Although Washington, D.C. is only approximately a 30-minute ride from Potomac, it is easy to forget how close this hub of culture resides for WCHS students to explore. These are three ideas for fun activities and places to go in D.C this fall.

Check out some art exhibits at the Phillips Collection 

The Phillips Collection, currently celebrating its 100 year anniversary, was the first museum of modern art in America. Although seemingly small, the museum is home to 6,000 works of art, each unique and beautiful in their own way. 

They frequently change their exhibits in order to “facilitate new conversations between artworks and fresh experiences for visitors,” according to its website. Currently, they have their annual staff show displaying art made by people who work for the museum ranging from photography to watercolor paintings. An exhibit of over 50 of David Driskell’s works entitled Icons of Nature and History is also available until January. Driskell is known for his mixed media work with themes of the African diaspora.

In addition to amazing art, the Phillips Collection gift shop is a must-stop attraction. With prints of the works currently being shown at the museum, books about art for both kids and adults as well as decorative pillows and art supplies, this gift shop outshines the typical art museum shop.

Go thrifting for some vintage treasures 

Only open on Sundays, the Georgetown Flea Market is an outside market filled with a variety of antiques and collectibles. It is a great place to find gifts for family members coming over for Thanksgiving or check-off some early winter holiday shopping. 

Miss Pixies is a great option for those who can not wait until Sunday to get their antiquing on. It is open seven days a week from 11A.M. to 6:30 P.M. located on 1626 14th Street NW. They offer vintage decor, furniture and “whatnot” as their advertisements depict.

For those looking for designer clothes at a more reasonable price, Secondi, the longest-running women’s consignment shop in the Dupont Circle area, is the way to go. This second floor boutique has a warm atmosphere, kind staff and high quality donations.

Stop by Kramers for great reads and tasty food 

For those on “BookTok,” Kramers bookstore in Dupont Circle is a perfect location with a stand dedicated to popular recommendations from the social media app TikTok. In addition to a wide selection of books, what sets Kramers apart from bookstores like Barnes & Noble is their sit-down restaurant inside the building. When it opened in 1976, Kramers was the first bookstore/cafe in Washington D.C. 

Kramers is the perfect place to go on a rainy day with its cozy setup and wide variety of books. There’s something for everyone from graphic novels and puzzles to poetry and politics. They also provide art prints, journals, postcards and even tote bags with designs inspired by famous books and movies.

After a long day of book shopping, sitting down for a crispy chicken sandwich or Kramer’s Goober Pie is the perfect remedy for sore feet. They even have a breakfast menu for early risers containing options like avocado toast and brunch cocktails.

Take the time this fall to explore D.C. and stop by these unique destinations individually, or make a fun-filled day out of all three activities.