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Alexandria, Virginia comes alive in spring. To celebrate the wonders of the season, be sure to spend a little time out and about, enjoying the city. When you experience all that this city by the Potomac River has to offer, you'll make the most of warmer days and balmier nights. more Do Some People-Watching at Chadwick's Chadwick's is an Alexandria restaurant located at 203 Strand St. This popular Old Town eatery offers delectable American fair, plus a dazzling array of beers on tap. Cocktails, such as the popular dirty martini, are also on the menu. Fans of this eatery love the burgers, which may be personalized with a variety of fun and tasty toppings, including eggs, avocado, and bacon. If you want something a little lighter, go for avocado toast with healthy micro greens. The restaurant is a great place to enjoy a leisurely brunch on the weekend. The ambiance is warm and inviting. It's never formal or stuffy. Brickwork and wooden booths give the eatery character and charm. There are also gorgeous fairy lights in a side eating area, which add a little magic to the environment. A compact patio is located outside. Enjoy the Patio at Vola's Dockside Grill One great way to celebrate the change in seasons is to visit Vola's Dockside Grill, which is a waterfront hangout that locals adore. You'll find it in Old Town, at 101 N Union St. This eatery is known for its seafood and it includes the Hi-Tide Lounge, which is a hidden gem that some tourists are lucky enough to discover. The restaurant was named after one of the city's most beloved residents. Vola Lawson lived right in Old Town and fought valiantly for civil rights. This relaxed eatery and lounge is a great place to enjoy a splendid water view and delicious eats and maybe a frosty cocktail, glass of wine, or ice-cold beer. You'll love the patio, but the inside of the restaurant is very nice, too, thanks to pendant lamps, wood tables, and an attractive bar. So, what's on the menu at Vola's? Well, lobster rolls and crab cakes are succulent options that you'll never regret ordering. Smell the Flowers at Winkler Botanical Preserve Eating and drinking are fun, but sometimes, it's good to take a break from indulging and spend a little time out in nature. When you visit Alexandria's Winkler Botanical Preserve, you'll be able to stop and smell the flowers. This peaceful outdoor attraction is situated at 5400 Roanoke Ave. This nature reserve has a secluded feel and it's a perfect place to go for a quiet walk. While you stroll, keep an eye out for pretty plants and flowers. You'll see other interesting stuff along the way, including a bridge, a waterfall, and a rope course. Spring gives everyone a burst of energy. It's a time when people want to celebrate good weather and the end of long winters. When you visit these Alexandria, Virginia, attractions you'll love what they have to offer. image via pixabay

As fans gear up for baseball season around Alexandria, Virginia, it's helpful to know the best places to see games. The Washington Nationals are set for another exciting season, so you won't want to miss out. Here are three places to enjoy a game in the area. more National Park Arguably the best place to see a game, National Park is just 15 minutes from Alexandria in the southwest area of D.C. See the action in person with the park's available ticket plans, and you'll enjoy discounted prices. You can buy in a small batch of five games or as many as 56 games. When you get a ticket plan, you'll also enjoy discounts on food and merchandise at the stadium. Season ticket holders also get a free subscription to MLB.TV. If you're a dedicated fan, locking in a ticket plan is the best way to ensure great seats for all the games you want. The food at National Park ranges from funnel cakes and ice cream to full meals from places like Shake Shack and El Verano Taqueria. Whether you go with friends or family, there's something for everyone. Grab a beer from one of the many local breweries represented in the park including Atlas Brew Works and Port City. Even if you only make it to one game this season, this park is definitely worth a visit. Anchor Bar at Fish Market Fish Market Restaurant is on King Street in the heart of Alexandria. The Anchor Bar is a spacious bar area within the restaurant featuring 16 large TVs that never miss a game. Several micro and macro brews are on tap, and they offer domestic, import, and craft bottles as well as a few ciders. They are also known for awesome margaritas and The Big Mary, a Bloody Mary drink topped with an Italian sausage. Enjoy some free popcorn while you watch or order from the Fish Market menu. Try the Drunken Cod Tacos with beer-battered fried cod over a creamy tartar sauce slaw on a flour tortilla. If you have a major appetite, go for the lobster linguini pasta dish made with fresh lobster tossed in a white wine rosé sauce. This is the premium sports bar in the area, so you can enjoy all Washington team sports here. Murphy's Grand Irish Pub Just up the street from the Fish Market, Murphy's Grand Irish Pub is a warm and cozy spot to enjoy a game. With several flat-screens throughout the restaurant and a great menu of eats and drinks, Murphy's is perfect for watching any Washington sports events with other fans. They also offer regular live music and trivia nights. Every day features a different food special, and happy hour is weekly from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. Come by for a drink or dinner and catch a game. Irish specialty menu items include corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie, and Irish meat and potato pie. Even if you're not catching a game, there are other great reasons to visit each of these places. Keep an eye out for the fun events happening at these three local spots. image via pixabay

