The Courtyard Café

As Washingtonians return from vacation to reclaim the city, DC on a Dime wants to share a favorite super-secret-quite-time-spot:   The National Portrait Gallery.

This excellent Smithsonian museum tells the American story through individual portraits of those who have shaped our national culture.  And, since it’s not on the National Mall, there is rarely a crowd.  

However, what we love most about the museum is the Courtyard Café, which is located in the “Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard.”   This expansive courtyard is covered by a giant sky light, so there’s no better place for indoor reading, writing and reflection. 

 

The Café offers a seasonal menu of American-inspired dishes, using local, organic or sustainable ingredients when possible. The menu includes soups, create-your-own salad entrees, sandwiches and panini, and a selection of antipasti with a focus on vegetarian offerings and premium meats. These items are available until 4 p.m. Gourmet desserts, creamery-made ice cream and healthy snacks, such as fruit and yogurt parfaits, also are available.

Express offerings, called “Grab & Go,” include pre-made sandwiches and salads; these items are available until 6:30 p.m. Coffee, espresso, beer and red and white wines also may be enjoyed in the cafe anytime. Free public wireless Internet access (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the Kogod Courtyard.

Location:  The museum is located at Eighth and F Streets, NW, D.C., 20001 

Admission:  FREE 

Museum Hours:
11:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. daily
Closed December 25

Dr. David Walls-Kaufman, a chiropractor on Capitol Hill, offers free Tai Chi classes every Saturday morning. 

Tai chi, sometimes called tai chi chuan, is a noncompetitive, self-paced system of gentle physical exercise and stretching. To do tai chi, you perform a series of postures or movements in a slow, graceful manner. Each posture flows into the next without pausing.

Anyone, regardless of age or physical ability, can practice tai chi. It doesn’t take physical prowess. Rather, tai chi emphasizes technique over strength.

Tai chi is used to:

• Reduce stress
• Increase flexibility
• Improve muscle strength and definition
• Increase energy, stamina and agility
• Increase feelings of well-being

Location:  Lincoln Park (on East Capitol St. between 11th and 13th St.)

Directions:  From Potomac Ave. Metro (Blue/Orange lines) walk north on 13th St. for about 1 mile.  Look for the group in the middle of the park.

Cost:  FREE

Contact:   (202) 544-6035

Are taxes, the economy, or final exams stressing you out?  If so, check out an introductory 1-hour massage for only $49.*  Contact one of these locations near DC to schedule an appointment: