Summer Work Files: Washington, DC

Jul 31

Jul 31 Summer Work Files: Washington, DC

In DC for the summer? Whether you're home from school, visiting, working on "The Hill," or interning someplace the city, we've compiled some of Washingtonians' favorite artistic, recreational and food-related haunts.

So if you find the time to stray from monument sight-seeing, opt into some of these cool (and cheap) alternatives!

1. The Phillips Collection

If you've already ventured down to the National Mall, set aside a day to explore Dupont Circle. On top of its various boutiques, vintage shops and quirky restaurants, the neighborhood is also home to The Phillips Collection, a museum that boasts an impressive roster of works by Rothko, O'Keefe, van Gogh, Renoir and more. Revolving exhibitions also feature lesser known and emerging artists from around the world, whose collections debut against the building's elegant, mid-century furnishings. With a student ID, tickets are $10.

2. Movies at E St. Cinema

If you find yourself growing tired of the seemingly endless list of summer blockbusters, head over to Landmark E St. Cinema in Downtown. In addition to popular new releases, the theater shows a lot of independent, animated, foreign and documentary films as well. Currently playing: Cafe Society, Captain Fantastic, Phantom Boy and The Lobster.

3. Picnic on the Waterfront

No trip to the Georgetown neighborhood is complete without a detour to the newly renovated Waterfront Park. Wander the park's winding trails, navigate the labyrinth, feed ducks, cool your feet in the fountain, rent a canoe, or relax in the shade and picnic with friends. Excellent views of the Potomac River and National Mall coupled with a handful of nearby seafood restaurants make this the perfect day trip!

4. Thrifting at Nomad Yard Collectiv & lunch at Union Market

Head Northeast for foodie's heaven at Union Market. From craft beers and Korean Tacos to homemade gelato and locally grown fruits and veggies, Union Market is the perfect pitstop if you're looking to try something new. After you're finished eating, head next door to Nomad Yard Collectiv for unique vintage finds. Regardless of personal style, browsing through the shop's 1920s era flapper dresses, antique furniture, old designer handbags and worn in biker jackets is an endless treasure trove.

5. Free shows at the Kennedy Center

While you're more than encouraged to check out any of the world-renowned performances hosted at the Kennedy Center each summer, if those ticket prices intimidate you, the Millennium Stage hosts free shows daily. Definitely worth a visit if you're interested in anything from jazz orchestras and R&B to Indian folk dance and Parisian EDM (electronic dance music). A revolving roster of artists is featured each month, so you're free to pick and choose which acts sound the most exciting!