The annual Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) from America’s Credit Unions is just around the corner. Soon credit union leaders, policymakers, vendors, and advocates from across the country will convene to discuss key trends shaping the industry and how to further improve the financial lives of their communities.
The itinerary is jam-packed this year, as always, so to make planning your free time a breeze, Callahan & Associates has compiled some recommendations for food and fun, all near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, where the event takes place.
Sips, Sweets & Savory Treats
For coffee lovers…
Dua Coffee DC is this Jakarta, Indonesia-based company’s first U.S. location, and is regularly
praised as a local favorite. Located just a short Uber ride from the convention center, it offers quality Indonesian coffee in a bright and stylish café.
Other options within walking distance include Tatte Bakery and Café and La Colombe.
For something on the go…
Need a quick snack or something to drink? Check out Pret a Manger, a counter-serve chain for ready-made sandwiches, or Dupont Market, which is a little farther away but offers similar fare.
There are also two Wawas, a CVS, a Walgreens, and a 7-Eleven near the conference for any convenience store needs.
For plant-based diets…
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just searching for a plant-based dining option, there are several options near the convention center. A handful of online rankings highlighted Shouk, a Middle Eastern-inspired counter-serve joint with vegan sandwiches, dips, salads, and snacks.
For a more fine-dining experience, check out Elizabeth’s, which offers a weekly prix fixe tasting menu of high-end vegan cuisine.
For your sweet tooth…
Blood sugar low after a full day of breakout sessions?
For baked goods, one of the city’s highest-rated dessert options is Tatte Bakery and Café (mentioned above as also having good coffee). There is also A Baked Joint, whose sister bakery Baked & Wired, is #2 for desserts on Trip Advisor if you need a quick cupcake or croissant fix.
When it comes to ice cream, check out Dolcezza Gelato & Coffee. Not only has it been featured in publications including Bon Appetit and the New York Times, it also consistently wins local awards for best ice cream. The gelato is made fresh daily in small batches using locally sourced ingredients.
For happy hour…
Nearly any bar or restaurant will offer a happy hour, but Ottoman Taverna, a Turkish restaurant, offers a unique atmosphere and affordable prices, with many options for beer, wine, or cocktails at $8 or less.
Similarly, Yard House features an extensive craft beer selection and has a happy hour menu every Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Honorable mention goes to Present Company Public House.
For late night cravings…
Nor surprisingly for a city the size of D.C., plenty of spots are open until 11:30 p.m. or later during the week. But for those who stay up and out a bit later, have no fear.
A local favorite for ramen, Chaplin’s stays open until 1:45 a.m., serving warm noodle-based dishes along with a robust drink menu. Around the corner, TallBoy serves food until last call each night, meaning smoked wings, grilled cheese, and more are available as late as 3 a.m.
Downtime Activities Day & Night
Get Those Steps In!
The Tidal Basin area, Georgetown’s waterfront, and the bustling U Street Corridor, known for its vibrant nightlife, are all great places for an evening stroll. And even for GAC veterans, the
National Mall at night and surrounding monuments are must-see experiences.
Not sure where to start? For those with the time – and the right footwear – one blogger has assembled a meticulous self-guided, three-hour walking tour.
Shop Till You Drop?
Need some retail therapy? You’re in the right place.
CityCenterDC is downtown’s signature neighborhood and features world-class brands including Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany. There are also a wide variety of culinary options to explore there, as well.
In Dupont Circle, bookworms can browse Kramers, while comic fans should stop by Fantom Comics. There is also the Diplomatic Duty-Free Shop, a popular place to pick up cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches and more.
Games, Giggles, And More …
For entertainment, there are several nighttime programs at the historic Kennedy Center. You can check what will be playing the week of the event here. This website also has a great guide to all live performances that will be playing across the city’s numerous venues.
If you’re feeling playful, you can release your inner lumberjack at Kick Axe Throwing DC or really test the strength of your workplace relationships at The Escape Game DC.
And you can’t forget about Chinatown! While small in comparison to others around the world, it still has a storied history.
