Cultural Tourism DC asked some prominent Washingtonians to share with us their favorite places or events that are special and unique to DC

Crystal Palmer is the Director of the Office of Motion Picture and Television Development, which is a District of Columbia government agency responsible for initiating, implementing and managing the operations and logistics of programs that support the production of film, video, television, photography, and other multimedia projects in the District. Crystal has more than two decades of experience in the local and national film and television industry including her own freelance work producing short films, infomercials, and promotional spots.

Crystal shares her top 5 most popular locales for TV and film producers and directors:

1. Capitol Hill: The neighborhood that serves as the seat of the nation’s legislative branch is one of the most sought after filming locations, having hosted such movies as Wag the Dog, Get Smart, and Evan Almighty.

2. Ben’s Chili Bowl: One of the most recognizable eating establishments in the District of Columbia, Ben’s is a 50 year-old iconic local business that has been home to a diverse offering of film productions ranging from major motion pictures such as State of Play and Pelican Brief to dozens of independent films, television shows, commercials, and music videos.

3. Adams Morgan: The diverse appeal of the area has caught the attention of such reality shows as Real World and major motion pictures like How Do You Know. The neighborhood was also featured in an independent film released earlier this spring entitled Adams Morgan: The Movie.

4. Postcard Washington: The landmarks of Washington, DC also known as “postcard Washington,” are some of the most recognizable and beautiful structures in the world and have served as a backdrop for hundreds of multimedia projects in the City. A few include the Lincoln Memorial steps in Forest Gump, Wedding Crashers and In the Line of Fire and The White House in Independence Day, The American President and The West Wing.

5. Georgetown: This historic neighborhood mostly known for its shopping, restaurants and landmarks is also the site of numerous film and television productions, including The Exorcist, Enemy of the State, and St. Elmo’s Fire.

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