Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's City Guide experts share their best bets for local flavor, great dates and family fun. Got plans? Great. Need plans? Just ask. We have the skinny on the bars and clubs, concerts, kitchens, theaters and special events that keep life interesting. We're going out gurus, and we're at your service.

Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours.

Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the City Guide or read transcripts of past Got Plans? discussions.

The transcript follows.

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washingtonpost.com: Some of us were talking about how this week reminds us of the chat we had in the week of Sept. 11, 2001. Is it weird to be talking about going out activities in a week when there is so much sadness? Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the Virginia Tech shootings, and we have been keeping an eye out for gatherings and fundraisers for people in the D.C. area. We'd love for you to let us know about others by e-mailing events@washingtonpost.com. We're here to talk about other events going on this week, too. How's it going with you?

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus! I am on the market for a big, loving couch as my current one will soon be moving out. I'm willing to dish out some money to get a really comfy one, maybe in the $600-$900 range. No Ikea for me, but no Pottery Barn either. I am also looking for some other furniture, stuff that is reasonable but has some character. Do you have any suggestions for places in the area?

Janet: Two suggestions:Reincarnations and on the pricier side, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, which has just had a soft opening in the 14th Street neighborhood.

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Shaw, Washington, D.C.: We have a brand new baby (well, he's 4 months old), and aren't able to go do the things we used to do (like go to nice, quiet restaurants). My aunt is coming into town this Sunday, and wants to give us a break and babysit! The catch is, she will be here from 10am-6pm. I really want to take advantage of her offer. Where can my husband and I go, since we will be baby-free? I was thinking maybe a great brunch, but where? We always go to diners on the weekend, and take the baby with us. Thanks!

Erin: The weather on Sunday looks shockingly gorgeous at 75 and sunny. You could head out to Indigo Landing for their lavish, but affordable brunch with a view. If you have time after that, amble through Artomatic in Crystal City.
If you decide to stay in the District, check to see if the patio at Tabard Inn is open or head up to Cashion's, one of my favorite neighborhood spots. Both are in the middle ground between family-friendly and stuffy.

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Washington, D.C.: This one is for Fritz. Please, PLEASE explain your fascination with Rocketbar. I went a couple of weeks ago with a friend - we both love to go out and frequent lots of different kinds of bars in the area. After an hour, he turned to me and said (with desperation in his voice) "Can we please leave?" We heard Journey four times in an hour. It was packed with every ex-frat boy and sorority girl in the area. I have never been so eager to leave a place. I thought maybe it was just me, or it was an off night, but several friends have also tried it recently and everyone single one of them has bailed after about an hour. Is there something that everyone I know is missing?

Fritz: I've been to Rocket Bar on weekends, weeknights, before hockey games, after basketball games. It's a great neighborhood place to hang out with pool tables, table shuffleboard, a fantastic jukebox (Journey aside), cool art (love the rocket models made from fire extinguishers) and good beer. Bartenders are good, the owners are local.
Now, on the other hand, it's going to get packed on weekends with people going to movies at Gallery Place. Also, it's going to be more packed than usual in the last few weeks because I wrote about it in the Nightwatch column of the Post's Weekend Section.
Honestly, give it a chance to cool down a bit, then check it out again, or go on a Wednesday when there's no Wizards game. (Their season will be over soon enough.)

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Woodley Park, D.C.: Hey there Gurus -- I was wondering if there are any places in Woodley Park to smoke hookah? I know there are places on 18th street, but is there anything in Woodley? Thanks oh wise ones!

Fritz: Not to my knowledge. Nothing in Cleveland Park, either. So it's walk over to Soussi or bust -- good thing the weather's changing and you can smoke on the patio.
(No, I'm not forgetting Prince Cafe. I'm just ignoring it.)

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Beer pong bar question from last week: Just read the transcript from last week - someone had posted a question regarding bars where you can play beer pong/beirut/flip cut/etc... Dr. Dreamo's in Arlington has designated tables, inside and out, and pitcher specials. Very divey, but last I checked still had a jukebox and in the summer it makes you feel like you're at a beach party. I love it. Head there!!

Fritz: Actually, you can't play beer pong there. There was a big controversy last summer when Virginia's Alcoholic Beverage Control decided that playing drinking games in bars -- including beer pong/Beirut and flip cup -- was illegal because it served an incitement to drink. (Like just being in a bar isn't incitement to drink.)
So no, no beer pong at Dremo's. Sorry.

