships as an individual and not through a program, though there may be exceptions). Keep in mind there are several other factors such as housing, making friends, acclimating to a new city, etc. that you would have to coordinate on your own as well. Though one benefit to pursuing the internship on your own or through your university is that it tends to be a bit cheaper than going through one of the larger programs based here in D.C. At the same time, there are a number of perks to enrolling through a formal program, so your decision will just have to be based on your personal priorities.

The Washington Center is a prestigious internship program where many leaders in both the public and private sector got their start. This program helps to connect students with internships in a number of fields such as international affairs, business, public policy, and more. But The Washington Center is so much more than just an internship. It supplements your real-world experience with classroom learning that you may be able to transfer over to your university for credit. The Center holds cutting-edge seminars on relevant topics, taught by industry leaders. Upcoming seminar topics include the 2012 political conventions and the 2013 presidential inauguration. The Washington Center recruits students from all across the country and even the world. They help accommodate students’ housing needs by offering placement in shared apartments. If you are intimidated by the hassle of organizing all the moving pieces of the process by yourself, then The Washington Center is a great solution. It takes care of all the details for you, while providing you with a solid launching pad for your career.

Another excellent internship program to consider is The Fund for American Studies. It has been around since 1967, providing patriotic youth with the opportunity to start building their career in public service. They offer a variety of programs including “Capital Semester,” which involves an internship, briefings with movers and shakers at a variety of hot-spots such as the State Department and White House, as well as a semester of classes at Georgetown University. If you participate in Capital Semester, then you will also get to attend networking events and hear lectures from leaders across the District. The program helps to coordinate housing for participants. Another great thing about The Fund for American Studies is that they offer scholarships to deserving students.

Since 1990, The Washington Internship Institute has been helping students obtain real-life experience in both the public and private sector. The Washington Internship Institute offers several programs including: The Capital Experience, Embassy Scholars, Go Green, and Faculty Fellows. This organization has an active alumni network which participants are able to take advantage of.  You can find a blog of students’ internship experiences on The Washington Internship Institute’s website. Check it out to get a picture of participants’ day-to-routine and see if it might be something that you’re interested in.

Best Mardi Gras Celebrations in D.C.

As we’re all stocking up on mattresses and flooring this President’s Day in Washington, D.C., we have another holiday right around the corner: Mardi Gras, which will kick off the Lent season. You don’t have to make the trip out to New Orleans for a fun Fat Tuesday celebration. There are plenty of fun activities celebrating the debaucherous holiday right here in your own backyard.

Club Liv in the U St. Corridor is going all out with a Louisiana-style party this year. Make sure to wear your best masks and costumes because they will be holding a costume contest with prizes. Club Liv will have authentic Cajun food, music, and dancing. Doors open at 6:30pm and there is a $20 cover charge, $10 if you sign up in advance.

If you like parades, then you cannot miss the 15^th Annual Clarendon Courthouse Mardi Gras Parade at 8:00pm, featuring performances from over 40 community groups including the Jim Moyer Circus Group, DC Roller Girls, local bands, and more. The parade runs along Wilson Boulevard from North Barton Street to North Irving Street. The parade will be a family friendly event and the best part is that it’s free! If you’d like to enjoy the parade from a distance, then head over to Whitlow's on Wilson Bar & Grill, where you can watch the parade from a heated environment. Whitlow’s will offer Cajun specials and feature Matt Waller Trio after the parade at 9:30pm.

Right in the heart of downtown D.C. is Central Michel Richard's, which will be holding its 5^th Annual Mardi Gras celebration this year. Not only will you get to enjoy Creole creations by a world-renowned chef, but you will get to celebrate with live music from the Dixieland jazz quartet Laissez Foure, specialty cocktails, and free beads.

The Anacostia Community Museum will be hosting a family-friendly Fat Tuesday party on Saturday, February 25 from 11:00am – 4:00pm. Bring the kids out to enjoy live music, arts and crafts, storytelling, and a costume contest with prizes.

If you’re trying to impress a date, then take them to Acadiana which features a fixed price menu of crawfish, rabbit etouffee, jambalaya, and more – all for only $45! The special runs from 5:30pm – 10:30pm Beginning at 3:30pm, Acadiana will offer $5 specialty cocktails such as Dark and Stormy and Louisiana Tea. If you don’t want to opt for the fixed price menu, you can still enjoy festive appetizers at the bar such as southern sliders and Louisiana crawfish bread.   

