Unpacked by Afar

“Nobody Knows We’re Here.” Inside the Real D.C.


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This isn’t Washington, it’s D.C.—and it belongs to the people. On this episode of Unpacked, join host Aislyn Greene as she meets the D.C. locals who are shaping the city. They share the diverse communities, places, and histories that make the district unique. From a blossoming food scene to thriving cultural legacies, discover the D.C. that most tourists miss. 



In this episode, you’ll learn

  • Histories to explore beyond the National Mall. 
  • How locals experience the vibrancy of D.C.’s food, culture and art scenes. 
  • What makes some of D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods—such as the U Street Corridor and Dupont Circle—really shine. 

  • Don’t miss these moments

    [03:25] Aerosmith, the Smithsonian, and the oddball story that started it all. 

    [09:58] Diverse foods and divisive fruits in a cult-favorite restaurant. 

    [20:01] 250 artists in 2 miles: A creative community far beyond the capital city. 

    [35:17] Touring a temple of musical icons. 

    [36:11] They started this legendary festival with a napkin. 



    Meet this week’s guests

    • Sunny Sumter, the president and CEO of the DC Jazz Fest
    • Jeff Miller, founder of the DC Cycling Concierge
    • Marquett Milton, historic interpreter at the African American Civil War Museum
    • Kevin Tien, the executive chef and owner of Moon Rabbit
    • Monica Alford, founder and CEO of Wild Side Media 


      Resources

      —Read the transcript of this episode

      Listen to Chuck Brown’s version of “It Don’t Mean a Thing.”

      —Explore Joe Brotherton's music.


      Want to plan your own DC trip? Aislyn shares a Google Map and her full itinerary here.


      Where to Stay

      Eaton DC

      Rosewood DC

      Salamander DC

      >>>Explore even more of Afar's favorite hotels in Washington D.C.


      Where to Eat and Drink

      Moon Rabbit

      The Press Club DC

      Oyster Oyster

      A. Kitchen + Bar

      St Vincent Wine (for live jazz)

      Lutece

      River Club DC

      Fiola Mare

      Dogon

      Yellow Georgetown

      Baked & Wired

      Buck’s Fishing and Camping


      Activities

      Bike tour with DC Cycling Concierge

      Walking tour with U Street Time Travel

      Walking tour with DC Design Tours

      Arena Stage

      Culture House

      National Portrait Gallery 

      >>>Explore more places to eat and explore with Afar's D.C. travel guide.


      Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.


      ** Bonus Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

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      Unpacked by AfarBy AFAR Media

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