Originally from Indiana, Shana has called Maryland home since 2009 and has been an active member of her community for over 13 years. She is a retired veteran who proudly served her country for more than 20 years! With the creative skills and abilities honed through her military career, Shana epitomizes integrity and carries the values of hard work, dedication, and outstanding service with her in everything she does. With a passion for service, she is ready to help you with your home buying and selling goals. She promises to consult with you, negotiate for you, and ensure every detail of the real estate process is covered.
When she isn’t making homeownership dreams come true for her clients, she enjoys spending time with her family, outdoor activities, reading, and watching HGTV. Shana lives in Bowie, MD with her husband and three children.
if you’re thinking about selling, buying or leasing, move with Shana!
HELPING YOU GET YOUR FINANCIAL HOUSE IN ORDER
Serving all of Maryland and the District of Columbia Chapter 13)
“I have attended a few seminars on Estate Planning, and I was aware that I needed to start this process sooner than later. I was fortunate to attend an Estate Planning seminar presented by Suren Adams. I was very impressed with her professionalism, her impeccable knowledge of the subject matter, and the ability to present the information in an understandable language. Suren’s noteworthy credentials speak for themselves, and her service costs are comparable to others in the area. I would highly recommend her service to anyone who is interested in the Estate Planning process. I guarantee that once you attend Suren’s seminar, you will not delay in starting the process today!”
- C.H. (Upper Marlboro,
MD)
“Mrs. Adams: We want to thank you very much for the diligent work your office has done in finalizing our Trust package, to include notifications to our investment organizations and trustees. We could not be happier for the great legal work you and your staff has done for us. Again, many thanks for bringing everything together in our Trust.”
- R.G. & D.G (District Heights)
Realtor Arelia Douglas ensures her clients understand the
PUBLISHER
Veronica Fountain
Veronica@simplymagazines.net
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Trans4mationphotography and Akua Tracey Marlene
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anijah Franklin, Alyson Turner, and Camiryn Stepteau
LAYOUT & AD DESIGN
Info@Simplymagazines.net
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Info@simplymagazines.net
PUBLISHER from the Letter
Veronica Fountain Publisher & Owner
The July/August Magazine issue is blazing HOT! This is the most exciting issue so far this year with incredible Front Covers and articles. We constantly keep our foot on the gas pedal showcasing dynamic Realtors in the area with Goodridge Real Estate and Porter House International.
Welcome new Business to the Bowie, MD community, “ My Advanced Wellness”. Schedule your appointment with their office, because Health & Wellness is crucial in taking care of your family.
As you start the summer heading to the beaches, don’t forget to pick up a fun summer hobby. Road Bike Riding has increased tremendously along with hiking. Remember, life is beautiful to live your full potential, so hit those festivals and enjoy the month of May! Enjoy this special Edition
a Real Estate licensed salesperson blending the best of practical experience and innovative technology to sell homes in Washington, DC metropolitan area’s always dynamic, never static, real estate market. Chanda understands that the internet has changed the way people buy homes, welcomes educated internet users and is excited to be able to use all the tools available to insure satisfied clients that come back move after move and refer their friends because they are sold on their Realtor.
She has also developed a network of professional real estate affiliated service people, from lenders to inspectors, attorneys to contractors in the interest of the new client.... YOU. Since 2007 Chanda has helped clients purchase and sell their homes. She represents clients purchasing and selling their homes in the Washington DC metropolitan area.
Licensed in Maryland, Washington, DC &Virginia
Contact: Chanda Littlefield
Phone: 301-702-4982
Email: chandaforhomes@yahoo.com
Website: www.therealqueenofrealestate.com
THE REAL QUEEN OF REAL ESTATE CHANDA LITTLEFIELD
FOCUS
For Sellers, to sell your home for the best price at the right time in any market, and for Buyers, to find the home that both meets your unique needs and positions you for equity/ wealth growth. . . and in so doing, to manage the myriad of details that must be completed to bring both sellers and buyers to the closing table still smiling. Chanda questions, listens and handles your transaction personally from beginning to end.