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Arlington, Va.: Tanning Question: Do you know anywhere (preferably VA or DC) that has technicians that actually put the self tanner on your body? I have had bad experiences with Mystic Tan and places like Elizabeth Arden charge $100-$145. Thanks!

Janet: Gosh, I wish I knew the answer to that. Anytime you get a technician who actually applies the tanning spray to your bod, you're going to have to pay more than you do at one of those booths. Anyone out there heard of anything in between Mystic and Liz Arden??

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Washington, D.C.: After a trip to Florida two weeks ago, my boyfriend and I would like to relive a bit of the trip this Saturday with raw oysters. We've had them in DC plenty (Old Ebbitt, Hanks) but wanted to try someplace new. Any suggestions? I've never been down to the wharf area. Are there any bars down there that serve them?

Thanks!

Erin: Maine Avenue Seafood is a great place to find them fried, but have you thought about Black's, Johnny's Half Shell and Oceanaire as spots around town to slurp up raw oysters?

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Alexandria, Va.: Hello, I'm going to the Filmfest DC next 3:30 pm Sunday and will bee attending a screening near the Verizon Center. The movie is French and I was hoping to find a bistro nearby to take my wife for lunch. What do you recommend?

Erin: That sounds like a fabulous day. Go no further than Bistro D'Oc. You'll find a nice brunch menu with an onglet steak, snails and duck confit among other things.

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Alexandria, Va.: Have you been to "Bodies, the Exhibition"?

Julia: I have, and you can read my thoughts about it here. I was kind of grossed out, but I did see some educational merit in the show. I'm wary of mega exhibitions like this one. Big exhibit companies promote these exhibits as the can't-miss event-of-the-season and well, I think we have plenty of good stuff to see in our own museums. For free.
That being said, the exhibit is very informative. This guy I spoke to on opening night was just in awe of what he was seeing. "Humans have been trying to recreate something this perfect for years and we can't," he said (or something like that). If you look at it that way, it a worthwhile exhibit -- if you can afford the hefty admission fee.

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Arlington, Va.: So which of the Gurus 1. Have been to Gold Cup, and 2. Are going this year? And if you're going, which groups are you going with?

Fritz: Hi, Arlington.
1. I've been to Gold Cup a few times. Julia's been to Foxfield. (That's a little too Wahoo for me.)
2. I'm going this year and will probably be tent-hopping between groups, checking out the scene for research purposes.
Are YOU going with any of the organized groups?

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Van Ness, D.C.: Hi Gurus,

My fiancé and I are walking down that aisle in September. We are trying to find a bakery to make cupcakes for the reception instead of a cake. Any recommendations? I have had them at Cake Love and was not impressed. Too dry. Please help me mack on some cupcakes.

Erin: That is a scrumptious plan. My two favorite cupcake destinations right now are Baked & Wired and Buzz. You could also try ordering from D Street Desserts where flavors include sweet potato, lemon, Texas chocolate and red velvet or Amelia's Cakes where pistachio and white chocolate, truffle and cappuccino are among flavors. You should certainly read the recent Food story by Kelly DiNardo on Cupcakes that Click.

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Cleveland Park, D.C.: Fritz,

What's up with the construction outside of Dino where the upstairs of the former Park Bench Pub used to be? Please tell me the Uptown Tavern is expanding. Thanks.

Fritz: Yep. It's going to be an indoor/outdoor part of Uptown. Can't wait to try it out.
(The old structure, which was torn down, was built illegally decades ago, and the new owners of the Park Bench/Uptown finally got a permit to build a new one.)

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Formerly Washington, DC: Hi! I lived in DC in my mid twenties for 5 years (in the 90's). I've been back to visit but am coming this weekend for a very short trip...without my kids. I don't want to stay up and party, but I DO want to feel young and free and Washingtonian. I have Sunday and Monday with few plans, aside from seeing friends and eating....thoughts on how I can recapture my youth and feel like a Washingtonian again?

Rhome: First of all, get thee to Daylight on Sunday. Then, since the weather should be nice, hang out in the park for awhile. On Monday, maybe you can gather some of your friends around a pitcher of mojitos.

