By Evelynn Schoenthal
Two years ago, during my freshman year, older students told me that the best advice they could give me (once we returned to campus) was to escape what has been deemed as the “Foggy Bubble.” The “Foggy Bubble” refers to the area that surrounds campus where students’ explorations around the city often stop. Outside of these intangible barriers, The District offers a variety of activities for students to enjoy.
Last year, I wrote a piece recommending five places outside of Foggy Bottom to visit to escape the bubble. As a junior, I have an extra year of experience and excursions under my belt to share. Whether you’re a freshman and new to campus or a senior looking to further burst the bubble, these five things to do in D.C. will foster new experiences and create a more holistic appreciation for the city.
#1: Eastern Market Weekend Markets (Capitol Hill)
Every weekend from 9:00am to 3:00pm Eastern Market booms with tourists and D.C. natives. Located in Capitol Hill, a five minute walk from the Eastern Market Metro Stop, the market has a variety of vendors that travel from Virginia and Maryland to sell their self-made goods. The outdoor market grants the opportunity to buy artwork, jewelry, and even dog collars. Farmers bring fresh produce, providing healthy food to the local community. Venturing to Capitol Hill for a few hours offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Foggy Bottom and introduces a new world of townhouses, parks, and scenery. The welcoming atmosphere and the quick metro ride make this the perfect excursion.
#2: Rock Creek Park (Northwest)
Rock Creek Park provides an opportunity to reconnect to nature after spending too much time in the city. The park has many hikes and is open to all skill levels, beginner to advanced. To prepare for a hike, maps can be sent in advance via email or picked up from the visitor’s center. The last time I went I adored every minute of the hike, but it started downpouring and my friends and I had to race back to the car! Be sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and appropriate attire for a safe, fun (and dry!) experience.
#3: Planet Word (Downtown)
Self-described as “the museum where language comes to life,” Planet Word is a free museum that presents voice activated exhibits that explore linguistics and the use of other languages. The displays are brightly colored and make a perfect educational photo op for Instagram and Snapchat while emphasizing the importance of how language is used. Planet Word is a 30 minute walk from campus or accessible from the McPherson Square Metro Stop. It’s the perfect place to go after class or on the weekends. Planet Word is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
#4: BloomBars (Columbia Heights)
BloomBars is a venue that offers a multitude of family-friendly events, ranging from children’s theater to samba classes to slam poetry. Despite being family friendly, BloomBars is set up and run like a bar, expanding the traditional perception of bars to allow creative expression. The BloomBars website lists all of its events until the end of 2022. Entrance is free, as it’s operated on volunteers and donations.
#5: Bishop’s Garden (Woodley Park)
Bishop’s Garden was constructed in 1927 to beautify the grounds around the National Cathedral, which was originally only accessible to the bishop. Later, under a new designer, the garden became a public entity. Inspired by medieval architecture and surrounded by plants with Biblical and historical significance, the grounds emit a truly unique aura, almost like you’re traveling back in time. The National Cathedral offers other attractions. Check out the Pilgrim Steps– 51 sandstone steps from the same material used in the original construction of the White House and the Capitol Building. There’s also the Shadow House, which offers a 360-view of the gardens through stained glass. All of the attractions of the National Cathedral are free for visitors. The best way to get to the National Cathedral (unfortunately) is not the Metro, but students can use their U-Pass to take the Metro Bus.
Exploring the city beyond Foggy Bottom and Georgetown is essential to every college student’s time here. So many of my favorite DC memories are not in Foggy Bottom! Step outside of your comfort zone and take advantage of the neighborhoods and activities the city has to offer.
