Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Camping on the Outer Banks of North Carolina: Oregon Inlet Campground


Beach on the Atlantic Ocean at Oregon Inlet Campground

The Outer Banks of North Carolina has been a piece of my heart since I was a girl. As soon as I had my driver’s permit I couldn’t wait to take my SUV to the beach and drive on the sand. Many weekends growing up I spent fishing and laying in the sun on Oregon Inlet. As an adult, I’ve stayed in too many Outer Banks hotels and rentals to count. I feel like the OBX is a part of me.

Site 35B Oregon Inlet Campground
Site 35B Oregon Inlet Campground

Being able to camp at Oregon Inlet was a dream come true. For those of you interested in camping on the OBX there are many camping choices, but this blog will focus primarily on Oregon Inlet Campground. My first trip to Oregon Inlet Campground was also the Madden trip for my almost 30-year-old Sunline Saturn I’ve named the Lilly Pad and it made this vacation extra memorable.

Oregon Inlet Campground 101

campground layout at Oregon Inlet Campground
Provided campground layout at Oregon Inlet Campground

Oregon Inlet Campground is located just a stone’s throw from the inlet and this campground offers convenient access to fishing and water activities. It boasts well-maintained facilities and stunning sunset views over the sound. Oregon Inlet Campground is comprised of three sections. Section A is solely for tent camping and B/C allows for tents and RVs (some offering electric and water hookups). Generators are also, allowed to be used from 7am-10pm in B/C. The campground is across the street from the Oregon Inlet fishing area which has a dump station, fresh water hookup for getting your potable water, and a small store for necessities.

go 4x4 in the obx
Get an off road permit to drive your own 4×4 vehicle on the beach or rent one while you’re at the beach and have a unique driving experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro!

Amidst the rugged beauty of the Outer Banks, Oregon Inlet presents a captivating blend of coastal charm and natural splendor. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or an action-packed outdoor adventure, this area offers a variety of camping options to suit every traveler’s preference. The Oregon Inlet Campground stands out for its proximity to both the inlet itself and the expansive Atlantic Ocean beaches. Campers can wake up to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the sound.

The campground is well maintained, and has a ranger station and onsite host volunteers. The best part is the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean is right over the dunes of the camping area. A quick walk from the campground and you can swim in the cool green water of the island or catch your dinner. Cooking up fresh, local seafood makes a wonderful addition to any beach camping experience.

Freshly caught Wanchese, Nc shrimp from the market
Freshly caught Wanchese, Nc shrimp from the market.

Tips for Camping at Oregon Inlet

When preparing for a camping trip at Oregon Inlet, it’s essential to pack wisely. Bring along camping essentials such as cooking utensils, and sufficient food and water supplies, as nearby stores can be limited. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes are also crucial, especially for those planning to explore the rugged terrain and sandy trails.

Before embarking on your journey, be sure to check the weather forecast and consider seasonal conditions, particularly during hurricane season. Making campground reservations in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel times, to secure your spot amidst the Outer Banks’ natural wonders. The campground can be booked on recreation.gov and the online booking process was very easy as was the check-in and out at the location.

Things to do in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

If you’re looking for some of the freshest seafood in the OBX give Captain George’s a try. This is a local favorite for all you can eat seafood and includes crab legs on the buffet.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do around Oregon Inlet. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the shore or venture out on chartered fishing expeditions in the rich waters of the inlet. Nature lovers can explore the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this coastal environment, from marshlands teeming with wildlife to sandy dunes dotted with sea oats.

The towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills are a quick drive North and have many grocery stores and restaurants to choose from as well as plenty of shopping. The Bodie Lighthouse is also, a few miles up the street from the OI campground as well as one of my favorite NC beaches Coquina Beach. A further drive North for a day trip and one can visit the quaint town of Duck, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, or even go see the wild horses of Corolla on a horse adventure or hop on an ATV and ride the dunes.

Bodie Lighthouse
Bodie Lighthouse, a short drive from the Oregon Inlet Campground

If you’re looking to explore I highly suggest booking a flight over the islands through OBX Airplanes. You’ll get a better appreciation for how the beautiful outer banks are laid out and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few shipwrecks and maybe even some dolphins. There is just something extra special about flying over the Wright Brother’s memorial area knowing it is the site of the birth of flight itself!

Flying over the OBX in a small plane
Flying over the OBX in a small plane with just your family is a vacation memory you’ll be sure to treasure!

