If you are visiting Washington, D.C., and want a change of pace from the monuments and museums on the National Mall, try the neighborhood I call home: Logan Circle.

The circle itself is a residential tree-filled park with benches and stretches of grass perfect for an impromptu picnic. At the center is an imposing statue of its namesake Civil War General John Logan on horseback.

Explore the neighborhood and its historic mansions or do some shopping and grab a bite to eat. There’s the 1.5-mile Logan Circle Heritage Trail self-guided walking tour (maintained by Cultural Tourism DC). One block west of the circle (take P Street) is 14th Street. Turn left or right to check out your options from among dozens of eateries, bars, and practical and trendy retailers. If you are looking for entertainment, check out the excellent Studio Theatre, which offers matinees and evening performances throughout the year in intimate spaces where even the back row is close to the stage.

If your visit includes Memorial Day weekend, take a spot along the curb on 13th Street near Logan Circle on Saturday morning. You will have a front-row seat for an annual parade featuring energetic marching bands and gospel singers supporting the United House of Prayer for All People. The parade honors founder Bishop C. M. “Sweet Daddy” Grace and passes by his former residence at 11 Logan Circle NW.