Learn how this once primarily residential neighborhood became a thriving arts + entertainment scene known by NOVA locals and beyond. | Photo via The Library of Congress
If there’s one thing we know about DC, it’s that history comes alive there — and the U Street corridor is proof of that.
Built up in the late 19th century, U Street first gained notoriety as one of the most accessible places to live in the DC area due to the streetcar lines that ran along its main thoroughfares. During segregation, particularly 1910-1964, the neighborhood became a safe haven for African American people and boasted one of the largest African American populations in the nation.
Our must-dos
Check out these recommendations to make the most of your next visit.
See the former residence of jazz legend Duke Ellington at 1805 13th Street NW.
Browse contemporary art galleries like the Hamiltonian.
Grab dinner from Dukem, a colorful spot putting an upscale twist on Ethiopian cuisine. For a more casual bite, you can’t go wrong with a half-smoke chili dog from Ben’s Chili Bowl.
Catch a show at the refurbished Lincoln Theatre, originally opened in 1922.
Remote workers, we want to hear from you. Tell us where you power through your emails and get things done. Your favorite workspace could be featured in an upcoming issue of the NOVAtoday newsletter.
Work From the Tea Shop | 12-4:30 p.m. | Elden Street Tea Shop, Reston | Price of purchase | Enjoy a peaceful ambiance and handcrafted teas while getting your work done. All food purchases are 5% off.
Alexandria Women’s History Walk | 12-3 p.m. | Alexandria Visitor Center, Alexandria | Free | Get your walking shoes on and learn about how women have impacted Alexandria.
The Del Ray Citizens Association is hosting a Historic Preservation Workshop tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mt. Vernon Community School auditorium. Learn about how you can protect and explore the Town of Potomac Historic District. The idea of expanding the district is also on the table. (ALXnow)
Community
Alexandria’s Waterfront Commission is hosting its annual walking tour of the Old Town North waterfront tomorrow. The tour will begin at 8 a.m. and showcase different spots like the Canal Center + the new TideLock project. (ALXnow)
Read
Join Bards Alley Books on Thursday, June 26, at 6 p.m. for a conversation with former CIA officer Christina Hillsberg, author of Agents of Change, and Badass Women’s Book Club founder Gina Warner.
State
A ban on Styrofoam for Virginia food vendors with 20 or more locations will begin Tuesday, July 1. This is part of a multi-step law that went into effect in 2023 in an effort to reduce the use of expanded polystyrene. Companies that fail to comply will be fined $50 for each day the violation continues. (3WTKR)
Asked
The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and we want to hear from you. What are your plans for celebrating Independence Day in the NOVA area? Whether you’re attending a local fireworks show, hosting a backyard barbecue, or exploring a hidden gem in the region.
Number
5. That’s how many minutes it takes to be ready for every trending topic at tonight’s dinner party, thanks to 1440’s unbiased, fact-based daily newsletters. Subscribe for free.*
Real Estate
Is the future of housing built in just one hour? This company is selling assembly-line constructed homes that are folded up, shipped off, and unboxed on-site.†*
Post of the Day
This one is for our Loudoun County readers. Looking for fresh spots to explore this summer? Check out this roundup from @kbinloudoun featuring their top picks for everything from dining to outdoor adventures.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Something I’m grateful for? The fact that we’ve actually gotten some sunshine over the last couple of days. While it is hot, I am always grateful for blue skies. Why not cool off at one of NOVA’s public pools? A few options include Warwick Pool, Old Town Pool, and Glen Forest Community Pool. Don’t forget to pack some sunscreen.
}})
}})
