Washington, D.C., Insider Travel Planning Tips

U Street/Shaw

Explore African-American history in the city’s neighborhood known as the center of black history and culture. U Street was once referred to as Washington’s Black Broadway where great entertainers performed for elegantly dressed black Washingtonians. A well-marked, self-guided tour through the area provides a fascinating look at the neighborhood’s history. Visit the Cultural Tourism of D.C. Web site, www.dcheritage.org, for information about all of the historic sites and neighborhoods in the city. You can also create your own itinerary according to your interests. One of the best self-guided tours is the organization’s African-American Heritage Trail and database with more than 200 African-American historic sites in the city. Either create your own tour online or visit the site to order a free walking tour booklet.

Dupont Circle

This enclave at the juncture of Massachusetts and Connecticut Avenues is a nice excursion to experience the city’s cultural diversity. Exit the Dupont Circle Metro station to encounter the sounds of an old tune from The Who played on an even older guitar and know that you’ve entered an eclectic neighborhood with a personality all its own. Shopping, dining and gallery hopping is a day well spent here.

• Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café, www.kramers.com, tel. 202-387-1400, 1517 Connecticut Avenue: This is a great place to meet diverse Dupont dwellers. Ask one of the aloof overeducated employees to help you navigate a refreshing selection of books. Its adjoining café offers a well-made latte and overpriced entrées, but we can always find something our kids will eat. Both the rushed atmosphere and elevated noise levels make us feel at home.

• Washington, D.C.'s Dupont Circle fountain at night.
• matt.herzog

• The National Geographic Society’s Explorers Hall, www.nationalgeographic.com, 17th and M St., ages 8 and up: The society’s headquarters is popular with older kids both because of its interactive exhibits and its subject matter, which covers animals, space, and of course, geography. My 8-year-old nephew is a space nut and loved the Earth Station One amphitheatre, which simulates orbital flight 23,000 miles above earth. Visit the Web site to learn about special exhibits, film screenings and live events.

• Phillips Collection, www.phillipscollection.org, tel. 202-387-2151, 1600 21st St., ages 6 and up. As I sit with my young kids enveloped by the saturated colors of Mark Rothko’s large canvases, I begin to realize the vision and genius not only of the artist but also of the person responsible for this museum gem. Based upon the collection of steel-magnate Duncan Phillips, the collection is housed partly in his former mansion, as well as in a newly completed addition. My kids are particularly comfortable in the intimate space and have become fans of this terrific collection best known for its impressionist and post-impressionist art. The works of Paul Klee, Alexander Calder and Jacob Lawrence seem to be more accessible to children. At the entrance desk, pick up the free family guide that lists activities for kids.