If flying isn’t your thing you can also, choose to drive to the Wright Brothers Memorial and walk the grounds on foot or consider a visit to the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island to see some cool ocean life by foot too, and a shipwreck. An immersed model of the SS Monitor is in one of their exhibits. Roanoke Island is also, home to many restaurants and shops.

Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo
I recommend a stop at Vineyards on the Scuppernong in the shops of Downtown Manteo. The scuppernong grape is native to NC and has a delicious sweet taste and fragrance. If you love wine do yourself a favor and go try some scuppernong wine 🍷 💕

If you’re a nature lover visit the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens on the picturesque sound of Roanoke Island. There is plenty for the history buffs too like seeing the wonderful outdoor drama of the Lost Colony, visiting Festival Park to see a replica of Elizabeth II ship, and historical artifacts from the area.

H2OBX
H2OBX has so much to offer no matter your preference for water fun. From sitting back in a lounge chair and watching everyone else, to speeding down tubes into the warm blue water or eating fish tacos and enjoying a watermelon milkshake you’ll find it all at H2OBX.

If you’re into fishing you can book a fishing charter right out of Oregon Inlet across from the campground! Not that you will, but if you get tired of the beach and like water fun you can drive north to check out the new H2OBX water park too while you’re in town. H2OBX has plenty to offer for the whole family from a huge lazy river, water rides the whole family can fit on, single and double tubing rides, delicious food, and fun apparel shopping. Spending a day at H2OBX is a great addition to any trip to the beach.

The OBX will always have a piece of my heart and I love sharing all my fun experiences and finds so you too will fall in love with the OBX!

From wild horses, the birth of flight, fresh seafood, and breathtaking beaches the the area surrounding the Oregon Inlet Campground doesn’t disappoint. Camping among the dunes and opening the windows to hear the ocean were a big perk of this campground and a highlight of this adventure for me. Camping near the Outer Banks promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From lounging on pristine beaches, hiking through maritime forests, or simply soaking in the tranquility of this coastal paradise, each moment spent in this captivating environment is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plan your adventure today and discover the untamed beauty of camping on the Outer Banks’ shores.

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to the OBX please share my article with them too☺️

Visit a North Carolina Aquarium

Camping at Beechland Campground in Manteo

Camping at Refuge Campground Roanoke Island

Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Camping on the Outer Banks

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲…𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐩𝐢𝐳𝐳𝐚!

The saying, “You can’t make everyone happy; you’re not pizza,” resonates deeply, especially when planning a trip. Just like pizza, with its vast array of toppings, our travel preferences can vary significantly. Trying to create an itinerary that caters to everyone’s tastes and desires can quickly become overwhelming and often leads to frustration. It’s essential to recognize that while striving for universal satisfaction is admirable, it can sometimes feel impossible.

In my experience, the challenge of accommodating different tastes and perspectives can lead to stress and conflict among friends or family. When you’re tasked with planning a group trip, each person may have their unique must-see destinations, desired activities, and expectations. The reality is that you cannot please everyone all the time, and attempting to do so can often leave you feeling exhausted and unfulfilled.

To create a trip that feels rewarding for all, here are some tips to help you balance everyone’s desires and make the planning process smoother:

Involve Everyone in the Planning

Start by gathering input from all participants right at the beginning. A simple survey or a group discussion can help capture everyone’s interests and priorities. This ensures that everyone has a voice in the planning process, making it easier to find common ground.

Prioritize Key Activities

Identify a few non-negotiable activities or destinations that excite everyone in the group. These shared goals can serve as the foundation of your itinerary, helping to create a sense of shared purpose. By focusing on these highlights, you can build a framework that satisfies the group’s core interests.

Build a Flexible Itinerary

Structure your trip with a mix of group activities and individual free time. Include scheduled events but also allow for opportunities to explore independently. This way, everyone can enjoy what they love most without feeling constrained by the group.

Consider Everyone’s Preferences

Balance the itinerary by including a variety of activities. Some individuals may crave adventure while others prefer relaxation or cultural experiences. By incorporating different types of activities, you can cater to diverse interests within the group.

Communicate Clearly

Keep communication open throughout both the planning phase and the trip. Encourage group discussions where everyone can express their thoughts or suggest changes. Address any concerns promptly to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.

Be Ready to Compromise

Remember that not everyone will be able to get their way all the time. Be prepared to make compromises and adjust plans as needed. Sometimes the best moments come from unexpected detours or changes in plans that allow the group to discover new experiences together.

