Where to Shop

Amaranth Costume Design
Where: amaranthcostumes.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Sustainable fantasy and historical-based costuming.
Why we love them: Committed to inclusive clothing, all pieces are designed and made right in DC.

Analog
Where: The Arts Walk, 716 Monroe St NE Unit 5, shopanalog.com
When to visit: Fridays 3–7pm, Saturdays 10am–4pm, Sundays 12–4pm, or anytime online
What you’ll find: An independent boutique and workshop, featuring handmade paper goods, vintage clothing and accessories, and home goods.
Why we love them: Unique cards and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Shop owner Melissa played “post office” as a child and still loves connecting with customers that share her joy of paper letters, cards, and mail as a creative way to connect with others.

The Big Bad Woof
Where: 6960 Maple St NW, thebigbadwoof.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 9am–7pm, Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: Food, treats, and supplies for your dog, cat, bird, fish, goat, horse, or other non-human family member.
Why we love them: As a DC Benefit Corporation, they support local makers and producers, focus on sustainability, and reduce transport costs and their carbon “pawprint.” 100 solar panels on the roof power all the store's freezers!

Bol Coop Bookstore
Where: 716 Monroe St NE, Studio #11, bol.coop
When to visit: Thursday–Friday 4–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–3pm
What you’ll find: Curated, diverse, unique books, community, and events.
Why we love them: They are the first worker-owned cafe, bookstore, and event space in DC. They encourage community and solidarity for social change.

Bold Alley
Where: 5008 Connecticut Ave NW, boldalley.com
When to visit: Always online, pop-up through the 24th. Check their website for details.
What you’ll find: A home goods pop-up store with curated vintage and modern pieces. 
Why we love them: Proudly women-owned and based in DC, Bold Alley is there to “elevate your space.”

District Cutlery
Where: 1309 5th St NE, districtcutlery.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: From home kitchens to Michelin-starred restaurants, you can find a knife that works for you and keep it sharpened to perfection.
Why we love them: A veteran-owned family business, the two brothers who run this store help keep DC sharp.

Femme Fatale
Where: 3409 Connecticut Ave NW, femmefataledc.com
When to visit: 11am–6pm, plus events
What you’ll find: Art, clothing, jewelry, housewares, and gifts, plus community events in their beautiful space.
Why we love them: Dozens of creatives coming together to sell their wares!

Groovy dc Cards & Gifts
Where: 321 7th St SE, groovydc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 11am–6pm, Saturday 10am–4pm, Sunday 11am–4pm
What you’ll find: A staple in Eastern Market for over 18 years, Groovy dc has a wide selection of cards, gifts, and party supplies. They sell unique cards from small, independent companies.
Why we love them: They take pride in highlighting and supporting local artists and small stationery and gift companies.

Grounded
Where: 1913 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, feelgrounded.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 7:30am–7pm, Saturday 8am–7pm, Sunday 8am–6pm
What you’ll find: Where "plant care meets self care"—Grounded is a biophilic wellness studio, café, and plant shop designed to reconnect you with nature and yourself.
Why we love them: Serene a verdant setting for coffee, tea, pastries and patties that sells house plants labeled for beginners and experts alike. Ask about the yoga studios in the back!

iconsDC
Where: iconsdc.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: From posters to prints to stationery, icons DC is an online retail hub of fine DC-themed gifts.
Why we love them: They are proud members of the Made in DC Program, Museum Store Association, DestinationDC, and the DC Makers Guild.

Labyrinth Games & Puzzles
Where: 645 Pennsylvania Ave SE, labyrinthdc.com
When to visit: Monday 12–7pm; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 11am–10pm; Wednesday 11am–9pm; Saturday–Sunday 10am–7pm
What you’ll find: All the games and puzzles you could want, for both kids and adults!
Why we love them: They host gaming meetups, they’re active in the community, and they donate to DC schools.

Loyalty Bookstores
Where: 4203 9th St NW, loyaltybookstores.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday 10am–7pm, Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: Loyalty Bookstores centers diverse voices across literature for all ages as well as gifts and programming centered on our community!
Why we love them: They are Black, queer, and Asian-owned. Through the 2025 holidays, they’ve also partnered with The DC Pop Up at Walter Reed for an additional location.

