IPW 2024

POWER EXPERIENCES IN WASHINGTON, DC

 No other place in the world does power radiate into the streets as much as Washington, DC. Explore past presidential monuments and memorials to discover politicians' favorite restaurants, go-to bars, spy memorabilia, historic homes and other places of power. 

DINE 

Martin's Tavern - Founded in 1933 by former Major League Baseball player, “Billy” Martin, this tavern is a beloved gathering place for locals and luminaries alike, and a favorite among presidents. President John F. Kennedy proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier in Booth #3 (now called The Proposal Booth), President Nixon preferred Martin's Meatloaf in Booth #2 and in 1954, five Supreme Court justices sat in Booth #3 debating Brown v Board of Education, a landmark decision that ended American school segregation for children. 

• 1264 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 

Old Ebbitt Grill - Established in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington's oldest saloon, just steps from The White House and museums downtown. As a former boarding house, the Ebbitt guest list read like a Who's Who of American History. President McKinley is said to have lived there during his tenure in Congress, and Presidents Ulysses S. Grant, Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt and Warren Harding supposedly refreshed themselves at its stand-around bar. 

• 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 

The Red Hen - Visited by the Bidens in February 2023, this spot is a delicious Italian restaurant featuring youthful sophistication to the rapidly evolving dining scene in one of the most eclectic neighborhoods in the nation's capital. 

• 1822 First St NW, Washington, DC 20001 

L'Ardente - Visited by the Obamas twice, the restaurant reflects the glorious contrasts of Italy itself: haute yet simple; glam yet rustic; indulgent yet restrained - a Mediterranean balm in the heart of the capital. 

• 200 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001 

Le Diplomate – Recently attended by the Bidens, “Le Dip” - as it's lovingly called by locals – was painstakingly built out of a historic structure that harnesses the artful spirit of a Parisian brasserie, the interior and exterior pay subtle tribute to tradition, imbuing every meal with a sweeping sense of European drama. 

• 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009 

VUE Rooftop - This restaurant offers a breathtaking birds-eye-view of the White House, as well as a panoramic view of the city skyline, making it the ultimate spot to enjoy the quintessential American brunch or late-night cocktails.   

• 515 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 

Ben's Chili Bowl – Voted Washington DC's signature dish, Ben's iconic half smoke has attracted presidents, celebrities, locals and tourists alike for over 66 years.  

• 1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009 

The Monocle - The Valonos family has hosted senators and staff for 40 years, as it's the closest restaurant to the Senate side of the U.S. Capitol Building. It's a hot spot for congressional fundraisers and has been the venue for caucuses by the Senate's women members. Staffers historically call the Monocle to warn the restaurant that an important vote is coming up to prepare them for an influx of guests. 

• 107 D St NE, Washington, DC 20002 

Locations that the Obama family famously dined: 

• Oyamel 
• Rose's Luxury 
• Good Stuff Eatery in Capitol Hill 
• Blue Duck Tavern 
• We, The Pizza 
• Minibar 
• Taylor Gourmet 
• Bourbon Steak 
• Fiola Mare 

• 1789 

Establishments legendary in DC for hosting politicians of all parties: 

• Cafe Milano 
• Equinox 
• The Palm 
• BLT Steak 
• Charlie Palmer Steakhouse 

SIP 

Speakeasies of Washington, DC – In 1919, the manufacture, sale and transport of alcoholic beverages was banned by Washington politicians. Just steps away, visitors will now find a thriving cocktail scene of speakeasies and hidden cocktail lounges. Find award-winning Allegory behind a wall of books, or Chicken + Whiskey behind a nondescript freezer door. 

• Allegory: 1201 K St NW #1, Washington, DC 20005 
• Chicken + Whiskey: 1738 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009 

Off the Record Bar inside The Hay-Adams - DC's best place to be seen and not heard. A favorite of those working “on the Hill.” 

• 800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006 

Round Robin Bar inside the Willard InterContinental Hotel - A historic favorite meeting place for politicians, lobbyists, and power brokers known for its classic cocktails and elegant ambiance. 

• 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004 

District Winery – Sip wine from the city's first winery among the “Dads of Democracy,” a portrait series featuring each president portraying the artist's thought on each leaders' different style. 

• 385 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003 

SEE 

White House - An iconic symbol of American democracy, this is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. Apply for a tour through your embassy in Washington, DC. Consider visiting the White House Visitor Center to see artifacts from the House itself. 

• White House: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW 
• White House Visitor Center: 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004 

The Monuments and Memorials of the National Mall - According to the American Institute of Architects, half of Americans' top 12 favorite architectural gems line the National Mall. There's no denying the significance of the Mall for its symbols to American history and for its uniquely designed monuments. 

• Washington Monument 
• Lincoln Memorial 
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial 
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial 

National Portrait Gallery - Works portraying historically influential Americans. 

