CATCH UP ON WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING LOCALLY IN WASHINGTON, DC
The nation’s capital boasts new museums, restaurants and hotels, prominent reopenings and deals for locals
(Washington, DC) – Destination DC, the official destination marketing office for the nation’s capital, is primed to help travellers visit Washington, DC with safety in mind this fall by providing ideas for activities, stays and value. Through Stay Local DC, those close to DC will benefit from hotel deals, delicious dining and free museums and attractions. And when the borders re -open
what Aussie’s & Kiwi’s will be able to experience.
As the city continues to cautiously reopen, there’s a lot to explore. DC provides ample green space and outdoor activities to take in fall air and foliage, as well as the warm welcome of newly reopened museums, hotels, dining experiences and attractions. Six Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo are available to visit, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The Washington Monument has also recently reopened
WASHINGTON, DC IS LISTED AS THE #2 BEST CITY IN THE US BY CONDE NAST TRAVELER 2020
Washington, D.C. may have finally shed its buttoned-up reputation. Yes, we’re still riding the high from the 2016 opening of the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, designed by world-renowned British-Ghanian architect David Adjaye. But then came the smartly revitalized Wharf, with its can’t-miss waterfront views, and the arrival of hotel Eaton, where you get a chance at activism instead of pillow mints, and suddenly, we can’t seem to get enough of the place. Something’s brewing in D.C., and it’s not just the craft beer.
NEW MEMORIALS, MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS
Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial (opened Sept. 18)
Honouring the 34th president of the U.S., the memorial designed by architect Frank Gehry spans a four-acre park on the National Mall and features a one-of-a-kind stainless-steel tapestry and heroic-sized bronze sculptures.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library (phased opening began Sept. 24)
DC’s central library completed a $211 million renovation. The stunning downtown building includes a rooftop event space with private catering kitchen, large auditorium and conference center, recording studio, power tool library and digital fabrication lab, as well as a ground level café with a patio that will be open for grab and go options. The library also boasts a children’s area complete with a one-story slide.
National Native American Veterans Memorial (opens Nov. 11)
Located on the grounds of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, the memorial that honors American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian veterans is scheduled to open on Veterans Day.
Planet Word (opens Oct. 22)
Housed in Washington, DC’s historic Franklin School, the revolutionary Planet Word is dedicated to the power, beauty and fun of language and how words shape the human experience. Planet Word is the world’s first voice-activated museum, featuring immersive galleries and exhibits to engage visitors of all ages. General admission will be free.
NEW HOTELS
Viceroy Washington, DC (Aug. 25, 2020): With a prominent address along the 14th Street corridor, the recently debuted 178-room hotel welcomes locals and visitors alike to enjoy BPM Coffee & Wine’s expansive all-season outdoor patio and grab-and-go coffee bar, flexible work areas, and thoughtfully designed public spaces adorned with notable art pieces.
AC Hotel Washington DC Convention Center (Oct. 5, 2020): the 234-room new build will open at the corner of 6th and K streets NW steps from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center with stylish rooms, sleek surfaces, Greek apothecary, and crisp bedding to create a downtown oasis. The AC Kitchen boasts European breakfast – fresh croissants and carved-to-order prosciutto, savory egg tarts and fluffy cappuccinos; evening rituals of Gin+Tonic, cocktails and Spanish tapas. Estrella offers rooftop entertainment atop sweeping views of downtown DC.
CitizenM (fall 2020): Billing itself as “affordable luxury,” CitizenM, a Dutch hospitality brand, will open a 252-room hotel at 5th and E streets SW. Located near The Wharf, the property features an open workspace with iMacs, fitness and yoga studio and rooftop lounge.
YOTEL Washington D.C. (fall 2020): The high-tech and low-touch YOTEL brand will open in DC steps from Capitol Hill and Union Station, featuring 377 cabins, modernized public spaces and a fresh take on the restaurant, Art and Soul. The brand’s global #SmartStay elevated safety measures will be in place.
DC HOTELS THAT ARE OPEN
While these are uncertain times, many DC-area hotels remain open and ready to welcome guests. Deemed essential businesses to DC by Mayor Muriel E. Bowser, hotels will continue to operate and provide a safe, clean and secure space for those seeking accommodations. You’re always welcome in Washington, DC
WHAT’S OPEN AND REOPENING IN DC
Find the latest coronavirus-related updates on attractions, museums, venues, festivals, events and more. The coronavirus pandemic has affected events, attractions and other businesses throughout the Washington, DC area. The city is currently in Phase Two of recovery, which allows many businesses to reopen. Make sure to check out our list of reopened businesses and read below for more details on restaurants, attractions and museums, including helpful safety information..
During Phase Two, the DC government discourages non-essential travel, while recommending individuals continue to socially distance and wear face coverings. Read more up-to-date information about traveling to the city to ensure the health and safety of visitors. Looking for upcoming events? While many in-person gatherings have been impacted, local businesses, museums and festivals are hosting virtual events, which we’re tracking on weekdays and weekends.
The Phillips Collection – reopens Thursday October, 15.
WASHINGTON— The Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art, will reopen its doors to the public on Thursday, October 15, with new safety measures in place in accordance with health guidelines and in response to the covid-19 pandemic. As a thank you for continued support, early access will be offered to members and community partners from October 8-11.
