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Your Guide to the Best Craft Beers in the Washington DC Area

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 07:48:17 GMT

If you are thinking about enjoying the tastes of Washington DC, you cannot miss out on some of the most exciting craft beer breweries.

Are you looking for the best craft beers in Washington, DC? Look no further! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find your favorite local brews. From breweries to pubs, we’ve got it all covered. Whether you're a fan of IPAs or prefer a stout, there's something for everyone here. Grab a beer, and follow along on our tour of some of the best craft beers in Washington, DC!

Read on to learn about the craft beer scene around our nation's capital.

Port City Brewing Company

Situated in the magnificent port city of Alexandria, Virginia, Port City Brewing Company is a place to savor, explore and celebrate amazing beer creations. From tastings to tours and events, there are many ways to discover why this brewery is so beloved!

Port City Brewing Company opened its doors in February 2011, founded by Bill and Karen Butcher. They offer award-winning seasonal, occasional, and specialty beers; each brewed to be a delicious and well-balanced drink. They also have year-round brews that you can always count on to be available.

Port City Brewing Company only uses the highest quality ingredients to craft delicious beers bursting with creativity. They have a popular tasting room where you can explore their beer portfolio. The tasting room provides a casual setting for friends, family, and pets to enjoy award-winning beers.

While you're there, ask to experience the crisp and citrusy flavor of Optimal Wit. Crafted in the traditional Belgian style, this beer offers layers of complex flavor. Made with 100% Virginia-grown wheat and a perfect blend of spices such as Spanish orange peel, coriander, and grains of paradise, Optimal Wit is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it year-round with an ABV of 4.9%, an IBU of 12.5, and a hazy pale color.

Don't stop at Optimal Wit, though. You should also get a sample of their year-round Monumental IPA. A perfect harmony of hop bitterness and malted sweetness is present in this IPA , making it a truly exquisite drinking experience.

7 Locks Brewing

7 Locks Brewing began with a mission: to craft well-executed, thoughtful beers reflective of their vision of what local beer should be. With an emphasis on hospitality and inclusiveness, they have created a space for the community to come together and enjoy the award-winning beer.

Since 2015, 7 Locks Brewing has become an integral component of the local Maryland community, offering an array of brews that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're new to craft beer or are looking for something unique, this spot is sure to have something perfect for you.

Located in the heart of Rockville, 7 Locks Brewing welcomes visitors to their 7,200 square-foot breweries and taproom. Enjoy a beer on tap or flight with friends, or take in some live music from local musicians on Saturdays. You'll also have access to food trucks outside the building for tasty treats.

And don’t forget the chance to help out Maryland charities! 7 Locks Brewing proudly supports animal welfare organizations and environmental groups – causes close to their hearts. Beer lovers throughout Maryland and DC can find 7 Locks Brews at restaurants, bars, and many other retail locations.

Silver Branch Brewing Company

At Silver Branch Brewing Company, guests can enjoy the highest quality beer inspired by traditions from all over Europe and America. Representing four different cultures--Belgium, the British Isles, Central Europe, and the Americas--the four flagship beers offer an array of tastes to explore.

The taproom and Biergarten, located in downtown Silver Spring, MD, provide a unique atmosphere encapsulating the various brewing cultures. Guests can choose to relax in a classic American taproom or enjoy the lively atmosphere of a German beer hall. Come experience gemütlichkeit at its finest! This is the spot to bring all of your closest friends to.

Brookland Pint

If you're looking to tantalize your taste buds with new and exciting flavors, Brookland Pint is the perfect place to purchase a drink! American craft beer is their specialty, and it helps reduce transatlantic shipping and supports local economies.

Brookland Pint immerses you in the flavor experience. Their seasonal menu, crafted by chefs, is mainly sourced from regional farms. The ingredients pair perfectly with their great selection of craft beers - making it the go-to spot for all beer lovers.

Brookland Pint hopes to be environmental stewards in the community, showcasing a better way of doing business through the spirit of American craft beer, and people love it! Composting the bulk of their waste means that landfills are impacted less, which is great for the planet.

Furthermore, much of their equipment, furniture, construction materials, and design elements have been recycled or reclaimed as eco-friendly. And the brewery's energy source comes from windmill farms to provide green energy credits.

