Beer Trippin'-Washington, DC

Ahh, yes. Our nation's capital. When most people think of Washington DC, they probably think of The White House, The Lincoln Memorial, maybe even the Washington Nationals...ok maybe not the last one. What most people may not know is that DC has a really good beer scene and these are some of the places to check out when you're in the area.

The Brickskellar is one of the more infamous establishments in the area serving up a list of beers that reads like War and Peace. The menu is reasonably priced and has pretty much all of the pub grub you'd come to expect. There is quite an assortment of beer styles, so there will always be something for everyone. This is a can't miss when you're in DC.

Brasserie Beck houses the city's largest assortment of belgian beer and has plenty of european cuisine to satisfy your palate. It's more of an upscale establishment compared to your local watering hole, but hey, it's pretty kick ass. Here you can find about 10 drafts and over 100 bottles. Stop in for a bottle of Gouden Carlous Grand Cru of the Emperor (2000 vintage) or a 1996 vintage of Saison de Pipaix. This is a great place to go on a date, or treat your wife to a fine night out. It will be pricey, but you only live once, right?

The Black Squirrel. If you're looking for a place to kick back and relax or a place that makes you feel like you're at home, you're in luck. They are currently pouring 11 drafts including Czechvar, Dale's Pale Ale, Bare Knuckle Stout, and they're own special brew, Black Squirrel Amber Bock.  They also carry a mess of bottles, too! As for the food, you can feast on some "Addictive Macaroni and Cheese", or even grab a filet mignon if you feel like it. Washingtonian Magazine recently listed them as one of the top 75 bars to check out, so what are you waiting for?

Capitol City Brewing. A beer trip wouldn't be complete without visiting a brewery along the way. This seems like a good place to catch a lunch before heading over to watch the Nats get beat up! CCB is serving up what you would expect from a brewpub.. burgers,pizza,ribs. As for their beers, check out the Prohibition Porter or the Capitol Kolsch.  There will always be about 8 beers on draft so make sure you come thirsty.

Kramerbooks & Afterwards Cafe & Grill I know. Books and Beer? Well, at this bar you can buy yourself a novel and a Bell's Two Hearted Ale. 18 beers on tap ranging from Troegs Pale Ale to Hofbrau Maibock and a delicious menu makes this a can't miss. While you're there why not try the "Best Piece of Bass in Town." If fish isn't you're thing, there's lots more to choose from. Whatever you do, don't miss this place!

Dr. Granville Moore's. Belgians, Belgians, and more Belgians. The Doc has made quite a name for itself in the DC area, and rightfully so. Their menu looks amazing, but the mussels are what the talk is all about. It's located in somewhat of a sketchy area, so a cab may be the best mode of transportation, but you'll be glad you checked it out. If you think Brasserie Beck may be a little bit too fancy for your liking, then this is your place.

Plan on catching a ball game while you're down there? Nationals Park is a great stadium to see and you can also find some decent beer as well.  Head over to this link from  The D.C Sports blog to see a list of what they've carried on draft this year. The list includes the likes of Dogfish Head 90 Minute and Bells' Kalamazoo Stout. Yes, that's right, Kalamazoo Stout.