LOCATION
Chanda specializes in property sales in Bowie,Upper Marlboro,Washington, DC,Columbia,Silver Spring, Fort Washington, Annapolis as well as Charles,Calvert, and Anne Arundel Counties.
MARKET EXPERIENCE
Chanda has worked with all major banks on the foreclosure front AND short sale processing. Experienced in Estate sale transactions, Divorce sales, probate, estate planners, and for working with those in bankruptcy. As well as assisting buyers who are interested in building their home from the ground up in new construction sales. Working with new home builders such as Ryan,Lennar, Stanley Martin, Mid-Atlantic and Toll Brothers she has tons of experience assisting buyer purchase the home of their dreams.
GOODRIDGE REAL ESTATE
With over two and a half decades of experience in the real estate industry, Sophia Goodridge-Howard has built a reputation as one of the DMV’s top-producing agents, and now, as the founder and broker-owner of Goodridge Real Estate, she’s shaping a new legacy under her own name.
wide-ranging experience in both residential and commercial real estate.
Starting her own firm was a natural evolution. “I always had a passion to start my own brokerage,” Goodridge-Howard says. “I had a team at my prior brokerage, and I helped train a lot of agents who are now very successful. So I figured, why not start my own and be able to help and train other agents?”
At the heart of Goodridge Real Estate is a deep commitment to client satisfaction, especially when it comes to serving sellers, which is their specialty. “My niche is sellers,” she says. “I help market and sell a lot of properties, and I believe that I’m good at it - in pricing a home to sell, marketing, negotiating, and making sure that it sells fast and the client is satisfied .”
Officially launched in 2023, as a black owned business, a brokerage, and broker owner, Goodridge Real Estate is already gaining momentum, with over eight agents and a growing client base across Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Though the company is young, Goodridge-Howard’s career is anything but. “I’ve done at least half a billion in sales throughout my career,” she says, noting her
That attention to detail often translates into creative problem-solving. When navigating complicated situations, Goodridge Real Estate is known for finding strategic solutions. “I pay very close attention to what the client’s needs are, and try to make sure that all can be met in a happy medium,” she explains.
Article by Lauryn Forbes
Photos by Akua Tracey Marlene
Her advice to sellers in today’s market? “Price your home to sell,” she says. “You want as much activity as possible. If upgrades are needed to get the best price, go ahead and get those done. But if not, that’s fine too; we’ll still find the right strategy.”
Goodridge Real Estate’s slogan is “The Good Side of Real Estate.” As she puts it, “A lot of real estate deals aren’t always the best, but we strive to make every transaction a good outcome.”
Clients can expect a thorough, collaborative process. Whether meeting in person at the College Park office, over Zoom, or by phone, Goodridge Real Estate prioritizes seeing a seller’s home firsthand to offer thoughtful pricing guidance and honest advice.
And while Sophia herself is the owner of the company, she’s quick to credit her team. “My team is incredible,” she says. That includes Donnie Dukes, who works in the Baltimore area, Prince George’s County, and Sherrie Waul, who works with Donnie as a team and she focuses on Washington, D.C., and Charles County. “They work with a lot of first-time homebuyers, investors, and even have investments of their own. They’re a force to be reckoned with as well.” Other
active agents in her brokerage include Leslie Young, Farrah M. Jones, Sheila G. Bradley, Tiffany Slade, and Billie Jean. Her husband, Craig Howard, also plays a vital role in her brokerage, serving as her personal assistant and providing support in day-to-day operations.
Sophia is a seasoned Broker/ Owner at Goodridge Real Estate, bringing over 23 years of experience to the thriving Prince George’s County, MD, along with many other neighboring counties & our nation’s capital, Washington, DC. Known for her extensive knowledge of residential and commercial properties, Sophia excels at navigating clients through the complexities of buying and selling real estate, with over half a billion in sales.
Her client-first approach emphasizes clear communication and personalized service, ensuring that every transaction is seamless and tailored to meet individual needs. Outside of her professional endeavors, Sophia is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She actively participates in local church charities and events, fostering connections that strengthen her ties to the neighborhood.