Celebrate Togetherness

Remind everyone that the primary goal of the trip is to enjoy each other’s company. Focusing on shared experiences, such as group meals or evenings around a campfire, can help strengthen bonds and create lasting memories, even if everyone doesn’t get their first choice of activities.

While planning a successful group trip requires patience and flexibility, the connections and experiences shared along the way are what truly matter. While you may never fully satisfy everyone, keeping lines of communication open, embracing compromises, and maintaining a focus on shared goals can create a win-win situation. By understanding that the journey is more about the relationships built and moments shared rather than the specific itinerary, you can foster deeper connections and unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. Ultimately, the joy of travel lies in the blend of diverse perspectives coming together, creating a richer tapestry of memories that everyone can cherish.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Visiting the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va

𝐄 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 🐘❤️

Updated: 2024

The Virginia Zoo offers a unique opportunity to see wild animals up close that most people would never get to experience otherwise. For many, a visit to the Virginia Zoo is a chance to get a firsthand look at exotic creatures from around the world that they have only read about or seen pictures of before.

Being able to observe these animals in person provides a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of wildlife on our planet. At the Virginia Zoo, the animals live in enclosures designed to closely mimic their natural habitats, allowing visitors to see how they truly live in the wild. Watching the animals move, play, interact, and go about their daily activities is an unforgettable experience, especially for children.

One of the cheetahs inside their enclosure at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va.

Beyond seeing the animals themselves, the Virginia Zoo also provides educational opportunities through informative signs, exhibits, and presentations from zookeepers. People can learn about the behaviors, characteristics, and conservation needs of each species. Some zoos have unfortunately become infamous for animal treatment, but good ones like the Virginia Zoo, have programs for animal conservation, educational, and preservation efforts. Accredited zoos play an important role in protecting endangered species through breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity. A visit to the Virginia Zoo is a fun, exciting, and inspiring family activity.

Visiting the Virginia Zoo Norfolk is an exciting, educational adventure for the whole family. Tickets for the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va are sold in advance and at the gate. As you walk through the zoo’s winding pathways, you’ll encounter a diverse array of animals from all around the world. The zoo is divided into geographical regions, with animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Make your way through each section and observe the animals in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.

Tiger Trail at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va

The zoo’s African exhibit features magnificent lions lounging on rocks and tall giraffes grazing on tree leaves. Over in the Asia exhibit, you’ll see majestic tigers pacing in their enclosures and red pandas climbing in trees. The reptile house has a vast collection of snakes, lizards, and crocodilians. Don’t miss the daily animal feedings, where zookeepers provide enrichment and interact with creatures like giraffes and parrots.

The petting zoo allows kids to get up close with gentle barnyard animals. With new baby animals being born each season, every visit offers something new to discover. The Virginia Zoo Norfolk provides an immersive glimpse into the amazing world of wildlife.

Giraffes at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va.

Going during the week I feel there were fewer people than during the weekend. This may be something you want to consider when planning a visit. The Virginia Zoo offers a wide variety of fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages. As soon as you arrive, be sure to pick up a map at the front entrance so you can easily navigate the different exhibits.

Food Options at the Zoo

Dining at the Virginia Zoo is a unique and exciting experience that allows guests to enjoy delicious food alongside incredible animal exhibits. Guests can sip coffee and nibble on pastries for breakfast while watching the zoo’s diurnal animals begin their day. For lunch, the grill offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and cold drinks perfect for picnicking. Breathtaking views of zebras on the adjoining savanna make for a memorable meal.

Families appreciate the kid-friendly options, efficient service, and choices like chicken tenders and mac and cheese. There are plenty of snack options too. I enjoyed a gluten and dairy-free chocolate-covered banana which comes in plain, sprinkles, strawberry/vanilla, or cookies and cream flavors. Whether enjoying a casual lunch or a snack, the Virginia Zoo’s dining options allow guests to satisfy their appetites while surrounded by amazing wildlife.

Zoo Activities

After refueling, head over to the reptile house to see snakes, lizards, frogs, and more. Don’t miss the daily keeper chats where zoo staff provide insider info about different species. Be sure during your visit to take a ride on the zoo train for a quick overview of all the exhibits.

