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Your Guide to 13 Cool Neighborhoods in Washington, DC
Adams MorganVibrant and diverse, Adams Morgan is known for its nightlife, an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars and a creative spirit. Explore the numerous bars, live music venues and international dining options along 18th Street. Don't miss the annual Adams Morgan Day Festival, when the streets come alive with music, art and food from around the world.Local Tip: Embrace the diversity by trying out different cuisines, from Ethiopian to Latin American. Dupont CircleExuding an air of sophistication and charm, Dupont Circle is home to historic mansions, embassies and trendy boutiques. Stroll through the picturesque Dupont Circle Park and visit the renowned Phillips Collection, America's first modern art museum. As far as food goes, expect that international flavor of embassies to rub off on restaurants. Dupont's dining spots radiate outward from the central circle and include a mix of marquee restaurants, casual bistros, brunch hot spots and late-night dining options.Local Tip: Join the locals for a leisurely picnic in the park or visit the famous Dupont Circle Farmers Market on Sundays for fresh produce and unique artisanal goods. U StreetThe U Street Corridor is the heart and soul of DC's Black heritage and jazz scene. In fact, it’s also the birthplace of the iconic jazz musician Duke Ellington (1899-1974). Immerse yourself in the rich history of this neighborhood by visiting the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum or catching a live performance at the legendary Howard Theatre. U Street is also home to a bustling bar scene, with numerous clubs and watering holes catering to all tastes.Local Tip: Don't forget to explore the adjacent 14th Street corridor, where you'll find an array of boutiques, craft cocktail bars and acclaimed restaurants. GeorgetownDC’s oldest neighborhood must be included in any excursion of the city. Georgetown presents a unique opportunity to visit and engage with some of the most historic spots in the city, including the C&O Canal, the Old Stone House, Georgetown University and the famous stairs used in the classic film, The Exorcist (1972). Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, enjoy shopping for high-end fashion, and savor delicious cuisine by the water at places like Fiola Mare.Local Tip: Explore the charming side streets and hidden alleyways, such as Book Hill, where art galleries meet bakeries and clothing stores. H Street NEAfter a remarkable recent transformation, H Street NE has become one of DC's trendiest neighborhoods, featuring an alluring collection of international restaurants, live music venues and beloved local spots. Catch a show at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, explore the street art that adorns the neighborhood and mark the calendar of the annual H Street Festival.Local Tip: Take advantage of the free H Street Shuttle to explore the entire corridor with ease. Capitol HillHome to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress, Capitol Hill is a treasure trove of a neighborhood. Tree-lined streets and gorgeous row houses complement the jaw-dropping architecture of some of the country’s most enduring structures. Visit the United States Botanic Garden, wander through the Eastern Market for local produce and artisanal goods and explore the historic Barracks Row for its dining and shopping options.Local Tip: To experience the grandeur of the U.S. Capitol Building, consider joining a guided tour. The National MallOften referred to as "America's Front Yard," the National Mall is a sprawling park that stretches from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial. The city’s tourist hub is home to numerous Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History. Take a moment to reflect at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and marvel at the beauty of the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.Local Tip: Start your day early to beat the crowds and make sure to bring comfortable shoes for extensive walking. Penn Quarter & ChinatownDiscover a dazzling mix of food, culture, shopping and sports in the Penn Quarter & Chinatown neighborhood. Explore museums like the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, pay respects at the United States Navy Memorial and enjoy riveting performances from Shakespeare Theatre Company and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. History buffs can visit Ford's Theatre (which also hosts large-scale productions) and the Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office Museum. Sports fans can catch games at the Capital One Arena, and the area has a buzzing bar scene.Local Tip: Penn Quarter & Chinatown’s dining scene is enlivened by James Beard Award-winning restaurateur and chef José Andres. Three of his most popular restaurants are located in the neighborhood: Greek-Turkish foodie temple Zaytinya, brightly decorated Mexican spot Oyamel and Jaleo, Andres’ tapas-focused tribute to his native Spain. Foggy BottomSituated adjacent to George Washington University’s campus and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Foggy Bottom is a scenic neighborhood with a blend of academic, cultural and political influences. Visit the famous Watergate Hotel and lounge in luxuryLocal Tip: Foggy Bottom also holds the southernmost