Check out the crawfish boil at Hot n' Juicy in Woodley Park. For every pound of seafood you get, they’ll give you a free beer or order of Cajun fries. And be sure not to miss the Crawfish eating contest at 8:00pm, where the winner will take home $200!

Best Free Activities in D.C.

Because the cost of living is so high in Washington, D.C., many residents here find themselves living life on a budget. But if you plan ahead and do your research, then you don’t have to let that limit your fun. It is absolutely possible to have a great time here without even touching your wallet! While we’ve already reviewed some of the sightseeing highlights in the District, it’s important to point out some of the free activities in particular that are right at your fingertips. The great thing about this city is it has so much going on, that there is no need for overlap.

When people are exploring D.C., I think it’s common for them to have a national focus since this is where much of our country’s ‘coming of age’ took place, but it’s important to zoom in our lens and consider the city’s local history as well. A great way to do so is by following the African American Heritage Trail. The trail consists of 98 historical sites, all of which have historical significance for African Americans locally and nationally. 13 new sites were just installed this past year and that number will continue to grow over time. Cultural Tourism D.C. offers a free booklet that outlines walking and driving tours for the trail. You can download the booklet here or pick one up at a neighborhood location.

Since we’re in the throes of winter, it might be good to have some affordable indoor options in your back pocket too. The National Gallery of Art offers free concerts weekly on Sundays at 6:30pm. The music ranges from classical piano, to string quartets, to vocal performances. Doors open at 6:00pm and guests are seated on a first-come first-serve basis. Once spring rolls around, National Gallery of Art hosts Jazz in the Garden, a popular event featuring live jazz music in the sculpture garden right outside the museum. Many visitors pack a picnic to enjoy while they listen to the music. It’s a great summer activity that you can’t miss, but in the meantime be sure to check out one of their excellent indoor performances.

One of the many things that the District is known for is the number of universities that it hosts. We often hear about research these local institutions are conducting, and even see their professors on national news, so it could be interesting to see where all the magic happens. While some of the universities here are small and esoteric, (i.e. the National Defense Intelligence University – though I hope I don’t get taken away for simply implying they have a small campus), there are certainly others with campuses worth checking out. Make your first stop Georgetown University. With its manicured lawns and old Greek architecture, Georgetown has the quintessential university feel. Another good one to see is American University, which has a quad where you can throw the Frisbee around or even just relax and people-watch.

Another fun, affordable idea is to head over to the U St. corridor and check out Meridian Hill Park. With its beautifully manicured landscaping and large cascading fountain, it’s easy to see why this park has hosted a number of local weddings over time. On your visit, you can take a guided tour or explore on your own. On Sundays, 3:00pm – 9:00pm, don’t miss the drum circle and African dancing. You’re even welcome to bring your own drum and join in the fun!

If you’re new to the area or haven’t had much time to tour it yet, then take a walk, run, or bike-ride along the National Mall. This is a must-do if you have not done it before. With the Washington Monument at one end and the Capitol Building at the other end, the experience is almost humbling. On your walk, you’ll pass a number of Smithsonian Museums, where you can stop to eat, use the bathroom, or of course view the exhibits – all for free! Some of the museums you’ll pass by include: Hirshhorn, National Museum of the American Indian, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, Natural History Museum, National Gallery of Art East and West Buildings.

Best February Activities in D.C.

Washington, D.C. has been graced with some beautiful warm weather this winter, which serves as motivation to stop hovering over the space heater and start enjoying some fun activities! During the month of February in particular, there are several exciting events occurring throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area.

For all you car lovers, the Washington Auto Show will be at the Convention Center through February 5. This is your opportunity to check out over 700 new makes and models of vehicles from 42 foreign and domestic automakers. A number of celebrities will make appearances at the Auto Show including:  Redskins Cornerback DeAngelo Hall, WWE Superstar Randy Orton, Washington Caps Center Brooks Laich and Defenseman John Carlson. The show will also feature innovative exhibits on alternative energy. Tickets will cost you $13 and the hours are as follows:

Mon. Jan. 30 - Thur. Feb. 2, 2012 - 12:00 - 9:00 pm
Fri. Feb. 3, 2012 - 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Sat. Feb. 4, 2012 - 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sun. Feb. 5, 2012 - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Have you ever done a scavenger hunt before? As an adult? They are just as much fun as when you were a kid. Actually, maybe more! And now’s your chance with the 6th Annual Lindy 600 DC Limo Scavenger Hunt on February 11. Teams of 10 will each get their own limo and compete by visiting local establishments to find clues, take pictures, and solve puzzles. Although it’s pretty pricey at $625 per team, the event will be tons of fun. So pull together 9 friends and reserve your spot before they fill up. 

