As the District’s breakneck pace tapers a bit for the long and sweaty summer months, we asked some of our favorite local hotshots in the worlds of politics, entertainment, broadcasting and food for the skinny on where they go to get away from it all – no plane ticket or Rehoboth Beachfront pad required.
Cathy Fink, Grammy-winning musician
“The Roosevelt Memorial is probably my favorite memorial, and I love reading all of the information at its various statues and exhibits. I also love reading all of the quotes around the MLK Memorial. Both of these memorials inspire me with hope and a desire to do more that helps others. They carry both history and a positive message for the future, both thoughtful and energizing.”
Doreen Gentzler, news anchor, WRC-TV
“A long walk with my dog – a male Brittany named Shelby - on the Capital Crescent trail, C& O Canal towpath, and Great Falls is good for stress relief.
I live near the CCT so it's convenient. Shelby is a great running/walking partner! Staying anonymous is not a big problem, because in workout clothes and ponytail, no one notices me or cares.”
Kenyan McDuffie, DC Councilmember, Ward 5
“I’m also equally drawn to the National Arboretum and the grounds at the Franciscan Monastery. Both are peaceful and serene getaways from the hustle and bustle of the city yet they’re right in my backyard. I visited both as a kid: they are very close to my neighborhood in Stronghold. My wife Princess and I take our two daughters to both sites so that they are able to explore the outdoors, get some fresh air and recreate some of the same memories that I’ve grown to appreciate from my childhood.”
Alberto Sissi, Owner, Shawafel
“There are two key spots in DC that I adore: that place under the Key Bridge where you can rent a kayak, and Kafe Leopold in Georgetown. My wife Marcela and I always go kayaking on the Potomac, and you absolutely feel like you are somewhere else, somewhere you can focus on nature. As far as the café goes, you really feel like you’re in Europe. They have really nice coffee and desserts. The ambiance is amazing.”
Septime Webre, Artistic Director, The Washington Ballet
“My favorite place to recharge is Comet Ping Pong on [5037] Connecticut Ave. NW. I’m all about the Hottie Pizza, topped with jalapeno, Comet Sauce, pepperoni, and Fontina cheese. I love washing it down with an Allagash White. Plus, on the weekend there is an amazingly curated rock series, where you can see [owner] James Alefantis dancing all over the light fixtures.”
Cathy Fink photo courtesy Jonathan Timmes; FDR memorial photo courtesy Flickr/Sammysix; Monastery postcard courtesy Flickr/Boston Public Library; Boathouse photo courtesy Flickr/Trailvoice; Septime Webre photo courtesy Washington Ballet.