DC Area Shopping

Most stores accept credit cards; the machines vary, so don't be embarrassed to ask how to use them. Many stores require a free membership card to enjoy discounts; this is quick and does not seem to result in much junk mail. Some stores have a self-checkout option.

Grocery stores include Giant, Safeway, Harris Teeter, Food Lion, Wegman's, Trader Joe's, Magruders, Whole Foods, and Shopper's Food and Pharmacy. Many have pharmacies. Safeway and Giant offer online shopping and home delivery (see www.safeway.com or www.giantfood.com). Ethnic grocery stores (such as Lotte, Grand Mart, or Han Ah Reum) may offer good produce and the cheapest prices on some items. Some stores have people who help load your groceries; you do not need to tip them.

Discount "clubs" such as Costco and B.J.s require a paid membership to join, and offer items in bulk, as well as photo developing, pharmacies, car tires, electronics, eyeglasses, and more.

Discount stores that have groceries include Wal-Mart, Target, and K-Mart. They also offer services such as photo developing and pharmacies.

Alcohol is sold in separate liquor stores (except for beer and wine, which are sold in grocery stores in Virginia).

Popular office supply stores are Staples and Office Depot, both of which have several stores in the DC area.

The two main hardware stores are Lowes and Home Depot. You can buy everything from nails and light bulbs to kitchen appliances and outdoor furniture and plants, as well as have keys cut (if you can't find one of the rare, old-fashioned local hardware stores).

If you are on a tight budget, you can buy just about anything secondhand. Used book stores, consignment stores (for clothing, toys, or household goods), thrift shops, flea markets, "antique" stores, and more offer bargains-or check Craig's List or Freecycle online.

Farmers Markets - these are held weekly in many neighborhoods. 
USDA guide (all states): http://www.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets/map.htm 
DC: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/metro/usersguides/dc/FmrMkt.html 
Maryland: http://www.mda.state.md.us/md_products/farmers_market_dir.php

You can also join a community supported agriculture group and pick up weekly fresh local produce (or even have it delivered to your home) http://www.localharvest.org/csa/

The above listing is provided FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY and in no way constitutes an endorsement, expressed or implied, by the Department of State. Links to websites outside the U.S. federal government or the use of trade, firm, or corporation names are for the convenience of the user and do not constitute an official endorsement or approval of any private sector website, product, service, or privacy policy.