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Discover LGBTQ+-Owned Businesses in Washington, DC
Republic Restoratives Opening Republic Restoratives may have seemed like a risky move for Pia Carusone and Rachel Gardner, as the female duo had no prior distillery experience and were taking a shot at a male-led industry. However, Republic has been nothing short of a spirited success. Offering distilled spirits that range from rye to vodka to apple brandy, the DC company is both women-owned and LGBTQ+-owned, as both Causone and Gardner live in DC with their same-sex partners. Republic is also the first and largest crowdfunded distillery in America. Knead Hospitality & Design Partners Michael Reginbogin and Jason Berry co-founded Knead Hospitality & Design in 2014, which has since brought forth beloved DC restaurants Mi Vida, Succotash Prime, Gatsby and The Grill. The pair works ambitiously, creating independent concepts first and then seeking out ways to execute. Capital Candy Jar Dave Burton started out on the wild side of sweets as he made and sold lollipops in school at age 14 before his principal shut him down for outselling the vending machines. Now, Burton sells his chocolate confections to the masses. Capital Candy Jar offers seasonally decorated pretzel rods, delectable gift boxes, giant peanut butter cups and much more. You can even bite into chocolate covered Oreos embellished with an edible image, such as the DC flag or the U.S. Capitol Building. Three Fifty Bakery and Coffee Stop by for freshly made pastries, desserts and more at gay-owned Three Fifty Bakery and Coffee at the new location near Dupont Circle, reopening spring 2024. Jimmy Hopper baked as a hobby for about 15 years before relocating to DC and opening his shop, which is named after the preferred oven temperature for baking. Logan 14 Aveda Salon Spa Customers will feel comfortable and confident at the LGBTQ+-owned Logan 14 Aveda Salon Spa in Logan Circle. Michael Hodges and his team strive to exceed expectations, transform inner and outer beauty and invest in the eclectic community. At Logan 14 salon, customer service is a top priority, ensuring a comfortable experience for any and everyone discovering their true beauty inside and out. Miss Pixie’s This super cute shop, recently relocated to Adams Morgan, sells vintage furnishings, accessories and art. Pixie Windsor (known as Miss Pixie to her many friends) has been selling mid-century lounge chairs, 1940s art deco tables and groovy artwork since 2008, and dealing in stylish vintage wares in DC since the 1990s. Miss Pixie’s is a go-to for locals looking to give their home a little pop of originality. Loyalty Bookstore At this neighborhood bookstore, owners Hannah Oliver Depp and Christine Bollow focus on curating titles, stationery, home goods and programming that reflect the colorful and diverse communities of Petworth and Silver Spring. If you're looking for a particularly fun way to engage with a new book from a writer in the BIPOC, queer or disabled community, check out Loyalty's stacked calendar of events or consider its quarterly Leap of Faith surprise box. Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse This beloved restaurant has been a staple of the Dupont Circle neighborhood since opening in 1948. The original Paramount Steakhouse became Annie’s in the early 1960s to honor owner George Katinas’ sister, who paved the way in embracing the LGBTQ+ community. After Annie’s passing in 2013, a section of a close-by street was named after her. Annie’s legacy still lives on at this classic steakhouse, which has been nominated for a James Beard Award during its storied history. Red Bear Brewing Although it’s a super hip spot that serves craft beer, Red Bear Brewing is so much more. Gay owners Bryan Van Den Oever, Simon Bee and Cameron Raspet created a safe space based upon the values of community, diversity, quality, adventure and conscientiousness. The NoMa brewery, which opened in 2019, also places an emphasis on sustainability efforts. As You Are A casual cafe converts into a lively lounge and dance floor at As You Are. The charming Eastern Market establishment welcomes LGBTQIA+ patrons and allies in a vibrant, celebratory space for queer expression and connection. Its exciting events calendar includes themed karaoke nights, open mics, craft nights, drag shows, Latin nights and maker markets. Service-industry stars Jo McDaniel and Rach “Coach” Pike wanted to create a haven where guests can feel safe and supported, so AYA checks all bags at peak hours and requires enthusiastic consent in the space. Little