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On the radio: Any feedback from the TV on the Radio show last night? How's the opening band and about what time do you expect the main set to begin?

thanks

David: I saw TVOTR back in the fall, so I'm passing this time around because I just don't totally get them, or even know if there's anything to get. The lead singer's a star, no doubt, and they give it their all, so if you like them on record you should dig it live. Their fans love them, that's for sure. They should go on around 10. The Noisettes are the openers, reading mixed to negative reports on them from last night. Less arty than TVOTR, but doing the same sort of thing with a soulful vocalist on top of rock stuff.

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Columbus, Ohio: I have a friend coming from home to visit this weekend. We wanted to go see live jazz somewhere...hopefully someplace that's not completely overpriced, where there's a shot at getting a table for the night. Any suggestions? I know U St. is a good start, just not sure where.

Fritz: On the low-key tip, you'll find good bands, no cover and reasonable food and drink prices at U-Topia, JoJo and, depending on the night, Cafe Nema.
HR-57 is consistently good, and if you go Friday, Antonio Parker is playing. Cover's $12.
Covers aren't too bad at Bohemian Caverns, but the drink prices will absolutely kill you. Twins is one of my favorite spots, but it can be expensive, depending on who's playing, and sometimes they clear the room after the first set, so you only get an hour's worth of music.

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Washington, D.C.: Hello, Gurus!

I've lived in DC for over two years, but I -rarely- venture outside of the district for entertainment (lame, I know). I'm checking out the Bodies exhibit this weekend and figure it's a great time to see what the metro area has to offer. Can you recommend some good restaurants in the Rosslyn area (I'll be metro-ing, but appreciate a walk). I like to experiment with food, but also enjoy a good burger. ALSO, is there anywhere that I MUST make a separate stop for dessert (maybe this is the more important question?!) Thanks, Gurus!

Erin: Rarely is better than never, Washington. Depending on when you plan to see the exhibit, Ray's the Steaks is a favorite dinner destination with a cult following. If you end up treating yourself to a steak, save room for the key lime pie or chocolate mousse. Next door, Guajillo has some above-average Mexican dishes and fabulous sangria. Up significantly further, you'll find good things in Clarendon, including a pleasant burger at Boulevard Woodgrill, the brand new Liberty Tavern and several Indian restaurants.

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Silver Spring, Md.: For Cupcake Bride, you might also try Cake Walk Confections, http://cakewalkconfections.com/.

Erin: Thanks for the input. I didn't know that Cakewalk did cupcakes.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi Gurus... any word on the new Liberty Tavern in Clarendon?

Fritz: Actually, I just went there and I'm hoping to have a blog post about it up soon, along with my observations about the new King Street Blues at Courthouse.
Short answer: Very interesting, light-filled bar with plenty of seats, a huge communal bar table and good draft beer. It's going to be a major destination for Arlingtonians who want to hang out in a semi-dressy place that's above Clarendon Grill or Whitlow's, and different than Eleventh. I can see it leeching customers away from, say, Boulevard Woodgrill.

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Chinatown, D.C.: Hey Gurus,

For people looking for beer pong, I have a place and a good cause. The fourth annual Charity Pong-A-Thon is April 28 at RFD. NCAA tournament style bracket of 80 teams (each team of 2 has to have at least 1 girl) and all the proceeds go to the local MS Society. The tournament has raised over $20,000 in 4 years.

Oh, and the winners get a cash prize and championship belts. Details at www.charitypongathon.com

Fritz: Ah, I love it when I get to mix altruism and alcohol. Thanks.

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Glover Park, D.C.: My vegan mother is visiting this weekend, and I was hoping that you, fair Gurus (or the peanuts!) could point out a great restaurant in DC at which she would easily find a delicious vegan meal? Entrees from $10-20 is the range we are looking for, thanks!

Erin: Be sure to splurge on some baked treats from Sticky Fingers. The new location also stocks sandwiches and other savories.
In Shaw, Vegetate is an obvious choice for vegan fare. Nirvana and Amma are both vegetarian Indian restaurants. Perry's, Equinox, Nora, Asia Nora and Viridian come to mind as nicer places with extensive vegetarian offerings and a selection of vegan fare. I believe Equinox can plan a vegan menu.

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Alexandria, Va.: Afternoon, GOGs. What's the vibe like at Artomatic? I really know very little about art and don't know what to expect -- alternative performance art or just landscapes that would make Bob Ross proud? Thanks.