Additionally, about 95% of staff live within walking distance, reducing parking problems, traffic flow, and overall carbon footprint to a minimum. The best part, of course, is their tasty drink menu.

The drink menu is always evolving at Brookland Pint. Here are some of their favorite beers:

• Madonna IPA – Imperial / Double 8% ABV, 90 IBU from Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
• Snow Pants Stout – Oatmeal 8.5% ABV, 55 IBU from Union Craft Brewing
• Christmas Morning Stout – Imperial / Double Milk 9.2% ABV, 55 IBU from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
• Gingerbread Stout – Imperial / Double Milk 9.2% ABV, 55 IBU from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery

Whether a light pilsner or an imperial stout, they'll have something that suits your taste. Their seasonal offerings ensure you can find a delicious craft beer no matter the time of year.

Plan Your Craft Beer Trip to Washington DC

There you have it! Now you know where you can start exploring Washington, DC's amazing brewery scene.

Are you ready to experience some of the best craft breweries firsthand? Then it's time to plan your trip to the nation's capital. Contact us today for more information on what we have to offer.

From craft beer brewery tours to historic day trips, we know how to make your trip to Washington D.C. one you'll never forget! Let one of our team members tell you how our services can help you. Happy travels!

When Exactly Is the Best Time to Visit DC?

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 14:44:00 GMT

There is a lot that goes into planning a trip to Washington, DC. This informative guide breaks down the best time to visit DC.

Last year, more than 19 million visitors traveled to Washington, DC, spending a total of $5.4 billion in tourism dollars. Our nation's capital city stands as an icon of our history. There's so much to see and do in the area, bringing people from far and wide to visit each year.

However, what's the best time to visit DC? Whether you plan on going during the peak travel season or avoiding large crowds by going off-season, we're here to give you insider tips.

Read on to find out the best time to book a trip, what you can do while there, and how to make the most of your vacation.

Peak Season

If you've never been to DC before, the peak tourism season is around late March to early April, which aligns with when the cherry blossoms bloom . The National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place during this time, bringing visitors from all over the nation and beyond.

Each year, the National Park Service determines the peak bloom time. It's usually around the first week of April, though it can vary depending on weather and other factors.

As you might expect, this is the busiest time of year to visit the capital. If you're planning a trip, be sure to consider the crowds as well as hotel prices. Expect to see increased hotel rates during this time of year.

In addition to the cherry blossoms, many hotels fill with business travelers visiting to attend conferences and conventions. Plus, you'll see an increase in visitors once kids are off from school and families can travel together.

The summer months, between June and August, tend to be the warmest and busiest in DC. Expect temperatures to be around the low to high 80s, and it can get humid. Make sure to dress right and stay hydrated if you plan to walk around the area and see the sights.

Low Season

If you'd rather avoid the crowds, December, January, and February are considered the low season. Temperatures tend to be much lower, kids are in school, and roads can be snowy. That said, there's still plenty to do, even in the off-season!

Hotel prices tend to be much lower in the winter, which can benefit you if you're looking for a great deal.

If you prefer to visit in the fall to see the spectacular changing leaves, October or November make a great time to book that trip. Temperatures are cooler, but you'll typically only need a light jacket. It's more comfortable walking around the city and taking in the sights, and you have fewer tourists to deal with.

That said, fall is still a busier time to visit DC than winter. Plus, there are always business travelers in the area, so be sure to book your accommodations well in advance.

Considering the Weather

The weather in Washington, DC is usually mild , with four seasons.

Summers tend to be hot and humid, ranging from the low 80s to the high 90s. July and August are the warmest months, so plan to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. The good news is that there are many air-conditioned museums, restaurants, and shops to see throughout the area.

Spring and fall are mild and pleasant for tours and hiking. However, tourism sees an uptick around this time for these reasons as well as for the many festivals and events that take place. Be sure to plan your itinerary in advance.

Winters in DC are usually mild as well, averaging around the 30s and 40s. Of course, the area can also see cold snaps, and it isn't uncommon to see cold and snowy conditions.

Festivals and Events: Month by Month

There are so many things to do in DC that you're sure to find fun activities and spots to visit regardless of when you go. If you're really interested in an event, then the best time to visit DC is during that time of year.