An avid Worshiper of God, Sophia enjoys fellowship with other believers and spending quality time with her family. If you’re ready to embark on your real estate journey or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sophia at 202-352-6168 / Goodridgerealestate@gmail.com www.thegoodsideofrealestate.com
15 RIDE
YOUR WAY TO A HEALTHIER YOU Minutes a Day Reasons to Cycle
Are you tired of the same old exercise routines? Do you struggle to find time to hit the gym, let alone work out for an hour or more? If so, you’re not alone. Many people struggle to find the time and motivation to exercise regularly. Lucky for you, there’s a simple solution that can make a huge difference to your overall health and fitness. And that is riding a bike for just 15 minutes per day! From improved cardiovascular to increased muscle strength and endurance, it’s a win-win.
Here, we’ll explore 15 reasons why you should spend 15 minutes every day cycling. So grab your helmet and let’s hit the road!
1. You can do it every day (Birdie Lightweight Bike)
When starting a new exercise routine, rest days are ideal to allow your body time to recover. However, with cycling, you can ride every day without putting undue stress on your joints.
Cycling is a low-impact exercise, making it gentle on your knees, ankles, and hips. This means that even if you’re new to it, you can build up your riding time gradually. You can make it a part of your daily routine without worrying about over training or burnout.
By riding for just 15 minutes a day, you can improve your fitness and health with a little effort!
2. Live healthier and longer (Gingersnap 26” Wheel)
Research has shown that just 15 minutes of moderate exercise per day can reduce the risk of all-cause mortality. Cycling, in particular, can be effective in reducing the risk of chronic diseases. These include heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By getting your heart rate up and working your muscles, you’re improving your well-being.
3. It improves your memory
We’re not promising a photographic memory, but cycling for 15 minutes can do wonders for your brain!
Cycling has also been linked to improved white matter integrity in the brain. This, in return, can have a positive impact on cognitive function. So, hop on your bike and start pedalling for just 15 minutes a day. Who knows, you might notice an improvement the next time you play a memory game!
4. Gives you the confidence (Brownie Junior 16” Wheel)
The release of adrenaline, serotonin, and endorphins during exercise creates a potent mix. This effect can significantly boost your self-esteem and positivity. And it’s not just your mood that benefits from daily cycling. But also, your body will experience positive changes. Consistently riding a bike for just 15 minutes a day can result in visible results over time, such as:
• toning
• muscle building
This newfound strength can improve your life and give you a greater sense of confidence.
5. You can get similar health benefits to longform exercise
Committing to a long bike ride can be intimidating, especially if you have schedules. But you can still reap the benefits of a longer ride with just 15 minutes of cycling. Note: as long as one of those minutes is spent “all out” cycling.
Doing so can help improve your cardiovascular health and overall fitness. Consistency and a bit of high-intensity effort are keys!
6. Reduces stress (Hummingbird Vintage Bike)
Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can impact your well-being. But cycling has been shown to have a positive impact on this. Do this form of exercise during the day to regulate your cortisol levels. This eventually helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
7. A better night’s sleep
Good quality sleep is essential for our overall wellbeing, but stress often interferes. With a morning cycle (at least 15 minutes), you can stimulate the production of cortisol at the right time. This can help keep your sleep-week cycle on track.
8. No greenhouse gas guilt
Make the most of your 15 minutes by cycling to run errands, commute, or visit friends. Not only is it a more enjoyable way to get around, but it’s also better for your wallet and the environment.
Swapping out car trips for cycling is a simple way to reduce your carbon footprint. For every 7 kilometres you cycle instead of driving, you can save 1 kilogram of CO2 emissions. That’s a significant impact!
9. Doubles as a mode of transport (Daytripper City Bike)
Despite the bike’s invention in 1817, it fits perfectly with the concept of the 15-minute city. The idea behind this is to have everything you need within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from your home. This lifestyle promotes less driving and reduces air and noise pollution.
Although this concept has yet to be fully implemented, aim to use your 15-minute bike ride to run errands.
10. Prevents cardiovascular disease
Regular exercise through cycling can:
• improve your heart health
• lower your blood pressure
• reduce cholesterol levels
As your fitness improves, your resting heart rate will decrease, a sign of a healthy heart. With just a short leisure bike ride each day, you can take a step towards a healthier lifestyle.
