Today we’re excited to introduce a new series where we’ll be spotlighting Sonder leaders in cities across the globe. As a locally-driven business, our General Managers (GMs) and their City Teams have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to must-see travel spots. Kicking off with an Instagram Q&A, our GMs will be sharing their favorite places to eat, drink, visit, and more in each city. And while we know most of these trips will have to wait, we also know a little inspiration can go a long way while we’re all staying home.
First up is Patrick Weeks, Sonder’s General Manager of DC. Patrick launched Sonder in Washington DC two years ago and now oversees the market’s growth, hiring, operations, and overall strategy. DC-born, Patrick has the inside scoop into all the places you can’t miss while visiting the Capital City.
- What’s the best-kept secret about DC? It’s the most family-friendly big city in the US to visit as a tourist! There are so many sites to see that are interesting to the whole family — whether historical monuments, parks, or museums – and in many ways, it’s a city that’s catered to tourists. It’s also relatively affordable, with many free activities.
- Best tip for visiting the city? I always tell friends and family visiting DC to stay somewhere they can experience a local feel. Outside the downtown area, you can find great areas for nightlife (like Dupont and 14th St) and culture (like Eastern Market, with performers, boutique food, and local art). For example, Del Ray in Alexandria, VA has great restaurants, parks, and a bustling farmer’s market and is a short drive/metro into the city – and we have a great Sonder space for your home base.
- Where’s the first place you take family and friends when they visit? If they visit in the spring, I take them to see cherry blossoms around the tidal basin. Any other season, I usually go somewhere with a great view, like the Iwo Jima Memorial or top of the Washington Monument.
- What’s your favorite museum or monument? The National Gallery of Art if I’m flying solo. With my family, the National Building Museum.
- What’s the best thing about living in DC? Having so many interesting sights and activities close by, from the vibrant culture to all the nature, and wineries just an hour west.
- What’s your least favorite part about DC? Non-stop politics can get a little exhausting.
- Have you ever visited the White House? Yes, several times! The highlight was seeing the famous Christmas decorations being done by the First Lady.
- What’s the first place you’re going to visit in DC when this is all over? Somewhere I can be active outdoors. I might head to Top Golf, or enjoy some historical sights such as the National Mall or George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate in Virginia.
- Best Sonder space in DC (in your opinion)? A space we call the Tree House. It has a beautiful backdrop of trees with a great view, and is in a fantastic location.
- What’s the food scene like in DC? Vibrant and diverse. I have so many different favorite spots, including:
- Call Your Mother Deli – My favorite bagel shop
- District Doughnuts
- Rose’s Luxury
- Pork Barrel BBQ in Del Ray, VA
- Cheesetique – Whenever my wife and I stay in a Sonder for a night out, this is our go-to spot for a cheeseboard
Rapid-fire questions: what’s your favorite?
Cafe?
Colony Club
Restaurant?
Le Diplomate
Local shop?
Made in DC
Delivery/take-out spot?
Timber Pizza
Place to go for a walk/run?
National Mall