You can't miss the Washington, DC International Food & Wine Festival 2012, which kicks off with a "Sommelier Showdown" at Thursday, February 9 at 7:00pm. The amount of tickets released to the public are limited and will cost you about $150. But don't worry - there are some more affordable features of this event. On Friday, February 10, Federal Triangle's Aria Pizzeria will host "Cupid's Not Stupid," a mixology contest among local bartenders. Then the "Grand Wine Tasting" will occur on February 11 and 12 from 2:00pm - 6:00pm at the Ronald Reagan Building for $85 per person.

Once you've kicked your wine hangover, you can check out DC Fashion Week February 20 - 26. Festivities include a fashion show at Woolly Mammoth Theatre,a fashion networking party at Dirty Bar, a fashion concert at the Washington Post Conference Center, and more. Whoever said that D.C. had no fashion sense? Let's prove those fools wrong!

By the end of February, you'll probably be ready to crash from all the drinking and partying you've been doing, so it's the perfect time to relax in front of a movie. February 29 - March 4 is the D.C. Independent Film Festival. The festival includes a variety of activities such as film screenings, seminars, workshops, lectures, and more. Most of the festivities are targeted towards both beginner and advanced filmmakers. The D.C. Independent Film Festival is a non-profit all-volunteer event, so they are always looking for extra help if you are interested in pitching in!

Best Date Spots in Washington D.C.

With Valentine’s Day peeking its head around the corner, it seems fitting to discuss some of Washington, D.C.’s best date spots. Many have exhausted the cliché dinner and movie routine and are looking for new ideas. The good news is that you’re in the right city for fun and change. Whether you have a special someone or want to go out in protest of the Hallmark Holiday, the District has a variety of great spots to spend the night.

Right outside the city boundaries, Glen Echo Park serves as a historical gem in the Washington Metropolitan area. The former amusement park was transformed into a performing arts center in the late 1960’s, although they maintained the same architecture and décor, giving it a great old-timey feel. Glen Echo Park hosts weekly dances in its Spanish Ballroom where people tend to dress up according to era of music being featured that night. A few weeks ago, they had a live 14-piece big band and the crowd arrived in fashion honoring the roaring twenties. The dances typically begin with a brief dance lesson, after which the band will begin to play and you’re thrown into the fire to test your skills. It’s really a lot of fun and will only put you back about $20 per person. Keep in mind that drinks and food are not served anywhere in the ballroom, which is kind of a bummer because you will work up a sweat. A few steps away from the ballroom, however, is the Irish Inn at Glen Echo, where you can pop over to for a quick beer should you feel the urge.

Some may feel hesitant to embarrass themselves with their rusty dancing skills. If that’s you, then don’t resign to plopping in front of the television with a Lean Cuisine just yet. There’s still a lot more out there. CoCo Sala Chocolate Lounge & Boutique is a newer hot-spot in downtown D.C. Don’t let the name deceive you – only a small part of this place is a candy shop; the rest is a trendy bar and restaurant. CoCo Sala maintains a dark, intimate atmosphere. Happy Hour lasts from 4:00pm – 7:00pm and includes champagne and chocolate tasting. Though their menu has limited options, CoCo Sala offers some unique creations such the Creole Crabcake, Moroccan Swordfish Sliders, and Duck Confit Cigar Salad.

If you need some help in the conversation department, there are plenty of options that don’t put you directly across the table from someone with only the weather to discuss. Consider checking out the Capitol Steps, a hilarious comedy troop which pokes fun at current events and the overall population and culture of Washington, D.C. (Yes, that’s you, Hill-Staffer) Performances are held weekly at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, right off the Federal Triangle Metro stop. Before or after, you can grab some pizza at Aria Pizzeria and Bar, which has some pretty tasting food as well as plentiful outdoor seating, should our early spring weather endure.

Another fun idea is to go to a Washington Wizards game at the Verizon Center in Chinatown. Even if you’re not a huge basketball fan, it’s always fun to grab a beer and cheer on your home team, or the opponents, depending on where you’re from. With tickets starting out at $25, a Wizards game can certainly be an affordable date option. If you skip the junk food at the game and still find your date at least mildly tolerable, then head over to Proof for some drinks and dinner afterwards. Proof’s pride and joy is their extensive wine list, though they also maintain a rich menu. Some of their creative meals include Cassoulet of Crispy Pork, Duck Confit & House Made Sausage, Pan Roasted Morningstar Dayboat Scallops, and Napoleon of Crispy Tofu, Wild Mushrooms & Winter Vegetables.

