Experience DC through the eyes of Adrian Loving, a musician, DJ and cultural historian who finds inspiration in every corner of the city.
Adrian Loving knows DC like the back of his hand. A city kid through and through, he grew up in the capital surrounded by global citizens pursuing their creative dreams. So why shouldn’t he do the same? Today, with 20 years in the arts, Loving embodies the ultimate multi-hyphenate: DJ, author, art historian, musician, painter and educator.
Former educator at Georgetown Day School, Adrian now travels frequently to produce music festivals, perform DJ sets, curate art exhibits, speak at conferences and research academic projects. His work focuses on Black music culture, androgyny and club culture, culminating in his book project Fade To Grey. Travel also heavily influences his music, with his latest album Inner Temples: Travelscapes Vol 1 coming to life as a vibey ode to wanderlust.
Despite his global experiences, there's no place like home. Loving has settled in Southwest DC, where you'll often find him biking. While metropolitan life offers endless stimulation for culture enthusiasts, Adrian knows where to find serenity amidst the urban landscape. And even in the heart of the hustle and bustle, there are places of peace to pause, clear your mind and allow inspiration to strike.
Scroll further to discover Adrian Loving's inspirational tour of DC.
Morning
Begin your mornings at the Southwest Duck Pond, located at the corner of Sixth and Eye Streets SW. Completed in 1972 to improve the neighborhood’s recreational spaces, the park is an urban oasis for local residents, nine-to-fivers and students of the Amidon-Bowen School.
Gear up for a day of roaming the city with a delicious, filling meal. Rent a bike from Capital Bikeshare and head downtown to Baker’s Daughter, a serene yet energetic café offering an all-day breakfast menu and a selection of gourmet groceries. Even when you’re not exactly sure what you’re craving – whether it’s a protein-packed scrambled egg bowl, a light kale salad or a rich short rib grilled cheese – you can find it here.
Next, head to the National Gallery of Art East Building to aimlessly peruse the art. As the nation’s premier destination for modern and contemporary art, the modern space is an inspirational sanctuary, offering two soaring tower galleries and a rooftop terrace for outdoor sculptures. When you want to check out the classics, wander into the West Building for devotional paintings of Renaissance masters and Impressionist art.
Afternoon
Return to Southwest to catch a matinee at Arena Stage, just north of The Wharf. This venue is a leading voice of contemporary American theater, telling our stories from across the country with year-round productions from creative visionaries like August Wilson. The Anthem, just down the street, is the city’s waterfront venue for big-name live music. Don't miss out on the star-studded lineups – tickets usually sell out in advance.
Afterwards, grab a light bite (and some craft cocktails if you’re feeling indulgent) at Moonraker. This sophisticated Japanese eatery is nestled atop the 14th floor of the chic and sleek Pendry Hotel at The Wharf. From 7 a.m. to midnight, Monday to Saturday (closing at 10 p.m. on Sunday), they offer a sophisticated selection of maki rolls and small bites, with unbeatable ambiance.
Evening
As the sun starts to set, the museums close and the clubs open, head to the U Street Corridor for some shopping. Affectionately known as “Black Broadway” during the 1930s and 1940s, the area is still a mainstay for live shows, dance clubs, and a host of Black and minority-owned local businesses and shops.
Sift through the treasure trove of perfectly-worn vintage tees at Joint Custody. Assemble a charming bouquet of fresh blooms at Lee Flower & Card Shop, a family-owned U Street staple for over 75 years. Check the calendars for live music at the Howard Theatre and Lincoln Theatre. Even after the ticket windows shutter for the night, you can still stroll by the African-American Civil War Memorial, paying homage to the heroic roles of 209,145 U.S. African American Troops who helped end slavery and kept America united under one flag.
End the day in Shaw, one of the city’s most lively sanctuaries for Black entrepreneurship. Adrian loves to shuffle through some vinyl at FEEL Listening Lounge, a smooth and lively member-only listening lounge offering hi-fi beats and drinks. For dinner, keep the beat going at Jojo Restaurant and Bar, where you can enjoy a flavorful menu of indulgent southern-influenced fare along with a side of live jazz. Or try El Techo – a Mexican fusion restaurant that takes soul food South of the border – if you want to travel to a warmer locale via your taste buds. Over tequila cocktails and conversation, enjoy the final measure of your day. In the morning, play it again.
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