• 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001 

• America's Presidents *newly reopened* 
• Michelle Obama 

 

Library of Congress - A beacon of knowledge and cultural heritage that houses the world's largest library collection, including Thomas Jefferson's library. With millions of books, manuscripts, maps, and more, it serves as a treasure trove of human achievement and creativity. 

• 101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540 

Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool – Visit the memorial that has been the backdrop for historic events such as Martin Luther King's “I Have a Dream Speech” as well as protests and the inauguration of several presidents. The adjacent Reflecting Pool is the cherry on top, serving as the reunion spot for Forest Gump and Jenny on the big screen, proving that true love does exist. 

• 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037 

Tudor Place Historic House and Garden – A federal-style mansion that preserves the stories of six generations of descendants of Martha Washington, and the enslaved and free people who lived and worked there for nearly two centuries. A model of Federal-period architecture, Tudor Place sits on 5 ½ acres and houses over 18,000 decorative objects, including the largest Washington Collection outside of Mount Vernon. 

• 1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 

Dupont Circle Fountain  - Built by sculptor Daniel Chester French and architect Henry Bacon (of Lincoln Memorial fame).  

• 21 Dupont Cir NW, Washington, DC 20036 

Embassy Row – Explore the countries of the globe in this stretch of historic and architecturally significant residences housing embassies from around the world. Visitors can tour the embassies and experience cultural dress and culinary prowess during the free annual festival, Passport DC. 

• Massachusetts Ave NW between Dupont Circle and Observatory Circle, around the 20th St NW to 37th St NW. 

National Museum of American History - The museum's world class collections help tell the complex history of the United States.  

• 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560  

• The American Presidency - More than 900 objects, including national treasures from the Smithsonian's vast presidential collections, bring to life the role of the presidency in American culture. 
• American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith - Explores the history of citizen participation, debate, and compromise from the nation's formation to today. 

• George Washington Sculpture - In 1832, to mark the centennial of George Washington's birth, the U.S. Congress commissioned a statue of the first president. 
• Greensboro Lunch Counter - Racial segregation was still legal in the United States on February 1, 1960, when four African American college students sat down at this Woolworth counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. 

U.S. Capitol Building – Tour the seat of the United States Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government. 

• Specialty Tours: Halls of the Senate, Votes for Women, Heroes of Civil Rights, Indigenous Peoples in Capitol Art 

Ford's Theatre - (Includes theatre walkthrough, museum, and Petersen House) The location of one of America's most historic presidents' assassinations, Ford's Theatre explores the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln and celebrates the American experience through theater and education.  

• 511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 
• Exhibit - The Museum - Explore exhibits on Lincoln's presidency, Civil War milestones and the assassination conspiracy led by John Wilkes Booth. 

DO 

The Hay-Adams Music Salon - Offers intimate, one-of-a-kind performances of passionately expressive music, taking place in the warm ambiance of inviting woodwork and period ceiling details in The Hay-Adams Room. The location historically served as one of Washington's leading salons, alive with stimulating discussions about literature, art, science, and politics. 

• 800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006 

The John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts – A living memorial to the U.S.'s 35th president, the Kennedy Center's mission is to preserve the performing arts, while also reflecting the diversity of the United States with more than 400 events/performances every year.  

• 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566 

Passport DC – A free, annual, month-long event in May where many of the city's 180 embassies open their doors to the public, offering site tours, cultural music, activities and authentic culinary offerings. 

• Around the World Embassy Tour - Travel the world through food, art, dance, fashion, music, innovations and manufactured goods at this unique event. Non-European Union embassies. 
• Flower Mart - Shop for plants and gifts, eat fun festival food, enjoy children's activities, ride the historic carousel and take in the beauty of the International Floral Exhibit. 
• EU Open House - Visitors will enjoy the authentic music, dance, food, film and art of the distinctive nations of the European Union. 
• Fiesta Asia! - A street fair and a signature celebration that occurs every May in conjunction with Asian Heritage Month Commemorations. It offers outdoor craft exhibits, live performances, food and more. 

Embassy Chef Challenge - An annual ticketed event where the chefs from many of the city's 180 embassies compete by cooking cultural cuisine for the public and provide authentic cocktails, attire and performances. A different iconic Washington, DC venue is chosen each year with past years including Union Station and the National Museum of American Art. 

International Spy Museum- An interactive and captivating exploration into the intriguing world of espionage. As the only public museum dedicated to the global history of spying, it offers an immersive experience for visitors to delve into the covert operations, intelligence-gathering techniques, and real-life stories of spies.  

• 700 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024 

• Covert Action - Uncover the secrets of covert action where visitors can explore the strategies and tactics employed by spies in the field.  
• Bond In Motion - Exhibition of iconic vehicles used on-screen by 007 and his many allies and adversaries, featuring 17 iconic pieces from the EON Productions Archive and the Ian Fleming Foundation. 

