D.C. has a whole host of rules that are the kind of thing where if you know, you know. Clockout DC’s Jade Womack and Greater Greater Washington’s Dan Reed told us their essential rules to living in D.C., that make adjusting to the city a whole lot easier. Do you have others we should add to the list?
Stand Right, Walk left
The most basic rule. If you’re not moving, stand to the right when you're on the Metro escalators. Not doing so makes you look like a tourist who’s never lived in a city before, even if it might not actually be the most efficient policy.
Know The Lingo
It’s D.C., not Washington. It’s National, not Reagan. Crystal City, not NaLa. And for god’s sake, learn some D.C. slang.
Careful What You Say in Public
D.C. is a small town, filled with reporters, spies, and hungry ears. The last thing you want is that gossip you spilled about your boss at The Mission happy hour ending up on Overheard DC, trust me.
Know Your Bus Routes
D.C. buses are cheap and more expansive than the Metro. Just because you’re going out in AdMo or Georgetown doesn’t mean you have to Uber. Real locals know the bus is where it’s at.
Hide That Lanyard and Second Phone
Nobody cares that you have a security clearance and a second iPhone. So do 60% of Washingtonians, we’re just not obnoxious about it. If you’re not working, put them away, I beg you.
Bus to Ballston. (Tony Webster/Wikimedia Commons)
Learn To Plan Ahead
“If you're not a planner, start becoming one,” Jade Womack told us. Nowadays, everything from Jazz In the Garden to the zoo requires reserved tickets. And D.C. is full of Type-A people so you need to plan a few weeks ahead.
Do Ask What People Do, But Be Subtle
“Don’t ask people what they do” is a somewhat outdated D.C. “rule.” The fact is, people in this city are passionate about their jobs and do some really cool things! So, ask about it, but please don’t use them as a stepping stone on your career ladder. You won’t be invited back.
Don’t Date Across the River
Ok, this one is controversial, and up to personal preference. But, dating in Arlington is like being in a long-distance relationship. So, just be up for the challenge.
Have a Library Card
D.C.’s public library system is immense, and every Washingtonian should have a library card. It gets you much more than just free books. It can get you all kinds of subscriptions and access to thousands of free events, book clubs, classes, and more.
Don’t Tattle On Fare Evaders
Yes, it’s annoying, but there is no need to rat on a 17-year-old kid before 8 a.m. Mind your own business and know that Metro is on the job.
Don’t Be Too Cool For Museums
Just because you’re local doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take advantage of all D.C.’s free museums. Many, like the National Museum of Women In the Arts, even have free days for D.C. residents.