11. To stay in touch or have your me time (Fold Folding Bike)
A bike ride is a perfect way to catch up and enjoy each other’s company while also getting exercise. Scheduling regular bike rides can help you stay accountable to each other. And if you need some alone time, cycling can also be a great way to clear your mind and unwind.
12. Immune system boost
Sadly, your immune system doesn’t keep up with you as you age. But fear not! Cycling can help you maintain your thymic activity, boosting your immune system.
So, if you commit to cycling, you may be better equipped to deal with a cold and stay healthier as you age.
13. Aids weight loss
Maintaining a healthy weight is important, and cycling is a great way to achieve this goal. Regular cycling can help reduce body fat levels and increase metabolism. It also helps build muscle, which can improve overall strength and resilience.
But keep in mind that weight loss shouldn’t be the sole focus of exercise. A balanced approach that includes bot h exercise and a healthy diet is key!
14. Treats diabetes
Cycling is an excellent form of exercise that can help keep blood sugar levels under control. When you ride a bike, 70% of your muscle mass is activated, which allows glucose to be consumed effectively. One study found that cycling also helps reduce the risk of developing diabetes. This shows that it’s never too late to start cycling and still benefit from the effects it can have on your health.
15. It’s relatively easy and fun (Brownie Junior 20” Wheel)
Cycling is not only a great form of exercise but also a therapeutic and exciting activity. It triggers the release of endorphins, which can elevate your mood during and after your ride.
With just a reliable bike and a helmet, you can get started on this enjoyable and healthy journey. Don’t hesitate, take the first step today!
hope you’re noW as excited as us about the potential cycling has to improve your Well-being!
NATIONAL CARPET AND FLOORING
A & K Family Learning Place, Inc. in Bowie, Maryland, is a family owner transportation company, offering a variety of transportation options throughout the state of Maryland. The owners, Alma Marshal and Kimberlyn Waterman make up the A&K. The company has been in business for over 10 years.
Location
Bowie Town Center
15440 Emerald Way
Bowie, MD 20716 Contact
Website: Akfamilylearningplace.org
Email: Info@akafamilylearningplace.org
240-508-6561
• A & K Family Learning Place
• Shuttle Service
• After School Programs
• Summer Enrichment Program
• Summer Camp
A&K TRANSPORTATION
In 2007, what began as a home-based family daycare founded by Kimberlyn Waterman, or Miss Kim, and her mother Alma Marshall has blossomed into one of Prince George’s County’s most dynamic, community-rooted operations.
“A&K Family Learning Place is a family-owned business,” Miss Kim said. “It started with my mom and myself.” What followed has been nearly two decades of growth and adaptation, driven by love for children, a keen business sense, and a deep commitment to community.
The business, which started in her home while raising four kids with her husband Tony, quickly gained momentum. As demand grew, so did the scale. By 2010, A&K was operating out of a church in Bowie, offering preschool, daycare, and soon after, a licensed before-and-after care program bolstered by state-endorsed transportation services.
That transportation arm became an unexpected engine of growth. “Charter schools were up and coming,” Miss Kim recalled. “One school said, would you be interested in transporting our students... and the rest is history.” What started with two vehicles is now a fleet of 13 buses. She predicted early on that transportation was going to be big, and she was right. Today, A&K is one of the state-approved vendors serving both charter and public schools across Maryland.
Like many small businesses, A&K faced a major setback when COVID-19 hit. The church was sold, the pastor resigned, and Miss Kim was left without a physical location. “I call it my eviction letter,” she said of the notice that ended their lease. Still, with her faith, she persisted. She called the Bowie Town Center leasing office, which led to a pivotal conversation with a leasing agent and a vision for transforming an old retail space into a childcare center. “She said, ‘We’ve never seen it done, but if you think you can handle that task, go for it,’” she recalled.
The result? The first-ever childcare center at Bowie Town Center. “My use and occupancy permit shows that. So it will be there forever; whether A&K is there or my legacy is passed down to my children... it will always be a childcare center.”