When you're in need of some pampering and relaxation, Alexandria, Virginia, boasts some fabulous day spas. They offer a full range of treatments to make you feel fully rejuvenated. Here are four of the city's best spas. more Fountains Day Spa Established in 1980, Fountains Day Spa is located on South Washington Street in Old Town Alexandria. The historic townhouse is like a home away from home. They specialize in creating personalized massage and skin care treatments that are customized to your preferences to provide you with a one of a kind spa experience. Packages are offered for women, men, and couples. Massage treatments include Swedish, deep tissue, therapeutic, aromatherapy, hot stone, and pregnancy massage. You can also choose hand and foot treatments like reflexology, hand and foot exfoliation, and sole relaxation foot massage. Indulge yourself with body treatments such as a body polish, a Black Baltic mud wrap, a healing greens body wrap, or a hot chocolate body wrap. Fountains also offers facials, waxing, tinting, electrolysis, and more. Sugar House Day Spa Sugar House Day Spa on North Alfred Street is set in an elegant three-story house that is a relaxing oasis for your mind, body, and spirit. They provide a full spa service for men and women with skin and body treatments, hair design, pedicure and manicure treatments, makeup, waxing, and more. A range of packages offer combinations of treatments. In addition to some of the regular massage treatments, you can opt for a sinus relief massage and medi-cupping therapeutic massage. Refresh your skin with a microdermabrasion treatment or a power peel. Aerolase laser treatment can be used for hair removal, spider vein and skin discoloration treatment, and skin rejuvenation. You could complete your day by having semi-permanent makeup applied. Aida Spa Located on King Street, Aida Spa is owned by Aida Fekir, who gained her certification from the internationally renowned Maison de Beaute Carita in Paris, France. She has traveled the world learning both ancient and modern beauty and anti-aging techniques to provide you with unique and specialized services. Body massages include lava stone therapy, tension relief, and the raindrop technique that provides a healthy balance to the body. You could also be pampered with luxurious Oriental body treatments like Hanakasumi body exfoliation, Sensations Orientales, or the Customized Sensorial Escape. Other treatments include manicures, pedicures, waxing, and ear candling. Pure Aesthetica Pure Aesthetica is located on Mount Vernon Avenue and is dedicated to helping clients feel beautiful on the outside and promoting well-being on the inside. Along with other massage treatments, you could be indulged with Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy, which uses fluid movement of the therapist's feet and body weight to achieve superior relaxation. Other services include facials using microdermabrasion, LED, microcurrent, and oxygen infusion techniques; purifying foot soaks; BOTOX treatments; and Reiki healing, which is a Japanese technique used to boost your innate energy to promote health and well-being. Brow and lash treatments are also available. A session of treatments at these day spas will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated and ready to take on the rigors of life with new energy. image via pixabay

When your teen gets their driver's license, it's a momentous occasion for them as they finally get the freedom of the road. But it can be nerve-wracking time for you as you are going to worry about them every time they head out on the road. One way of reducing your concerns is to make sure they know some basic car maintenance to keep the car running efficiently and safely, so their newfound freedom doesn't end at the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. Here are five maintenance tips you should make sure your teen knows. more Regular Fluid Checks Your teen needs to know their way around under the hood so they can check the fluids on a regular basis. Fluids should be checked with the car on a level surface and with a cold engine. The five crucial fluids are the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. They should read the car's owner's manual so they know the correct fluids to use. Tire Checks The tires are the only contact the car has with the road and it's essential to regularly check the tire pressure and tread depth. Under inflation or over inflation will lead to uneven and premature wear to the tire tread. You can buy a tread depth gauge or use the simple penny test. Place the side of a penny in the tread grooves. If all