Welcome to my completely unorganized but oh-so-helpful map of Washington DC! An absolute smorgasbord of my own travels and research, suggestions from friends and strangers, and many treasures found along the way, this is where I compile all things DC for my future trips and yours. Things I particularly love that you’ll find a lot of:
☕️ Coffee shops & bakeries
🌮 Local cuisine
🏛️ Museums of all kinds
🌳 Gardens & parks
🛏️ Boutique hotels
🍕 Small regional chains with good reputations

All my guides in this category are $5 per 100 places included, but since I add to these constantly, you can lock down the lowest price today and gain a lifetime access!

*Great public transportation; I suggest getting Metro Pass.

Georgetown, Washington, DC, USA

District of Columbia, USA

Washington D.C., DC, USA

Alexandria, VA, USA

Washington DC

After going to college in the area, and spending the majority of my twenties in DC, I amassed a collection of favorites bars, restaurants, activities, and coffee shops.  Here you'll find my tried and true favorites, plus some recommendations from my current local friends there.

Favorites in Washington, DC

A Comprehensive Guide to D.C.'s National Mall

Planning on studying or interning in the capitol? Whether you’re embarking on this adventure solo or with friends, moving across states or countries, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll navigate you through everything you should know. From public transport, to the best hangout spots, shops worth visiting, the safest area’s, budget friendly grocery shopping, even the best getaways out of the city. Curated by me and my friends, international students who have worked, studied and lived in DC for three months. We’ve got your back. 

In this guide, you'll find

💭Know before you go:
Essential information on moving to the city (groceries, know your way around the city, ...)
👩‍💻Research you could've done bundled (think transport, safety, ...)
🩵Tips & advice we learned the hard way 
⛑️ Extra important information (+ safety tips) for international students
🧘‍♀️Tips for (solo) female travelers
🇺🇸Advice on culture shock in the US
🚌Getaways out of the city (one day trips + weekend trips + activities)
🐻Suggestions on where to spot wildlife in & out of the city
🌤Seasonal guide: best events throughout the entire year

🌳🚴‍♀️🤸‍♀️This guide also offers advice for people who want to connect with nature in and around the big city, as well as have an interest in outdoor sports such as biking and hiking. 

This guide might feel overwhelming, but I promise it's doable in three months. I know, because I did ;)

Washington D.C., District of Columbia, Verenigde Staten

Washington D.C. guide for interns and students👩‍🎓📚📖

If you are looking to plan a trip to Washington DC during Cherry Blossom season, then this ultimate guide is for you! 

I LOVE Cherry Blossom season, and as someone who visits Washington DC each year multiple times during Cherry Blossom season, I put together this guide to share some of my favorite spots and recommendations for the best places to see the best blooms around town and nearby in Virginia and Maryland. 

Fun Fact: There are actually many types of Cherry Blossom Trees in Washington DC that bloom starting late February into April. 

This guide is in both a list form and interactive map, and showcases where to find:
*Okame Cherry Blossoms (first blooms of the season)
*Yoshino Cherry Blossoms (around Tidal Basin)
*Kwanzan Cherry Blossoms
*Other Cherry Blossoms Varieties (like Weeping Higan)
*Getting Around DC
*Where to Stay

**BONUS: Saucer & Star Magnolias around town (these bloom during Cherry Blossom season and not to be missed!

If are planning to visit New York City during Cherry Blossom season, make sure to check out my 'Ultimate New York City Cherry Blossom Guide' to find the best blooms in NYC and when to see them. 

You can also find me on Instagram & TikTok at @adventuressashley for Spring bloom inspiration and tips!

Washington, D.C., USA

Ultimate Washington DC Cherry Blossom Guide

Consider Washington DC as your next travel destination! 

It is the perfect destination for history buffs, art lovers, foodies and so much more! 

Plus where to find the best spots to photograph cherry blossom season 🌸🌸

In this guide I share all of my favorite places to stay, eat and explore! 

Washington D.C | First Time Visitor’s  Guide 

DC has a way of surprising you. Once you get beyond the hustle and bustle, you’ll find a city where life just happens. It’s in the small moments—neighbors chatting at local shops, kids playing in the parks, and friends gathering over coffee. You can really feel the community spirit, making it easy to settle in and feel at home.

Then there’s Alexandria, just a stone’s throw away. It’s got a relaxed, charming vibe with its cobblestone streets and waterfront paths. It’s the kind of place where you can take a leisurely walk, grab a bite to eat, or just hang out by the water. It feels cozy and inviting, like a little escape from the city buzz.

Together, DC and Alexandria create a nice balance. DC is full of energy and excitement, while Alexandria offers a slower pace when you need a breather. Both places have their unique charm, making them feel like home to anyone who spends time there 🇺🇸

Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is a picturesque reservoir situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., known for its stunning cherry blossom trees that bloom each spring, attracting visitors from around the world. This tranquil body of water, nestled between the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument, offers scenic walking paths, paddle boating, and panoramic views of some of the nation's most iconic landmarks. The Tidal Basin is also home to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the George Mason Memorial, making it a significant cultural and historical site. Whether you're enjoying the beauty of the cherry blossoms, taking a leisurely stroll, or reflecting on American history, the Tidal Basin provides a serene escape and a memorable experience in the nation's capital.

In addition to the Yoshino Cherry Blossom found around Tidal Basin, you can also see some gorgeous Weeping Higan Cherry Blossoms along Ohio Drive SW along the Potamic River. 

Parking can be found along Ohio Drive SW. These are both metered locations with a 3 hour limit. 

Where the infamous cherry blossom festival is.  The tidal basin with the Thomas Jefferson memorial and Washington Monument in the background is my favorite spot in DC.

The tidal basin has the most intense concentration of Cherry Blossoms, so be sure to go on a walk here :) 

To get shots of the blossoms from every angle, take the time to do a full loop around the Tidal Basin.

Cherry blossom photography spot Suggestion from Passion Passport. Get a paddle boat!

Tidal Basin

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