The train is an extra $2 per person and isn’t included with zoo admission. The train goes around the outside area of the animals and a few can be seen if they are in certain areas of their pens. Be sure to check online before you visit for special events happening at the zoo. With so many animals to visit and activities to enjoy, you’ll make lasting memories during a fun-filled day at the Virginia Zoo.

Be sure to visit the Virginia Zoo gift shop

The gift shop at the Virginia zoo is a fun place for guests to browse and purchase souvenirs to commemorate their visit. Upon entering, you are greeted with displays of stuffed animals modeled after zoo residents like tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. These plush toys come in all sizes, from tiny keychains to jumbo versions big enough to cuddle.

Along the back wall are racks of apparel including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats featuring the zoo’s logo and images of animals. Brightly-colored shirts with whimsical graphics of elephants, zebras, and lions make fun mementos for kids and adults alike. Postcard racks showcase scenic photos taken around the zoo so guests can send virtual postcards to friends and family.

The shop also sells reusable water bottles, backpacks, and other practical items branded with the zoo’s name and motifs. At the counter, you’ll also find packaged snacks. The gift shop is conveniently located near the exit so guests can browse for souvenirs on the way out after a memorable day at the zoo. With its wide selection of keepsakes, apparel, and novelties, the Virginia Zoo gift shop offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of their experience.

Flowers on display while riding the train at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk,Va

Overall this was a wonderful way to get outside on a beautiful day and to enjoy nature. I would highly recommend a trip to the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA if you live in Virginia or are visiting. My tip is to look at the zoo’s website to confirm what you want to see is open when planning your visit. I know I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the zoo!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Clarksville-Virginia’s Hidden Gem

Clarksville Virginia

Known as Virginia’s only lakefront town the charming town of Clarksville, Virginia is located along the beautiful Kerr Lake in southern Virginia. With its quaint small businesses, cozy restaurants, and welcoming hospitality, Clarksville exudes Southern charm. Traveling to Clarksville Virginia is a joy for any nature lover or history buff.

In the rolling hills of southern Virginia, Clarksville is a charming small town that offers a glimpse into America’s past. Founded in the 1820s, Clarksville still has many preserved historic homes and buildings that reflect its heritage as a tobacco trading hub and Civil War site. Strolling the quaint downtown area, you’ll find antique shops, cafes, and art galleries housed in structures over a century old.

The town is also, surrounded by lush forests and farmland. Hikers can explore trails along the John H. Kerr Reservoir or through Occoneechee State Park. The lake, known to many as Buggs Island also, offers some of the best bass fishing in Virginia, making it a paradise for anglers.

With its blend of natural beauty and historic charm, Clarksville is the perfect destination for learning about Virginia’s culture and landscape while enjoying a relaxing rural retreat. The town’s slower pace of life, friendly community, and a plethora of outdoor activities beckon you to sit back, unwind, and appreciate the gifts of nature.

Six seconds in Clarksville, Virginia a lakeside travel destination.

Why visit Clarksville,Va?

Clarksville, Virginia makes for an excellent destination for a vacation. Clarksville offers scenic views and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The town itself has a charming, small-town vibe with historic buildings, antique shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants serving up classic Southern fare.

Each season offers something different in Clarksville. In spring, the countryside bursts into color with flowering dogwoods and redbuds. Come summer, visitors can pick their fruit at local orchards and farms. In the fall, the surrounding forests burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating picture-perfect views of the lake.

Clarksville Virginia

For water lovers and fishing enthusiasts, Clarksville offers abundant recreational opportunities. Boating is a popular local pastime, with public launch areas to use your boat and rentals available for boats, kayaks, and canoes. For fishing enthusiasts, guided trips on Kerr Lake are available to book. I have fished Kerr Lake many times, catching keepers from docks and the banks at Occoneechee State Park.

Clarksville Virginia
Fishing from the banks of Occoneechee State Park

Beyond the lake, Clarksville is an ideal home base for exploring the broader Southside Virginia region. Several wineries in the area are fun to visit for tastings and vineyard tours. The serene setting and slower pace of life make Clarksville an idyllic spot to unwind and recharge.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike and bike along the scenic country roads. Nearby Occoneechee State Park also, offers several hiking options, biking trails, equestrian riding areas, picnic spots, and playgrounds. In addition, the park provides educational programs and has a small museum with information on Native American history in the area.

