Shopping

34. Peruse fresh vegetables and fruits, meats and cheeses, and pies and cookies at Capitol Hill's Eastern Market, which is in the midst of revival after a fire. On weekends, local artists sell jewelry, artwork, clothing, and pottery. 7th St. and North Caroline Ave. SE.

35. Head across the Potomac River to Old Town Alexandria where you'll find both of-the-moment boutiques (Hysteria, The Shoe Hive) and high-end antiques stores (Spurgeon-Lewis, Potomac West Interiors and Antique Gallery). While there, explore the neighborhood's historic landmarks like Carlyle House Historic Park.

36. Get goods to go throughout Georgetown. You'll find upscale chains like Anthropologie and Lululemon here, but also local boutiques scattered throughout the neighborhood such as Fresh (1205 Potomac St. NW.), a trendy clothing store next to Georgetown Cupcake, winner of the "Washington Post Cupcake Wars" for their Chocolate Ganache cupcake.

37. Exercise your credit card along 14th Street NW, a formerly down-and-out strip recently transformed into a shopping and dining hub. Find contemporary housewares and furniture at Vastu, Asian-themed Muléh, and Home Rule; eclectic gifts at Go Mama Go; and funky greeting cards at Pulp.