Here's some basic information that will get you started as you begin to explore DC:
Want to Explore Other Neighborhoods?
If you are planning on taking the Metro – and almost everybody takes the Metro – you should pick up a SmarTrip® card. Otherwise, you will have to pay an extra $1 every time you take the Metro. SmarTrip® cards are $10, but $5 is value already loaded onto the card. They are available at CVS, of which there are two in walking distance of the center:
CVS
6 Dupont Circle Northwest
Washington, DC 20036
CVS
1637 P St NW
Washington, DC 20036
You can also purchase SmarTrip® cards at dispensers in the Dupont Circle or Farragut West Metro Stations. They are also available for online purchase (hardcore Obama fans may want to check out the Obama Commemorative SmarTrip® Card).
For More information about the DC transit system, visit the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority web site.
DC also has a number of circulator buses, which come more often, cost less, and go to a number of popular DC locations. See the DC Circulator web site for more information.
Hungry and Want to Stay In?
If you’re in the mood to spend a quite evening in your apartment, but need groceries, there are three grocery stores nearby.
Safeway
1701 Corcoran Street NW
Washington, DC, 20009
Whole Foods
1440 P Street Northwest
Washington, DC, 20005
Trader Joe’s
1101 25th Street NW
Washington, DC 20037
Hungry and Want to Go Out?
You can start trying to fit in with the locals by sampling one of the Washington Post’s 40 Dishes Every Washingtonian Must Try, or you can stick closer to home with some of our former residents’ favorite cheaper eats:
Shophouse Southeast Asian Kitchen: From the inventor of Chipotle, this new restaurant recently opened up in Dupont Circle. 1516 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
Julia’s Empanadas: Inexpensive and delicious, this has long been a UCDC favorite. 1221 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
Chop’t Salad: In the mood for salad? This place may not be the cheapest on our list, but it’s quick and healthy. 1300 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
Taylor Gourmet: Even Obama enjoys a Taylor Gourmet sandwich once in a while. 1200 19th Street NW, Washington DC 20036
Need a Couple Things for Your Apartment?
The nearest Target is located at the Columbia Heights Metro Station (you have to transfer from the Red/Orange/Blue Lines to the Yellow/Green Line).
Washington offers an endless array of museums, monuments, historical attractions, events, clubs, restaurants and activities. Here are just a few links to help you narrow down your choices:
Other Resources
These are a number of great blogs and web sites that provide information about DC activities for any interests.
General Event Pages
Events at Specific Locations