Ok - this might be a bit on the strange side but here goes. I'll be in DC for the long Thansgiving weekend - somewhat against my will. I'm hoping that the list can offer me some suggestions on things to do while my family is off doing the typical tourist-typse things (sight seeing, etc). I've heard DC/Georgetown has some great old pubs and taverns. Can anyone recommend some. I'd like nothing more than to sit down, get out of the cold, and enjoy a drink or three while the family is off getting their fill of the sights. Thanks!

I thought I read about a tour that features Marion Barry's favorite crackdens. Don't remember the name but perhaps one of the local's can enlighten you

Thanks for the thought, but no need.

I just wanted to add one other thing. It's not that I am not interested in the sights of DC but have been there many many times before (albeit 15 years ago or so). During these past visits I had no input on the itinerary. This time I thought I'd take matters into my own hands. Thanks!

RAE - sorry for the confusion. Let me clarify. I was asking the list about old pubs and taverns. Not crack dens.

Sorry for the mis-communication!

Old Ebbitts Grill is near the White House and momuments your family may like to see.

Michael,

If it's been 15 years since your last visit to DC, you might enjoy some of the sightseeing. I particularly like the FDR and Korean Memorials, which did not exist during your last visit. As far as non-typical tourist ideas, you might try going to Eastern Market (www.easternmarket.net), or finding your way to East Potomac Park to see "The Awakening" statue (http://www.pankin.com/pleasure/hains.htm).

For pubs and taverns, try the areas of Adams Morgan, Foggy Bottom or Georgetown (see (http://www.dcheritage.org Historic Neighborhoods section for further info).

Enjoy your visit!

One museum you might want to join the family in visiting the is the new International Spy Museum,. My in-laws went recently and loved it.

That said, another nice place to escape is Kramer's Books in DuPont Circle. They have a a cafe with good desserts, and will let you sit a while if it's not too crowded.

Sorry I can't help on the pub suggestions.

There's a cool pub called Badlands that you can have some atypical fun at...
It's in the DuPont area.

I second the vote for Old Ebbitts Grill. You can sit at the bar and have a brew or watch them shucking oysters. It's an interesting mix there and also a good atmosphere.

If you get into georgetown you can stop in any pub along M Street and feel pretty much at home.

Enjoy Washington - it's a great city.

Thanks to everyone for the good suggestions. I'll let you know how things went on my return.

I think Old Ebbitts was the place I had heard about when I first opened this message thread.

Thanks again and happy holliday!

If you're up for an adventure, check out Adams Morgan. It's a really interesting part of town with the widest variety of eateries that I've ever seen socked in one neighborhood.

There is also a one of the best Irish pubs I've been to in DC, but the name escapes me right this second. Anyone know where I'm talking about?

the exhibits at the museums change about every 15 days - if you hit the National Gallery or Musuem of National History, you won't see anything you already have.