5 Tourist Traps That Are Actually Good

Tourist season is upon us, so what are some attractions you can bring your visiting friends and family to that won’t have you rolling your eyes from boredom? Here’s where we would start:

National Gallery of Art

Yes, every tourist and their mother goes here, but it’s still a free world-class art museum in our backyard. Throw on some noise-canceling headphones and head to the less crowded East Wing to browse the impressionists and cubists.

U.S. Botanical Garden

This is where I go when I am feeling burnt out. It immediately transports you out of the city into a magical rainforest for an hour or two. It gets a fair number of tourists, but it never feels crowded. Make sure to check out the orchid room!

Old Ebbitt Grill

This is D.C.’s oldest bar and restaurant, and it’s actually good? Their seafood is the star of the show (get the oysters and calamari!), but they also make a decent steak and burger. Just be sure to reserve your spot because it gets slammed with tourists.

Lincoln Memorial

Do not, I repeat, do not, schlep here in the daytime with all the other tourists. Instead, come at night when it’s all lit up and the crowds are gone. It’s one of the most romantic spots in the city.

Kramers Bookstore

Kramers is a D.C. institution. And while it’s not my favorite local bookstore (can’t beat Lost City Books, sorry), the bookshop/bar/café power combo makes it worth the hype. It never feels touristy and I always walk out with a great new read.