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! 

Review: The Hamilton, Washington DC

I'd just stopped off a nine hour flight from London to Washington DC, and after checking into my hotel I was after some food that I could actually taste.

As I walked up 14th Street, I spotted The Hamilton and knew that I would have to go in. The bar was absolutely packed, and we were quickly seated at a table in the next room.

Designed to capture "DC's creative renaissance and a food-savvy audience that draws influence from every corner of the planet," The Hamilton really is a destination restaurant. Complete with a sushi bar and contemporary charcuterie, the extensive menu really does have something to suit all tastes.

I chose the Atlantic Salmon Salad, a delicious mix of frisee, radicchio, arugula, pita crisps, bulghur wheat, feta, cucumber, tomato and lemon vinaigrette topped with a mouth-watering piece of chargrilled salmon. Our party shared some sweet potato fries which were the perfect indulgence.

The service at The Hamilton was fantastic, and the place really did have a buzzing atmosphere.

Fast forward to the day of our departure, and we were in need of a good meal ahead of our return flight. (Plane food is the worst!)

We found ourselves back at The Hamilton for lunch. It was if our new favourite place was calling out to us!

Pre-meal we indulged in some fantastic milkshakes. I opted for the peanut butter and chocolate which was divine. (If any of you have recipe ideas, please share!) I selected the chicken enchiladas and a small mac and cheese which certainly kept me satisfied well until we had landed back in London.

There is no doubt that The Hamilton is my favourite DC restaurant, with the great menu, fantastic service, inspiring decor and electric atmosphere making it a must-visit in the city. If you like Clyde's you will certainly love the company's newest venture!

To find out more about The Hamilton visit their website, or follow them on Twitter. Check out the menus here. The Hamilton also has a great live music programme.

The Hamilton is located at 600 14th Street NW, Washington DC, 20005. The nearest Metro stop is Metro Center. 

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