Need Washington D.C. info
 

My husband and I are planning a first time trip to Washington D.C for our anniversary in December. Anyone familiar with the Crowne Plaza hotel in the downtown area? Also - dining out suggestions for evening?

Cher, I stayed at the Crowne Plaza three or four years ago, so keep that in mind when I tell you that I loved it! I believe the hotel was fairly new at the time. The company did a wonderful renovation to an old building and I really enjoyed my corner room overlooking one of the city's many pocket parks. As for dining, Vidalia is one of my favorites anywhere!

Cher, <BR> <BR>Hello. I was in Washington D.C. for a week this past spring. It was my first trip there, and every day was jam packed with things to do and see. My friends and I rode the Metro almost everywhere we needed to go, and lots of walking in between. We stayed in Old Town Alexandria and took the Metro to downtown D.C. My favorite dining experience was a place called Gadsby's Tavern in Old Town Alexandria. I think reservations are recommended, although I didn't do this. We tried to go there one night, but it was closed for a private party. The second night we got in, had to wait just a short time. It was screaming with colonial atmosphere and you felt like George Washington could walk in the door any minute. There was also an old gentleman walking from table to table playing the violin. Food was wonderful!!!! <BR> <BR>I would love to see Old Town Alexandria in December, I'll bet the Christmas decorations are really nice there. <BR> <BR>I hope you can make it to Gadsby's Tavern for an evening meal, would love to hear back from you if you do for your opinions about it. <BR> <BR>Have a fun trip. <BR> <BR>Sandi

Hello Cher, <BR> <BR>I live in DC (Arlington). My wife works by the Crowne Plaza and I work for Sheraton. I have never been in that hotel, from the outside it seems nice. It is in a 'business' area of the city but right next to the metro. One of the best places to eat in DC is across the street, DC Coast. The chef (Trunks) is famous for tea smoked lobster. <BR> <BR>Best place in the city is probably Kinkeads a seafood place, must have reservations. <BR> <BR>I worked in Old Town (at the Sheraton) for 3 years. Gadsbys Tavern is fun if you are in the area. Do not go out to Alexandria just for that. <BR> <BR>If you like steak you should consider Prime Rib (jacket and tie), Mortons (of Chicago), Sam & Harrys (local) and Ruth Chris. <BR> <BR>I hope this helps you. If you give me an idea on type of food I will give you more direct recommendations. <BR> <BR>Have fun and bring warm clothes and gloves. Most of the sights are outside and you will want to walk around. Gloves will make this easier. <BR> <BR>~Chris

Second on Kinkead's--you can always sit at the bar if you can't get reservations. My husband and I do that occasionally to eat lighter than a whole meal. Vidalia and DC Coast are excellent also. Love the Prime Rib for classy steakhouse atmosphere and the prime rib is the best. Georgia Brown's for new southern and Gerard's for french are both within 2 blocks of your hotel. The Old Ebbitt Grill is a few block away and is a local favorite--varied menu and great bar. Luigino for Italian about 5 block away. Capital Grille (expensive) and Les Halles (moderate) are good for steak and are down on Pa Ave. Another fun place is Jaleo, a Spanish tapas restaurant near Ford's theatre--very busy around theatre time. There are so many good restaurant choices. <BR> <BR>One thing not to miss is to visit the monument area--especially the Lincoln and Vietnam monument area--at night. It is perfectly safe and is a wonderful experience to see these lit up. You'll probably want to take a cab there since it's not very close to any metro stop. <BR> <BR>Finally, if you're into politics, see if the Capitol Steps are playing when you're here. They're a satirical revue which is very topical and very funny.

A third vote for DC Coast. And I basically concur on everything Ruth said! <BR> <BR>Old Town is great, but Gadsby is not your best restaurant choice. The Warehouse or Landini Brothers are better choices--or try Union Street for a more casual atmosphere, but good food.