of President Lincoln's head can be seen, it's time for new tires. See and Be Seen It's important to see and be seen clearly on the road. A weekly light check should become a habit to make sure all the bulbs are working and that the lenses are clean. Don't forget the brake lights, reversing lights, and fog lamps. At the same time, make sure that all the windows are clean inside and out and that the wipers are in good condition. This is especially important at night and in poor winter weather. Use a recommended auto glass cleaner that won't leave smears on the windows that might affect their visibility. Know the Warning Lights When you turn the ignition on in modern cars, the dashboard lights up like an airplane cockpit. But it's important to know what all the warning lights actually mean. Studying the owner's manual will teach your teen which lights indicate what action is needed in the near future and which ones mean that immediate attention is required. Prepare for an Emergency Even with a well-maintained car, things can and do go wrong, so it's advisable to have an emergency kit in the car. The basics should include a tool kit, first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, roadside flares or reflective warning triangles, and an empty fuel container. For driving in winter weather, they should add warm clothing and blankets, water and snacks, and a snow shovel. If you can teach your teen to get into the habit of making these maintenance checks, it will hopefully instill a greater sense of responsibility, as well as keeping them safer on the road. When it's time for service, visit Ourisman Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. image via pixabay

Java can perk you up when you need a boost, so knowing where the best local coffee houses are is a must. Alexandria, Virginia, has some of the best coffee spots around, but it can be tricky trying to pick a favorite. That's why it's nice to have a helping hand. Here are a few places that offer the coffee you need to keep you running in the Alexandria area. more Killer E.S.P With two locations to serve you in Old Town Alexandria and Chinatown, Washington DC, Killer E.S.P is where sweet treats, excellent coffee, and good company merge. The E.S.P is short for expresso, snacks, and pie, and they are very skilled in all three of these treats. The decor is quirky and comfortable, offering a casual vibe for enjoying a good book, catching up on emails, or chatting with friends while you sip your coffee. Try some of their gluten-free snacks, or a chocolate pecan pie. If you need something more substantial, they also offer quiche or pot pies. Their hours are Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Extra Perks Located in north Old Town Alexandria, Extra Perks has been serving up some of the best coffee in the area for nearly 20 years. Extra Perks is more than a coffee house. It boasts a full kitchen where they prepare traditional British fare or your favorite American dishes for breakfast, lunch, or late afternoon. The atmosphere has a couch by the fireplace and cozy tables where you can settle down and enjoy a full meal, a snack, or a coffee. They are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. St. Elmo's Coffee Pub Coffee, croissant sandwiches, quiche, soup, empanada, pastries, Italian style subs, and hot subs make up the backbone of St. Elmo's Coffee Pub. The staff is exceptionally courteous, helpful, and there to serve you. You can not go wrong with any of the menu items as everything is fresh and made to order. Stop in today for a hot sub and a Stumptown cold-brew coffee. They are open Monday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Coffee is the fuel that gets you moving in the morning and keeps you going all day long, but what makes a coffee house great isn't solely based on the coffee. Service, selection, and quality all play a part in where you go for your coffee. Choosing where to go is half the battle, but finding a truly unique coffee house is a rarity. There is no shortage of coffee shops in Alexandria, Virginia, so get out there and explore them all until you find the one that dots all your i's and crosses all your t's. image via pixaby

Do you want to impress your spouse, family, and friends with your cooking skills and some new dishes? Have you ever considered taking cooking classes but weren't sure where to start? If your answer to these two questions is "yes," continue reading for information on where and when you can take lessons and step up your cooking skills. more Sur La Table There is nothing like learning to cook, but sometimes you need to be right there in the kitchen with the teacher and not watching a video online. Sur La Table has locations near you where you can get the hands-on lessons you need to become a proficient cook. Classes include but are not limited to American Doughnut Workshop, Date Night: Winter in Paris (cast iron steak, truffle mashed potatoes, pear-hazelnut salad, chocolate mousse), Great British Baking (Victoria sponge cake, sticky toffee pudding, sausage rolls), and Perfect Spanish Paella (chicken and chorizo paella, Marcona almond-manchego-kale salad, Spanish flan). Classes are open to all skill levels. You are also required to be