Mayapple Soaps
Where: Brookland Farmers Market, 716 Monroe St NE, mayapplesoaps.com
When to visit: Check website for farmers market dates
What you’ll find: Soaps, salves, and related products made from natural ingredients.
Why we love them: Amanda grows or forages for many of her ingredients and makes the products in her solar-powered kitchen in Brookland.

Merry Pin
Where: 7350 Georgia Ave NW, merrypindc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Saturday 8am–9pm, Sunday 10am–5pm
What you’ll find: Art and craft supplies, seasonal décor, a café, bar, and community space.
Why we love them: Open crafting every day to help you unleash your creativity or work on your latest masterpiece.

People’s Book
Where: 7014 Westmoreland Ave Suite A, Takoma Park, MD, peoplesbooktakoma.com
When to visit: Monday–Sunday 9am–8pm
What you’ll find: With over 15,000 new books, this indie bookstore offers stories for readers of all ages.
Why we love them: The store is super charming, well-organized, and has super personable and knowledgeable booksellers ready for your questions and recommendations. Grab a drip coffee or kombucha from the front, take a long browse, and soak in the vibes.

Solid State Books
Where: 600F H St NE and 1809 14th St NW, solidstatebooksdc.com
When to visit: H St: Monday–Friday 10am–9pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–9pm; 14th St: Monday–Saturday 10am–9pm, Sunday 10am–7pm
What you’ll find: Books! A café. Great community vibes. Merch and gift cards are also available.
Why we love them: Black-owned bookstore with an amazing selection and a strong supporter of DC statehood. Check out their statehood t-shirt designs!

Spin Time Records
Where: 613 Pennsylvania Ave SE 2nd Floor, spintimerecords.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–5pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–6pm
What you’ll find: Specialized, curated record store in Capitol Hill.
Why we love them: Want to support the local music scene? Heard a great band and want more? This place has got you covered with a comprehensive catalog featuring the work of our local musicians. With their knowledgeable staff and wide selection, it’s easy to find the sound you love or discover your new favorite artist!

Tiny Vinyl
Where: 2501 Champlain St NW, ​​tinyvinylshop.com
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 4–7pm, Friday–Saturday 12–8pm Sunday 12–6pm
What you’ll find: Record shop in the heart of Adams-Morgan off of Columbia Road. 
Why we love them: Investing in physical media is an excellent way to divest from the corporations that harm our community. Come to Tiny Vinyl for a big selection of vinyl, CDs, and cassette tapes for affordable prices.

Woven History & Silk Road
Where: 315 7th St SE, wovenhistory.com
When to visit: Wednesday–Sunday 11am–5pm
What you’ll find: Beautiful rugs and weavings from around the world.
Why we love them: This family-owned business has been in Eastern Market since 1986.

Cafe U
Where: 1017 U St NW
When to visit: Monday–Friday 7am–5pm
What you’ll find:  Coffee shop on U Street, serving coffee, juice, and bagels. 
Why we love them: A great place for breakfast and coffee. Word is that they have an amazing mocha.

Chinatown Liquor
Where: 602 H St NW
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday 11am–9pm, Thursday–Saturday 11am–10pm, Sunday 12–8pm
What you’ll find: Friendly service and a well-stocked store.
Why we love them: A variety of beer, wine, and liquor convenient to downtown and metro-accessible.

Fat Pete's BBQ
Where: 3407 Connecticut Ave NW, fatpetesbbq.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11:30am–10pm
What you’ll find: Lip-smacking, finger-licking NC-style barbecue and sides available in the restaurant or via a catering or takeout order.
Why we love them: The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff!

Granville Moore's Brickyard
Where: 1248 H St NE
When to visit: Thursday–Monday 5–9pm, happy hour 5–6:30pm
What you’ll find: Belgian moules frites and Belgian beer.
Why we love them: Food & Beer happy hour and a kids happy hour! Did you hear us say Belgian beer and moules frites?

