a heroine’s travel guide to Georgetown, DC / by Justine Hong

Washington DC offers more than politics and the nation’s president. While tourists regularly visit the monuments, National Mall and White House, this guide provides a local’s perspective of one of the first areas I ever visited: Georgetown!

Bonjour, Georgetown

Kickstart your morning in a small alley where a warm, delicious croque madame awaits being eaten. Kafe Leopold remains hidden from busy M Street and serves European dishes against a sleek interior. A step inside might spark nostalgia for a scene in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Climb the historical Steps

Visitors often stop by the famed (and historic) Exorcist Steps to snap pictures, but why not conquer them yourself? After watching a few of Cassey Ho’s Blogilates YouTube videos, you will be prepped to take on the stairwell in a jiffy. You can check out local Nike, lululemon and Georgetown Running Company for free daily running clubs where you can meet a fellow heroine!

Shopping is my cardio

For a Carrie Bradshaw (of Sex and the City) wardrobe, you can easily walk up and down M Street to find pop-up shops and favorites such as Rag & Bone, Warby Parker, H&M and more. Need a fabulous dress ASAP? Rent the Runway loans luxury dresses so you won’t need to break the bank to look like a fashionista.

Farm to taco

Whoever heard the term “farm-to-taco?” At Chaia, you will fall in love with these scrumptious vegetarian Mexican dishes. The fast, casual setting makes this a quick pit stop for an afternoon snack. You’ll feel like a true heroine eating the freshest food.

Stop for a sweet treat

Chef Julia Child once stated, “A party without cake is just a meeting.” Who could live without dessert? While most tourists flock to Georgetown Cupcake, swing by Baked & Wired for an even tastier treat and diverse selection. Order my personal favorite, a Bakedwhich, an ice cream sandwich composed of two chocolate cookies and vanilla ice cream covered in chocolate chips.

Georgetown, DC / Fit for a Heroine

Zen in Wonderland

Enjoy peace and quiet at Dumbarton Oaks, a historic estate and beautiful garden. A stroll through the backyard will surely have you embracing Alice searching through the flowers in Wonderland. Don’t worry, you won’t see a Jabberwocky here!

Bowling at Pinstripes

Growing up, I remember watching Alley Cats Strike, a Disney Channel movie that left me in awe of actress Mimi Paley’s ability to hit a 7-10 split and win the gold for her team. You can test out her mastery of spinning a ball slowly down a lane at Pinstripes.

Graffiti Lookout

Spray paint covers all surfaces above the Key Bridge Boathouse where residents flock for waterfront views of the Potomac River in an artsy territory. While standing at the end of the cliff, spread your arms and embrace the wind where you’ll feel as if you can fly across the water.

Justine is an MD native, DC worker, and VA resident. She documents her life on JustSouledOut.com, a sneaker, lifestyle-centric blog.

Xandra recommends: following Justine’s fantastically urban Instagram, @justsouledout

Is your hometown the perfect fit for a heroine? I’m always looking for fabulous locals to contribute to this Fit for a Heroine travel guide series. Get in touch: xandra@heroinetraining.com

Photos by TheKevinJ