Today, A&K provides licensed before and aftercare and summer camps for children in pre-K through eighth grade. “You have to have a love for children, that’s what makes us different,” Miss Kim said. “The parents know, I’m a mom of four kids, and all those kids are also my kids.”
In addition to student transportation, A&K has expanded into serving seniors. Through partnerships and grants, the company now offers
weekly bowling outings and meals for senior citizens from the community. “They look forward to the camaraderie, and we’ve been doing that for about 10 months,” she said. “That gives them an opportunity to continue to thrive.”
With a full team, including two admins and multiple bus drivers, Miss Kim still sees A&K as more than a business. For families seeking child care or transportation, she offers a simple message: “Consider A&K as an option, because we’re here to serve.” Alma Marshall also sees A&K as one of the premier before and aftercare programs in the Prince George’s County area where their A&K staff has a love for the children by providing a safe, caring, and enriching environment all year round.
MORE THAN A HOME
Realtor Arelia Douglas ensures her clients understand the power of property ownership.
For decades, Arelia Douglas has firmly believed that owning property is one of the most significant investments one can make to achieve personal goals and establish a legacy for family. With extensive experience navigating the ever-evolving real estate market, she combines her in-depth industry knowledge with a heartfelt dedication to her clients. For Arelia, every transaction goes beyond mere buying and selling; it is an opportunity to educate and empower individuals and families about the true value of building financial wealth and stability.
Article By Alyson Turner
Photography By Akua Tracey Marlene
Arelia’s initial interest in homeownership and real estate was influenced by her paternal grandfather, who possessed multiple properties and farmland. As a child, she fondly recalls learning to grow and harvest crops under his guidance, while instilling in her a deep respect for land and its potential. Her paternal family owned several properties in Virginia and Washington D.C. Her parents were raised in Alexandria, VA, and later moved to Washington, DC. This influenced Arelia to earn her licenses in these regions. The farmland previously owned by her grandfather was eventually sold, and the properties constructed on that land have consistently appreciated in value over the years.
Arelia also learned the intangible value of enhancing the community and her love for interior design from her maternal grandmother who had 12 children. Her grandmother loved to cook and welcomed the community into her home for a hot meal. She fostered love and a sense of value in the community. All her children were talented with the gift of giving, as cooks, seamstress, and event planners.
Throughout her distinguished 30-year career with the Environmental Protection Agency, she recognized the critical importance of safeguarding the land, water, and the air we breathe. Arelia felt a calling to obtain her Maryland real estate license. Her unwavering faith provided stability and resilience during challenging times in the real estate market. She remembers being told she would be given properties and prayed for
guidance. Although she obtained her real estate license around the time of the market crash, she has maintained her license and her faith for the past 18 years. Even when many opted out of real estate, Arelia persevered, keeping her real estate license active as the market began to recover. Years later, during the pandemic, another significant economic shift created apprehension among both buyers and sellers. Nevertheless, Arelia continued to encourage her clients to focus on the benefits of owning real estate. In 2022, she was inspired to position herself and remain focused on her investment goals. Despite the interest rates having risen six times that year, this did not deter from obtaining her personal investment goals, yet she persevered and was grateful she did. She was able to purchase that investment property at the height of the interest
increases. Her experience now enables her to motivate clients to achieve homeownership despite economic challenges.
For the past eight years, Arelia has proudly been a part of Porter House International Realty Group, who believes in creating a supportive real estate team that genuinely uplifts one another to serve their clients, encapsulated in their motto, “Because You Deserve the Best.” The Porter House Team is committed to delivering exceptional customer service while maintaining professionalism in all aspects of their work. Arelia’s passion for home decor allows her to help clients envision the full potential of their spaces, and one of her standout strengths is advising sellers on cost-effective ways to enhance their listings.
Whether she is guiding first-time home buyers or sellers, assisting older adults transitioning to senior living, presenting at the Porter House Homebuyers Expo, or sharing the transformative value of homeownership, Arelia pours her heart and soul into her work. She aims to empower people to achieve homeownership. Many clients find the real estate process illuminating, feeling supported and confident as they navigate the complexities of buying or selling their homes. Even in the face of rising interest rates, Arelia firmly believes that everyone needs a place to call home—so why not own it!
