If the last three years have taught me anything, it’s how to perfect the art of crying in public. And not to brag, but I’ve gotten pretty good at it. Here are our tried-and-true spots to attain that desolate, heartbroken vibe that everyone needs sometimes.
The Metro:
You’re not a true Washingtonian until you’ve bawled on the Metro. It’s a rite of passage. Yes, people will probably stare, but that’s just because they can relate. Don’t panic.
The roof of the MLK Library:
Nothing beats sobbing with a view and the breeze in your hair. This is a real main character moment, so make sure not to miss out.
The farmers market:
I recommend this one because sometimes, if you look pitiful enough, the vendors will give you free goodies. Once I even got a bouquet of flowers. But this can be hard to pull off, I recommend practicing at the above locations first.
Clover Adams Memorial:
This statue in Rock Creek Park was commissioned by writer Henry Adams to memorialize his wife who dies by suicide. Dark, I know, but the statue and dense trees just set that “heartbroken” vibe we’re trying to attain.
The stacks at Capitol Hill Books:
This is my personal favorite. Be sure to pick a time when it’s not busy, cuddle up with a copy of Jane Eyre or some other hopeless romance and cry in the good company of a novelist who understands.
Kiara McGowan of the now viral TikTok account “Crying in DC” is also a local crying expert. Listen to our podcast for some more sob spot suggestions, and her take on why it’s important to make space for D.C.’s public criers.
