STREET LEVEL: Cheap Seats

It is hot! You are walking the dog, going to CVS, picking up the dry-cleaning and...well, you need to get off your feet and watch the world go by.

I did not pick the patios where you can sit and sip or dine, but the benches that you can perch on and see Georgetown's activity.

picnic tables and umbrellas are free game later in the day. Ice cream, coffees and all sorts of food are consumed at the intersection of P street and Wisconsin Avenue. Across the street, at , ice cream and dogs and kids sit under the canopies or along the street. Perfect people-watching!

Down Wisconsin Avenue, a solitary bench sits in front of .  It is not big, but it is convenient for a hot pedestrian. Around the corner, on N Street, the famous Wingos' sports a bench! Watch out for the chicken wings at your feet, especially if you have a pooch- this is a great place to hear the clamor of local youths.

Hidden behind and across the Canal is a less public seat under the trees. You may need to share this little park with other visitors, but it is quiet and shady. Nearby, there is a secret bench on Cecil Place, in The Peppermill complex. This little gem is hidden, but if you are quiet, you can hide here forever.

Perhaps the most beautiful seats are in the new on K street. A lot of benches are full, people are picnicking and families are strolling. Sunset is not to be missed. A similar but more private view is in . Tucked away from the Key Bridge traffic are benches, partially hidden by leafy branches.

Finally, the most public, but friendliest bench may have to be the one in front of on M Street. You cannot help but get into a conversation with a nearby salad or yogurt customer. Dogs are especially welcome here.