This semester, I have tried to explore new places in Washington, D.C. that I have never been to during the past three years in college at The Catholic University of America! There are so many interesting places in the city, and I had not taken advantage of them as well as I should have. In honor of that, I would like to share my favorite places I have visited in D.C. this fall!
- The National Gallery of Art
I had been to the National Gallery of Art once before, but when I went by myself, it was like a whole new place! I spent hours just strolling around the different galleries; the gallery includes both the classical style, as well as the modern art style. I love the artist Claud Monet‘s paintings and wasn’t aware that they had a few at the gallery, so they were amazing to see! It is such a relaxing place to walk around and listen to music while looking at pretty art. They also have a sculpture garden that is really beautiful as well!
- Dumbarton Oaks
Dumbarton Oaks is a historic estate located in Georgetown, which is surrounded by over twenty acres of lush gardens. I went to Dumbarton Oaks for my birthday and loved it! There is an admission fee to enter, however they host a free walking tour. It was so interesting to hear about the history of the property. It also was nice to walk around all the beautiful gardens, which were filled with all different kinds of flowers and plants (including pineapple plants). It felt like a little nature oasis in the middle of Georgetown. I love the outdoors and being surrounded by plants, so this is perfect for you if you feel the same! They also have amazing fountains and sculptures throughout the gardens !
- The Franciscan Monastery Gardens
The Monastery gardens are such a relaxing place to visit, as there are lots of gardens and places to just sit and enjoy nature. There are multiple levels of gardens, filled with bright flowers and big trees. I would love to go back with a book to just read, as it is so quiet and peaceful.
Bonus for CUA students: this beautiful place is in Brookland, so no metro is necessary!
- The Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center is a performing arts center that is host to play, musicals, music performances, and so forth. I went to see the musical “Moulin Rouge,” at the Kennedy Center and it was so much fun! There are always different performances, with ticket prices being pretty reasonable most of the time, and it is really worth it! Even if you don’t go to a show, it is a really interesting building to explore, and tickets aren’t necessary! They have a rooftop deck where you can overlook Georgetown, the National Monuments, and more. There are also huge outdoor patios on the main level, with lots of weeping willows and beautiful architecture to bask in.
- The National Arboretum
Arboretums are gardens dedicated solely to trees, and The National Arboretum does not disappoint in its variety. This is a must visit place in my opinion! There is so much to see and explore, with lots of gardens, huge columns, and sculptures scattered around the vast property. My favorite part is the Asian garden section, where they have tons of bonsai trees cut in all different shapes and sizes, as well as beautiful archways and sculptures. It is a beautiful place to go to explore, or have a picnic, and just enjoy the scenery!
D.C. is such a cool city, with so many different museums, shops, and outdoor activities to explore, and I can’t wait to visit even more places next semester before my graduation!