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​Artistic connoisseurs and cultural enthusiasts from around the globe visit Washington DC for good reason. A walk through the city’s arts and culture scene is a trip around the world and throughout history, offering up the best modern shows and art alongside longtime classics and historic masterpieces. Washington offers such an incredible range of international collections, shows and exhibitions that it may seem overwhelming. To make creating your itinerary and deciding which things to do in DC just a bit easier, we’ve compiled a list of four of our favorites for you.

1. Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

Offering breathtaking contemporary architecture accompanied by jaw-dropping art displays, the Hirshhorn is known for showcasing alternative forms and perspectives of contemporary and modern art. The third-floor Lerner Room offers incredible views of the city’s skyline, and the spectacular Sculpture Garden is simply a must-see. From Auguste Rodin’s The Burghers of Calais to David Smith’s Cubi XII and Yoko Ono’s Wish Tree, there are plenty of works to enthrall and stir visitors of all ages. It’s even worth braving the cold to see!

2. National Gallery of Art
Offering two buildings of extensive collections, the National Gallery of Art also features the breathtaking and dynamic light sculpture experience, Multiverse by Leo Villareal. Enjoy it while taking the moving walkway from the East to the West Building. The West Building was created with a rotunda modeled on the ancient Roman Pantheon and offers works displayed by period and nation of origin within galleries decorated to reflect each country and era. The modernist East Building exhibits more contemporary art within a spellbinding setting of spare lines and soaring shapes. And don’t miss the gallery’s impressive outdoor sculpture garden, featuring a fabulous fountain in warm weather that becomes an ice rink during the winter months. It’s a work of art in itself!

3. Freer Gallery of Art & Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
For those fascinated by Asian art and opulence, these two neighboring museums offer vibrant, colorful collections to meander through, showcasing over 40,000 objects dating from the Neolithic period through modern times – complemented by an impressive selection of American artworks of the aesthetic movement, including the celebrated Peacock Room. From America to Asia, the exquisite artwork, impressive research and dynamic programs at this lesser-known cultural gem offer a world of their own. We can’t get enough of the Chinese jades and ancient bronzes displayed in the Sackler Gallery!

4. The Kennedy Center  From concerts and ballets to Broadway shows and musicals, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a spellbinding memorial venue that pays living tribute to JFK’s passion for all things creative. Step inside the Hall of States to be greeted by flags from each of the 50 states. Take a trip to the Terrace Level Theatre Lab to see Shear Madness, a record-breaking comedy whodunit with more than 13,200 performances under its belt. Don’t worry if you aren’t able to get (or afford!) tickets in advance; the Millennium Stage here offers free performances with no ticket required virtually every day. Genres celebrated at the Kennedy Center include chamber and classical music, dance in all its forms, opera, vocal concerts, choirs, orchestras, musicians and more. There’s always something wonderful playing here!
 
If none of these incredible establishments strikes the right cultural chord for you, we can easily suggest many more unique and wonderful theater venues and museums to enjoy. And don’t forget to check out our own list of local attractions for more information on things to see and do, places to eat and drink, and shopping galore in Washington, DC.

We may be partial, but at The Wink, we think that Washington DC offers some of the best things to do during the holiday season. So if you’re looking for Christmas lights, you’re in luck. Here are our top five favorite holiday light displays and events in DC. 

The National Christmas
   Obviously, this one tops our list. With the famed tree lighting ceremony held on November 30th, the Christmas season kicks into gear in Washington DC. The ceremony itself includes A-list performers, but never fear. Even if you miss the initial lighting, you can watch it happen again every evening at 4:30 p.m. – with accompanying musical performances throughout the holiday season. The tree stays lit until 10:00 p.m. each night, but you can visit President’s Park on the White House Ellipse starting at 10:00 a.m. to enjoy the decorations. Don’t forget to take time to take in the surrounding trees, each decorated with handmade ornaments representing all 50 US states and 6 territories.

Zoo Lights
   Even for those who don’t love animals, this free light exhibit powered by Pepco is worth experiencing at least once. The National Zoo offers over 500,000 LEDs, animated light installations, laser light shows, live musical performances, holiday shopping, a Gingerbread Village and much more from November 23rd – January 1st. Of course, if you do love animals the way we do, there’s the added bonus of viewing the zoo’s exceptional collection while they are in nighttime mode – an entirely new set of behaviors for many nocturnal types. The exhibit is closed Dec. 24, 25 & 31 for the holidays

Georgetown GLOW
   For something a bit different, discover an incredible, curated exhibition of outdoor light-art. The season shines in a truly unique way, set against the impressive and historic backdrop of the oldest neighborhood in Washington DC. The 5th year of this popular holiday event runs from December 1st through January 6th, with the art works sparkling with brilliant lights from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. each night.  