Julia: The vibe on opening night last week was a real mix. A chick decked head-to-toe in blue shimmery body paint crossed my path right after this trio of just-out-of-college girls. Since the huge space contains nearly every kind of art, pretty much anything goes. Will you see crazy, avant-garde performance art? Probably not -- unless you're really into what they're doing with belly dancing these days. But you will see a TON of two- and three-dimensional art visual art like photographs, sculptures, paintings and glass works.
Some of it is undeniably terrible. But as you walk around, you're bound to stumble upon something you really like -- as I did when I found Anson Holzer's work. Or that crazy chaise lounge made out of soda-can rings. And, on the whole, the photographers were really worth a look.
(Since much of the work is nonrepresentational, I can't remember too many happy little trees, but I'm sure they're in there. Right alongside some of the portraits that, well, just weren't my thing.)

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FASHION HELP!: Can I wear patterned black hosiery (sort of a chevron stripe) under a gray sheath dress, with black shoes, worried the tights will look like fishnets. It's for a dressy brunch. I think they're elegant, myself.

Janet: From your description, it sounds like the perfect way to give your dress some zip. Go for it.

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Filibustering on the Hill: Guru's: My dearest friend's birthday is coming up, and I want to take her out to a nice dinner. The thing is, her favorite dessert of all time is bananas foster. Do you know any nice restaurants that would definitely have (a great) bananas foster on the dessert menu in early May?

Erin: Oh, I have that same weakness for bananas foster. It is one of my favorites, though it shares a massive platform with almost every other sweet. There are lots of banana cakes and pies around town right now, but not as many fosters. Off the top of my head, there's the banana berg at Zola, which isn't a traditional bananas foster, but it's mighty delicious. An alternative would be the mini-caramelized banana split at Firefly or the big banana split at Central Michel Richard.
Now, for the real versions: Across the street from Blue Duck Tavern, Juniper serves bananas foster on a waffle. The Willard Room serves a huge bananas foster for two people. One idea would be to eat next door at the Willard's new Cafe du Parc bistro and swing into the Willard Room for a special dessert.

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Tanning: Hi, it's Kristen from Express. For our Going Green Guide this week, I went and had an all-natural spray tan (made of beet juice, brown sugar and water), applied via spray gun (I'm sure there's a more technical term than that) at Derma Hair Care in Falls Church. It's $30 for partial body, $55 for total body. It only lasted four or five days, but it looked fabulous.

Janet: For the person in search of something between Mystic Tan and Elizabeth Arden, Derma Hair Care sounds just the thing. Thank you, Kristen!!

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Richmond, Va.: For the one seeking a couch: Ethan Allen's New American Style is similar to Pottery Barn in style, a little lower in price, and MUCH better quality. PB has very thin veneers, thin support dowels, etc.

Janet: Couch seeker -- an alternative to PB.

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Washington, D.C.: Macy's is also a good place to look for reasonably priced sofas, I just bought one last week (too bad the sale ended Sunday). Even without the sale prices, they were reasonable and had many styles ranging from traditional to modern.

Janet: ISO reasonably priced couches, this chatter says head to Macy's.

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Woodley Park, D.C.: Hey GOG's,

My parents like to come to DC to visit a couple times a year. Love them, but my apartment is WAY too small for them.

We've found that the B&B's in my neighborhood tend to have the same rates as the Marriott and the Omni. Are there any more reasonable prices in the Dupont/Woodley vicinity?

Thanks!

Fritz: I know what you mean ... even the Adams Inn (over off the beaten path on Lanier Place) is over $100 a night. Did you try the Kalorama Guest House? Doubles at the one on Mintwood Place in Adams Morgan started at $85 when I updated the B&B listings, and the Woodley one can be even cheaper if you go on the right dates. The Taft Bridge Inn, which is down by the Columbia Road/Connecticut Avenue split, starts at $72 a night, and it's a cute little place.

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NorthWest D.C.: There are so many Thai restaurants around Dupont/U St/18th St area, which do you guys recommend?

Erin: You're sure right about that. I like Rice and Simply Home, but Regent Thai is another contender. I'm still waiting for Thaiphoon to wow me.

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Kingstowne, Alexandria: Hey GOGs, boy am I glad I found you!

I just moved down here from NY a few weeks ago. In NY I used to go to some nice lounges with a classy feel (read : not a dive bar) on Thursday to relax, have a drink or some small appetizer, and be friendly with the staff. It became a sort of regular place for me. So, without driving too far, are they any places like that around?

Fritz: My suggestions: The PX in Old Town for expensive (but excellent) and unique vintage concoctions; the hotel bar at the Morrison House for something more laid back, though the piano player can be distracting on weekends; the bar and live jazz at 219.

