The El Camino Travel Guide to Washington DC
Written by Sarah Tinoco
Image courtesy of Riggs Hotel
We’re staying put and going off the beaten path in our own backyard as we explore Washington DC. This city may be most known as the epicenter of history and politics in the United States, but the culture is much richer throughout the city than it is among those occupying the Capitol. Almost every nation in the world is represented by an embassy presence here. DC is also known as “Chocolate City,” as it was the most predominantly Black, major US city up until the 90s. Other cities’ populations have seen their Black populations grow since then, but DC is one place where its community continues to embrace its African roots today through food, art, architecture, music, and more. This eclectic city is a true cultural melting pot that can be experienced through what you eat, what you see and do, and who you meet.
We’ve got you covered with the Black-owned businesses you can’t miss, plus other underrepresented- and immigrant-owned businesses paying homage to their cultures. There’s no doubt we’re sharing how to best experience this city without getting caught up in the tourists’ agenda. This guide, our first domestic travel guide, was made possible by the contributions of ECT community members Frederique S., Riza J., Sadie C., Maya O., Katalina M., Samuel G., Melissa M., Yen M., Cindy B., O'Shannon B., and Jennifer C. .
Stay
“If you want more of an Old World style, Riggs Washington DC downtown is beautiful,” says ECT community member Jennifer C. of this iconic hotel located in the original headquarters of Riggs National Bank on 9th and F Street in Penn Quarter. Named after the bank, known as the “Bank of Presidents” for being the banking institution of choice for 23 presidents, this stunning hotel’s design complements the opulence of the building’s Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. “You can also get cocktails delivered from their bar Silver Lyan, which was created by Ryan Chetiyawardana, one of the world’s best bartenders,” adds Jen.
When we plan trips to Washington DC, lodging often looks like:
A fun, Bohemian-inspired hotel that is a favorite of many ECT community DC locals for its community spots.
A serene retreat inside an Art Deco building, accented with bold design details.
Image courtesy of Lapis
Shop
Browse Salt + Sundry, a favorite home and lifestyle boutique shop from Amanda M., a friend of El Camino Travel. This store offers goods from over 200 independent brands and artisans, with 180 of them being women-owned. Shop candles, tableware, tote bags, stationery, and more from either its Union Market or Logan Circle locations.
In Washington DC, our shopping plans often revolve around places like:
A shop dedicated to showcasing local creatives in DC
A wine shop featuring a curated selection of wines from South America
A must-do for fashion and design lovers that hosts meaningful events, including a curated fashion film series, pop-ups at local galleries, and panel discussions with the designers they showcase in their store
Image courtesy of Riggs Hotel
Eat
ECT community member Riza J. recommends Afghan bistro, Lapis, in Adams Morgan. This restaurant serves an entirely halal menu of modern takes on traditional dishes from Afghanistan, including kabob and Afghan dumplings. Lapis serves brunch daily, as well as an all-day menu that extends into the evening for dinner. Their extensive drink menu also includes a tempting espresso and chai selection.
When it comes to dining in Washington DC, we often plan around places like:
A “delicious and Black-owned” restaurant serving Afro and Indo-Trinidadian-influenced dishes
A woman- and immigrant-owned family business offering delicious Burmese street food classics with a modern take.
A family-owned, DC classic serving authentic Ethiopian food and lager
Image courtesy of Salt and Sundry