Purchasing a home offers individuals the opportunity to benefit from their investment, allowing them the freedom to create a personal
sanctuary. This investment holds both monetary and sentimental value, enriching lives in countless ways.
Arelia’s faith has been a cornerstone of her journey, enabling her to minister to the community through real estate. She emphasizes that owning a home fosters a profound sense of belonging and stability. While people frequently move and adapt, having a home provides a rich history to share with family which is achievable through the process of real estate ownership. Deeply influenced by biblical teachings that inspire service to others, Arelia is dedicated to reconnecting individuals with their roots in land while guiding them on their unique paths toward homeownership and financial wealth for generations to come.
Article by Lauryn Forbes
Photos by; Veronica Fountain
In October of last year, husband-and-wife team Amos Mburu, DBA, MHA, and Banis Githinji, DNP, FNP, launched Advanced Wellness Clinic with one core mission: to make healthcare accessible, holistic, and preventative, especially for the underserved and uninsured.
Based in Prince George’s County, the clinic was born out of a persistent problem they had both witnessed firsthand - long wait times, insurance restrictions, and a lack of proactive care. “There are thousands of people here in PG County alone who do not have insurance,” Mburu noted. “By that, they are underserved when it comes to accessing care.”
Their approach is anything but typical. Rather than waiting for patients to show up with advanced health issues, they focus on ongoing, preventative, personalized wellness. To aid in this, they offer same-day and next-day appointments.
“Our goal is preventative care, to access and identify health issues and intervene timely to prevent complications that could otherwise impact quality of life and wellness,” Mburu said. “We help them achieve their wellness goals and avoid extreme cases where they fall ill.”
Dr. Githinji brings more than a decade of experience to the practice. She began as a registered nurse working with DC’s homeless population, later moving into mental health and then research at the National Institutes of Health, focusing on minority representation in studies involving psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, and rare pediatric diseases. Her career has long been driven by a desire to fill in the gaps she’s seen across the system. “There are so many people coming in for conditions that could have been prevented,” she explained. “It was a very consistent theme over the past 10 years.”
The clinic offers standard primary care but also emphasizes preventative care including weight loss support, vitamin injections, and comprehensive lifestyle screenings. “[For] most people, weight is an issue,” Githinji said. “With every patient, we go in-depth to understand their family history, their diet, stress levels, and lifestyle to determine a personalized plan of care with best outcomes.”. That level of personalization is what truly sets the clinic apart. “We really try to understand the person,” Githinji said. “Making our patients feel seen is what we strive for.” Their appointments are longer than your typical 15-20 minute visits by design, to address all patient needs and make space for deeper, more meaningful care. They aim to know their patients’ lives outside the exam room.
And perhaps most notably, they’re doing all this without requiring insurance. Instead, patients can join a monthly membership plan, starting as low as $39/month. The fee covers unlimited visits, physicals, labs, and ongoing care, removing the financial barrier for many in their community. “Our culture is when you come in, we want you to feel like family. We want you to feel welcome. We want you to feel seen, and want you to feel that, to know that we want you to come back, because we genuinely care about you, your well being, and you living your best life, literally so.”
For the clinic, it’s not just about treating coughs and colds. “We want to do life with you,” - Mburu said-
“We want to know you, what’s going on in your life, and help you get where you want to be.”
I’m
ERIC HASKINS
PAIR INSTAGRAM-WORTHY VIEWS WITH A COOL DRINK AND DELICIOUS BITES AT THE BEST Washington, DC rooftop bars and restaurants.
It’s always the right time to head out on the town, find the nearest rooftop bar and order up your favorite cocktail or draft beer. During happy hour or any hour, feel the breeze and ease back at these District locales that have set up shop up top for your warm-weather pleasure.
01/SMOKE & MIRRORS
Nestled atop the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard, Smoke & Mirrors overlooks the U.S. Capitol Building and provides a stylish, sleek and comfortable escape in DC’s most powerful neighborhood. Expect an extensive list of ingenious craft cocktails and shareable dishes like mumbo wings, pork belly deviled eggs, crab artichoke dip and lamb skewers.
