Upper Northwest
Though it's home to the famed Smithsonian National Zoological Park, the posh residential expanse of the Upper Northwest is a tranquil escape from the touristy hustle of the rest of the city. Pay a visit to the zoo in the early morning (it opens at 6 a.m.), when the animals are more active and the crowds are not. About a mile west is Washington National Cathedral, complete with gargoyles, stained glass, and a playground out back. Then take a 15-minute drive north to check out the 1,750 wooded acres of Rock Creek Park and its nature center and planetarium.
RESTAURANTS
Dino
Homemade pasta and risotto rule at this comfy Italian eatery. 3435 Connecticut Ave. NW, (202) 686-2966.
2 Amys Pizza
Try crusty stuffed pizzas and homemade pastries. 3715 Macomb St. NW, (202) 885-5700.
Firehook Bakery and Coffee
Nibble on raspberry-currant bars or ginormous gingersnaps on the shaded patio. 3411 Connecticut Ave. NW, (202) 362-2253.
Palena
This cozy but sophisticated New-American-tinged-with-Italian dinner spot is run by former White House chef Frank Ruta and former White House pastry chef Ann Amernick. Opt for the casual café in front instead of the more formal dining area in back. 3529 Connecticut Ave. NW, (202) 537-9250.
STORES
Sullivan's Toy Store and Art Supplies
Find everything from finger paints to tutus at this old-school store. 3412 Wisconsin Ave. NW, (202) 362-1343.
Wake Up Little Suzie
At this offbeat shop, browse Zutano dresses and political onesies.
3409 Connecticut Ave. NW, (202) 244-0700.
ACTIVITIES
Rock Creek Park
Feed and ride horses, rent bikes or canoes, or hike miles of trails. 5200 Glover Rd. NW, (202) 895-6070.
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Skip the overrated Great Ape House for the Bird House and the Reptile Discovery Center. 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, (202) 633-4800.
Kreeger Museum
See this private art collection in a Philip Johnson travertine building. 2401 Foxhall Rd. NW, (202) 337-3050.
Washington National Cathedral
Kids will love the stained glass—especially the panel depicting the moon landing—at this gothic cathedral, which began construction in 1907. 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW, (202) 537-6200.
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