5 Ways To Green Your Trip to Washington

1. Book an eco-friendly hotel room. The folks over at RezHub.com have compiled a list of DC's top green hotels based on a "Green Score" that uses criteria such as recycling, organic food offerings, water conservation, use of Energy Star appliances, non-toxic cleaning products, and more.

2. Walk, Metro, or hail a hybrid taxi. Don't forget to bring your comfortable walking shoes because DC has been named one of the most walkable cities in the U.S., according to Walk Score. Too far to walk? Consider hopping on the Metro or hail an EnviroCAB. The company has a fleet of hybrid Toyota Priuses, Camrys, Highlanders, and Ford Escapes and offsets its own emissions by purchasing “clean-source” offset credits.

3. Dine conscientiously. Want fancy and organic? Reserve a table at the fantastic Restaurant Nora. Founded by internationally renowned chef Nora Pouillon, Restaurant Nora was the first certified organic restaurant in the country and one of the first vegetarian restaurants in DC. The seasonal menu features organic new-American cuisine such as pan-roasted Amish chicken breast stuffed with pistachio pilaf and grassfed beef tenderloin roast with truffled potato gratin. For a more casual dining experience, drop by Java Green in Farragut North, which features Korean-inspired vegetarian fare.

4. Indulge in a natural spa treatment. DC is home to several notable eco-friendly spas including LEED-certified Nusta Spa, The Still Point, Derma Hair Care, and Natural Body Spa & Shoppe.

5. Take in lots of green. DC's moderate climate means that there's plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors. Stroll through Rock Creek Park or the National Zoo, take a free walking tour, see the sites by bike, or even hop on a Segway.

Want more? Visit GoingGreenDC.