Unique Souvenirs To Buy In Washington DC

Being a prime tourist destination, the District offers plenty of gaudy souvenirs that make Washingtonians cringe; there’s the ‘FBI (Female Body Inspector)’ sweatshirts that tourists can’t get enough of, and the shirts that exclaim ‘Osama Bin Laden: Dead.’ The good news, though, is that Washington, DC is an artistic and creative hub, and amazing souvenirs exist outside the tourist traps and street carts.

Neighborhood Prints

Local artist Anthony Dihle creates bright pop art of iconic Washington neighborhoods. Locals adore the prints, which capture the unique spirit of each beloved neighborhood, but they also make for a fantastic souvenir; the art represents the true essence of DC, unlike the mass-produced, tacky paraphernalia that all tourists seem to love. (Let us reiterate: Washingtonians hate those stupid FBI hoodies.) Purchase the prints here.

Einstein Bobbleheads

http://instagram.com/p/puyWYeP-nj/?tagged=einsteinbobblehead

DC Brau Memorabilia

The District loves its beer, and it’s particularly proud of the emerging craft beer scene – launched by the start of DC’s first brewery in 2009, DC Brau. The brewery offers engraved glasses, graphic tees, tap ornaments, and, of course, cases of the beer itself. Nothing says vacation like buying a six pack of local beer as a souvenir.

http://instagram.com/p/BGsEztXiTgu/?taken-by=dcbrau

White House Christmas Ornaments

The White House Historical Association commissions one ornament each year to commemorate the current president. Dating back to 1981, there are 35 ornaments in existence, and the entire collection is as impressive as it is valuable. The ornate ornaments exude elegance and veer away from gaudy decorations typical of its kind. Find them in The White House Visitor Center.

http://instagram.com/p/-_HQCjgLwT/?tagged=whitehousechristmasornament

Taxation Without Representation Stickers

If you truly want to represent DC, look no further than its license plates. The slogan reads ‘Taxation Without Representation’ – a nod to the fact DC isn’t afforded senators or representatives. No one in Congress is there to specifically represent DC’s interests. The District is currently rallying for statehood again, but its bid will likely be rejected by Congress, again. Support Washingtonians in their struggle for autonomy and voting rights.

http://instagram.com/p/BJ73ZEBj94r/?tagged=taxationwithoutrepresentation

Currency Sheets

Spend your money on…money! Purchase uncut currency sheets at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Of course, the money costs more than it’s worth. A sheet of four $2 bills (aka $8) costs $25, but isn’t the inflation worth it to lie that you robbed the U.S. government?

http://instagram.com/p/vT47_7tBkL/?tagged=currencysheets

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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