Discovering DC: Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

On a sunny Saturday a few weeks ago I visited Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens. Considering I've lived, worked and visited DC loads of times, I had never taken a trip to this glorious estate located near Rock Creek Park!

Diplomat, socialite and philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post bought Hillwood in 1955 and soon decided her home would be a museum that would inspire and educate the public. Her northwest Washington, D.C. estate endowed the country with the most comprehensive collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia, a distinguished 18th-century French decorative art collection, and twenty-five acres of serene landscaped gardens and natural woodlands for all to enjoy. Hillwood opened as a public institution in 1977, and each room is more spectacular than the last.

My favourites? The Icon Room, filled with many Russian treasures, the Pavilion, where guests were treated to drinks and movies, and 1950s gem of a Kitchen and Pantry - it was like a film set!

Hillwood has a great gift shop and restaurant, and it's the perfect place to spend a Saturday afternoon looking at the Mansion's treasures before a leisurely stroll through the wonderful gardens and orchid house.

Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens is located at 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008. For opening hours and further details click here.

Author's Own

Uber Hometown City Guide: Washington D.C.

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Washington D.C. A city of power, politics and pretty awesome things to do! I've been fortunate to live and work in D.C., and I regard it as my second home!

I'm partnering with Uber to share some of my favourite places in D.C. The places that tourists may normally not visit, and locations you can go to to experience a completely 'local' feeling. Read on for some great ideas!

To Visit: 

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Hillwood Museum & Gardens: On my recent trip I visited Hillwood Museum & Gardens. During the time I lived in D.C. I never knew this amazing house existed! This decorative arts museum is the former residence of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a businesswoman, socialite, philanthropist and dedicated collector. The collection is filled with Faberge eggs and there is a stunning greenhouse containing a wide range of orchids. It's a must see!

Washington National Cathedral: This impressive building has played host for the funerals of Presidents as well as an episode of the West Wing! Head to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city and descend to the crypt to visit the final resting place of Helen Keller.

Old Town Alexandria: I'm lucky that my friends live in Old Town! It's full of charm and lots of history. I love to walk along the waterfront - you can spot the Capitol building in the distance!

To Dine:

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The Hamilton: hands down, I love this place! Located two blocks from the White House, The Hamilton has a bohemian spirit and an even better American fare menu. I love the fish tacos, the Hamilton burger and the mint chocolate chip shake!

The Chart House: set on Old Town's scenic waterfront, this one seafood restaurant you don't want to miss. On a recent visit, I had dinner with a pal in the turret room- complete with a fire pit! The Atlantic salmon was to. die. for.


To Shop:

The Lucky Knot: located in Old Town, this is a preppy girl's idea of heaven! Vineyard Vines, Kate Spade, Smathers and Branson and Lilly Pulitzer adorn the shelves and you won't leave empty handed!

The White House Historical Association: for all your White House goodies, stop by the White House Historical Association! Here you can find the official holiday ornaments as well as a great selection of publications and gifts.

Mazza Gallerie and Pentagon City: my favourite stores are located in these two complexes. I love to hit Neiman Marcus for my slice of luxury, and Pentagon City for J.Crew and Nordstrom.

Uber is giving readers discount on their first ride up to $30 using the code RIDIN30. 

Thanks Uber! 

Washington DC: My Trip in Photos

If you follow me on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, you'll know that I've been back in DC! The city is like my second home and it's been great to be back amongst amazing friends, gorgeous architecture and all kinds of fun!

Whilst my trip included lots of meetings and hard work, there was plenty of fun! Here's what I got up to.

Arriving at my friend's house, I was greeted with an amazing Easter basket filled with lovely goodies!

The next day, we went house searching (hello gorgeous properties along Foxhole Road!) This one is my absolute favorite.

Then an afternoon of shopping, including a trip to Neiman Marcus. Officially in love with this amazing dress!

On Saturday, we took a tour of the Capitol. It was fun to experience this sacred building and the area again after my time working here!

In the afternoon, we took a trip to Hillwood Museum and Gardens. If you live in the DC area and haven't visited- you must! I loved the 1940s kitchen - it was like something out of a film set! I also had fun with a regal looking lion.

The next few days were filled with meetings across the city. In the Smithsonian I spotted my pal, Tina Cassidy's great book about Jackie Kennedy!

I also attended the media launch of Nora Pouillon's new memoir, My Organic Life. Nora is the owner of the amazing Restaurant Nora and has cooked for Presidents and royalty! It was a lovely lunch with lovely company!

I also went by the White House for the standard 'House of Cards' moment...

I also explored Old Town Alexandria- I love the architectural details that are visible in the buildings across the city. The gorgeous little lights, brickwork and a piece of Wales in DC!

After DC I headed up to New York. Stay tuned for photos and details from this leg of my trip later this week!