hands-on. The classes are capped at 16 students that usually work in groups of four, ensuring that everyone gets personal attention and guidance. Each class is between two and two and a half hours and requires you to stand and cook the majority of that time. Classes are held in-store, and you can check their website to find a location near you. Cozymeal Each cooking class that Cozymeal offers is considered as an experience. It is simple to find a place near you to experience a Cozymeal cooking class. Each class is taught by a professional chef, ensuring that you get the most out of the time you spend cooking. Finding an experience is as simple as using the Cozymeal online search by selecting the type of experience you are looking for and a date range. Once you find what you are looking for, you book and enjoy it. Classes include Fresh and Seasonal Italian, Fiesta de la Casa, Traditional Vegetarian Indian, Parisian Steak Dinner, The perfect Birthday Cake, and much more. Narrow down your interests and find the cooking class you are looking for today with Cozymeal. CulinAerie Located in downtown Washington D.C. is CulinArie, a destination location for those who want to enhance their cooking skills. Their instructors have an average of 15 years of experience in their respective fields bringing unique flair and talent to the kitchen. CulinArie's state-of-the-art kitchens provide for optimal cooking and learning and have sleek commercial equipment and flat-screen televisions for easy viewing. They offer classes for basic techniques and more intensive culinary skills. Contact them today for more information. These are a few of the places near Alexandria, Virginia, where you can take cooking lessons to improve your culinary skills. You can choose to partake in single dish classes or pursue a 12-week Masters series depending on your goals. No matter what you decide, you can locate a cooking class that suits your needs in the Alexandria area. image via pixabay

Alexandria, Virginia, is known for its excellent variety of restaurants, including plenty that serve up an amazing slice of pizza. If you're in Alexandria and you have a craving for some great pizza, be sure to check out a few of these top locations. Paisano's Pizza Paisano's Pizza serves exceptional Italian cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment. In addition to its family-friendly restaurant, Paisano's Pizza also offers quick delivery service, which makes it easy to enjoy a slice of your favorite type of pizza at home or work. You can either create your own pizza or order one of the New York-style gourmet pizzas. Good options include the Buffalo chicken pizza, garlic spinach pizza, barbecue chicken pizza, and Paisano's supreme. In addition to pizza, the restaurant also serves calzones, strombolis, and other popular Italian dishes. Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap The pizzas at Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap are cooked in a 900-degree wood-fired oven, which gives the crust a blistered and charred edge that's authentically delicious. Some of the popular options include the Margherita, which has fresh mozzarella, basil, crushed San Marzano tomatoes, and olive oil, as well as the Korean barbecue, which has mozzarella, Korean barbecue short ribs, gochujang sauce, scallions, and pickled vegetables. If you're in the mood for something spicy, don't miss your chance to try the diavola pizza, which has mozzarella, spicy soppressata salami, fried kale, and ghost pepper hot honey. Faccia Luna Faccia Luna is an American trattoria that serves casual Italian food and fantastic pizza. When you order one of the wood-fired pizzas, you have your choice of building your own or choosing one of the red sauce or white sauce specialty pizzas. If you're in the mood for a red sauce pizza, consider the La Capra, which includes fresh spinach, goat cheese, and grilled chicken. If you prefer a white sauce pizza, you can't go wrong with the Via Toscana and its caramelized onions, prosciutto, and smoked Gouda. Delia's Mediterranean Grill & Brick Oven Pizza Delia's Mediterranean Grill & Brick Oven Pizza brings all the wonderful flavors of the Mediterranean to Alexandria with its signature brick oven pizzas. One popular pizza option is the Medi, which includes Kalamata olives, sliced tomatoes, red onions, green peppers, feta cheese, parsley, and a Greek vinaigrette drizzle. Another good choice is the pesto chicken pizza, which has grilled chicken, basil pesto, crushed tomatoes, sauteed spinach, goat cheese, and mascarpone. Pizzeria Paradiso Pizzeria Paradiso is located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria and offers something for everyone to enjoy. If you like your pizza spicy, consider the Atomica that has salami and hot pepper flakes or the Paesana and its spicy garlic pesto and sweet red peppers. If you prefer something traditional, you'll love the Macellaio that has tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, pork sausage, and red onions or the Paradiso and its tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. No matter what type of pizza you like, you know you'll be able to get a delicious slice when you check out one of these top pizza places in Alexandria.

