The UPass is arguably the best thing to happen to AU since tenders and fries. The card gives you unlimited, prepaid use of the Metro and Metrobus, meaning there’s no reason to have to rely on pricy Ubers or trying to find a ride from friends. And since it’s already paid for, you might as well make use of it! Plus, it’s a great excuse to go explore parts of the city that you might not have seen before, and there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing the “$0.00” on the machine as you scan your card. Here’s some perfect places to go explore on a fall weekend with your UPass- no car required!
Eastern Market
Eastern Market is a collection of indoor and outdoor vendors selling everything from cool paintings of D.C. to fresh fruits and vegetables. The outdoor vendors sell every weekend, and feature artwork from independent designers, painters, sculptors, and more. It’s the perfect place to find a unique piece of art for your dorm or apartment that no one else will have, or to get some healthy food for the week ahead.
UPass Directions: take the red line from Tenley to Metro Center, then transfer to blue or orange and get off at Eastern Market stop. It’s about a 5 minute walk to the actual market.
U.S. Botanical Gardens
Although located on the National Mall, the Botanical Gardens aren’t quite as popular as the main monuments, which means they aren’t as crowded with tourists. The Gardens and Conservatory hold more than 65,000 plants, and are perfect for when you need a peaceful stroll to clear your mind from homework, or just get off campus. Plus, it’s completely free and open every day of the year!
UPass directions: Take the N6 Bus from Massachusetts Ave& Westover Place to 17th St and I St NW, then take the blue or orange line from Farragut West to Federal Center. The Gardens are about a 5 minute walk.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
What’s cooler than an entire museum dedicated to celebrating women’s artistic achievements? The NMWA is the only museum in the world dedicated to female artwork, yet it’s less well known than some of the major attractions in the area. Plus, the inside is absolutely beautiful, and is even a popular wedding venue.
UPass directions: Take the red line from Tenleytown to Metro Center, then walk about 4 minutes to the museum.
Yards Park
Yards Park is possibly one of the best-kept secrets in D.C. Although it’s a little farther from AU, the trip is definitely worth it. The park is located on the waterfront and features dancing fountains, swim areas, and green space, and also occasionally hosts outdoor events such as group yoga and workout classes.
UPass Directions: Take the red line to Gallery Place Chinatown, then transfer to the Green Line and get off at the Navy Yard stop. Walk about 8 minutes to the park.
Momofuku Milk Bar
After a long day of exploring, nothing’s better than Momofuku Milk Bar, aka cereal ice cream. The bakery is known for the cereal-and-milk flavored ice cream topped with cornflakes, but also has cakes, pies, and Karlie Kloss’ personal cookie line, “Klossies”.
UPass Directions: Take the red line from Tenleytown to Metro Center, then walk about 5 minutes.
Photo Credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6