end of Rock Creek Park, DC’s 2,100-acre greenspace. Pick up biking and running trails near the Kennedy Center for riverside views and nature-viewing opportunities. The WharfThe waterfront neighborhood has transformed the Southwest Waterfront into a bustling hub of activity and entertainment. Walk down the Wharf Promenade, a scenic boardwalk featuring breathtaking views of the Potomac River, before you indulge in a culinary adventure at one of the development’s many restaurants. Enjoying a concert at The Anthem or Pearl Street Warehouse is also a must. Nearby, explore spellbinding exhibits at the International Spy Museum.Local Tip: Visit the Municipal Fish Market at The Wharf, which opened in 1805, making it the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the United States. The iconic destination is ideal for hungry locals and savvy visitors seeking fresh fish, crabs and cooked seafood. Capitol RiverfrontSituated along the Anacostia River, Capitol Riverfront has become one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in the city in recent years thanks to the addition of Nationals Park. Before or after you attend a Washington Nationals game, you can explore the scenic Yards Park, perfect for picnicking or enjoying outdoor concerts and events. Discover an array of dining options, from trendy waterfront eateries to food stalls at outdoor markets.Local Tip: Take a sunset stroll along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail for stunning views of the U.S. Capitol Building and the water. Ivy CityOnce an industrial area, Ivy City has emerged as a hip neighborhood in DC. Visit the bustling Union Market, a culinary destination with diverse food vendors and artisanal products. Enjoy craft breweries, distilleries and distinctive dining experiences, all while immersing yourself in the neighborhood's creative energy. NoMaModern architecture, public art installations and colorful community spaces define NoMa, which is local lingo for “North of Massachusetts Avenue”. Union Market's sister location, La Cosecha, offers Latin American cuisine and cultural experiences. You can also find a Capital Bikeshare station and hop on the eight-mile-long Metropolitan Branch Trail here, which goes all the way to Silver Spring, Md.Local Tip: Check the neighborhood's events calendar for outdoor movie screenings, concerts and gatherings. ShawOnce only known for its collection of alleyways and murals, Shaw has transformed into a revitalized mecca for DC foodies while maintaining its strong cultural heritage. In addition to its burgeoning restaurant and bar scene, the neighborhood is near the beloved 9:30 Club, where outstanding musical acts play frequently. There’s also the Landmark Atlantic Plumbing Cinema, one of the most unique moviegoing experiences in the city.Local Tip: Venture off the main streets to discover Blagden Alley, a charming alleyway filled with murals, restaurants, galleries and speakeasy-style bars. Looking for more? Check out our full list of neighborhoods here.
Your Guide to DC JazzFest
The DC JazzFest has been a pillar in the DC community for two decades, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world. Each year, attendees experience performances in music venues all over the District. The signature event – DC JazzFest at The Wharf (Aug. 31 – Sept. 1) – offers a distinctly urban experience at the always-bustling Wharf and offers the ideal setting for a fully immersive festival experience. Tickets start at as little as $25. The DC Jazz Festival brings together heritage, history, culture and music. From Downtown DC at the Carlyle Room to Mr. Henry’s in Capitol Hill, it’s all things jazz citywide at the DC JazzFest. As a city, DC has a deep, wonderful history of jazz music. Jazz great Duke Ellington (also known as “The Duke”) was born here, a musician who graced many a stage across the city and country, celebrated today with a stunning statue outside the restored Howard Theatre. During The Duke’s time, U Street was the epicenter of the jazz scene, lovingly known as “Black Broadway.” For decades, the nation’s capital was the embodiment of a thriving jazz culture and the DC Jazz Festival celebrates the city’s homegrown musical past, present and future. The festival works to spread jazz to new listeners of all generations, young and old, students and educators, parents and children. Veteran fans of the genre will also be enthralled by the star performances that dot the city throughout the festival’s run. Check out the Generations Series to see musicians of varied age share the stage. GRAMMY Award Winners and National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters are featured throughout this year's lineup, including Samara Joy, D-Nice, Cimafunk and Terri Lyne Carrington. Up-and-coming artists also get their due and the showcase draws in local artists to highlight DC’s continuous contribution to the jazz genre. The festival also offers important educational opportunities to students in order to further the future of jazz in the city. Of course, the jazz genre blends beautifully with others, so expect to hear the blues, swing music, soul singers and Latin performers as well. Tickets for DC JazzFest at The Wharf are available now! Looking for a place to stay during the DC Jazz Festival? Make sure to check out these DC Jazz Festival hotel packages, deals, discounts and more at some of the city's best places to stay.