Erin: I think Fritz's list is spot-on, but I'll see his ideas and raise him a Vermilion. Good bar area, nice wines and an amazing new chef if hunger strikes.
PX's big sister Eve is another lounge. Same cocktail idea/price zone as PX, but it's easier to drop in.

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VT events??: Gurus, hoping you can help. Tomorrow the governor declared a day of mourning and a moment of silence at noon. Where in city could I go to observe this? Obviously somewhere peaceful would be nice. I know the National Cathedral is doing something, but don't they have a noon prayer? Also, if you could remind everyone that tomorrow is National Maroon and Orange Day, I would really appreciate it. Thanks.

Anne: The Cathedral does have a noon worship on weekdays -- did you think that would suit? Thanks for sharing the reminder about wearing school colors.

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Foxfield: What makes something a little too Wahoo? Other than the town in Nebraska, former home office of Letterman....

Fritz: I meant that it was a little too UVA-centric for this Maryland boy.

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Cupcakes: Try Furin's in Georgetown. They did my wedding cake and it was amazing, and not too expensive. I believe they sell cupcakes in their bakery, and could probably do an order for weddings.

Erin: That is an inspired idea. I love Furin's. Go early so that you can have breakfast there, too. The cakes aren't couture quality, but they're simply sweet and well-made.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm going to the White House Correspondents dinner on Saturday night. We're not invited to any of the "official" after parties...so where's a good place to go if you're donned in a ballgown and tux?

It's being held at the Hilton....

Fritz: I'd go across the street to Russia House. Only place with more alcohol consumption per capita than Christopher Hitchens' apartment.

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Re: cupcakes: I think "Just Cakes" in Bethesda makes amazing cupcakes! The people there are also very nice, so I am sure they would be great to work with on a large order.

Erin: Here I thought I was the cupcake fiend, but you all have so many suggestions. The cupcake bride had better not go too wild with these. I am already feeling a sugarrush kicking in.

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Arlington, Va.: Well, that time is upon us. Bathing suit shopping. I'm getting ready for a two-week cruise of the Greek Isles, and as much as I dread it, I need a new suit! Are there any places that will cater to your needs, sort of like a Denim Bar for bathing suits? Somewhere where the staff is knowledgeable and can help you out with what will look good for your body? Thanks! Love your chats!

Janet: Arlington, if only. But you can find a big selection at South Moon Under. That counts for something.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, For the couch seeker, I know this will sound odd but I recommend JC Penney. They actually have some stylish and affordable furniture. One can check out the web site before hitting the store.

Janet: Here's a thumbs-up for J.C. Penney. Check it out.

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Arlington, Va: Hello GOGs! Love the chats. My brother and sister-in-law from Atlanta want to spend a long weekend in D.C. this summer, and want me to be their tour guide. Any suggestions on good weekends to advise them on coming? The weekend I already thought about was June 16 because of the Alexandria Waterfront Festival, but that might not work out with our schedules. Looking for ideas for something similar to that type of event (something that can be done in one day, that is unique to this area, etc) because they are also going to want to do all the usual sights as well. PS. The 4th is out because it falls on a Wednesday.

Thanks!

Julia: I'd look into one of the weekends that the Folklife Festival is here, June 29-July 1 or July 6-8. The festival highlights the craft, food and industry of three cultures. (Though with Northern Ireland and Jamestown as two of the cultures, not sure I'd expect too much in the food department.)
If those weekends don't work out, think about showing them the less showboat-y side of D.C.: Eastern Market, the Maine Avenue Wharf, Dupont Farmers Market, Screen on the Green (if they stay 'til Monday), etc. If you'll be showing them around the touristy side of D.C., they might be a little burnt out for Folklife.
Check out our Visitor's Guide for inspiration.

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Sofa: I read a great article in the Oct. 06 Smart Money in which they cut apart furniture from Pottery barn, Restoration Hardware and Crate & Barrel and revealed the poor quality. They said Ethan Allen has a line of similar style, similar prices, but much better quality.

Janet: Another thumbs-up on Ethan Allen sofas.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm planning on taking a special someone out for his birthday dinner next Saturday (note: weather forecast is looking nice and warm). I'm looking for something really romantic and charming but sans the stuffiness (nb: no 1789 et al) - suggestions? Thanks

Erin: If you're looking to dine al fresco, Viridian would probably be my pick. For stuff-free romance, Bistrot Lepic, Al Crostino, Ardeo and Montmartre.

