File photo: Georgetown Voice
Georgetown students have certainly earned their reputation as the most prestigiousand preppy students in the city. Unfortunately, we are also known for being the least city-savvy. (Vox has even overheard Georgetown seniors confess that after three years in DC, they still do not understand the metro or how else they can get around the wonderful District.
Although Georgetown students are certainly lucky enough to attend a school that is constantly buzzing with excitement, it is all too easy to get sucked into life on the Hilltop and forget that America’s coolest city lies right outside the Healy Gates.
Vox understands that as a freshman, you will certainly have your hands full. Attempting to balance the new college life of studying, socializing, and (occasionally) sleeping is no easy feat. That is why she has compiled a nifty list of ways to take advantage of this amazing cultural hub over your four years at Georgetown.
Explore the museums
There is no question that D.C. is home to the best assortment of museums in the country. Many of these, to the delight of the broke college student, happen to be totally free. Although the Smithsonians and the National Zoo are always classic options, Voxhighly recommends mixing it up with the National Portrait Gallery—and be sure to check out the American Cool Exhibit and the Presidential Portrait Collection while you are there. The Crime and Punishment Museum, International Spy Museum, and Newseum are also definite must-sees. Cost of admission? Unfortunately, around $20. But getting totest your espionage skills? Priceless.
Embrace your inner diplomat
Let’s be honest–as Georgetown students, at some point we have all dreamed of being an ambassador (I’m talking to you, my fellow SFS-ers). Since the sad reality is that not all of us will get to work at an embassy, the second best thing we can do is simply visit one (or better yet, all 175). Chances are you can always find an embassy that is hosting a dinner, concert, exhibition, or other special event—just be sure to keep tabs on theembassies’ calenders . The best place to see multiple embassies at once is Embassy Row on Massachusetts Avenue. In addition to being an awesome place to run, is arguably one of the best places to trick-or-treat.
Scope out the music scene
Music lovers rejoice–DC is certainly a hot spot when it comes to the arts. Check out U Street for some of the city’s trendiest music venues like U Street Music Hall, 9:30 Club, and Black Cat. The Verizon Center—located conveniently right above the Gallery Place metro stop–holds countless concerts featuring big-name artists like Justin Timberlake, Jay-Z, and Beyonce. If you are interested in a slightly more sophisticated (and pricey) cultural experience, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosts numerous operas, plays, jazz shows, symphonies, and ballets throughout the year. Upcoming performances include the Tony-award winning musical “Evita” in October and the National Symphony Orchestra in November.
Enjoy the miscellaneous city perks
One of the best parts about living in the city is that whatever you are looking for, D.C. has it. For serious gastronomes, there are hundreds of delicious food places to sample andnumerous farmers markets throughout D.C. selling fresh, local produce. If you are looking for ways to stay active, you can try your hand at yoga classes, biking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Oh, and don’t forget about the seasonal festivities like ghost tours,ice skating, and, of course, the famous Cherry Blossom Festival.
Georgetown students are living in the country’s coolest city—but hey, don’t take it from Vox or Forbes, go check it out for yourself
File photo: Georgetown Voice
This article was first published in 2014 on Vox Populi.