Hayden’s Liquors
Where: 700 North Carolina Ave SE
When to visit: Monday 3–8:30pm, Tuesday–Saturday 12–8:30pm, Sunday 1–5pm
What you’ll find: Cozy and convenient to Capitol Hill, they carry local and national brands of liquor, beer, and wine.
Why we love them: They are strong supporters of a Free DC!

Imperial Wine and Spirits
Where: 620 12th St NW, dcimperial.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–6pm, Saturday–Sunday 12–6pm
What you’ll find: A wide selection of options for your next dinner with friends, with staff who can guide you toward choices that fit your preferences and budget.
Why we love them: Centrally located near the White House, this small business carries a full range of liquor, wine, and beer—and they ship!

Izakaya Seki
Where: 1117 V St NW
When to visit: Tuesday–Sunday 5–9pm
What you’ll find: Fresh Japanese dishes and a wide, curated selection of sakes and wines.
Why we love them: There’s always something new to try at this family-owned spot located in a converted rowhouse. Check out their hand-illustrated daily menu for ever-changing specials, including seasonal sashimi.

Kitchen Savages
Where: 1211 Marion Barry Ave SE, kitchensavagesdc.com
When to Visit: Tuesday–Friday 3–10pm, Saturday–Sunday 12–10 pm
What you’ll find: A casual Black-owned eatery and bar, featuring a menu of outstanding classic comfort fare, cocktails, and exceptional service. 
Why we love them: They serve their creations with a powerful mission "to use every dish we serve as a bridge to connect underserved communities, empower at-risk young adults, and deliver exceptional service."

La Tejana
Where: 3211 Mt Pleasant St NW, latejanadc.com
When to visit: Wednesday–Saturday 7:30am–1pm and 5–10pm. Sunday 7:30am–1pm
What you’ll find: An award-winning, Rio Grande Valley-inspired breakfast taco shop by day and cocktail bar by night.
Why we love them: Some of the tastiest tex-mex you will find in all of the District. Try their breakfast tacos, they truly speak for themselves.

Lazy Bones Pizza
Where: 2801 8th St NE, lazybonespizza.com
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday 5–10pm, Thursday 5–11pm, Friday–Saturday 4–11pm, Sunday 4–10pm
What you’ll find: A pizza business working out of Dew Drop Inn.
Why we love them: They make fresh and tasty pizza in a vibey location.

Le Pain Quotidien at Eastern Market
Where: 660 Pennsylvania Ave SE
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday and Friday 6:30am–6pm, Thursday 6:30am–4pm, Saturday–Sunday 7am–6pm
What you’ll find: Coffee, pastries, delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Why we love them: Outdoor seating next to Eastern Market that’s delightfully full of puppies and babies. Come for the food and drinks and stay for the lively atmosphere both inside and outside.

Marx Cafe American Bar
Where: 3203 Mt Pleasant St NW
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 5pm-2am, Friday 5pm-3am, Saturday 11am–3am, Sunday 11am–2am
What you’ll find: A cozy Mount Pleasant bar and restaurant that offers Mediterranean eats, a full bar, local band performances, karaoke, and sports games on its TVs.
Why we love them: A place to always feel warmly welcomed, especially by our favorite bartender, Manny, who's a fixture in the neighborhood. In recent weeks, they've stepped up their commitment to Mount Pleasant even further by launching a hyper-local food bank.

metrobar
Where: 640 Rhode Island Ave NE, metrobardc.com‍ ‍
When to visit: Wednesday 5–10pm, Thursday 5–11pm, Friday 5pm–1am, Saturday 12pm–1am, Sunday 12–10pm
What you’ll find: A chill, metro-accessible, mostly outdoor bar with staff who strongly support local causes. Often hosting live music, local sports teams, or trivia.
Why we love them: It’s a great space for happy hours and other group events. Plus, you can drink in a decommissioned Metro train car.

Miss Toya's Southern Cajun Kitchen
Where: 3216 Pennsylvania Ave SE, misstoyasouthernkitchen.com
When to visit: Sunday–Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–10pm
What you’ll find: Southern cuisine, delicious comfort food, and weekend brunch specials.
Why we love them: Friendly service and outstanding food with neighborhood bar vibes. Locally founded and owned by Takoma Park native Chef Jeffeary Miskiri. Try the hot honey salmon bites!