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Washington, DC: Hi,

Anyone know where I can get a watermelon martini after work. I'm in Dupont, but I'll go as far as Adams Morgan or Gal.Place/Chinatown.

Fritz: Stay in Dupont and go over to Urbana for the Watermelon Collins. Had a really nice flavor when I sampled it ... er, last summer. It's still on the menu, but watermelons aren't in season right now, so I'm curious if it's as good as it was.

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Washington, D.C.: Gurus,

I'm looking for bars that have 2 great games that aren't very common: shuffleboard and foosball.

Bonus points if these places offer free play, or are located near a metro.

Please help!

Ones I'm aware of:

Foosball - crystal city sports pub, whitlows on wilson

Shuffleboard - Dremos, Buffalo Billiards

Fritz: Foosball: I'm a sucker for the French table upstairs at Bistrot du Coin. Bonus is that it's only a quarter per game. Go late, when restaurant business is slowing, and it's all yours. Stetson's has a good table, too, and used to have weekly tournaments.
Shuffleboard: Finn Mac Cool's (upstairs) and Rocket Bar. The latter has two tables, but it's busy on weekends.

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Forestville, MD: A couple friends and I want to try salsa dancing tomorrow night. Where is the best place for some thirty year old sistas to get their cha-cha on?

Rhome: For Friday your best options are Caribbean Breeze, Cecilia's and Habana Village. Next time consider a Thursday night. You might enjoy Cafe Peju.

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Mt. Vernon Sq., Washington, D.C.: I wonder if the all mighty guru's would know what music stores in the city would have a good collection of blues music, both new and classic. I also want to know if there are any places to hear blues other than Madams, Pharoes, and Vegas Lounge in the city. Thanks.

David: It's not in the city but Joe's Record Paradise in Rockville is probably your best bet. Orpheus in Arlington, too. With places like those, you never know what you're going to find, as they could add someone's entire collection to their stock from one week to the next. For newer stuff, depending on how popular it is you could probably find it Olsson's. Bangkok Blues and Chick Hall's are a couple of places where you can get a live blues fix, too. Not in the city, but worth the trip if possible.

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Fairfax, VA: I have a friend visiting from England, arriving by train to Union Station and only staying one day. She says: "I'm not a museum type but prefer parks or characterful buildings (not necessarily grand ones!). I like some art, but haven't checked out what there is to do in DC. If there are some things I MUST see, feel free to tell me. As long as there's time to sit down & chat/drink coffee/eat I should be happy!!"

Any suggestions, given that I would be meeting her at Union Station? Of course - see the monuments, but any recommended parks, characterful buildings or coffee spots/restaurants that someone from London might enjoy?

Thanks for any suggestions!

Julia: In my humble opinion D.C. has a lock on "characterful buildings," but you will have to leave the Union Station area. I'm particularly fond of Logan Circle and 12th Place (a cute little one-way street by U Street). Maybe your best bet is to take her through the Logan Circle galleries, get lunch in pubby Polly's or wired Busboys up on U Street and just wander around that area -- maybe head over to Meridian Hill to give her her park-fix.
With only a day, it's hard to cram in all of the touristy stuff and the non-touristy stuff. If she's really amped to see the monuments, I'd start there and then head up to Georgetown. Once you get off M Street, the cobblestone walkways and cute houses have a ton of character.

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Avid Lurker in B'more: Gurus,

I really enjoy your blog and chats but have been wondering...could you provide a little demographic info about each guru? Age range, male/female, marital status, chief interest, etc. I'm not looking for a date, but what often wonder if something a particular guru recommends would be appropriate/comfortable for me.

In the interest of full disclosure, I'm a 45 year old single woman who likes to go out to eat, see films, view art, drink but would also be interested in meeting guys. Just want to make sure I'm not hanging with 22 year olds more interested in beer pong.

Thanks for indulging me.

Rhome: In lieu of a FOIA request for our FBI files, you can read this.

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Courthouse, Va.: Bit embarrassed to ask since I live in the neighborhood, but where's the King Street Blues located? Thanks.

Fritz: Where the divey little Music Box Lounge used to be at the Towers -- entrance is on Clarendon, next to the giant clock, near the Metro elevator.

