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Staying in Palisades over Thanksgiving week

Hi everyone,

My partner and his teenaged son (and I) have a friend's place to stay at in the Palisades, for a week. It's not far from my family near Veazey Terrace and we'll have a car. But I wonder if we should try to stay in a more 'happening' and walkable/metro-able neighborhood, like Columbia Heights, Adam's Morgan, etc, for easier access to downtown? Thanks for advice!

Staying in the Palisades can be a very pleasant experience, especially if you enjoy a quieter, residential area with tree-lined streets, local parks, and a suburban feel while still being in DC. Having a car makes the neighborhood much more convenient for getting around, but it is not as metro-accessible as other areas like Columbia Heights or Adams Morgan.

Pros of staying in the Palisades:

  • Quiet, safe, and family-friendly environment with scenic streets and proximity to the Potomac River.
  • Easy access by car to different parts of DC, including your family near Veazey Terrace.
  • Good local dining and small cafes, though options are more limited than downtown areas.

Cons of staying in the Palisades:

  • Not very walkable to metro stations; public transportation options are limited.
  • Extra driving time to downtown attractions like the National Mall, museums, and nightlife areas.
  • Fewer restaurants, bars, and entertainment options within walking distance.

Alternatives in more central neighborhoods (Columbia Heights, Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, etc.):

  • Easier access to metro lines and buses, making it more convenient to explore DC without a car.
  • More walkable restaurants, shops, and nightlife; good for teenagers and adults who enjoy exploring the city on foot.
  • Closer proximity to popular tourist attractions in downtown DC, potentially saving travel time each day.

Recommendation:

If your main goal is to be close to family in Veazey Terrace and you are comfortable driving, staying in the Palisades is perfectly fine, especially for a quieter, more relaxed week. If your priority is convenience, walking, and easy access to downtown and nightlife, then a central neighborhood like Columbia Heights or Adams Morgan might be better, particularly if you want to minimize driving and use the metro or walk to most attractions.

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