The 9:30 Club

The Place: The 9:30 Club

Why live here: Because it’s The @#$^%! 9:30 Club! It’s THE BEST. Hell, it’s the impetus for this blog.

The 9:30 Club, consistently ranked as one of the best small music venues in the U.S., hosts some of the most incredible musical acts around. It opened its doors at 815 V Street NW in 1996 after 15 years at its original location at 930 F Street NW. Since then, it has helped the 9th & U Street area (sometimes referred to as 9th & Awesome by some of my DC friends) boom and flourish into the bustling area it has become. So, if you love seeing live music and want to pop over at the drop of a hat, living nearby would be fantastic.

Blagden Alley

The Place: Blagden Alley

Why live here: Do you love art? Specifically, street art?  If so, this is the place for you. One of the most recognizable murals in DC, LOVE, a colorful piece conceptualized and painted by local muralist Lisa Marie, resides here.  But that’s not the only mural there — you can find a variety of others by notable artists including Kelly Towles, Rozeal Brown, Aniekan Udofia, and Rose Jaffe.

*Please note that this post is focusing solely on the art in Blagden Alley.  Another post on its restaurants is forthcoming!

Jose Andres-land

 The Place: Jose Andres-land

What the fuck am I talking about?  What is Jose Andres-land, anyway? It’s the area downtown that has 6 different Jose Andres restaurants (Oyamel, China Chilcano, Barmini & Minibar, Zaytinya, and Jaleo, ). I named it that.

Why live here? You’re likely living under a rock if you live in DC and don’t know who Jose Andres is.  He’s been dubbed “the best hometown hero” by Washingtonian magazine and has a heart that matches his cooking skill — incredible. So, maybe you like eating amazing food, maybe you like supporting good people with solid intentions, and maybe this allows you to do both while getting some variety in your diet.

Meridian Hill Park

The Place: Meridian Hill Park

Why live here: Because it’s a huge, gorgeous park with incredible history in the middle of some of the most interesting neighborhoods in DC. On any given day, you can find people lounging, picnicking, zip lining, walking their dogs, exercising, or specifically on Sundays, taking part in the always fun and energetic Sunday drum circle.

Union Market

The Place: Union Market

Why live here: Because the thought of being able to shop and eat in DC’s largest local and artisanal food market whenever you want makes your heart go pitter-patter. You’re likely a foodie, chef, entrepreneur, or a big supporter of local business.

Union Market has dubbed itself “the epicenter of culinary creativity in DC” and I can’t really disagree. You can find pretty much anything here from fresh fruits and vegetables to a local butcher to a gourmet spice shop. If that wasn’t good enough, Union Market has a few tasty full-service restaurants, lots of small-scale speciality eateries, and fun events every month.