There is a lot more to DC than what meets the eye. Taking a trip that strays a little from the norm will open up a whole world of adventure. Take the scenic route away from the city and check out something new next time you're looking to fill your weekend with something fun. Here are four destinations that are off the beaten path in Washington, DC. The Big Chair The historical landmark called The Big Chair is named quite appropriately. This unique attraction is full of neighborhood whimsy and located a little off the beaten path in Anacostia. At its construction in 1959, it was the world's biggest chair. It is seen as a symbol of hope in the community and of economic opportunity. If you're looking for a little inspiration then this is a great place to visit. The Big Chair is located at 1001-1199 V St E in Washington, DC. You can visit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. any day of the week. The Titanic Memorial The Titanic Memorial has been one of the city's best, but lesser-known, landmarks for years. It was designed by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney and stands about 15-feet tall. If you decide to check out this statue dedicated to the men and women who died that tragic day in 1912, then you will be welcomed by the open arms of one of the most famous stories in the world. The Titanic Memorial is located at the sound end of the Southwest Waterfront Park. more Lincoln's Summer Retreat Are you looking to venture further away from the city? Head to northern DC and check out the 16th President's summer cottage. The Lincoln Cottage is a reminder of all the great work that Abraham Lincoln did during his life. You can purchase your tickets in advance or on-site, but they are required for your tour. The cost to explore is $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12. The visitors center is located at 140 Rock Creek Church Road NW and is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily except for holidays. Wander around Since the 1930s, Theodore Roosevelt Island has been a relaxing, serene place outside of the city that welcomes all people. This 91-acre park and wilderness preserve stays true to the city and is a memorial for the country's 26th President. You can see the large 17-foot statue of the wilderness-loving president along with fountains and granite tablets with inscriptions of Roosevelt's conservation statements. You can also walk one of the trails or indulge in some wildlife viewing. You can get there by taking the northbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. For your next adventure in DC, we hope you check out one of these great places. Off all the paths you take in life, some of the best are on roads less traveled. Get out of the center of town and make some new memories with your families at any of these destinations.

Washington, D.C., is a hotbed for tourist action. From school children to bus tours, to host events, you are likely to run into a group of tourists almost everywhere that you go in the city. So what if you want to enjoy something to do in the Washington, D.C., area that is not packed with tourists? The goods news is there are also a number of non-touristy things you can do in the city that can make for an enjoyable afternoon or evening adventure. Get Up-to-Date on the D.C. Food Scene While Washington, D.C., is known for its politics, monuments, and other historic locations, it is also known to have a very diverse and eclectic foodie scene. There are new restaurants opening in the city each week, and they offer almost any type of ethnic cuisine that you could imagine. Whether you have a craving for some great Chinese takeout or would prefer an evening in to sample some Ethiopian cuisine, you can find the perfect restaurant to satisfy your tastebuds in and around the city. Check Out Dupont Underground If you are a fan of the arts but looking for a unique place to see some of the most popular local artists in the Washington, D.C., area, then Dupont Underground is the place to be. The art gallery is located close to Dupont Circle and welcomes exhibitions from all local artists looking to exhibit their work to the masses. It is not your typical art space. The site is an underground tunnel that has been resurfaced to create a unique workspace. They host a wide range of artwork from photography, to light shows, to paintings. You can also enjoy one of their many events hosted throughout the year. Shop at the Eastern Market more Whether you are looking for a great place for people-watching or want to enjoy a great day of shopping, then the Eastern Market needs to be a must-stop on your Washington, D.C., itinerary. You will find the market in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, which has been operating since 1873. You will find almost everything you could think of at the market, including fresh meats, local farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, and handmade crafts and art pieces. It is a great place to mingle with friends and also home to a number of community events throughout the year. Take a Stroll on the H Street Corridor A great way to enjoy a lazy afternoon or enjoy some of the active nightlife in the city is by paying a visit to the H Street Corridor. This popular area has seen a significant change over the last ten years, turning into one of the most popular places to hang out in the Washington, D.C., area. The area is filled with a number of new art galleries and tons of trendy places to eat and shop. If you are looking to enjoy the local music scene, be sure to stop by The Rock and Roll Hotel.

