Whether you are only in town for a couple of hours, or feel like you've seen everything in DC and want some new ideas, City Hops offers short itineraries for trips around the city, with all the sites based around a theme. This weekly blog features helpful ideas and tips for both residents and visitors.

This week's City Hop:

U Street Overview

Politics, music, and culture make up U Street’s storied history

Hop off the Metro at the U Street/Cardozo Metro station and immediately see the African American Civil War Memorial (1000 U Street, NW). After the memorial, walk across the street and visit the African American Civil War Museum (1925 Vermont Avenue, NW) which features the African American struggle for freedom using photographs, documents and interactive audio-visual equipment.

On the way to the next stop, make sure to read historic information on the Greater U Street Heritage Trail. You’ll learn about U Street’s history as Washington’s “Black Broadway” and about some of the nation’s first civil rights protests.

Next, stop at the Greater U Street Neighborhood Visitor Center (1211 U Street, NW). Get maps, shopping and dining information, and other helpful neighborhood information. You can then choose to grab a bite to eat at Ben’s Chili Bowl, located next door to the Visitor Center, or walk to Busboys and Poets (2121 14th Street, NW). 
While waiting for a table at Busboys, browse their bookstore or take in a lecture or open mic event.

End the night at Twins Jazz Club (1344 U Street, NW) that features both major artists as well as local acts. Considering U Street is well known for its jazz musicians like Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Sarah Vaughn, Twins Jazz Club is a perfect way to end your U Street exploration.

Other suggested stops:
The Lincoln Theatre
DC Jazz Jam 

Previous City Hops:

Dupont Circle Detour - June 19, 2012

Women in Art and History - June 12, 2012