Explore the best areas to stay in Washington, D.C., with detailed information about attractions, dining, entertainment, and transportation in Downtown, Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Logan Circle, Foggy Bottom, and Adams Morgan.
When visiting Washington, D.C., there are several areas that are popular to stay in due to their proximity to attractions, dining, and public transportation. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
Downtown/Chinatown/Penn Quarter:
Location: At the heart of the city, close to the National Mall.
Attractions: National Portrait Gallery, Capital One Arena, Smithsonian American Art Museum.
Dining & Entertainment: Wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Transportation: Multiple metro stations, making it easy to explore the city.
Dupont Circle:
Location: In Northwest Washington, D.C., near many embassies.
Attractions: The Phillips Collection, Dupont Circle Fountain, embassies from around the world.
Dining & Entertainment: Variety of restaurants and bars, popular farmers market, vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
Transportation: Dupont Circle metro station, and walkable to many attractions.
Georgetown:
Location: On the Potomac River, one of the oldest neighborhoods in D.C.
Attractions: Georgetown University, C&O Canal, historic homes and cobblestone streets.
Dining & Entertainment: Upscale shops and restaurants, vibrant nightlife scene.
Transportation: Limited metro access, but several bus lines and walkable streets.
Capitol Hill:
Location: Home to the U.S. Capitol, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress.
Attractions: Capitol Building, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, Eastern Market.
Dining & Entertainment: Numerous restaurants and shops along Barracks Row.
Transportation: Multiple metro stations, including Capitol South and Eastern Market.
Logan Circle:
Location: In Northwest Washington, D.C., known for its historic homes and vibrant culture.
Attractions: Studio Theatre, Black Cat music venue.
Dining & Entertainment: Boutique shops, art galleries, diverse dining options.
Transportation: Several metro stations nearby, including U Street and Dupont Circle.
Foggy Bottom:
Location: Home to the George Washington University and near the Kennedy Center.
Attractions: Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Dining & Entertainment: Range of restaurants, close to the Watergate Complex and the Department of State.
Transportation: Foggy Bottom-GWU metro station, and walkable to many attractions.
Adams Morgan:
Location: Known for its diverse population, cultural festivals, and vibrant nightlife.
Attractions: National Zoo, Rock Creek Park.
Dining & Entertainment: International cuisine, numerous bars and clubs, live music venues.
Transportation: Several bus lines, and walkable to the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan metro station.