Nido Wine Shop and Market
Where: 3155 Mt Pleasant St NW, nidodc.com
When to visit: Sunday–Friday 12–7pm, Saturday 10am–7pm
What you’ll find: Mediterranean-focused wine selection, delicious prepared food and specialty Mediterranean food items, including cheeses, cookies, grains, conservas and much more. Fresh baked breads, salads, and sandwiches daily!
Why we love them: A woman-owned wine shop and market specializing in natural wines and Mediterranean fare with friendly staff always ready with a recommendation. Next time you’re entertaining, pop in and get everything you need to be the host-with-the-most!

Old City Market and Oven
Where: 522 K St NE
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 8am–8pm, Friday–Saturday 8am–9pm, Sunday 9am–8pm
What you’ll find: Coffee, made-to-order pizzas and lasagnas, gourmet groceries and wines, and a downstairs with toys and books!
Why we love them: This friendly neighborhood hangout has a curated selection of goods that are perfect for everything from a picnic to a kid's birthday party.

Paste & Rind Cheese Co.
Where: 904 H St NE, pasteandrind.com
When to visit: Thursday–Saturday 3–9pm, Sunday 12–6pm
What you'll find: DC's only cheese bar, plus retail, a wine bar, and a monthly cheese club
Why we love them: They know their cheese! And they have a very cute dog in charge of "quality control and office management."

Potter’s House
Where: 1658 Columbia Rd NW, pottershousedc.org
When to visit: Sunday–Thursday 8am–4pm, Friday–Saturday 8am–6pm
What you’ll find: Pay-what-you-can cafe and bookstore.
Why we love them: They live their values, host rad events, and carry a great range of books.

The Queen Vic
Where: 1206 H St NE
When to visit: Wednesday–Thursday 5pm–12am; Friday 5pm–1am; Saturday 9am–1am; Sunday 9am–12am
What you’ll find: World Cup and football on the screen, great beer, delicious food, and a festive vibe. 
Why we love them: No need to feel alone in your love for your team! Find your fellow soccer fans at Queen Vic!

Spark Social House
Where: 2009 14th St NW, spark-dc.com
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday 8am–10pm, Thursday 8am–11pm, Friday 8am–1am, Saturday 9am–1am, Sunday 9am–10pm
What you’ll find: Coffee, cocktails, and mocktails in a space for the LGBTQ+ community
Why we love them: There’s always something going on at Spark Social! Check out their events such as pop-up markets, movie nights, open mics, and more.

Takoma Park Silver Spring Co-Op
Where: 201 Ethan Allen Ave, Takoma Park, MD 
When to visit: 8am–10pm
What you’ll find: Local and organic foods at reasonable prices.
Why we love them: The co-op has been a fixture of the community and a gathering place since 1981.

Bluebird Sky Yoga
Where: 3101 12th St NE, bluebirdskyyoga.com
When to visit: See schedule on website
What you’ll find: Bright yoga studio that also offers art exhibits.
Why we love them: In addition to yoga classes, they do a free meditation class once a month to build community and make meditation more accessible.

Bright Bear Yoga
Where: 1000 Florida Ave NE, brightbearyogadc.com
When to visit: See website for class times and details
What you’ll find: A variety of yoga classes with something for everyone.
Why we love them: They are a welcoming space with the ethos that yoga is for every body. We love their commitment to inclusivity and that they are frequently adding new offerings to the schedule.

Chillville DC
Where: 2113 Rhode Island Ave NE, chilvilledc.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 10am–8pm, Sunday 12–8pm
What you’ll find: Your neighborhood dispensary, with lots of deals and a loyalty program.
Why we love them: We love their tagline: “We will not tolerate stigma or bend to hypocrisy.”

Color Lab by TSR
Where: 1607 Connecticut Ave NW, besthairdc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: Upscale salon offering haircuts, styling, and color services. Gifts for curly hair, grey hair, and every other type of hair product you might need.
Why we love them: They are a proudly inclusive space for all genders and hair textures.