When many of us imagine French cuisine, buttery croissants and garlicky baked escargot often come to mind. While these dishes are commonly associated with European chefs, many delicious foods seasoned with regional spices have migrated across the pond to become American favorites with their rich, smooth flavor. Enjoy premium French cuisine at any one of these three restaurants right here in Alexandria, Virginia. Le Refuge One of Old Town's first French restaurants, Le Refuge at 127 N. Washington St. was established in 1983 by Jean Francois Chaufour from the Loire Valley in Beaugency, France. This delightfully eclectic eatery, which is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, boasts a menu rich with featured dishes from the chef's homeland. Order a glass of your favorite French vino from Le Refuges' extensive wine list, and then start with the delectable onion soup. Move on to an entree such as rockfish with crab and bearnaise, and finish your meal with a flourless tart, all at reasonable prices. Casual attire is welcome at this busy French bistro, and streetside parking is also available. Bastille Brasserie and Wine Bar The award-winning Bastille Brasserie and Wine Bar at 606 N. Fayette St. in Old Town Alexandria offers guests a contemporary spin on French cuisine. Have a seat in this restaurant's sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere and let chef-owners Christophe and Michelle Poteaux wow you with a variety of authentic dishes using seasonal, locally sourced, and farm-fresh ingredients. more Why not order a three- or four-course prix fixe feast? It's quite an international affair and features a trout fillet or sea scallops as the piece de resistance. Bastille has a little something for everyone with its expansive wine list, a unique selection of beer, and creatively mixed cocktails. Bastille Brasserie is open for dinner daily, and Saturday and Sunday for mimosa brunch featuring "Oeufs Benedicts" or two-poached eggs on a croissant. Fontaine Bistro Where do the locals go for traditional French cuisine? Why, Fontaine Bistro, of course. Located at 119 S. Royal St., it offers the best crepes the Alexandria area has to offer. Order your favorite crepe off the savory menu, or get yours dusted with powdered sugar. There's the "Farmer's Market," which is filled with veggies, including zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes, while the "Sundae Afternoon" is a full-on dessert. It's topped with chocolate and vanilla ice cream, banana, and walnuts, drizzled with chocolate sauce, and topped with whipped cream. Start your dinner at this bistro with duck liver pate or an imported cheese plate. For the main dish, try the Alsatian tartlet. This savory dish includes ham, caramelized onions, and goat cheese and is served with a creamy housemade tomato sauce. Come in on Wine Down Wednesdays and get half off a bottle of wine with your dinner entree. Since the 18th century, European cuisine has been regarded as some of the world's most prestigious fare. Come experience a little corner of France without paying for the airfare at one of these restaurants in Alexandria. Which local eatery is your first choice? Image via Flickr by NwongPR. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original Some rights reserved

Washington, D.C. is full of entertainment, beauty, and interesting history. You can easily fill an entire weekend getaway with the many enjoyable activities in the nation's capital. Enjoy an exceptional weekend with these D.C. tips. Give Yourself Plenty of Time for the National Mall The National Mall is often on the list of things to do when visiting D.C. However, most visitors do not realize how big the National Mall really is, until they are standing on the lawn. more The National Mall is a must-visit when in D.C. and is home to the Constitution Gardens, Ford's Theatre National Historic Site, the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and many other important historical structures. Make sure you bring a comfortable pair of shoes because the best way to visit each of these memorials is on foot. Learn the Transportation System There are many ways to get around the city of D.C. but driving your own car is not a recommended one. Even if you find a hotel that offers affordable parking, you will find it difficult to find parking when visiting the many attractions of the city. You can go with a rechargeable SmarTrip card which allows you to refill cash on your card to use the many transportation systems in the city. This includes bus, light rail, and transit lines. You will also find electric-powered bikes and scooters around the city. You simply download the app, input the