Top 5 Places to Read in DC

readerskitchen
May 30, 2016
2 min read

"No country, however rich, can afford the waste of its human resources. Demoralization caused by vast unemployment is our greatest extravagance. Morally, it is the greatest menace to our social order" - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Recently I had some friends visit and spend Memorial Day weekend with me. It was my job to plan the perfect DC weekend for us, no pressure. Naturally, I took them on a DC tour of my favorite places to read or people watch!

Just kidding, those just happened to be along the way of our real tour. But it got me thinking about my favorite spots to read in DC so I'll share them with you! DC is one of my favorite places to be a tourist (despite the fact that I'm a local). I never run out of exhibits to see at the Smithsonians (for free) or wonders to explore at the monuments and memorials. If you're ever visiting or out and about and you want to pull out a book or just sit, try these spots:

1. Tidal Basin - it can get pretty hot and humid here in the summers, but the air coming off the tidal basin cools you down a bit. It's loaded with benches and memorials which are all nice places to sit, think, and read. It's also got an even split of locals and tourists to people watch!

2. National Gallery of Art West, Steps - this is right off of the Washington mall and gives you a nice view of it. Find a spot, relax, and take in the sights of people bustling from the capitol to the museums.

3. Sculpture Garden fountain - I like to sit on the outside benches or sit with my feet in the water. I don't think I've ever spent a day in DC without stopping by this little spot. Plus, I like keeping an eye on our National Archives, home of our most important documents.

4. Lincoln Memorial - this spot can get quite crowded sometimes, but if you find a comfortable spot on the steps, you've got one of the most wonderful views of Washington DC to look out.

5. Busboys and Poets restaurant/bookstore - if the weather doesn't allow for outside reading, this place has the perfect combination of atmosphere and food to make you want to come here every day.