Dispensary Near Me
Where: 610 H St NW, dispensarynearme.biz
When to visit: Sunday–Wednesday 11am–7pm, Thursday–Saturday 11am–9pm
What you’ll find: A medically licensed dispensary in Chinatown, committed to quality-sourced cannabis products and thorough testing for quality.
Why we love them: They are enthusiastic supporters of a Free DC!

District Wrestling Club
Where: 702B L’Enfant Plaza SW, districtwrestling.org
When to visit: See website for practice times and details
What you’ll find: Folkstyle and freestyle wrestling instruction, practice, and competition for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
Why we love them: LGBTQ+ founded and operated to provide a safe and welcoming space for individuals of all skill levels to learn and participate.

D's Barber and Salon
Where: 401 Butternut Street NW
When to visit: By appointment. Please give them a call at 202 248-1399.
What you’ll find: A barber shop serving the Takoma neighborhood. 
Why we love them: They have been serving the Takoma community for decades and are strong supporters of a Free DC!

Georgie’s Barber
Where: 6929 Laurel Avenue, Takoma Park, georgiesbarber.com
When to visit: Monday 11am–5pm, Tuesday–Friday 10am–6:30pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–6pm
What you’ll find: The 2024 Best of DC Winner for Best Barbershop, this shop offers gender-neutral haircuts designed to leave customers with a precise, polished result.
Why we love them: They are currently amplifying efforts to support a number of Takoma Park Elementary School families with grocery assistance.

Grace Studios
Where: 8435 Georgia Ave 2nd Floor, Silver Spring, MD, graceyps.com
When to visit: See schedule on website
What you’ll find: Yoga, pilates, and strength training.
Why we love them: They offer a range of in-person and virtual classes for all experience levels, and your first class is free!

Little Dragon Wellness
Where: 1915 I St NW #700, littledragonwellness.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–6pm, Friday 10am–5pm
What you’ll find: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle design. 
Why we love them: They use a holistic approach to find the root of your symptoms and concerns, and are conveniently two blocks from Farragut North metro.

Little Red Bird Botanicals
Where: 416 Aspen St NW,littleredbirdbotanicals.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: An herbal medicine practice and community apothecary.
Why we love them: Holly also runs an herbal CSA and does classes and plant walks—and she charges on a sliding scale.

Lucky Pup Yoga
Where: 2469 18th St NW, 2nd Floor, luckypupyoga.com
When to visit: Varies, see class schedule
What you’ll find: A traditional yoga studio with vinyasa, yin, and kirta. They also have puppy yoga on Saturdays and work with local breeders, rescues, and training dog facilities as part of a dog socialization program. 
Why we love them: They’re DC-native, queer, and veteran-owned, and they're dedicated to a free DC across the board.

Opening Heart Mindfulness Community
Where: 3812 Northampton St NW, openingheartmindfulness.org
When to visit: See website for schedule
What you’ll find: Weekly classes on mindfulness and related topics .
Why we love them: The OHMCis a nonprofit organization that offers support for learning and practicing mindfulness in a nonsectarian way, based on the tradition of the Plum Village Community in France. If you’re curious about meditation or mindfulness, this is the place to go.

Pole Pressure
Where: 1322 14th St NW, polepressure.com
When to visit: See website for class times and details
What you’ll find: Dance and fitness studio specializing in pole, aerial hoop, flexibility, and grounded movement. Take a class or book a party!
Why we love them: Aerial is for everyone! Inclusive, positive fitness community for all skill levels and body types with engaging instructors. Offers in-person and livestream classes.

QBU Hair
Where: 470 L'Enfant Plaza SW, qbuhair.com
When to visit:  Monday–Friday 9:30am–5:30pm, Saturday 10:30am–5pm
What you’ll find: Hair extensions supplier storefront and delivery service.
Why we love them: QBU delivers premium hair products straight to your doorstep, ensuring top-notch quality at affordable prices. As a local business,they pay attention to the details and offer highly customizable products to ensure you look your best and love your hair.

