Next week, the North American hard-court summer tennis season continues with the ATP and WTA 500-level Mubadala Citi DC Open. While many players are heading to Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games, there’s still a lot to enjoy in Washington, D.C. for those who choose to stay.
Here are five unique experiences in the capital city that will impress anyone who’s been to Paris. Plus, TENNIS.com’s Steve Tignor is back with his Top 5 list of historic landmarks and museums you shouldn’t miss.
A. My Mansion: A Tour of O Mansion!
Just off Dupont Circle, the Mansion on O Street is a unique place where history meets the present. You can visit for a museum-like experience or book a daytime event.
The mansion has over 100 rooms and 70 secret doors to explore. Daily events range from a fancy five-course tea to a speakeasy-themed treasure hunt. You can also rent the space for private parties, team-building events, and holiday celebrations, but you need to book online first.
Here’s a fun fact: the mansion is actually four connected rowhouses. It has a permanent art collection, and many of the items in the themed rooms are for sale.
B. 2. Exorcism on the Rocks
Released in 1973, The Exorcist is still a major name in horror films. It was named the scariest movie of all time by Time Out earlier this year and continues to be recognized for its chilling two-hour experience.
If you’re into demonic possession, this is a must-see. If not, feel free to skip to the next spot.
At the corner of Canal Road and M Street, there’s a steep staircase set between stone and brick. Fans of the movie will recognize the brick house as the one where Father Karras jumps out of.
This spot is now a historic landmark in D.C., and oddly enough, the stairs are labeled as “kid friendly” on maps.
Speaking of movies, nearby you’ll find statues of Bumblebee and Optimus Prime from the Transformers films. Although there’s ongoing debate about removing them, they’re still there—for now.
C. Pedestrian Scramble
Did you know that Chinese New Year is celebrated for fifteen days each year in Washington, D.C.? During this time, Chinatown comes alive with parades, dragon dances, food, and music, creating a vibrant display of tradition.
At the corner of 7th and H Street, under the Chinatown Friendship Archway, you’ll find the Chinatown Barnes Dance Public Art Project. This crosswalk has traditional zebra stripes with zodiac signs and colorful dragons on the diagonal lines. It’s known as the Pedestrian Scramble because people often dance in the street here, a nod to traffic engineer Henry Barnes’ observation.
After enjoying the celebration, you can walk to nearby attractions like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, the National Portrait Gallery, or the National Building Museum.
If you want a break from historical sites, check out the Museum of Illusions, which is just a short walk from the Pedestrian Scramble.
D. Hall of Fake Presidents
While you’re exploring the rich history of the U.S. in the capital, why not check out America’s fictional leaders too?
The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema features a Hall of Fake Presidents, celebrating a dozen fictional U.S. presidents from famous movies. You’ll see Morgan Freeman from Deep Impact, Harrison Ford from Air Force One, and even a life-size statue of President Whitmore from Independence Day, complete with Bill Pullman’s iconic speech from the film.
The Alamo also has a spy-themed bar called the Highbinder, which offers 32 draft beers. It’s a great spot for a meal before a movie or a drink after. The name “highbinder” refers to a corrupt politician, which is a fitting choice for a bar next to a hall of fake presidents. Plus, they have a unique Jokes Phone with a phone book explaining its history.
E. Dial 1 For Joke
In Washington, D.C., there’s a new payphone that’s more than just for making calls. It’s free to use and has some cool features.
You can still make outgoing calls, but the real fun comes with incoming ones. Call the payphone, leave a joke, a fact, or any message you like, and then hang up.
There’s also a hidden feature: if you dial star (*) and any number from 1 to 9 or the pound sign (#), something interesting will happen.
- a knock-knock joke
- a little kid joke
- a slightly older kid joke
- jokes of random quality
- crazy fun facts for kids
- crazy fun facts for older folks
- positive thoughts for kids
- positive thoughts for youth
- positive thoughts for parents on the edge
- a random guy who thinks he has all the answers
Find this Jokes Phone near an elementary school in the Chevy Chase neighborhood, where its creator Don Rutledge, a substitute teacher, lives.
Top 5 Washington, D.C. Highlights by Steve Tignor
Here’s Steve Tignor’s Top 5 in Washington, D.C.:
- The Dabney
This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined mid-Atlantic tasting menu with eight courses. You can also enjoy a la carte options at the bar and surrounding tables. - National Gallery of Art
Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, this museum features notable artworks and current exhibitions. Explore and learn the stories behind the art. - Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Visit key features including the Three Servicemen statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, the In-Memory Plaque, and the flagpole representing the five military branches. - National Museum of African American History and Culture
Admire this impressive building from the outside and delve into the rich experiences of African American history inside. - Thomas Sweet
Wrap up your visit with a treat at this Georgetown gem. Enjoy a variety of ice creams, frozen yogurt, chocolates, and fresh fudge.
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FAQs :
What is the Citi Open?
The Citi Open is an ATP and WTA 500-level tennis tournament held in Washington, D.C. during the North American hard-court summer swing.
When does the Citi Open take place?
It typically takes place in early August, but check the official schedule for exact dates each year.
What is the Pedestrian Scramble in Washington, D.C.?
The Pedestrian Scramble is a unique crosswalk at 7th and H Street in Chinatown featuring zodiac signs and colorful dragons.
Where is the Mansion on O Street located?
It’s located just off Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C.
What can you do at the Mansion on O Street?
You can explore over 100 rooms and 70 secret doors, enjoy events like high tea and treasure hunts, or rent the space for private events.
What is the significance of the Exorcist Stairs?
The stairs, featured in the 1973 horror film The Exorcist, are a historic landmark where a famous scene involving Father Karras took place.
Where can you find the Exorcist Stairs?
They are located where Canal Road and M Street intersect.
What are the Bumblebee and Optimus Prime statues?
They are statues of characters from the Transformers movies located near the Exorcist Stairs.
What is the Hall of Fake Presidents?
It’s an exhibit at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema featuring fictional U.S. presidents from movies, including characters played by Morgan Freeman and Harrison Ford.
What is the Highbinder bar?
It’s a spy-themed bar at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, offering 32 draft beers and a fitting name related to politics.
What is the Jokes Phone?
It’s a free-to-use payphone in Washington, D.C. that allows you to leave messages like jokes or fun facts, and has hidden features activated by dialing star (*) and numbers.
Where is the Jokes Phone located?
It’s near an elementary school in the Chevy Chase neighborhood of Washington, D.C.
What are the hours of the National Gallery of Art?
The gallery is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What should I look for at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial?
Key features include the Three Servicemen statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, the In-Memory Plaque, and the flagpole with the five military branches’ flags.
What is the National Museum of African American History and Culture?
It’s a museum that explores African American history and culture through a stunning building and various exhibits.
What kind of food is served at The Dabney?
The Dabney offers elevated mid-Atlantic cuisine with an eight-course tasting menu and a la carte options.
What is Thomas Sweet known for?
Thomas Sweet is a popular spot in Georgetown for ice cream, frozen yogurt, chocolates, and fresh fudge.
Are reservations required for the Mansion on O Street?
Yes, you need to make an online reservation in advance.
What is the Pedestrian Scramble also known for?
It’s known for the unique crosswalk design and the cultural celebrations of Chinese New Year in Chinatown.
What are some nearby attractions to visit after the Pedestrian Scramble?
Nearby attractions include the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Building Museum, and the Museum of Illusions.