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Season's Greenings: All Aboard!
   The holiday means different things to different folks, and at the US Botanic Garden, this year it means trains! Their popular holiday show, Season's Greetings, showcases recreations of classic train stations from all over the country – made from plant materials. Stations include St. Louis' Union Station, New York City's Grand Central Terminal, Washington, D.C.'s Union Station and more. Lots of blooms are also displayed at the Conservatory, including a special exhibit of both heirloom and new poinsettia varieties. The show runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., free of charge, from November 22nd – January 1st. On select Tuesday and Thursday evenings,the Conservatory is open until 8:00 p.m. with live seasonal music.

Christmas Wreaths at Union Station
   Speaking of trains, DC’s Union Station is the perfect place to get in some holiday shopping. You’ll be greeted by three colossal Christmas wreaths, along with thousands of twinkling lights, holiday decorations, and music throughout. Festive food, drink, gifts, and their own holiday model train display are highlights here, along with the spectacular Norwegian Christmas Tree – gifted from the people of Norway.


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When it comes to lodging in DC during the holiday season, naturally we suggest The Wink.We think it’s the best place to stay in the capitol city, not just for enjoying holiday lights, but for all your business and pleasure travel. Happy Holidays!

We get it. No matter which side of the issues you are on, you want your voice to be heard – and you want to make your presence known. That’s why The Wink is the perfect place to stay when you’re in DC to make a difference. We have years of experience in helping out guests get to and from important events, protests and marches in the nation’s capital – and we have lots of helpful insider tips to share. After all, we live here!

March for Life
Date: Friday, January 18th, 2019

Location: Rally held on the National Mall at 12th St, between Madison Drive & Jefferson Drive. March follows starting between 12th and 14th Streets at Constitution Avenue, and works its way up to the Supreme Court and Capitol Building.

Time: Rally starts at 12:00 p.m.; March starts at 1:00 p.m.
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Getting There: Take the Metro to either Federal Triangle, Smithsonian or Metro Center and walk to the rally site.
 


​The world’s largest pro-life event is gearing up for an impressive turnout in 2019. Sharing a vision for a culture of life, supporters will participate in the 46th annual march dedicated to showing their wholehearted support for an end to abortion. This year the event will be preceded by a live podcast with Ben Shapiro starting at 10:00 a.m., followed by a musical opening with Sidewalk Prophets before the rally. After the rally and march, there will be Silent No More testimonies outside of the Supreme Court. Then, it’s time to head over to the March for Life Expo, where you can connect with pro-life ministries and organizations, network with like-minded folks, get free stuff and much more! 

Women's March
Date: Saturday, January 19th, 2019

Location: The March starts outside of the White House. The rest of the route is still pending; check their website for the latest updates.

Time: 10:00 a.m.

​Getting There: Take the Metro to either Farragut West Metro Station or the McPherson Square Metro Station, both on the Blue and Orange Lines, and walk to the Pennsylvania Avenue side of the White House.
 


​The Women’s March just announced the date for their annual march, and women across the nation are once again planning to descend on DC to show their support. The mission? To gather the power of the many diverse women that make up our great nation’s communities together in order to generate marked political and social change. This women-led movement also inspires youth and men to come out and show their support, while encouraging new organizers and activists to get involved in their own local communities through synchronized marches and ongoing events. Women’s March is also focused on education regarding women’s issues through trainings, outreach programs and activities across the country, with a focus on dismantling existing systems of oppression through nonviolent protest and resistance while building inclusive programs and groups directed by dignity, self-determination and respect.

General Tips and Information
With hundreds of thousands of people attending these events, there are some general things that it’s helpful to know when you are planning for your event. Luckily, we have all the inside info.

• Take the Metro!!
  If you are driving in to DC, park at the closest metro and then take the train in to your event. If you are staying in DC, ask your concierge for tips on the best way to get to your march via public transportation from your hotel. A few tips to help make your metro experience go more smoothly:

1. Expect it to be crowed, especially during rush hour, so be prepared and arrive early.
2. Buy your card ahead of time, and have it ready before you walk into the station and in your hand before you enter the fare gate.
3. Don’t wait for the gate to close after the person ahead of you; simply keep walking and tap your card as you pass.

• Dress for the Weather
  It’s January in Washington, DC, folks – and that means you can expect it to be cold, with the possibility of snow, sleet, freezing rain or even just plain rain. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes that you can stand or walk in all day, and dress in warm, comfortable layers.
• Plan Ahead
  Knowing where and when you will meet up with others and your metro route and march route ahead of time will make you feel far more relaxed and less stressed on the big day.
• Be Respectful of Others!!
  Play nice. Remember that a lot of folks with different opinions are in town, and how you behave reflects not only on you, but on the event you are here to support. Show everyone that you are an intelligent, respectful, well-behaved individual who is proudly and politely supporting your cause.