Restorative Health and Wellness
Where: 2440 M St NW #62, restorativehw.com
When to visit: See website for contact information and to schedule an appointment. 
What you’ll find: An integrative medicine clinic specializing in the treatment of chronic illness and tick-borne disease.
Why we love them: Women-founded, their goal is to create a safe haven as they restore patients’ health.

Reunion Hot Yoga
Where: 3232 Georgia Ave NW, reunionhotyoga.com
When to visit: See website for class times and details, open 7 days a week for 30 minutes before and after all classes.
What you’ll find: Hot yoga and pilates classes, including family- and baby-friendly yoga. All in-studio classes are also offered via livestream, for those who want it a little less hot. Specials and gift cards available—try your first month of unlimited yoga for $64!
Why we love them: Hot yoga isn’t intimidating at this small, woman-owned, community-oriented and inclusive studio. Beginner-friendly, always sweaty, and accessible to people of all ages and abilities, including a friendly space for yogis with disabilities.

Scotty Bodywork
Where: 621 Upshur St NW, bit.ly/scottybodywork
When to visit: Monday and Thursday 11am–8pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11am–6:30pm
What you’ll find: 60- and 90-minute massages at a sliding-scale cost, incorporating Swedish, deep tissue, hot stones, cupping, and more. For the holidays, they are also selling massage gift cards—buy two, get a third 50% off!
Why we love them: Scotty is a licensed massage therapist and self-described “glittery being” who focuses on providing accessible and affordable bodywork to queer, trans, Black, Brown, disabled, fat, and low-income communities in DC. They are especially focused on community organizers, workers, and others who sacrifice their bodies for others but don't always have a place for their bodies to be cared for in return.

Second Wind Training
Where: 1334 Farragut St NW, secondwindtraining.com
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 6am–6:30pm, Friday 6am–6pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–11am
What you’ll find: Crossfit gym with group classes and personal training.
Why we love them: Top-notch coaches and a supportive community, including women’s classes (Barbell Bettys) and a program for athletes over age 60. New to crossfit? Learn more through a free trial class.

Tower & Star Mediation 
Where: 1359 Michigan Ave NE, towerandstarmediation.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: Relationship mediation services.
Why we love them: Rebo provides mediation to help couples get un-stuck, and education (talks and workshops) on topics like open relationships and jealousy.

7DrumCity
Where: 1506 N. Capitol St NW, 7drumcity.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 1–11pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–10pm
What you'll find: Your one-stop shop for music! Lessons, practice space, and a performance venue, the Pocket.
Why we love them: They're a great space and team with lots of community events and resources for impacted students.

ABBYiK.STUDIO
Where:abbyik.studio
When to visit: Anytime online!
What you’ll find: Original watercolor paintings, prints, and handpainted, tree-free holiday cards.
Why we love them: Abby focuses on using sustainable materials, and uses her art to catalyze conversations around challenges facing our communities. Check out her work at the 10X10 Art Show hosted by Shop Made in DC through January 3!

Art of Noize
Where: 821 Upshur St NW, 2nd floor, artofnoizedmv.com/about
When to visit: Thursday–Saturday 12–6pm
What you'll find: A speakeasy, art gallery, and event venue
Why we love them: They are rooted in DC culture and bring together artists and community members.

CHALK RIOT
Where: chalkriotart.com
When to visit: By appointment or see instagram.com/chalkriot for events
What you’ll find: A pavement mural business that creates beautiful art throughout the District and beyond.
Why we love them: Led by women and non-binary artists, they believe “the ground is the world's greatest canvas for art that unites, protects, and energizes the cities we love.”

ColorTellaVisions LLC
Where: instagram.com/colortellavisions
When to visit: Online anytime
What you’ll find: An art studio that creates hand-painted interactive art and upcycled jewelry.
Why we love them: Their vibrant color palette and saturated hues and designs create or “Tell-a-vision,” seeking to transform mood, brighten physical space, spark imagination, inspire creative and positive change.

Girls Rock! DC
Where: 1640 Columbia Rd NW, girlsrockdc.org
When to visit: See website for events and contact details
What you’ll find: Girls Rock! DC is a youth organization providing music programs for young people to “learn, grow, and rock out together.”
Why we love them: Girls Rock! DC’s programs give young folks a supportive & inclusive space to develop leadership skills, explore their role in the community, express themselves, and tell their stories through original music.