• Collection highlights: George Washington Spy Letter, British Special Forces Brass Knuckles, Thomas Jefferson Cipher Disk, Berlin Tunnel Segment, Nixon 'Bugs Me' Pin, 

TOURS 

Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking - See iconic landmarks by the National Mall and Tidal Basin on this three-hour guided bike tour. Visit the White House, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial and more. 

• Departure point: 998 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 

Big Bus Night Tour - See iconic DC landmarks from a different perspective, as they are lit up beautifully at night. 

• Departs from 700 L'Enfant Plaza SW (at crosswalk on NW corner of International Spy Museum)  

SPYHER - Founded by a CIA veteran, Spyher offers espionage-themed tours inspired by real-world events of Intelligence professionals. 

• Capitol Hill Spy Tour – See the neighborhood in a new light after learning about the conspiracies, cover-ups, and assassinations that have taken place on its seemingly quiet streets.  
• Georgetown Spy Tour - Learn a spy mindset as you explore the hidden history of Georgetown. Hear about the crucial role residents played in espionage during WWII and the Soviet Era. And…conduct a secret operation!  

A Tour of Her Own - The first tourism company in Washington, DC to focus exclusively on women's history. 

• Herstorical Portraits at the National Portrait Gallery - This tour brings to life the flesh and blood stories of real notable and notorious American women. From colonial era spies to Civil War activists, suffragists to celebrities, discover the hidden history of American women who helped shape and lead our nation. 
• Herstoric Callboxes – While call boxes were once part of the city's emergency services system, today many stand as public art installations, converted to share the story of eight significant women in the city's history, ranging from Katherine Graham to Alice Paul, Mary Church Terrell to Julia Ward Howe. 

Off the Mall Tours – Designed to get visitors off the National Mall to explore the deep, rich history and culture of the nation's capital. 

• Women of Cold War Washington - An ill-fated artist, an Ambassador's wife, a Baroness, and the most powerful woman in journalism.....What do they all have in common? They were part of the most exclusive club of power-players in Cold War DC. These amazing women made their mark in a man's world using every tool at their disposal. 
• Madams of DC - Washington experienced an unprecedented rise in prostitution during and after the Civil War. During this period, Pennsylvania Avenue became DC's most notorious red-light district, all within sight of the Capitol. Also, a new profession for women was rising, that of the "female lobbyist." This tour will introduce you to some of the most notorious women of mid-19th Century DC. 

DC By Foot – Free walking tours of Washington, DC. 

• Embassy Row - As the city expanded, DC's well-heeled populated a fashionable neighborhood with magnificent mansions and townhouses.  In time, these beautiful structures would attract foreign embassies who helped revive and retain the cultural and social fabric of the area. 
• Lincoln Assassination - "The South wants justice, has waited for it long. She will wait no longer" - John Wilkes Booth. It was a night that changed the history of a nation forever. Journey back in time with your guide to learn about the three-pronged attack designed to decapitate the U.S. Government 

STAY 

The Willard InterContinental Washington DC – Also called the “Residence of Presidents,” every U.S. President has either visited or stayed at The Willard since the 1850s. Abraham Lincoln was smuggled into the hotel shortly before his inauguration; guests often found Ulysses S. Grant in the lobby drinking whiskey and smoking his signature cigars. Woodrow Wilson's League of Nations began to take shape here, and Calvin Coolidge took his second Presidential Oath of Office on property. It is now a favorite during the winter holiday season, for its decorated opulence. 

• 1401 Pennsylvania AV Northwest, Washington, DC 20004   

The Watergate Hotel – Otherwise known as the Scandal Suite, the original Room 214 used in the 1972 Watergate break in is bookable by visitors and outfitted with time-period decor from the Watergate Scandal period in collaboration with Lyn Paolo, the costume designer for popular tv-series, Scandal. 

• 2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037   

Hamilton Hotel DC – The Suffrage Suite was installed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of women winning the right to vote in America and was curated by Glamour magazine Editor-in-Chief Samantha Barry. 

• 600 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 

Hotel Washington - Steps away from the White House law, this luxury hotel offers curated interiors and easy access to DC's top iconic landmarks. 

• 515 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004 

The Hay-Adams - For years, the property served as one of Washington's leading salons, alive with stimulating discussions about literature, art, science, and politics. Famous guests such as Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain, Henry James, and the sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens stopped in from near and far. 

• 800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006 

Union Market Hotel - Once housing the historic Bolgiano Seed Company that provided lawn seeds for the White House, the now-boutique hotel in Union Market District has rebranded with foliage-rich spaces like the Treehouse Rooftop lounge.  

• 411 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002