Lanae Spruce describes herself as a foodie and cultural connoisseur. But in the nation’s capital, the 31-year-old is better known for digital storytelling and building social media brands. Until September, Ms. Spruce designed and managed the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture’s award-winning social media accounts for more than six years.

Image Lanae Spruce, a social media storyteller, on her top D.C. places. Credit... Darren S. Higgins for The New York Times

In her downtime, Ms. Spruce, an Ohio native, relishes exploring D.C. neighborhoods that have transformed into buzzing destinations. One of them is her own, the Trinidad-H Street Northeast area. “What drew me was the rich history of black entrepreneurship and proximity to all the hip things that enliven the city. Art galleries galore, hidden alleys with small shops, outdoor sculptures and tons of eating options.” This month, she and her fiancée, Brianna Cooper, a chef, are decamping to New York City for Ms. Spruce’s new job with iOne Digital, a media platform for an African-American millennial audience. Here, Ms. Spruce shares her favorite D.C. spots.

1. Anacostia Arts Center

This welcoming community hub, which stretches nearly half a block, opens directly into “a collection of black-owned shops and two art galleries displaying established and emerging black artists. It’s one of the hidden gems in Anacostia.” Ms. Spruce is a fan of MahoganyBooks, where the shelves are lined with some of her favorite authors. “And it’s pretty cool to see black-owned brands for cosmetics, fashion, food, toys, even card games.”

1231 Good Hope Road SE; anacostiaartscenter.com