Camping in Clarksville, Va

If you’re looking for a relaxing rustic weekend getaway Occoneechee State Park offers idyllic accommodations for visitors to Clarksville. Nestled on the lake, the park’s charming cabins and scenic campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs provide guests with a serene natural retreat. With its pristine grounds, professional staff, and congenial patrons, Occoneechee State Park makes an excellent home base for exploring the region.

Occoneechee State Park  Clarksville Virginia
Cabin at Occoneechee State Park

Occoneechee State Park is a wonderful place for those seeking a nature getaway or some time spent outdoors. The park offers ample opportunities to immerse oneself in natural beauty. Miles of hiking trails wind through the woods, past trickling streams and mossy outcroppings perfect for a picnic. Early risers can catch glimpses of deer grazing in the misty meadows at dawn. At night, the lack of light pollution provides stunning views of the starry skies.

The serene lake at the heart of the park beckons visitors to spend lazy afternoons fishing from the dock or paddling in a canoe. For wildlife enthusiasts, the diverse habitats mean excellent birdwatching and chances to spot everything from turtles to foxes. With cozy cabins and campsites available, Occoneechee State Park is ideal for those who want to fall asleep to the chorus of crickets and wake to the sunrise filtering through the trees.

Disconnecting from the stress of everyday life and tuning in to the rhythms of nature is restorative. With so much natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation, it’s easy to see why someone would want to stay at Occoneechee State Park.
Occoneechee State Park is a wonderful place for those seeking a nature getaway or some time spent outdoors.

In addition to the lodging at the state park, the Clarksville area has other hotels/motels and RV/camping sites. There are also, many AirBnB lodging options in Clarksville that include unique accommodations on Kerr Lake featuring private docks and other amenities.

Where to Eat in Clarksville, Virginia

Coopers’s Landing Clarksville Virginia

Clarksville offers abundant dining options whether you’re staying in a cabin, hotel, motel, or Airbnb. In addition to bringing your food or catching your dinner, you can visit the market to buy groceries or dine at one of downtown’s many eateries. Downtown Clarksville caters to all tastes with fine dining, casual fare, pizza, ice cream, and more.

Cooper’s Landing Inn is a must-visit while you’re in Clarksville. This restaurant and Inn might be in a small town, but it is a true hidden culinary gem. Surrounded by hanging ferns and rocking chairs on the front porch Cooper’s Landing is the picture of Southern charm and hospitality.

Coopers’s Landing Clarksville Virginia
The Island Oasis is a tropical vacation in a glass and features champagne, Grand Marnier and Blue Curaçao.

For those who enjoy a cocktail, the Sunday brunch menu includes a wide variety of mimosa drinks and the dinner menu features an extensive list of martinis and other cocktails. These included the First Kiss: a sweet nectar flavor where the alcohol aftertaste was hidden, the Fresh Mint Lemon Drop which had the most amazing mint finish to it and the Bellini Martini. For brunch, the Hawaiian and Island Oasis were my choices both of which tasted like tropical vacations in a glass.

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor patio seating. The decor is bright and welcoming with a touch of elegance. You’ll find something to suit every palate and the menu has a variety of choices including steaks, seafood, chicken, pasta, and seasonal favorites.

Coopers’s Landing Clarksville Virginia
Lobster mac and cheese (top left), wedge salad (second right), shrimp and grits (bottom left), cookie dough cheesecake (third right). Drinks, Fresh Mint Lemon Drop (bottom right) and Bellini Martini (top right)

For dinner, I tried the wedge salad, lobster mac and cheese, and the shrimp and grits, all of which were amazing! The dessert selection changes daily and they had a beautiful dessert cart for making a selection. I decided on a piece of cookie dough cheesecake to top off the meal. I was impressed by all the amazing food choices and the impeccable service.

Brunch Coopers’s Landing Clarksville Virginia
Michellina’s salad with filet (top right), Brie cheese plate (middle) and (bottom right) Sausage Croute

Brunch here was equally delicious with a Brie cheese plate, ham croute, and the Michellina’s salad with the filet. Their brunch is the perfect way to start the day or in my case to end the weekend getaway. I highly recommend visiting Cooper’s Landing when in Clarksville.

Coopers’s Landing Clarksville Virginia
Sunset on Kerr Lake Clarksville Virginia

If you’re into water sports, fishing, camping, or looking for something a little different for a getaway I recommend checking out this small-town gem and visiting Clarksville, Va. You’re sure to relax and feel well rested when you return home. Time seemed to slow down in this small town and that’s incentive enough for me to want to visit Clarksville again.

