High School Trip to DC

Last week, the high school class went on a 3-day, 2-night trip to DC. Our home base was a hostel in Shaw, and from there we explored museums, monuments, and more that related to our studies throughout this year.

Day 1

Our first day, we visited the Hirshhorn to see the Banksy x Basquiat exhibit. The kids have studied both of these artists this year in Critical Thought and in Studio Art. We also explored the other galleries and saw graffiti art (throwback to last years art class!) and the Laurie Anderson exhibit, which is always a moving space to be in. The sculpture garden was closed for updates, but we got to enjoy a Yayoi Kusama pumpkin :)

After the museum, we headed to the Duo Hostel to settle in and hang out. They had a rooftop that was perfect for our kids.

After some chill out time and takeout Chinese dinner, we headed to the mall on the metro for a nighttime monument walk. For several kids, this was the highlight of the trip. There is something really special about seeing the nation’s capital lit up in the evening. It was a unique way to connect with friends.

Day 2 was packed!

We went to the Supreme Court, the National Archives, the Botanical Gardens, bowling in Georgetown, and the iconic Georgetown Cupcake. We also had a food truck lunch

on the mall.

Day 3

We packed up and headed to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This is an incredible museum that deserves a second visit; the bottom floor alone is a comprehensive linear history from the very beginnings of the slave trade. The top floor is beautifully done-it is focused on culture and the arts. Most of us didn’t even see the floors in between because there are so many places to linger.

After our visit, we headed up to U street to the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl. This restaurant has been a fixture in DC since 1958, and serves delicious food. It features a mural of prominent Black artists, politicians, and more, as well as artifacts of famous visitors over the years. We saw a video presentation, as well, although we mostly just enjoyed the food and the company.

We headed home with full bellies and tired legs. The kids were so wonderful on this trip! They embraced all that DC had to offer, rolled with the discomfort of travel, and had incredible conversations with their peers and teachers. They want to come back next year!