District Books Tucked into Barracks Row Main Street is a place that makes the busy District feel a bit smaller: Little District Books. All titles, gifts and community-facing events share the mission of uplifting authors and creators across a full spectrum of LGBTQIA+ identities. Readers can attend author talks, bring the whole family to kids' events, take part in the annual Lavender Con or opt to join one of a number of book clubs, which explore topics such as Queer Joy, Found Family, Queer Fear and Seminal Works. For anyone overwhelmed by perusing the shelves, a subscription box or curated surprise box are excellent ways to support an independent bookstore and discover Queer stories. Share your DC photos with #Only1DC View this post on Instagram A post shared by Republic Restoratives (@republicrestoratives)
Discover the National Gallery of Art East Building in Washington, DC
The I.M. Pei-designed East Building stands out in Washington, DC as a modern marvel, which sleekly contrasts with the Beaux Arts and Classical architecture seen throughout much of the nation’s capital. Architect I.M. Pei designed the museum based on an early sketch where the East Building is represented by two triangles. Featuring two sides of equal length, the isosceles triangle has been incorporated as a major feature of the building’s architecture. A peek over the railing of this staircase reveals two triangles placed end to end, forming a rhombus. This, and another set of stairs, connect museum-goers to all five levels of the East Building, improving the flow of foot traffic. A third set of stairs appears as if it converts 3D to 2D – as Instagram-worthy as it gets. The roof terrace, which concept architect Perry Chin likens to a “zen garden,” gives visitors a moment to pause and catch their breath in between visiting galleries. It comes with views of the Smithsonian Castle, the U.S. Capitol and some awesome sculptures, including Katharina Fritsch’s cobalt blue Hahn/Cock. In the Tower 1 gallery, colorful canvases from groundbreaking abstract expressionist Mark Rothko are a highlight. The works rotate through the Gallery’s vast collection of Rothkos. Check out even more Rothko paintings at The Phillips Collection. In Tower 2, Alexander Calder: A Survey boasts the largest display of works by the artist: 45 sculptures and paintings. The East Building’s wide-open atrium features a kinetic chandelier, a 76-foot-long mobile work that was the last sculpture Calder ever made. Unlike Calder’s other works, it remains Untitled because he passed away before he could name it. In the upper level, you can explore inventive and iconic works of modern art. Among the artists featured are members of the Washington Color School of the late 1950s and '60s, including Gene Davis and Kenneth Noland. Now that you’ve explored all there is to see in the East Building, venture through Leo Villareal’s Multiverse to the National Gallery of Art West Building. A preview of what you’ll see: early American artists, as well as European masters like Da Vinci, Van Gogh and Monet.
Dog-Friendly DC: The Best Places to Bring Your Pets in Washington, DC
If you’ve brought your dog along for your trip to Washington, DC, have no fear: there are plenty of places that welcome and cater to canines. We’ve compiled a list of dog-friendly restaurants, hotels, scenic parks and shops that will be perfect for your pup. Places to Eat and Drink The acclaimed Rasika West End permits dogs on its patio and offers its famous Tandoori lamb chops for adults. Baked & Wired has dog treats in flavors like Peanut Butter Krunch, in addition to fresh baked bread, brewed coffee and espresso, pastries, muffins, cookies and quiche for you. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly. Right Proper Brewing Company in the Shaw neighborhood welcomes canines with open arms on its open air patio, where you can sip on brews and chow down on bar bites. Head downtown to Opaline Bar and Brasserie for French-inspired cuisine on the chic patio with your pup. Just outside of DC is the area's newest dog-friendly bar and restaurant, Bark Social, which features an off-leash indoor & outdoor dog park. If you’re looking for beer garden vibes that are dog-friendly, make sure you check out Wunder Garten in NoMa, which offers games and lounge chairs, and Dacha Beer Garden in Shaw, featuring farm-to-table fare and Bavarian beverages (there's also a location in Navy Yard that is well worth your time). Wet Dog Tavern is basically dedicated to doggies, with plenty of space and activities for the canines. You’ll dig the varied drink menu