Here are some of the biggest festivals and events in the area by month.

January

January and February are the coldest times of the year but also the least busy times to visit DC. It makes a great vacation spot if you love the idea of outdoor ice skating, snowy days, and warm drinks by the fire.

There are also plenty of concerts, musicals, and sporting events to attend. You can experience all the culture of the city while staying toasty.

The biggest events include Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. See the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial or watch the parade.

February

Planning a Valentine's Day vacation? DC can be the perfect backdrop to your romantic holiday. Spend some time with your partner, go on a winery or brewery tour , and enjoy one of DC's many high-class hotels.

You might also want to celebrate Chinese New Year and watch some of the performances and parades.

March

March begins the spring kickoff when tourism picks up. Temperatures tend to average in the 50s and 60s, though you should prepare for rain.

There are several St. Patrick's Day parades to see, and the cherry blossoms start to bloom around this time. In fact, the National Cherry Blossom Festival begins in late March.

April

The weather is warmer in April, making it the ideal time to walk around the city and take in all the sights, including outdoor attractions.

Festivities for the National Cherry Blossom Festival continue as people flock to see the beautiful trees around the Tidal Basin. Peak bloom is usually the first week or two of April.

Kids love the White House Easter Egg Roll, which features activities for the whole family all on the White House's lawn. This unique tradition of rolling eggs down Capitol Hill has been around for over 100 years.

May

The weather in Washington, DC in May is usually between the 50s and the 70s, making it perfect walking weather. Sometimes, it may reach the 80s, so be sure to check the weather and pack accordingly.

Memorial Day weekend tends to be very busy. One of the benefits of traveling to DC is that you can partake in the many events and festivals in a place so closely tied to our history.

What to Do on a Trip to Washington DC

sites@tailorbrands.com — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 11:38:31 GMT

Are you thinking about traveling to Washington DC but aren't sure what to do while you're there? This is what to do during a trip to Washington DC

Washington D.C. tourism has risen 44% since 2020. It's not much of a surprise, however, since there are so many great things to do in Washington DC.

If you're planning a trip to Washington DC, you'll have your work cut out for you. There are a lot of great landmarks, historic sites, and attractions to check out, so you'll have to think carefully about what you want to make room for in your itinerary.

Fortunately, we're here to help. Here's what you should do on your next trip to Washington DC.

Visit The White House

No list of things to do in Washington, D.C. would be complete without a suggestion to visit The White House. The White House is the residence of the country's president and may just be the most famous building in the world.

You're free to go stand outside the property and admire the outside of the building and take photos. However, it's possible to take a tour inside as well. To do so, you'll need to formally apply through your member of congress or at your country's embassy in Washington D.C. Security is tight, however, so you may or may not get a chance to go inside.

At the very least, however, you'll want to stop by and take a look at The White House itself and the gate at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Check Out the Lincoln Memorial

Another very iconic landmark in Washington D.C. is the Lincoln Memorial. The Lincoln Memorial is seated at the end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and the western end of the popular National Mall.

This landmark is home to a 19-foot-tall marble statue of the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, and is well worth a visit while you're in D.C.

The Lincoln statute is very impressive, as is the neoclassical temple the statue is housed in. The Lincoln Memorial was modeled after the Parthenon in Greece and was designed by architect Henry Bacon.

Be sure to pay your respects to one of the country's most well-known presidents while you're in the city by visiting The Lincoln Memorial.

Take a Walk at the National Mall

The National Mall stretches from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial. It's also a great jumping-off point for seeing some of the best museums and monuments in D.C.

The National Mall is a great place to take a long walk and visit some of the nearby sights and landmarks. It features a two-mile stretch that contains a grassy area, trees, and a pond.

Crowds are to be expected at The National Mall, so you might want to go earlier in the day if you want to have a quieter stroll while visiting.

Tour the U.S. Capitol Building

The United States Capitol building is located on the eastern side of The National Mall and is also worth a visit while you're in the area. The U.S. Capitol is the home of the legislative branch of Congress in which both the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate conduct their business.

The building has been around since 1800 and it's well worth taking a tour. You can even spend your time watching a session of Congress when it's in session if you're interested in doing so.