number, and enjoy the break from walking for a few. Learn from the Locals You will find both tourists and locals on the city streets in D.C. Many of the locals are friendly and are more than willing to share tips or insider information about the city they call home. You can also sign up for a guided tour to explore the best historical attractions, restaurants, or museums. DC Walkabout is a sightseeing walking tour. Free Tours by Foot is another great option that is completely free. Take Advantage of the Free Museums Parking might be expensive in D.C. but you will find that many of the museums offer free admission. This can be a great way to offset the costs of travel. Just a few of the free museums include the National Gallery of Art, the U.S. Botanic Garden, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Plan to Be Hungry After you explore the city of D.C. by foot, you are going to work up a big appetite. It can be helpful to look up restaurants that you want to check out before getting to D.C. Otherwise, you might be overwhelmed at the many available options. For a good pizza, try Ghibellina. If you enjoy hamburgers, then you are sure to enjoy Lucky Buns. Whatever your preferred cuisine is, you are sure to find it in D.C. D.C. is jam-packed with educational fun, memorable sights, and delicious food. Take a quick road trip over to D.C. this weekend and enjoy one of the most vibrant and active cities you will find in the country. Image via Flickr by Doug Kerr. Used with permission via CC by 2.0 / cropped from original

If you're looking for something to do in Alexandria, you're in luck. The celebrations, events, festivals, and more coming to the Alexandria, Virginia, area soon will keep you busy and entertained throughout the summer. The city brings together culture and history to such a high degree that there's always something to explore and celebrate. Here are just a few of the fun summer events coming to Alexandria that we're looking forward to. Portside in Old Town Summer Festival, June 22 Spend a day of fun enjoying live music, cold beer, and cultural experiences at the Portside in Old Town Summer Festival. Musicians will perform in a great array of genres, from Latin to Ethiopian jazz. You'll have ample opportunity to learn about Alexandria's history, peruse local artwork, play musical instruments, enjoy lawn games, and much more. This event will be fun for the whole family. more The festival will be held from 2-8 p.m., rain or shine, at the Waterfront Park in Old Town Alexandria. USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration, July 13 Celebrate our history as a nation and the city of Alexandria at the USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration. This year, America will turn 243 and Alexandria 270. To celebrate, the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra will play while you get the chance to enjoy food vendors, a patriotic birthday cake, and more. The best part of the whole night is the fantastic firework display that lights up the sky. The celebration will be held from 7-10 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park along the Potomac waterfront. Make sure to come early so you can find a good spot to set up a blanket and enjoy the fireworks. Admission is free. 2019 Around the World Cultural Food Festival, Aug. 17 Experience cultures from all over the world at the 2019 Around the World Cultural Food Festival. Watch traditional dances, take in the cultural arts and crafts, and try foods from many different countries, all in one day. This festival will be in Washington, D.C., but the experience will be worth the drive. The Around the World Cultural Food Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 17 at Freedom Plaza and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, about 8 miles away from Alexandria. Admission to the festival is free, but VIP tickets are available. Sips & Secrets: A Speakeasy Night, Sept. 14 Celebrate Alexandria's past and the history of the Lee-Fendall House Museum at Sips & Secrets. Explore the Prohibition era at this fun event, where you can dance the night away to jazz and ragtime. You can enjoy 1920s-style drinks, a Charleston contest, a flapper and mobster costume contest, and more. Sips & Secrets will be held at the Lee-Fendall House from 7-10 p.m. Sept. 14. Tickets range from $35 to $85. This is a 21-and-older event. Keep your eyes out for these and all the other fun events coming to Alexandria soon. Get out, experience, and enjoy everything that makes the Alexandria area one of the best cities around. Image via Flickr by xiquinhosilva. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 /cropped from original