If you find yourself boycotting Valentine’s Day this year, then head over to the H St. Corridor in Northeast, which has new bars and restaurants popping up left and right. Check out some live music or a Vaudeville show at the newly renamed Red Palace, which combined the former Palace of Wonders and Red and Black into one great big venue that hosts a variety of live performances. Red Palace is truly a unique spot in D.C., with a fun New Orleans theme to it. Red Palace serves food or you always could head across the street to Dangerously Delicious Pies before or after the show for a piece of their sweet or savory pie. Dangerously Delicious has a mouthwatering menu including Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie and Mobtown Brownie Pie. On weekends, they’re open until 3:30am for those who have worked up an appetite at the bar.

Introducing the New To D.C. Website

New To D.C. is excited to announce that our website is officially live! http://new-todc.com/ This is great news because Washington, D.C. has a significant turnover rate of residents – higher than anywhere else in the country. There is always a fresh batch of people stepping off the plane, trying to make new lives for themselves here and it’s anything but easy. So many factors go into preparing for the move:  packing, hiring movers, actually making the move, unpacking, settling in, acclimating to the new city, and more. If that’s not hard enough, many individuals don’t have solid contacts on the other end to consult for advice or guidance along the way. New To D.C. would like to help – we are your contact on the other end of the move, providing you with expert advice. Relocation can be a major life transition and no one should have to go through it alone.

It’s common for people to spend hours searching online for specific answers to their relocation questions, but this is a big waste of time. Not only can it suck up your time without returning the answers you need, but you can’t always trust the information that you do find. As relocation experts in D.C., we have the answers all in one place and offer credible information.

One way New To D.C. would like to simplify your move is with our Special Package Deal, which is designed to meet all your relocation needs. The Special Package Deal includes a detailed Relocation Assessment to determine your particular goals and needs, a Relocation Plan, communication with our relocation experts who can answer all your questions, and vital information on adjusting to everyday life here in D.C. The ultimate goal of the Special Package Deal is to streamline your move process, so that you can move on to more important things such as your family and new job as quickly as possible.  

If you’re moving to Washington, D.C. for an internship, we didn’t forget you. We love interns! Interns have unique needs and goals, which is why we have designed a special Intern Package Deal just for you. The Intern Package Deal provides you with support on critical matters such as preparing for your move, having a successful internship experience, making friends in the District, and more.

One factor that’s critical to your success as an intern is networking. Contrary to popular belief, networking is not necessarily intuitive. There’s a right way to do it just as much as there’s a wrong way to do it, but you won’t know the difference until someone’s taught you. Coming straight from college, many students have not yet developed these muscles and that’s okay! You have to start somewhere. Our intern networking workshop:  “Interning in D.C.: How to Network for Your Dream Job” provides you with the tools you need to take advantage of your limited time here and ultimately make your dreams soar.

One of the most difficult parts of moving to D.C. for both interns and career professionals is finding housing. It can be challenging because many people are unfamiliar with the neighborhoods here, making it hard to know which neighborhood would fit their needs. Plus, it can be tricky determining a frame of reference for price. Unless you’re moving from L.A. or New York, chances are that you’ll have sticker-shock to some degree. Housing in the District does not run cheap. But this doesn’t mean that you’ll end up living under a bridge; it just means that you will need to seek out assistance. New To D.C. has a wealth of information on this important topic and would like to help you reach the point of signing a lease or buying a home.

To help you reach that point, we offer a housing-vetting service that will serve as a tremendous asset to you. Sometimes new residents are unable to fly or drive out to D.C. before they move here and are forced to commit to housing, sight-unseen. But you really should know just exactly what you’re getting into, with more than just a small, grainy picture from Craigslist to go by. If you provide us with addresses of apartments or houses that you would like viewed, then our relocation experts will meet with the landlord or real estate agent to check out the property. We will take pictures of the inside and outside, report back to you on measurements, roommates if there are any, the surrounding neighborhood, and anything else you want to know. Although we have to charge for this service, it still has the potential to save you hundreds of dollars on plane tickets, gas money, and hotel charges that you would rack up on a housing-hunting trip out here. Save your time and money and let us do the work.   

The website also offers detailed information on sightseeing in the District, which is just as valuable for new residents as it is for tourists. One of the best ways to learn your new city is by sightseeing, which requires you to walk around, take public transportation, and even get lost. This is how you develop an internal map of the city. Plus, one of the great things about Washington, D.C. is just when you think you’ve done it all, there are new activities and sights that surface to keep you entertained.