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Smithsonian Craft Show: Someone asked about this last week. Items are on a par with Baltimore Craft Show (ie very pricey). I just pretended I was at a museum and nothing was for sale. I haven't gone a second time.

Julia: I think this is a good point (especially because I'm picking the Smithsonian Craft Show for our e-mail newsletter this week!). I never go to the Craft Show thinking I can actually afford anything there -- that's what Eastern Market's for -- but it's still pretty stuff to look at.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm all about getting outside for the can't-get-here-fast-enough warm weather this weekend. My sister's bringing her 2-year-old to town. Any outdoorsy, non-zoo ideas? thanks.

Anne: The FDR Memorial and the National Arboretum both have space for toddlers to roam, and the FDR has lots of tactile appeal, too. Far from the zoo but still animal friendly is the free Farm Baby Day (10-3) this Saturday at Frying Pan Park.

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College Park, Md.: Hi Gurus!

Where can I find karaoke on a Saturday night, in MD or DC?. My friends and I are dying to sing! Thanks - you guys are great!

Fritz: Cafe Japone (Dupont) or Peyote Cafe (Adams Morgan) in D.C. Stained Glass Pub in Wheaton/Silver Spring in Md.

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Finn MacCool's: They have BOTH foosball and shuffle board.

Fritz: Right, right. Sorry. They do indeed have foosball upstairs.

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Going Out as Normal: Yeah, it feels weird to talk about going out plans. If anything, the tragedy at Virginia Tech only emphasizes how mundane activities should be treasured and appreciated - like a box of chocolates...

Rhome: That's really what's up. I think we discussed similar sentiments six years ago. It's good to affirm life and all its joys when something terrible reminds us how many threats are out there.

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Watermelon Martinis: Dragonfly has watermelon martinis as well. They might even have a happy hour special on them. (I can't remember if they do.)

Fritz: They do indeed. My writeup here. Just be warned that some of their fruit martinis are closer to Jolly Ranchers than actual fruit.

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Foggy Bottom, D.C.: All these wedding cupcake ideas are great! But my groom is diabetic. Anyone know of a place that makes pancreas-friendly wedding cakes?

Erin: You could try calling around to local bakeries to see what they can offer. Sticky Fingers, the vegan spot, does gluten-free cakes if there are any out there with wheat allergies. They may be able to work with you, but I might try calling a wedding planner to see about recommendations for local bakers who can make those accommodations.

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Woodley Hotels: This is for the poster asking for cheaper hotels in that area. Not sure if this helps but the Wardman Park offers deals to those who live in the neighborhood (anyone with the 20008 zipcode). That means you can get the neighborhood rate which is generally cheaper than if you booked online. I had a friends parents come into town and the room was $100/night which isn't bad for this hotel and its location. Just be sure to call and ask for the neighborhood rate. If they sound like they don't know it, explain the cheaper rate for those that live in the neighborhood and they should know what you're talking about.

Fritz: Woodley, if you haven't tried this, go ahead and call...

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Going Green is Good: But is ANY spray tan in the spirit of Going Green? Shouldn't a NATURAL celebration accept pale skin? Isn't the whole idea of spraying your entire body a different color antithical to being at peace with who you are, valuing natural things, and minimizing your impact on the earth?

Fritz: You're right. Actually, if you want to REALLY go green and be at piece with yourself, you shouldn't even bother with the whole "natural materials/green clothes" thing -- just run around naked all the time.

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Washington, DC: Do you know of any bars near Capitol Hill that host a weekly hold 'em game? The only bar that used to do it was Union Pub, and their game was canceled in August.

Fritz: Jump the Green Line up to Mt. Vernon Square -- the Old Dominion Brewhouse is hosting two games on Monday night: 6 and 9 p.m.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus,

So, it's my last chance to try and find a place for the bachelorette party after dinner activities. We're going to the late seating at Marakesh for dinner and then want to find a place to dance that's not too clubby or pricey. A fun low-key place where a group of ladies can have a lot of fun. Any suggestions? Near the dinner venue would be great, but we can travel too.

Thanks!

Julia: Avenue's near the dinner venue, but that's pretty clubby. Chief Ike's is a great low-key spot for fun dancing, but sometimes it feels a bit too college scene.
For a middle of the road solution, I'd head over to Dupont. Five, Play and Cafe Citron can accommodate the cocktails-and-dancing wish, without being too velvet-ropey.

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washingtonpost.com: And we'll say so long for this afternoon, gang. Thanks for joining us, and have a good week.

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