Around DC

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Outside of the National Mall & Memorial Parks, the White House, Capitol Building, and other popular points of interest in Washington, DC, here are some suggestions for destinations that are not always in the tourists guides!

• Franciscan Monastery
  The Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, located at 1400 Quincy Street N.E. in Washington, D.C., is a serene sanctuary established in 1899. Visitors can explore its stunning Neo-Byzantine church, full-size replicas of Holy Land shrines, and beautifully maintained gardens featuring over 1,000 roses. The church is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with daily tours of the church and catacombs offered Monday through Saturday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m., and on Sundays at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. The gardens are accessible daily from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Free garden tours are available on Saturdays from April to September at 11 a.m. and noon. All tours are free, though donations are appreciated. Reservations are required for groups of six or more.

• Christopher Columbus Memorial Fountain
  The Columbus Memorial Fountain, located at Union Station in Washington, D.C., is a grand monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus, unveiled in 1912. Designed by architect Daniel Burnham and sculptor Lorado Taft, the fountain features a towering figure of Columbus standing on the prow of a ship, flanked by allegorical figures representing the Old and New Worlds. The Knights of Columbus, locally and nationally, played a significant role in advocating for the memorial, reflecting their commitment to honoring Columbus as a symbol of exploration and faith. The monument serves as both a tribute to Columbus’s voyages and a historic landmark welcoming visitors to the nation’s capital. The National Christopher Columbus Association organizes the official commemoration at the Statue every Columbus Day.

• Air Force Memorial
  The Air Force Memorial, located in Arlington, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., honors the service and sacrifices of the United States Air Force. Dedicated in 2006, the memorial features three soaring stainless steel spires that reach up to 270 feet, symbolizing the contrails of the Air Force Thunderbirds performing the "Missing Man" formation. Designed by architect James Ingo Freed, the memorial also includes a bronze Honor Guard statue and inscriptions that pay tribute to Air Force history and values. Overlooking the Pentagon and offering breathtaking views of the capital, the Air Force Memorial stands as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication of Airmen past and present.

• Titanic Monument
  The Titanic Memorial, located in Southwest Washington, D.C., along the Potomac River, is a striking tribute to the men who perished in the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. Designed by sculptor Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney and dedicated in 1931, the monument features a 13-foot-tall granite statue of a man with outstretched arms, symbolizing sacrifice and heroism. The inscription honors the men who gave their lives so that women and children could be saved, reflecting the chivalry and courage displayed during the disaster. Originally placed in Rock Creek Park, the monument was later relocated to its current waterfront setting, where it remains a solemn and moving reminder of one of history’s most infamous maritime tragedies.

• National Zoo
  The Smithsonian's National Zoo, located at 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C., is a 163-acre urban park established in 1889, home to over 2,100 animals representing nearly 400 species. Admission is free, but entry passes are required for all visitors. The Zoo operates daily, except on December 25. From March 15 to September 14, the grounds are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with last admittance at 5 p.m.; exhibit buildings are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with last entry at 5:30 p.m. Visitors can explore various exhibits, including the Asia Trail, home to the Zoo's giant pandas. Parking is limited and requires a reservation. For more information and to reserve passes, visit the Zoo's official website.

• National Arboretum
  The U.S. National Arboretum, located at 3501 New York Avenue NE in Washington, D.C., is a 446-acre public garden and research facility established in 1927. Operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service, the Arboretum is dedicated to enhancing the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of ornamental and landscape plants through research and conservation. Visitors can explore various gardens and collections, including the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, the National Herb Garden, and the National Capitol Columns. The grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on December 25. The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, excluding federal holidays from November through February. Admission to both the Arboretum and the museum is free, and no tickets are required.

• Lincoln’s Cottage
  President Lincoln's Cottage, located at 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011, served as Abraham Lincoln's seasonal retreat during his presidency and is now a historic site and museum. Visitors can explore the cottage and its exhibits daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Guided tours are available at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Admission to the Visitor Education Center is free, while guided tours of the cottage require a ticket. Advanced ticket purchase is strongly recommended due to limited space. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official website.

• Ben’s Chili Bowl
  The original location, located at 1213 U Street NW in Washington, D.C., is a historic eatery renowned for its half-smokes and chili dogs. Established in 1958, it has become a cultural landmark, attracting both locals and tourists. The original location on U Street NW operates Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. The H Street location at 1001 H Street NE is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For travelers, Ben's also has a presence at Reagan National Airport, open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. These establishments continue to serve as vibrant gathering spots, offering a taste of D.C.'s rich culinary and cultural heritage.