and burgers while your best bud runs wild. At Hook Hall, enjoy drinks, food and decor inspired by the venue's changing themes, while dogs drool over the Hook Hall Hounds offerings. When exploring the U Street corridor, have a coffee and enjoy some Cuban cuisine with your dog by your side on the gated patio of Colada Shop. Parks Your visit to the National Mall can certainly include your dog, as canines are welcome to join you as you stroll past the monuments and memorials and take in the view. The Tidal Basin, where you can savor beautiful cherry blossom trees in the springtime, is another scenic spot where pets are welcome. Theodore Roosevelt Island, accessible by footbridge from the George Washington Memorial Parkway, features two miles of trails along the Potomac River, perfect for an afternoon excursion with your pup. Meridian Hill Park is one of the city’s most popular parks and features plenty of real estate for dogs to stretch their legs. If your pooch likes rhythms, the park hosts a drum circle on Sundays. Note: the lower plaza is currently closed. Rock Creek Park offers roughly 1,800 acres of natural beauty, with more than four miles of trails, serving as an oasis in the middle of the city for you and your canine. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, located along the Anacostia River, is another option, as it offers beautiful aquatic gardens to enjoy while taking your dog for a stroll. Tours Adventure DC Tricycle Tours has your dog-friendly tour option. Dogs are welcome in the cabs, and with your approval, their expert guides will stay with and even walk your dogs while you enter memorials that do not allow dogs. They have a free dog-friendly map (and other free maps) of the National Mall available for download, regardless of whether you use their services. Hotels Kimpton Hotels in the District welcome dogs for all sizes at no extra charge and even offer special amenities so that your pup can have the best experience possible. Dogs of all sizes are welcomed for no additional fee at The Ven at Embassy Row as well. The LINE DC makes for a worthwhile place for you and your canine companion to stay while exploring the Adams Morgan neighborhood. Pets stay free at this DC-inspired hotel housed inside a 110-year old church – and don’t forget to ask the front desk for courtesy bags, water bowls and treats. The Hay-Adams, one of DC’s most historic hotels, allows one dog weighing no more than 25 pounds per room for free. Pups that weigh 15 pounds or less can stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. at no additional charge (you could even bring two). At The Jefferson, four-legged guests of any breed and up to 50 pounds are welcome and receive dog bowls, beds, treats and more. Over in the elegant Georgetown neighborhood, Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown welcomes pets for free and offers handmade treats, maps to nearby parks and loaner leashes and collars. Other options: Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square allows dogs up to 50 pounds for a refundable $500 deposit. The ultra-hip Eaton Washington DC allows two pets of any size for no additional fee. Both dogs and cats are welcome. Pet beds, food and water bowls are available upon request. Yours Truly DC allows dogs up to 70 lbs. for no additional charge, with complimentary treats from Doggy Style Bakery and special Bowser Beer for Dogs available upon check-in. Viceroy Washington DC allows two pets of any size for no additional fee, with both dogs and cats permitted. The hotel provides treats, bowls, beds, waste bags and pet-in-room door hangers for four-legged guests. Shops During your DC visit, you may need to get some shopping done. Here’s a list of local shops that allow your pet inside, and may even have a treat or two waiting for them: Warby Parker lululemon West Elm Bluemercury Room & Board Madewell Salt & Sundry Now that you’ve seen DC’s dog-friendly options, check out free things to do for families.
Dónde alojarse
Un día en Washington, DC no es suficiente. Por suerte, hay muchísimos hoteles y resorts donde descansar para disfrutar de unas semanas de aventuras. Existe un amplio abanico de opciones para dar respuesta a todas tus necesidades: hoteles para toda la familia, cadenas de lujo y modernos hoteles boutique entre otros. Te quedes donde te quedes, en Washington, DC serás bienvenido. Nuestros alojamientos incluyen: Hoteles Bed & breakfasts Hoteles boutique Alojamientos económicos Establecimientos para estancias prolongadas Explora nuestros barrios para averiguar qué zona de Washington es la que prefieres.