02/12 STORIES
@12storiesdc
So you already know that The Wharf is the District’s warm-weather place to be, right? Well, be sure to stop by the InterContinental Washington, DC - The Wharf rooftop as your next must-visit drinks spot. 12 Stories is the first DC venture from the minds behind New York City mainstay Mr. Purple, complete with a sleek, modern design and panoramas of the Washington Channel and beyond. Head there for creative cocktails like the ‘Aren’t You a Fineapple’ (hennessy, grand marnier, pineapple and lemon), tasty bites (think grilled shrimp and a pesto flatbread) and, of course, the #views.
03/CIEL SOCIAL CLUB
With a name derived from the French word for “the heavens”, Ciel Social Club is a luxurious penthouse lounge and restaurant at the AC Hotel Washington DC Convention Centerfeatures opulent decor and celestial, nearly 360-degree views of the Capitol, the Washington Monument and DC. VERSUS beverage director Hank Bowers has dreamed up an innovative cocktail menu, featuring seasonal flavors that pair well with rotating menus.
04/LA VIE
DC’s rivers do their best French Riviera impression at La Vie, a stunning and sleek restaurant at The Wharf featuring views of the Washington Channel from its rooftop terrace. Sophisticated Mediterranean vibes abound as you choose from a cocktail list divided into “Dip Your Toes,” “Dive” or “Off the Deep” options and take in the waterfront
05/WHISKEY CHARLIE
Nautical vibes and top-notch cocktails are the name of the game at Whiskey Charlie, the rooftop bar perched atop the Canopy by Hilton hotel at The Wharf. Catch the perfectly Instagrammable sunset while enjoying a range of delightful drinks –we’re big fans of the ‘To The Nines’ (coconut vodka, Kahlua coffee liquor, orgeat & chilled espresso) and ‘The Siren’ (Altos blanco tequila, Chacho jalapeno aguardiente, lime & hibiscus).
06/EL TECHO
@theterencechau
Billed as an “adult treehouse,” the turf-adorned El Techo brings the heat in Shaw with spicy margaritas and the creative Mexican street food you’ve come to expect from the downstairs Rito Loco shop. El Techo also offers Spanish-inspired tapas and a number of cervezas for the perfect warm-weather happy hour.
07/SLY ROOFTOP AT THE MORROW
Upstairs at The Morrow
Sly Rooftop at The Morrow, another Nicholas Stefanelli venture, is – you guessed it – the rooftop lounge of The Morrow Hotel in the heart of NoMa. The chic, indoor-outdoor space features firepits, a wrap-around bar, French-inspired fare and playful cocktails (espresso martinis on tap) and shooters.
Dazzling disco balls, premium sushi and views of the U.S. Capitol … do we need to go on? Sushi by Bou has it all – offering a 12 or 17-course omakase experience, imported Sake selections and creative cocktails. The DC location, its 20th, can be found atop the citizenM Capitol hotel, decked out in vibrant and funky decor.
An adventure in Adams Morgan without a visit to Perry’s, a neighborhood staple that opened its doors more than 30 years ago.
Chef Masako Morishita was awarded the 2024 James Beard Award for Emerging Chef and the DC-area restaurant association’s honor of Rising Culinary Star of the Year, so you’re in for exciting and experimental Japanese fare. Plus, there’s an extensive beverage list that includes wine, Japanese whiskey and sake, best enjoyed at the gorgeous bar or on the seasonal rooftop terrace.
10/TREEHOUSE ROOFTOP
Escape to the urban oasis atop tropical vibes, international flavors and bold cocktails. The Tulum-inspired Treehouse Rooftop also features DJ sets every Friday and Saturday, happy hour Monday through Friday and monthly wellness Wednesday events.
11/TOP OF THE
GATE AT THE WATERGATE HOTEL
Top of the Gate
The luxurious Watergate Hotel is a centerpiece of the Foggy Bottom neighborhood. Head to the sophisticated Top of the Gate and take in 360-degree rooftop views of the nation’s capital while sipping specialty cocktails and noshing on upscale bites.