 
Obviously, we think our conveniently located Washington hotel  offers you with the best place to stay in DC, not just for attending your event, but so that you can squeeze in some time to enjoy all that the Dupont Circle area has to offer during your stay. We also have an incredibly helpful staff ready to point you in the right direction for your march – and for fabulous dining and local attraction options. We even offer valet parking onsite, in case you decide to drive in to town and then take the metro. No matter which side of the issues you’re on, we have your back!

If you’re planning to visit Washington DC this fall, you’re in luck! October and the following fall months offer visitors plenty of things to do, including a host of unique festivals, area attractions, and popular events in DC. The Wink hotel. is situated conveniently close to the best of everything the capital city has to offer, making it the perfect base for your next visit. Here are five of our fall faves to consider.

1. Sauf Haus Bier Hall & Garden Nothing says fall quite like a classic beerfest! Luckily, right here in Dupont Circle you can find a lively two-level Beer Garden featuring a rooftop hall serving up authentic German beer and food. Best of all, they’re open all year round, so you can enjoy the atmosphere of Oktoberfest any time you’re in town. And you get some modern extras, like live acoustic music on Thursdays and plenty of TVs for watching your favorite fall sports. Prost!

​2. Wunder Garten If you prefer an outdoor setting to enjoy the fall weather while toasting, this climate-controlled patio features not only classic German and Austrian beer, but local brews as well as wine, cider, and snacks. There’s even a firepit serving up delicious S’mores. And if you want something more filling, CaliBurger DC delivers their tasty offerings to you right at Wunder Garten. We call that wunderfull!

3. All Things Go Fall Classic For a fabulous fall festival, visit one of the District’s coolest neighborhoods, Union Market, for this music event that also features plenty of delicious local food to savor. Musical performances this year include Maggie Rogers, Carly Rae Jepsen, Billie Elish, BØRNS, and Betty Who. 

4. H Street Festival One of the best parts of DC is its many distinctive neighborhoods. What started as a block party has grown into one of the most popular and diverse fall events in DC. The festival offers distinct stages featuring music, dance, fashion, arts, poetry, and more, all celebrating the many cultures and heritages that combine to create our nation’s capital. Choose to simply be a spectator, or get involved at the many interactive art and exhibitor stations set up along the 11 blocks that this event encompasses. There is truly something for everyone here!

5. Snallygaster Another fall festival option is Snallygaster, showcasing more than 300 craft ciders and beers from more than 120 breweries at booths spread out along famed Pennsylvania Avenue. This highly-anticipated event also features a fantastic selection of DC’s popular food trucks accompanied by a great lineup of live music. You’ll have a monstrously good time!

If you’re planning a fall visit to Washington DC, our conveniently located hotel  provides you with the perfect base to enjoy all that the area has to offer. For more information on these or other fall events 

Planning to host a meeting Washington, DC this year? Why not choose The Wink as your venue? Placing you and your attendees perfectly in the midst of the best of everything Washington DC has to offer, our hotel is the perfect setting for success. Here’s why.

1. Inspiring Venues 
​All of the carefully kept venues at The Wink are designed for comfort, style, and getting down to business. Fashioned with a focus on both connectivity and creativity, we imbue business meetings and corporate events at our hotel with sophistication and motivation. Our tech-savvy venues are perfect for everything from training seminars and board meetings to holiday dinners and awards banquets – and we can easily host from 14 to 300 of your most dedicated employees and valued guests.

2. Ideal Location
Location, location, location. There’s a reason why event planners spend so much time choosing the setting for successful events. The Wink is situated in the very heart of DC’s exciting Dupont Circle neighborhood, placing you and your guests within easy reach of shopping, dining, theater, nightlife, and the arts. It’s the perfect place for team-building activities like attending a Kennedy Center show or enjoying a dinner cruise on the Potomac River. And even if you never leave the hotel, you’ll sense the energy of the thriving tech, fashion, art, and cultural scene that surrounds you.

3. Fabulous Food
At The Wink, we invite you and your guests to arrive hungry, because we feature some of the most mouthwatering event catering menus you’ll find in Washington DC. Featuring a focus on seasonal, locally grown ingredients with always customizable menus, our goal is to leave you and your attendees satisfied and fueled up for success, from start to finish.

4. Event Planning Expertise
Seriously. Our experienced staff has worked with politicians and diplomats, so we know how to host exceptional events that are first class in every way. All we need you to provide is a venue selection and a guest list, and we can take care of all the details for you. Or, we can walk you through the specifics and let you hand-pick every element to create your event. Either way, you can count on our versatile, highly trained staff to ensure that everything goes off flawlessly!

5. Holiday Celebrations Extraordinaire
Washing DC’s been there, done that crowd has taught us the importance of making every event unique. From wining and dining to just the right entertainment and décor, we offer everything from state-of-the-art audiovisuals to classic surrounding in our exclusive venues. From intimate dinners to ballroom galas, we have you covered!


For an inspiring location to exceptional accommodations,every event at The Wink is unforgettable. Contact us today,and start planning for success!