By Sophia Sasson
As GW students, we are lucky enough to live in the heart of D.C., but sometimes Foggy Bottom can feel like a bubble that is hard to escape. As a senior graduating in May, I now realize that my time in D.C. is coming to an end. Here is a list of bucket list #OnlyAtGW things I want to do before graduation. I may have missed my shot at a few of these, but it may not be too late for you!
Visit All of the Smithsonians
The beauty of the Smithsonian museums is that they are all free to visit! While some require a timed entry pass, you can walk into most of the museums without a reservation. The Smithsonians have fantastic exhibits, one in particular that I am excited to check out is The Renwick Gallery’s new installation about blown glass. I also want to give a special mention to the D.C. Zoo. I recommend visiting in December to see the ever-so-special zoo lights and of course, go at least once during the daytime to see the wide variety of animals and activities. Check out the Smithsonian website for locations and hours of operation for each museum.
Visit the Embassies on Halloween
While I was not able to partake in this activity due to COVID, I highly recommend this to all who enjoy celebrating Halloween. Different embassies open their doors to the public and hand out candy from their countries, some for free and others with more elaborate ticketed events. This Washingtonian article from 2018 highlights which embassies opened their doors to the public. Hopefully this tradition makes a comeback and next year GW students can participate in the festivities.
Monumenting at Night/Go Up the Washington Monument
While I put these two activities together because of their physical proximity to each other, don’t get it twisted—these are two completely different experiences. I think every student deserves to visit the monuments after dark. I recommend going either with a group of people or just a friend or two. The later you go, the less crowded and more special it becomes. I have yet to go up the Washington Monument but it is currently at the top of my list. To do this you need to wake up early in the morning before your desired ascend and go to the base of the monument to reserve free tickets for the following day. This is probably the reason I haven’t gone yet, as it takes planning and the motivation of an early riser. The latter is not a strong suit of mine, but I am determined.
See a Show at the Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center has all types of shows ranging from ballet performances to jazz concerts to theater shows. It’s close proximity to campus makes it a wonderful spot for a night out without trekking too far. While prices for shows range, they offer a variety of events for free and have ticket options in the $20 range. Check out their calendar for specific dates.
DC Home Sports Game
When we get to campus, we embrace D.C. as our home and it is only fitting that we support our home team! Whether it be basketball, baseball, hockey or football—D.C. has a jersey. Personally, I went to a baseball game at Nationals Stadium in September and it was a blast. Check out stadium/arena websites for tickets and always ask if there is a student discount!
Explore Different DC Neighborhoods
Living in Foggy Bottom can feel like a bubble. Here are a few neighborhoods and sites to check out for an easy escape from campus (alphabetical, no preference). Each neighborhood has good food, nightlife and historic elements.
- Adams Morgan
- Blagden Alley
- Capitol Hill
- China Town
- Columbia Heights
- Eastern Market
- Georgetown
- H Street Corridor
- Logan Circle
- Navy Yard
- Penn Quarter
- Union Market
- U Street/Shaw
- The Wharf
Study at the Library of Congress
Sick of Gelman? That makes sense. Studying at the Library of Congress is a great change of scenery. It is required to have an appointment to work here and you will need to get a Library of Congress library card, but both are free and simple for students to obtain. I know where I will be during midterms. Check out this link for a list of the different rooms and hours of operation. To schedule an appointment use the Ask-A-Librarian link. (https://ask.loc.gov)
Kite Festival and Cherry Blossoms
In my personal opinion, spring is the best season here in D.C. The weather is unbeatable and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. One of my favorite memories from freshman year was going down to see the cherry blossoms and flying kites at the kite festival with friends. Plus, it is almost a rite of passage to get LinkedIn photos with a cherry blossom background. To learn more information about the festival, click this link.
Whether you only do one or decide to do them all, remember that it only counts as an #OnlyAtGW experience if you take a picture!