Glass Class Club
Where: 52 O St NW, Studio 204B, instagram.com/glassclassdc
When to visit: See their studio calendar on Instagram for upcoming events.
What you’ll find: Stained glass studio with events to teach anyone to craft beautiful pieces.
Why we love them: They are strong supporters of the trans community (check out their ongoing Eon’s Crane project) and host frequent events that raise money for mutual aid.

Joy of Glass
Where: joyofglass.com‍ ‍
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Glass jewelry and art for your body or your home, plus workshops in a Ward 3 studio.
Why we love them: The owner handmakes her beautiful wares right here in DC. Check out her “51” DC earrings—half of the profits go to the Capital Area Food Bank.

Steve Mabley Art
Where: stevemabley.art
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Artist specializing in oil, on-scene, open-air, and live painting. 
Why we love them: Steve is a DC local and a co-founder and member of multiple local art initiatives. He offers a satisfaction guarantee and full refunds within one month on his original pieces, and also does live-painting for events!

Studio Kusi
Where: Mount Pleasant, studiokusi.com
When to visit: Check website for class schedule and studio hours
What you’ll find: Ceramic art studio offering pottery workshops and sales as well as jewelry, ceramics, and paintings for sale. Gift cards available, perfect for the art-lover in your life. 
Why we love them: 100% of profits from their workshops are donated to nonprofit causes, including mutual aid in DC and abroad. The studio also offers discounts for activists and organizers to support them in their work!

Takoma Music School
Where: 7014-C Westmoreland Ave, Takoma Park, takomamusicschool.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 1pm–10pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–10pm
What you’ll find: Personalized music lessons specializing in drums, piano, guitar, and music production.
Why we love them: Music lessons are individually tailored for each student’s success. In addition to music lesions, they’ve also got classes in songwriting and audio production.

Transformer
Where: 1404 P St NW, transformerdc.org
When to visit: Wednesday–Saturday 12–6pm
What you’ll find: An artist-centered visual arts nonprofit with in-house and offsite exhibitions
Why we love them: They are for artists, by artists, about artists. And while their programming is sophisticated, they’ve kept the punk rock ethos they’ve had since they launched in 2002.

Treehouse
Where: 4722 14th St NW, treehousedreamers.com
When to visit: Contact them for an appointment
What you’ll find: An artist-owned and operated multiuse event venue with a full bar and dance floor. 
Why we love them: It’s a beautiful space for your class, pop-up, photo shoot, party, art show – anything you need!

Allan Woods Flowers
Where: 2645 Connecticut Ave NW, allanwoods.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 9am–6pm
What you’ll find: Seasonal arrangements and floral designs that start with a story in mind.
Why we love them: They’ve been serving the DC community for 45 years, and their designs have graced embassies, hotels, and locals’ homes.

Austen Morris Furniture
Where: By appointment in the DMV and online, austenmorrisfurniture.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Creative, custom, and semi-custom furniture.
Why we love them: They see themselves as part of the DC maker community, focusing on American hardwood and other natural finishes for their designs.

CORE DMV
Where: 609 H St NE, 4th Floor, CORE DMV—Fifteen Percent Pledge
When to visit: By appointment 
What you’ll find: Financial empowerment firm committed to redefining financial freedom through education and access.
Why we love them: They create custom wealth-building plans, partnering with schools and nonprofits to “deliver tech-enabled, culturally relevant solutions for underserved communities.”

The Daily Rider
Where: 600 H St NE Suite D
When to visit: Tuesday–Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday 12–4pm
What you’ll find: Your local bike shop with helmets, bikes, lights, locks and all your repair and tune up needs
Why we love them: Great source for Tern bikes and cargo bikes and having them change your flat helps the local economy!

DC Cycling Concierge
Where: Tours around the DMV, dccyclingconcierge.com
When to visit: Monday–Sunday, 9am–10pm
What you’ll find: Customized bike tours of the District tailored to your interests. 
Why we love them: They are rated #1 for “Tours, Outdoor Activities, & Bike Tours” in Washington, DC on TripAdvisor.  With a motto of “your ride, your pace,” these tours can be accessible to your fitness and comfort level.

