Back in October my boyfriend gifted me with tickets for a weekend getaway in D.C. for my birthday. We figured we could use an escape before the craziness of the holidays kicked in so we packed our carry ons and set out for D.C. earlier this month. It was the first time either of us had been to D.C. and we had a blast exploring the sights and taking in the city. We stayed in Alexandria, VA at the Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa, which was a short 15 minute Uber ride to D.C. 

The next day we hit D.C.; I found it to be such a beautiful city, despite the winter chill. After brunching on johnny cakes and omelets at The Partisan, we spent the afternoon exploring the Newseum. I was a journalism major in college so visiting the Newseum was at the top of my to-do list while we were in town and it certainly did not disappoint. We spent the entire afternoon exploring the various exhibits. If you're ever in D.C. I highly recommend this museum. It's six floors of enriching history and the journalists and figures who dedicate their lives to reporting it to the world. 

After we left the Newseum it was dark so we spent the evening walking near the Capitol building on Capitol Hill before heading back to Alexandria to rest up and change before dinner. We woke up early the next morning to enjoy an indulgent breakfast at Brabo. Brabo is a part of the Kimpton family and was located on-site at the Lorien, so we didn't have to go far in search of a great meal! We couldn't resist starting the morning with waffles and mimosas. I had the The Devon (topped with fresh cranberry compote and Devonshire cream) while Anthony opted for The Elvis (topped with peanut butter, banana, and bacon). After a delicious meal we headed back to D.C. for a bit to explore the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial by day.

After seeing the sites we retreated to the hotel spa to indulge in their Shrug It Off express massage service. A quick 25 minute, targeted massage was a great way to end the day before heading to the airport and flying back to Boston. It was a quick trip but we managed to see most of the sights and enjoy some really great meals. I wish we could have stayed longer, but that just means another trip to D.C. is absolutely necessary!