This biweekly sponsored column is written by the experts at Gordon James Realty, a local property management firm that specializes in residential real estate, commercial real estate and homeowner associations. Please submit any questions in the comments section or via email.
There’s no better time to live in Washington, D.C. than the spring. While visitors from all over the world flock to see the “City in Bloom” with 3,000 cherry trees in blossom, residents of the city know that there is much more to life in the capital. From Columbia Heights to NoMa, Washington, D.C. is filled with parks, green spaces and other ways to enjoy the outdoors and warmer weather. Professional sports, festivals, al fresco dining options and activities taking place throughout the city make D.C. a great place to live. Take a look at some of the best reasons to love the District in spring and summer:
- Open Air Dining
As the weather warms up, the restaurants and bars in D.C. open their doors to let in the sun. Patios become filled with tables and umbrellas; rooftop bars offer great places to enjoy a view of the city with a decadent cocktail or refreshing beer. Over in Columbia Heights, many apartments and buildings are within walking distance to some of the city’s best ethnic food restaurants. Nominated as one of Bon Appetit’s 50 Best Restaurants in America, Thip Khao Laotian cuisine offers air conditioned indoor dining and a spacious patio. Colorful El Chucho has a small rooftop space perfect for enjoying happy hour.
Food trucks are taking over the nation, including the capital. Lucky for D.C. dwellers, spring marks the opening of Truckeroo, a monthly gathering of food trucks that starts having events in April. Held at the Fairgrounds, Truckeroo features food trucks from D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Truckeroo draws families and foodies from all over the region looking for nearby entertainment, games and more.
- Festivals and Events
Festival season starts in the spring. Amongst the biggest spring festivals in the city is the world-famous National Cherry Blossom in April. Visitors from all over the world looking to see the blossoms, parades, cultural programs and festivities come to attend the three-day long festival. Lucky locals have the opportunity to enjoy the blossoms for as long as they linger on the trees.
Outdoor movies are just around the corner. Movies on the Green take place in neighborhood parks throughout D.C., Virginia and Maryland. Families and neighbors gather in parks around the city to watch classic family favorites on the big screen while picnicking and making new friends. Georgetown, Chinatown, Woodley Park and numerous other neighborhoods have all held outdoor screenings in the past. The outdoor event is something which residents look forward to each year when the weather warms up.
- Sports and Activities
The Washington Nationals are back in season. Throughout the year, proud fans wave flags from their homes and balconies and wear team apparel. Once spring rolls around, fans will be heading to the stadium to enjoy the game in the outdoors. Between games, the stadium hosts events and festivals, so even non-sports lovers get in on the action.
You don’t have to be a pro baseball fan to enjoy sports in D.C. With spring, parks begin to fill up with impromptu soccer games and other sports, while bikers take to the streets.
- Hiking
Rock Creek Park may be the most well known spot for hiking in D.C., but other neighborhoods have their share of trails as well. Suburban spots in Maryland and Virginia, including Great Falls and Catoctin Mountain Park are just a couple of favorite places for locals to get out of the city and into nature. Many spots are less than an hour away and make for a great day trip or weekend getaway without having to go too far from home.
- Farmer’s Markets
The city offers easily accessible farmer’s markets all over, from Columbia Heights to Georgetown. Often held on weekends in parks and parking lots, farmer’s markets make it easy to get your fruits and vegetables in a city that enjoys healthy eating options. Bring your own bag and try new things from farms in nearby Maryland and Virginia. Many farmer’s markets also offer live music and pre-made food so that you can get the ambience of a country fair without leaving your neighborhood.
Gordon James Realty is available to make sure everything is working well with your rental to allow you to enjoy the good weather.