District Veterinary Hospital
Where: 3748 10th St NE, 240 7th St SE, & 801 2nd St SE, districtvet.com
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 8am–7pm, Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 8:30am–2pm
What you’ll find: A range of preventative and emergency vet care.
Why we love them: They take great care of our four-legged family members! You can tell they love animals.

Festival Center
Where: 1640 Columbia Rd NW, 2nd Floor, festivalcenter.org
When to visit: Monday–Friday 9am–5pm
What you’ll find: A vibrant community center with a chapel, art gallery, co-working spaces and room rentals for events.
Why we love them: They are a long-time, committed partner to the campaign for DC autonomy and have hosted many Free DC events.

Fulcrum Residential
Where: 500 13th St SE, fulcrum-residential.com
When to visit: See website to make an appointment
What you’ll find: A local real estate sales team ready to help you with your next move.
Why we love them: They are strong supporters of a Free DC!

Godet Woodworking
Where: godetfurniture.com
When to visit: Always open online! Get in touch to talk about custom furniture or classes.
What you’ll find: Custom hardwood furniture and woodworking classes.
Why we love them: Less is more. A one-man shop, Adam is passionate about creating beautiful handmade items that are special and meaningful to his clients—from large-scale furniture to coasters. DIY and crafty types can also benefit from his expertise to design and build their own bespoke pieces.

Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC)
Where: 800 Connecticut Ave NW, gwhcc.org‍
When to visit: See their website for upcoming events
What you’ll find: A membership-driven organization that supports the economic development of the Washington, DC metropolitan region by facilitating the success of Latino and other minority-owned businesses.
Why we love them: GWHCC works to support Hispanic and minority-owned business leaders, creating a strong local economy that strengthens community resilience.

Illuminations
Where: 308 Florida Ave NW, illuminc.com
When to visit: By appointment only
What you’ll find: Specialized studio for contemporary lighting. 
Why we love them: They offer top-notch service and beautiful design if you are looking to create something unique for your home.

Love & Carrots
Where: loveandcarrots.com
When to visit: Always open online!What you’ll find: A company that will help you plan, install, and maintain your garden.
Why we love them: Knowledgeable staff, gorgeous and prolific gardens, an earth-friendly mission.

Nest DC
Where: 87 Florida Ave NW, nest-dc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 9am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–6pm
What you’ll find: A full-service property management company or a partner for your property management company. 
Why we love them: A business focused on putting people and community first, working not just to manage properties and ensure a vibrant DC, but working to advance justice, housing security, and community wellness.

Optimistic Anthropology LLC
Where: optimisticanthro.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: They collaborate with organizations, partnerships, and communities to transform individuals’ every day insights into a group’s collective wisdom.
Why we love them: They center and support community members’ expertise to shine through throughout their collaboration process. 

The Printer
Where: 1803 Florida Ave NW, theprinterdc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–3pm
What you’ll find: Full-service professional and commercial neighborhood printer in Adams Morgan.
Why we love them: They have a long history of supporting progressive issues and proudly support a Free DC!

Renegade Lens & Ink
Where: 1320 Florida Ave NE, renegadelensink.com
When to visit: Always open online! 
What you’ll find: Photography services for everything from fashion to weddings to family portraits. They also sell prints. 
Why we love them: Led by a seasoned photojournalist and visual storyteller, their work is driven by “truth, creativity, and an unwavering rebellious spirit.” You’re sure to get powerful images with a unique perspective.

Simply Stamper LLC
Where: instagram.com/simply_stamper
When to visit: By appointment only
What you’ll find: A youth wellness and community advocacy consulting firm. 
Why we love them: They focus on creating needed safe & empowering spaces for DC youth by centering residents’ voices, building connections, and supporting organizations that strengthen the community.

Union Veterinary Clinic
Where: 609 2nd St NE, unionvetclinic.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: Preventative and urgent care for your pets.
Why we love them: They’re one of the few independent vet clinics left in DC and have been family-owned for more than 20 years.