Your Guide to Taking a Wellness-Inspired Trip to Washington, DC
Lush green retreats and open spaces Picture yourself in the midst of a bustling city surrounded by 40 downtown hotels, all strategically placed near the heart of DC's urban greenery. The focal points are none other than the sprawling National Mall and the expansive Rock Creek Park – a natural wonder twice the size of New York City's Central Park. The National Mall, affectionately known as "America's Front Yard," boasts fountains, parks and lush gardens that beckon strolls, picnics and moments of serenity. Imagine jogging along verdant two-mile pathways stretching from the iconic U.S. Capitol to the revered Lincoln Memorial – an experience that combines fitness with awe-inspiring history. This leisurely run is not just a workout, but a bucket-list experience for any traveler looking to infuse their trip with a sense of accomplishment. Arts and culture as a path to mindfulness Lose yourself in the arts to achieve a sense of mindfulness while in the nation’s capital. The city’s extensive collection of free Smithsonian museums (which includes the National Museum of the American Indian pictured above) allows you to immerse yourself in knowledge and cultures from around the world and throughout history. Experience the wonder of contemporary music, jazz and chamber orchestra concerts at the Library of Congress or enjoy free musical performances at the National Gallery of Art and the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage. Public parks and gardens Embracing its status as one of the most walkable cities in the United States, Washington, DC is a sanctuary filled with public parks and gardens. It's no surprise that the city was rated as having the nation's best park system according to the Trust for Public Land's 2022 ParkScore® index. Whether it's a meditative stroll through the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden or practicing yoga amidst the foliage at Transit Pier in the Wharf, DC's green spaces offer a refreshing escape. Hotels that champion wellness In an embrace of a new era of wellness, DC hotels are revolutionizing the hospitality experience. From enhancing fitness facilities with natural light and outdoor workout areas to offering special amenities like hydration stations and morning group classes, the Marriott Marquis, The Morrow Hotel, The Darcy, Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill and Westin Georgetown Washington, DC are just a few of the locales redefining healthy stays. That latter hotel partnered with Hyperice to introduce Hypervolt recovery stations for guests, while the Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown features 12 wellness rooms complete with air purifiers, Tempur-Pedic mattresses and Vitamin C showers. Eaton Hotel goes beyond with crystal greetings and Himalayan salt lamps, providing wellness services like yoga, reiki and sound baths. The Hay-Adams offers a Music Salon for intimate live performances and an Author Series for literary discourse. Through programs like Healthy Stays, hotels ensure guest safety, reflecting a commitment to holistic well-being. Dive into culinary delights DC's gastronomic landscape has evolved to cater to health-conscious palates. From the delectable offerings of Chaia Taco, featuring fresh vegetables sourced from local farms, to Clyde's, a pioneer in supporting local producers, you'll find a plethora of options that delight your taste buds while nourishing your body. Elizabeth's Gone Raw, which operates exclusively on weekends as a 100% raw vegan restaurant, is housed in a restored 19th century townhouse and was conceptualized in response to founder Elizabeth's cancer diagnosis. The restaurant presents a distinctive seven-course tasting menu orchestrated by chef Francisco Hernandez and sommelier Dora Lobo. Don't miss out on Oyster Oyster, where vegetables take center stage and redefine how you perceive plant-based cuisine. Additionally, Founding Farmers demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by sourcing ingredients directly from American family farmers, offering a guilt-free dining experience. Indulge in zero-proof elixirs For those opting for non-alcoholic options, DC's beverage scene has expanded to cater to your preferences. Savor creative mocktails at Fiola, explore the unique offerings at Moon Rabbit (pictured above) or enjoy happy hours with zero-proof drinks at various speakeasies and bars around the city. Binge Bar promises to be a game-changer, offering an array of alcohol-free choices, complemented by Filipino-inspired small plates and entertainment. Zen spaces and serene havens The architecture of Washington, DC showcases diversity well beyond its historic monuments and memorials. Seek tranquility at the Library of Congress's Reading Room, an exquisite interior that invites you to immerse yourself in reading. The Vietnam Memorial and the serene Franciscan Monastery gardens offer spaces for quiet reflection. If you're drawn to the healing power of plants, explore the Bonsai Museum and China Valley at the U.S. National Arboretum or the soothing water features at the National Portrait Gallery. For a true blend of art and tranquility, visit the Bishop's Garden at the Washington National Cathedral or take a journey through history at Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens. Ah, spa Hotels in Washington DC offer spa amenities from traditional treatments to taking the waters. Some hotels will include a day pass to the spa lounge and pool when you book a treatment, whether you are a guest of the hotel or not. The city's full-service spas include: The Waldorf Astoria, distinguished by its Himalayan Salt Therapy Room and The Sanctuary relaxation area; Rosewood Hotel in Georgetown, which provides a menu of spa services; Salamander, Washington DC offers eight private treatment rooms, lavish lounges and an impressive array of pools and facilities; Four Seasons Washington DC features a lap pool and cherry blossom-themed facials; The Watergate includes a modern spa with services like the Vitamin DC facial; and The Pendry, known for its intimate setting, private treatment rooms, eucalyptus steam rooms and the inclusion of access to the outdoor heated terrace pool and fitness center for longer treatments. Elevate your spirits with breathtaking views Washington, DC's unique skyline, characterized by blue hues punctuated by the Washington Monument, provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation. Enjoy serene views from the observation deck of the Old Post Office or the tower of the Washington National Cathedral. For a unique experience, sip and savor the beauty of the city from Moonraker, the Pendry Hotel's signature rooftop hideaway. Discover waterfront escapes DC's proximity to water offers a plethora of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're kayaking on the Potomac or Anacostia or enjoying the serenity of reflecting pools and cascading waters at various venues, the soothing effect of water is never far away. Even the National Zoo's Bird House invites you to immerse yourself in the art of birdwatching, a hobby known for its stress-reducing benefits.
