They say Washington, D.C. is the beating heart of American democracy. Personally, I’d say it’s more like a heartbeat monitor—beep… beep… pause… “oh, is this thing still on?” But after three days in the nation’s capital, I can confirm: it’s a city worth taking on, even if you nearly end up knocking on the White House door (more on that later).
Day One: Hip Hotels & Political Landmarks
I stayed in Foggy Bottom (yes, that’s the real name) at Truly Yours D.C., a hotel so hip I felt like I should have worn leather pants to check in. The Peruvian fusion food was chef’s kiss, but the real highlight? Their pisco cocktails. Let’s just say I was on a first-name basis with the bartender before unpacking my suitcase.
Fueled by fish ceviche and liquid courage, I ventured to the National Art Gallery, which might just house the world’s largest Degas collection. I’ve never felt so inspired to take ballet—until I remembered I’m 46 with a knee that squeaks louder than a Costco shopping cart.
Next up: the Capitol Building and the Supreme Court, which was ironically under construction during my visit. It felt symbolic.
And because I’m naturally curious (read: nosy), I happened to be near the White House when a big black SUV rolled out of the gates. The gates opened. I thought, Well, don’t mind if I do. Spoiler alert: that is not an invitation to go knock on the front door and ask if the President is home. Security made that very clear.
I ended the day at the National Botanical Garden, which was far safer and smelled better than Secret Service side-eye.
Day Two: Museums, Emotions, and National Guard Selfies
Pro tip: visit the museums in the reverse order of my adventure. Trust me.
I started at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and it’s one of the most powerful museums I’ve ever set foot in. It’s heartbreakingly honest about slavery, racism, and oppression in America. I left heavy with the reality of how far we still have to go.
Next, the National Museum of American History felt oddly superficial in comparison. Exhibits on Hollywood props and wars didn’t land the same after NMAAHC. Maybe it didn’t help that outside, National Guard “kids” were roaming the streets—some kicking rocks, some taking selfies with tourists, and unintentionally becoming the city’s most accessible tour guides.
Finally, I ended at the Natural History Museum. Gems, minerals, and the Hope Diamond = dazzling. Realizing the exhibit ends with humans messing up the planet = not dazzling. I was one pisco cocktail away from yelling, “Put the Hope Diamond back, maybe it’ll fix everything!”
Day Three: Monuments, Oysters, and Mood Swings
On my last day, I meandered from Foggy Bottom to the Wharf, visiting the monuments by both day and night. Night wins—the lighting makes them look so majestic you half expect Lincoln to climb down from his chair and offer you life advice.
At the Wharf, I tried the oysters. Delicious, briny, fresh, and probably the closest thing to a spiritual experience I had in D.C.
Final Thoughts
Three days in D.C. barely scratched the surface of its rich (and sometimes overwhelming) history. Between Degas, the Hope Diamond, rethinking the state of democracy, and resisting the urge to tap on the White House door, I came away full—of oysters, emotions, and pisco cocktails.
Would I go back? Absolutely. But next time, I’m bringing comfier shoes, a sturdier emotional core… and maybe a better excuse for why I thought walking into the White House was a good idea.
Felicity Arvizu takes on... 