I have a confession to make: I willingly moved from Southern California to Washington, D.C. just over two years ago. (I know, right?!)
There was something deeply alluring about living in Washington, D.C. I longed to be on the East Coast, and experience seasons once again. I loved the idea of being in the center of the action, the actual hub of the United States. But, I came with a small list of demands.
I needed to find the best locally made ice cream. I had to attend area farmers’ markets to find the best one. I had to sample a lot of Ethiopian, Indian, Mexican and (veggie) burger restaurants to find establishments I considered the best. This was painstaking work. But it was important to me.
I now have a running list of area favorites that continues to grow.
I personally believe that the best way to truly experience a region or city is to get fully immersed in the culture. It’s about jumping in with both feet. This motto holds true for my world travels, but it can be equally applied to the region in which you live.
I find that it is important to experience all that a city and region has to offer.
For several years, we’ve polled our readers with our Best for FAMILIES survey to give us the best of the best of Washington, D.C. And polls like this help transplants like me find the hidden gems of a region. The list is far more than a simple survey; it’s a resourceful guide.
Over 16,000 votes were cast in 135 categories—that’s a lot of opinions—and it’s so interesting to read the results. Although I may have my own favorite place to grab dessert, our readers agree that a certain cupcake shop in Georgetown is the best. We do both agree, however, on the best place to grab a cheap bite, and the best museum to visit.
I’m now excited to try many of these places and things, and experience their greatness for myself. I now know where to turn when I need a financial planner, personal trainer or a family doctor.
It’s through these experiences that I feel like I’m becoming more of a Washingtonian.
Beth Roessner
Managing Editor
Washington FAMILY Magazine