I hope that you come to love this city just as much as we do. You have chosen to relocate to an incredible place and we look forward to helping you make this your new home!

Best of Washington, D.C. (Side Trips)

In these brutal winter months, it can be easy to get caught in the same old routine:  go to work, head to the gym, make dinner, sleep, wake up and do it all again. To prevent our lives from falling into step with the Billy Murray movie, Groundhog Day, it’s healthy to escape the city every once in awhile for a change in scenery. While there’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Washington, D.C., sometimes we can appreciate those things more once we’ve left the city and returned having explored other adventures.  

A great place to start your exploration is Shenandoah National Park, which is about 3 hours southwest of Washington, D.C. in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. With over 75 overlooks and 500 miles of trails, Shenandoah is the perfect place to clear your head. There are four different campgrounds located throughout Shenandoah, so pack up your camping equipment and spend several days touring the park. You’ll want to remember your camera too so that you can capture shots of all the wildlife you’ll see. Shenandoah hosts over 50 species of mammals, 51 reptile species, 200 bird species, and 30 fish species. This park is a gem on the east coast where you can experience nature, hike, camp, and return to the District feeling rejuvenated.

About 50 miles southeast of Shenandoah National Park is Charlottesville, Virginia, which you can knock out on the same drive to Shenandoah or make it a destination on its own. This city is packed with history having been shaped by founding father, Thomas Jefferson. His home, Monticello, offers daily tours for a fee where you can view both the grounds and the house. Not too far from Monticello is University of Virginia which was founded by Jefferson. The campus is beautiful, with traditional Greek architecture. I recommend grabbing a cup of coffee in the morning and enjoying a nice long walk around the quad. Another popular activity in Charlottesville is wine tasting. You’ll notice signs for vineyards plastered across the highway every few miles. Check out the Monticello Wine Trail, which offers four different routes you can follow for a day or weekend of wine tasting fun.

If you’re itching to get back to city life, another great side trip from D.C. is Baltimore, Maryland, which is about 40 miles northeast of the District. The great thing is that you don’t even have to drive to this spot; you can just hop on Amtrak. One of your first stops should be the Baltimore Zoo at Druid Hill Park. The Zoo has an impressive collection of unique animals, including some you may never have heard of or seen before such as an okapi, dik-dik, sifaka, and more. Surprisingly, the Baltimore Zoo hosts more animals, and more rare animals than D.C.’s National Zoo. While you’re in town, make plans to stop by check out the Baltimore Aquarium, which features a jellyfish exhibit, a dolphin show, a 4D immersion theater, and more. Be sure to snap some pictures of the blue poison dart frogs.

Another fun side trip from D.C. is Annapolis, Maryland, located along the Chesapeake Bay. It’s only about 32 miles outside of the District. Annapolis is home to the U.S. Naval Academy, and much of the city is structured around that. The Naval Academy even offers daily tours to the public. If you have kids, you’ll want to check out the Chesapeake Children’s Museum which has hands-on, interactive exhibits that will grab children’s attention. The museum’s menu of fun activities includes an interactive theater, construction site, nature trail, herb garden, and more. Because it’s on the bay, Annapolis has some water activities that you may want to take advantage of such as a boats rides or simply a long relaxing walk along the pier.

Best of Washington, D.C. (Traditional Sightseeing)

Although we’ve had a chance to discuss off-the-beaten path sightseeing, it’s important to have an idea of the traditional sights in Washington, D.C. as well. If you’ve recently moved here, you understand that it takes time to settle in and after that, it’s surprisingly easy to get caught up in the routine of life, forgetting all the gems that our nation’s capital has to offer. Instead of conceding to monotony in these dreary cold months, consider mixing things up by checking out one of the many entertaining, historical, and educational sights there are to see. The added bonus is that many are free (and indoors!)

Everyone wants a tour of the White House when they come to Washington, D.C. Tours of the White House can be secured through your Congressman’s office and requests must be made 6 months in advance. If you weren’t able to get tickets, don’t worry – you aren’t missing much. The “tour” is about a 15-minute self-guided walk through a few rooms on the East Wing. It’s highly overrated and often disappointing to many people who had high hopes of accidentally running into the President. Instead, consider stopping by the White House Visitor’s Center which would be better described as a museum than a visitor’s center because it provides a detailed overview of the White House, including architecture, furnishings, first families, social events, relations with the press and world leaders. Allow yourself 20 minutes – 1 hour to explore the exhibits. The White House Historical Association sponsors a sales area where you can pick up unique White House souvenirs. The Center is open seven days a week from 7:30am until 4:00pm and is located at the southeast corner of 15th and E Streets. Restrooms are available, but food service is not.