Pay Respects at the Arlington National Cemetery

Located a few minutes from downtown D.C. in Arlington, VA, you may also want to visit the Arlington National Cemetery.

This cemetery is the most famous in the country and is where over 300,000 veterans of American conflicts rest. The cemetery is the final resting place for veterans from every American conflict to date including the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Among these graves, you'll find several that are incredibly important and interesting including the grave of John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States. You can also view the Eternal Flame at this site as well.

While at the cemetery, you can also watch the guard ceremony that happens every half hour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier .

Do Some Reading at the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress in Washington D.C. is the biggest library in the world and is home to many important historical documents.

The Library of Congress contains over 160 million different items including maps, films, manuscripts, and more. There are over 30 million books that are held within the 3 buildings.

If visiting the library, you can take a free one-hour guided tour and learn more about the library's interesting history. In addition to seeing the massive collection, you can also visit exhibitions and galleries at the Library of Congress as well.

Explore a Few Smithsonian Museums

There are 19 Smithsonian Institution museums in Washington D.C. along with the National Zoological Park.

You'll find many interesting Smithsonian museums to explore in D.C. including the National Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum, the Natural History Museum, and many more. Visiting at least a few of these on your visit to D.C. will be well worth it, so be sure to look at the list of museums and find one that piques your curiosity.

Several Smithsonian museums are located right next to The National Mall, so you won't have far to go to check a few of them out.

Learn About Espionage at the International Spy Museum

One of the most interesting museums that Washington D.C. has to offer is the International Spy Museum.

The museum is home to the largest collection of spy-related items and artifacts that the world has to offer. The museum does a great job of teaching visitors about the role of spies from a global perspective. This independent non-profit museum is a fascinating place to explore and you'll be able to see interactive exhibitions and installations that aren't found anywhere else.

Be sure to check out this unique museum if you're in Washington D.C. if you want to get some insight into the world of espionage.

See a Show at The Kennedy Center

If you're interested in the performing arts, then you might want to go see a show at the popular John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The Kennedy Center is the official home of the National Symphony Orchestra as well as the Washington National Opera. The center features many performances including performances at 6 pm each day that are free to attend. There's a variety of entertainment that's hosted on the center's Millenium Stage, so you're sure to find a performance that you and your family can enjoy.

If you're interested in being entertained by music, theater, opera, or ballet, there are many options in Washington D.C. However, The Kennedy Center serves as one of the most renowned and popular.

Learn About Lincoln at Ford's Theatre

If you're interested in checking out more spots for theatre in the area, you may also want to visit Ford's Theatre. This theatre is also the location of Abraham Lincoln's assassination and is an important piece of history.

When visiting Ford's Theatre you can get a tour and learn more about what happened on the day of Lincoln's assassination.

In addition to this, there are interactive exhibits in the museum at the Ford's Theatre. At the museum, you can learn more about Lincoln's presidency, his assassination, and the Civil War.

Explore the Georgetown Neighborhood

If you decide to travel to Washington DC, you may want to visit the Georgetown neighborhood. In this historic neighborhood, you'll find cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, and plenty of charm.

Georgetown is very different from the rest of the city and offers visitors a great experience for a day out exploring. You'll find plenty of great views by the Washington Harbour as well as plenty of shopping spots and fine dining establishments to check out.

While in Georgetown, make sure you stop by Georgetown Cupcake, an incredibly popular bakery that crafts gourmet cupcakes that visitors and residents love.

Take a Winery and Brewery Tour

In our opinion, one of the best things you can do when visiting Washington D.C. is to take a winery or brewery tour .

There are some great wineries and breweries in the region near D.C. and no shortage of great drinks to try out for yourself. There's also a lot of great scenery to view in the region as well as plenty of historic sites from early colonial America that you may want to see up close.

If you want to see more of the areas surrounding D.C., then taking a historic day trip or going on a winery or brewery tour can be a great way to get to know them a little better.

Deciding What to Do on Your Trip to Washington DC

If you're planning a trip to Washington DC, make sure that you don't miss anything amazing. Try to do some of the things listed above if you want to have an unforgettable experience with your family while in the area.

Want to take a day trip or tour while in Washington D.C.? Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer.