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 the trends shaping the industry and how to further improve the financial lives of their communities. The event’s itinerary always is jam-packed, so to make planning free time a breeze, Callahan & Associates offers recommendations for things to do in DC near the GAC’s Walter E. Washington Convention Center home base.
Sips, Sweets, And 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…
Vegetarians, vegans, or those just searching for a plant-based dining option have 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 fine-dining experience, check out Elizabeth’s, which offers a weekly prix fixe tasting menu of high-end vegan cuisine.
For a 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). Tor a quick cupcake or croissant fix there is also A Baked Joint, whose sister bakery, Baked & Wired, is No. 2 for desserts on Trip Advisor .
When it comes to ice cream, check out Dolcezza Gelato & Coffee. It has not only been featured in publications including Bon Appetit and the New York Times but 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 3-6 p.m. Honorable mention goes to Present Company Public House.
For late night cravings…
Nor surprisingly for a city the size of DC, 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 And 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?
For retail therapy, CityCenterDC is downtown’s signature neighborhood and features world-class brands including Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany. There are also a variety of culinary options to explore there.
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. Check out the calendar to see what will be playing the week of the event. Washington.org also has a great guide to all live performances that will be playing across the city’s numerous venues.
Those feeling playful can release their inner lumberjack at Kick Axe Throwing DC or really test the strength of workplace relationships at The Escape Game DC.
And don’t forget about Chinatown! Although small compared to others around the world, it has a storied history worth checking out.
Looking for more? Find Callahan’s previous things-to-do-in DC coverage on CreditUnions.com. “The Callahan Guide To Food And Fun During The 2023 GAC,” “The Callahan Guide To Eat, Drink, And Be Merry During The 2022 GAC,” and “5 Things To Do In DC During The GAC.”