Capitol Hill

At some point during your time in DC, you'll see a big building shaped like a wedding cake on the horizon. That's the Capitol building, kiddies. Maybe you've heard of it? It's where this group called Congress helps make laws and stuff. Like in that Schoolhouse Rock episode. And if you squint real hard, you can see a woman standing on top of it. She's not about to jump, she's actually the Statue of Freedom, and she's been standing up there for about 148 years (if you don't the time in 1993 she was brought down to get restored).

Bright young people in impeccable suits are particularly present here, fighting for an opportunity to climb the political ladder. They walk by in chattering, texting droves and you can feel their ambition in the air as if it's wafting off of them. The neighborhood itself is one of the most beautiful (and most expensive) places to live in the city. Also one of the most family-friendly, since, for once thing, all the crazy partying tends to go on around Georgetown or Adams Morgan.

For a night out, there are some fantastic pizza spots, particularly Seventh Hill and We, the Pizza (constitutional puns abound in DC). For Mexican, Tortilla Coast is a-mazing, and offers a cheap pitcher of patriotic, red-white-and-blue-swirl margarita, plus it's right next to the metro. The chicken fajitas at place are so good that I had to cheat on being a vegetarian and try them. (It was so worth it. Don't tell PETA.)

There's also a mall around there. But don't go there for the shopping or you'll be disappointed.

Just driving through the Capitol Hill neighborhood gives one a sense of pride in being an American. This is especially true in the spring, when the blooming cherry trees tract people from around the world to enjoy what you get ot live in every day.
Here, in the shadow of the US Capitol, is one of the most densely populated areas of the United States. However, you’d never know it unless you happen to be traveling through during rush hour. In the early evening and on weekends many of the residents, who spend their work days making important, historical decisions, take time to throw a Frisbee or walk their dogs along the neighborhood's charming green spaces. It is delightful to see little children playing at the feet of elderly residents feeding pigeons.
In spite of it obviously urban location, the area still has a strong community spirit, fostered in part by the local cafes and small eateries scattered around the tree lined streets. After all, there’s nothing like meeting up over a hot cup of coffee or cocoa to encourage you to get to know your neighbor better. Also, because of the many mom and pop markets available, you can not only get home a little sooner from your Congressional office, you can also stop by a local market for a little fresh produce or just a gallon of milk.