Washington - Further Afield
Just beyond the forested slopes of Rock Creek Park, south of Massachusetts Avenue, there’s a delightful waymarked route to Dumbarton Oaks Estate. A bucolic spot for a picnic in summer, the estate leads to Archibald-Glover Park, with trails, taverns, play areas and wildflower-carpeted meadows edging the C&O Canal.
The Takoma Park suburb makes for a refreshing change from the stiff formality of downtown DC. This bohemian Victorian suburb enjoys a health community all its own, complete with a nice line in eclectic shops near the Metro and the Takoma/Langley International Corridor on University Blvd.
Only an hour away, Baltimore is a great location for a day trip from DC (especially for anyone who is addicted to The Wire) and is accessible by public transport. Once there, head for Inner Harbour, where you’ll find Baltimore's excellent museums, National Aquarium, plenty of bars and restaurants and lovely harbour views.
Take a trip to Mount Vernon, a 500 acre estate which was the home of George Washington and his family, and is now a museum and education centre, with galleries, theatres and gardens.
The handsome, historic town of Alexandria is just a short hop from DC, but a giant leap back in time. The old town’s cobbled streets, wrought-iron awnings and tree-lined avenues are a joy to wander around. The town claims to have as many as 4,000 buildings dating back as far as the 1600’s (that’s practically Jurassic, in US terms!) and many are home to lovely gift stores, family restaurants and soda bars. The George Washington Masonic Memorial, dedicated to George Washington, is a must-see.