Over in Chinatown, you’ll find one of the District’s newer museums, The International Spy Museum, which is home to the world’s largest collection of international espionage artifacts ever displayed to the public. This is a great museum for kids because it’s highly interactive. The tour begins by you choosing your alias and committing it to memory. The fun continues with videos, activities, unique artifacts, and stories of espionage that will blow you away. Adults love this museum just as much as kids. It’s a pretty big though, so I’d encourage you to carve out at least 2 hours for it, maybe more if you’re particularly interested in the topic. Because it’s not a Smithsonian, there is an admission fee of $20 for adults and $14 for children, so you’ll want to stay long enough to get your money’s worth anyway.

If you’ve always wanted to hear a case argued before The Supreme Court, then you’re in luck – as long as you are in town while the court is in session. The Supreme Court usually hears two cases a day beginning at 10:00am October – April. Only a limited number of people are allowed in each day, so it is necessary to get in line early to reserve a spot. If you’re in town during recess, then you can still go on a tour of the court Monday – Friday at 2:00pm. The tour is fascinating, with a wealth of interesting information, though I would not recommend it for young children because there’s nothing much for them to do besides listen.

Right next door to the Court, you’ll find The Library of Congress which is the largest library in the world. It was originally built to serve as a resource for Congress, but now the public has access and you shouldn’t miss it. The library’s pride and joy is the Gutenberg Bible, which is the first book that was printed by the printing press. There are a number of other exhibits and daily talks that you can take advantage of. Public tours are offered daily on the hour. I recommend taking the tour versus wandering around by yourself because the tour guides do an excellent job of providing a mix of history and narrative that you would otherwise miss.  

Heading over to the National Mall, you’ll find The National Museum of Natural History, which features the Hope Diamond, a 45 ½ carat jewel. You can also see a life-sized model of a blue whale, an enormous prehistoric white shark, and an 80-foot dinosaur skeleton. Kids love this museum! They are bound to run into familiar topics that they’ve studied in school. Plus, The National Museum of Natural History is very interactive and can hold kids’ attention for an extended period of time.

If you’re a fan of the National Treasure movies with Nicholas Cage, check out the National Archives where you can catch a glimpse of the Magna Carta, Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and the Constitution. You cannot miss this vital part of our nation’s history. Viewing the National Archives only takes about 30 minutes assuming you miss the line. If you know what day you’ll be visiting, you can make reservations online for a tour which occur Monday – Friday at 9:45am. Admission is free.

Right across the Mall is another popular sight, the Air and Space Museum. Here you can see the Wright 1903 Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, the Apollo 11 command module, Columbia, and a lunar rock sample that visitors can touch. This museum is very hands-on and great for kids. There’s even an I-Max theater where you can rest your feet for a bit and catch the museum’s latest feature.

Another fun stop is the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Public tours are given every 15 minutes 9:00am –10:45am and 12:30pm – 3:45pm. The 40-minute guided tour includes a video and viewing of the production process where you will actually see money being printed. Free tickets are required for all tours. You can obtain same-day tickets at the ticket booth located on Raoul Wallenberg Place (formerly 15th Street). The ticket booth opens at 8:00am Monday through Friday and closes when all tickets have been distributed.

If you need a break from the museums, stop by The Kennedy Center for Performing Arts to see a performance or hear some music. Make sure to take advantage of the free performances at 6:00pm daily on the Millennium Stage in the Grand Foyer. The Kennedy Center also provides free tours 10:00am – 5:00pm Monday through Friday and 10:00am – 1:00pm on weekends. Tours depart from the parking plaza on Level A and feature the Hall of States and Hall of Nations, the Center’s main theaters, as well as paintings, sculptures, and other artwork.

If it’s a nice day outside, tie up your walking shoes and head over to Arlington Cemetery which serves as the resting place for casualties of war, veterans, and their spouses from the Civil War to the present. Make sure that you catch the changing of the guard of the unnamed soldiers, which is a military ritual that takes place every hour on the hour. You’ll also want to see the Memorial Amphitheater, which is where memorial services are held. You can reach Arlington Cemetery by Metro or Tourmobile. It is open 8:00am – 7:00pm April 1 through September 30 and 8:00am – 5:00pm October 1 through March 31.