Follow the travel writer on his tour of public, international and neighborhood faves in Anacostia.
Few people embody the "citizen of the world" ethos quite like writer and District discoverer Austin Graff. Born in Tatarstan, Russia, educated in German boarding schools and studying in China, he's perfectly comfortable being the proverbial fish out of water. It’s no wonder he ended up in the career he did. So much moving around and observing people in your early years will make you a storyteller.
But even the most curious of wanderers eventually yearns to put down roots. When that feeling struck him in his early twenties in 2007, he didn’t take the decision lightly. Wherever he settled needed to be full of fellow global citizens – a place on the international stage that attracts engaged, creative people from everywhere. A place he could instill his same curious spirit in his daughter. Where else but Washington, DC?
Embracing his new home with characteristic thoroughness, he’s explored all 136+ DC neighborhoods from Adams Morgan to Woodridge, publishing his discoveries as a digital guide called "Curiosity and Connection." It was the perfect way to teach his young daughter the ABCs: exploring the city from A to Z. Despite working as a journalist for The Washington Post and serving clients as a social media consultant, he counts this neighborhood exploration project among his most rewarding endeavors – second only to fatherhood.
For his young family, he settled in Anacostia, drawn to its diversity, historical legacy and charming 19th-century brick houses. In this community, like DC itself, each day offers the beginning of another fascinating story.
Follow along with Austin Graff as he introduces DC to the next generation: his daughter, who’s always up for an adventure.
Morning
Venture through nature to start the day. If you’re in Anacostia, the Riverwalk Trail is a great option. Meander down the 12-mile path and take in a changing landscape of forest, fields, marsh, bridges, rivers and landmarks like the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. The trail is paved with multiple entrances and exits: a great place to teach a little one to ride a bike. Plus, it also connects to five bridges, and the only wheels not allowed on it are cars. Ride your bikes over to the Pirate Ship playground, which is self-explanatory and exactly as cool as it sounds.
Afternoon
Fuel up with a quick bite at Open Crumb, a Black-owned casual eatery along H Street NE specializing in international comfort food. Everything on its menu of West African and American classic delicacies is made from scratch, whether it’s a crispy fried fish sandwich or some warming peanut stew and jollof rice. Afterwards, bring the kiddo (whatever age they might be) to the Anacostia Skate Park, one of the local mainstays where you’re sure to run into folks. Roll off your lunch, make some memories and wave to some new friends as you slide around. On your way to dinner, pass the Big Chair. Built in the 1950s as an over-the-top advertisement for a local furniture store, this 19-and-a-half-foot chrome seat has become an iconic local conversation piece.
Evening
After a day of strolling, skating and exploring, a delicious dinner is mandatory. One of Austin’s favorite neighborhood spots in Anacostia is Sapodillas. The family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Caribbean fare from plantains to curries and delicious cocktails. For a nightcap after the little one’s bedtime, head across town to Free State, a Penn Quarter watering hole marrying industrial and classic charm. Expect wallet-friendly cocktails amid a shiplap-accented bar. If you’re lucky enough to be there on Sunday, you might even catch trivia. And if you win, you can officially call this the best day ever.
Find more We The People itineraries and keep discovering the real DC.