Clarksville Virginia

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❤️ Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Review of the citizenM Hotel Washington DC

Review of the citizenM Hotel Washington DC

There are many reasons why a traveler should consider staying at the citizenM hotel when visiting Washington DC. Located right in the heart of the city, citizenM provides an ideal home base for exploring all that the nation’s capital has to offer. If you’re looking for something close to everything in DC including museums, parks, and monuments the very tech-savvy citizenM Washington DC Capitol Hotel is for you.

Upon entering the sleek, modern lobby, guests are immediately struck by the hotel’s contemporary style and lively atmosphere. The rooms are small but thoughtfully designed, with plush beds, smart TVs, and rain showers. The living room-style lobby encourages mingling and socializing, with cozy furniture, 24/7 food and drinks, and state-of-the-art workspaces.

Checking In at the citizenM Washington DC Capitol

Checking in at the citizenM in Washington DC was so easy using the hotel kiosk

From the moment we checked in I was able to use the app on my phone to control my hotel experience. This was one of the easiest hotel check-ins I’ve ever had. Before checking in my citizenM app alerted me when it was time to check in (no waiting around past the check-in time). I was able to preselect options on my phone like breakfast, late checkout, pick my preference of a high or lower floor, and my view. Once in the hotel lobby I simply selected checking in on kiosks and scanned my phone. Someone verified my ID and I was then able to create my room key with my phone on the kiosk. That was it! So simple and easy.

For the busy traveler, citizenM takes care of the details so you can focus on enjoying your trip. This hotel is by far one of the most technologically advanced hotels I’ve ever stayed at.

On the elevator, I scanned my room key to access our floor. Once in the room, everything is controlled by the app on your phone including the room temperature, dimming/brightening the lights, turning lights on/off, changing the light color/mood of the room, changing the thermostat, changing the TV channels and even putting up the blinds. The hotel provides a tablet in the room to access these features as well in case you don’t want to use your app or don’t have a smartphone. There are traditional switches as well in the room. I was so impressed with all the features of the citizenM Hotel in Washington. I like that the storage space in the room was like a cruise ship-style room with lots of storage.

Hotel Amenities at the citizenM Hotel Washington DC

The citizenM Hotel in Washington had a great rooftop bar too with beautiful views of the Capitol and an excellent drink menu (all on the app) with great prices for DC. They also, had a very quaint restaurant off of the lobby downstairs with both vegetarian and vegan options plus a small grocery area to buy necessities.

breakfast meal at Citizen M Hotel in Washington DC

The Breakfast Meal at the lobby restaurant in the citizenM Hotel in Washington DC included eggs, bacon two bread options, chia pudding with fresh fruit, an apple, and juice plus coffee or tea and could be selected during the stay via the app. This was an ample amount of food and fuel to start the day.

From the citizenM Hotel in Washington, we could easily walk to the Washington Monument, Tidal Basin, Thomas Jefferson Monument, WW2 Monument, Martin Luther King Monument, and the FDR Monument. The Spy Museum and several other museums are only a street or two over from the hotel and easily walked to. If you don’t want to eat at the hotel restaurant there are plenty of restaurants nearby and the citizenM app gives recommendations and maps too. The staff at the hotel are also, so friendly and ready to help in any way they can. There are plenty of things to do in Washington DC and many reasons to come visit the area.

Overall Impression of the citizenM Hotel Washington DC

Cherry Blossom Festival Washington DC
Tip: Spring is a perfect time to plan a trip to Washington DC 🌸

Whether you’re a tourist looking to visit the many museums and monuments or a business traveler attending a conference, citizenM Washington DC puts you in the center of the action while providing modern comforts and conveniences. With its central location, hip vibe, and high-tech amenities, it’s easy to see why citizenM is the perfect hotel choice for savoring all that Washington DC has to offer.

I would give the citizenM Hotel in Washington an A+ and recommend it to anyone traveling in the area. This is the perfect hotel for a couple’s getaway and the king-size bed was so very comfy. The staff, bar/restaurant options, and location added to the appeal of this hotel. Overall, I can’t say enough good things about this awesome hotel! I appreciated citizenM and their hospitality during our stay with them. I would stay with them again and look forward to exploring their other hotels.

If you enjoyed this review please pin/share it and be sure to check out my other fun and informative travel blogs. If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

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Planning our trip spontaneously around the blooming cherry trees at the Tidal Basin citizenM Washington DC was in perfect walking distance.

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