Washington, D.C., was dubbed by Forbes Magazine as the number one coolest city in America. If you attend ACEP17, Oct. 30–Nov. 2, 2017, you can see why for yourself.

The lives of emergency physicians can be very demanding, so take some time to unwind during ACEP17. From world-class shopping to celebrated restaurants and cultural icons, Washington, D.C., has no shortage of things to do and experience as you take in the dynamic courses and skill labs of the conference.

Good Eats and Treats

D.C. has well-known favorites like the Hard Rock Café. But sure to pique your palate are fine eateries like Seasons Restaurant, which features the DC Half-Hash, a fileted beef-pork sausage with hash browns, chili, and a poached egg with cheese sauce. Or try Restaurant Nora, the Dupont Circle mainstay known as the first certified organic restaurant in the nation, which serves up grass-fed rib-eyes, roasted fall veggies, and other fine examples of in-season fare.

Arts and Culture Along the Mall

There are many opportunities to expand your mind along the National Mall. The Holocaust Museum is one of Washington, D.C.’s most compelling attractions. Just steps from the White House, the Renwick Gallery boasts vintage and modern fabric, pottery, and metalworks. The National Museum of African American History and Culture, the latest sensation along the mall, is devoted to chronicling African American life from past to present, including slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, music, and more.

Neighborhood Sights

D.C. is also home to dozens of distinct neighborhoods. Check out Georgetown, which is older than D.C. itself. Founded in 1751, its streets are filled with stellar restaurants, historical attractions, high-fashion retailers, and art galleries. Have lunch at Farmers Fishers Bakers after ice skating at Washington Harbour. Penn Quarter and Chinatown offers top entertainment venues, museums, and restaurants that electrify D.C.’s downtown. Capitol Riverfront neighborhood is revitalized beyond the Nationals Park baseball stadium, with new developments and restaurants. None of these catch your interest? Try mini-golf at the H Street Country Club.

Family Fun

Looking for things to do with the family? Set your spirits soaring at the National Air and Space Museum, where you can marvel at the Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall or see a movie in the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theatre. Get interactive at the International Spy Museum where children can try espionage and unlock the secrets of the spy world. The Newseum allows visitors to be reporters in the NBC Interactive Newsroom.

Rasheeda Wint is a writer based in Jersey City, New Jersey.