Discover our locals' 101 hidden gems in Washington DC
Let's uncover Washington DC’s hidden spots with Spotted by Locals! From cozy bookshops to breathtaking art collections, our Spotters reveal the city's best-kept secrets. Experience Washington DC like a true local.
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Things to do in Washington DC
Ala
Bottomless Turkish brunch
"Ala" is a beloved Turkish restaurant in Washington DC. Recently, they started offering bottomless brunch for great value! Also try the drinks...
by
Kelley
Smith
Rooftop at 801
Funky rooftop
"Rooftop at 801" is one of my favorite neighborhood restaurants in Washington DC because they always have something going on each season. But I love it in winter.
by
Kelley
Smith
Lulu's Wine Garden
Urban escape on busy U street
"Lulu's Wine Garden" in Washington DC is one my favorites on U Street. It's the perfect spot for both tourists and locals. I love their back patio!
by
Kelley
Smith
The Brig
Chill outdoor beer garden
"The Brig" is arguably the flagship beer garden of Eastern Market and Navy Yard in Washington DC. I love how I never have to wait for a table!
by
JR
Denson
Public Bar
Wednesday salsa night
"Public Bar" in DC turns into a real salsa club every Wednesday night. If you're serious about wanting to partner dance on a random Wednesday, it's for you.
by
JR
Denson
Izakaya Seki
Big taste & small plates
"Izakaya Seki" in Washington DC is the restaurant I go to when I want authentic but unfamiliar Japanese food, a place for somewhat adventurous diners!
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
LeTena
Modern, fast, casual Ethiopian
"LeTena" Washington DC takes a slightly different approach with Ethiopian food, somewhere between being a restaurant & a casual place. I love the prices.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
The Coffee Bar
Charm and personality
"The Coffee Bar" is a wonderful coffee spot in Washington DC, in a somewhat quiet area. I love their outside patio to enjoy my coffee with some sun.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Donburi
Japanese restaurant
"Donburi" in Washington DC is a Japanese restaurant that makes my mouth water before I've even had a taste of the food! It's my comfort food in DC...
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
ArtJamz
Paint and sip
"ArtJamz" in Washington DC is cool. It's basically an art studio where I go to hang out with friends, a date, or just to destress with a drink & paint.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
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We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
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