If stuffy politicians and historic monuments are all you think D.C. has to offer, you’re sadly mistaken. The nation’s capital is not only home to years of American history, but it’s also got plenty of shops, restaurants and happenings to keep just about anyone entertained. When you’ve finished up with your landmark rounds, there are a few places we think you’d enjoy seeing.
Hot Hoods To Visit
A mini-guide to D.C.'s most popular areas.
Dupont Circle
If you’re unsure of where to begin your journey in D.C., this is the perfect place to start. This eclectic, cosmopolitan neighborhood is home to trendy galleries, restaurants, coffee shops and retail outlets that are sure to keep you entertained. While the area offers all the conveniences and culture of a city, it still manages to maintain a cozy small-town feel. Plus, it ranks high on the list for people watching -- and who doesn’t enjoy that?
National Mall
What’s a trip to our nation’s capital without a little sightseeing? South of the White House and west of the Capitol is where you’ll find National Mall. This area houses the majority of the city’s famous landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and WWII and Vietnam Veterans memorials. It’s also where you’ll find throngs in tourist, but we assure you, it’s well worth the iconic sights.
Georgetown
The vibrant neighborhood of Georgetown is considered one of the city’s top destinations for dining and nightlife. Plenty of upscale shops, restaurants and bars line the cobblestone streets. When you’re done shopping 'til you drop, head to the serene Georgetown Waterfront Park to take in the Potomac River views.
Logan Circle
This hipster neighborhood is home to funky furniture stores, chic clothing outlets and cool boutiques like Lettie Gooch and Junction, making it a “capital” place to shop. The area has one of the highest concentrations of apartments in the city, but they come at a steep price. Restaurants aren’t hard to find, especially healthy ones, and thanks to easy access to the metro, your car won’t be necessary.
Adams Morgan
Adams Morgan holds a special place in D.C. history as the first racially integrated section of Chocolate City. This neighborhood is home to plenty of bars, nightclubs and restaurants, which attract D.C.’s young and fashionable to 18th street.
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill has evolved into one of D.C.’s hottest neighborhoods. On weekends, head to Eastern Market, one of the city’s liveliest open-air arts and crafts markets. 8th Street SE, also known as Barracks Row, is home to plenty of antique and book shops. The farther you stray from the market, the more residential the area gets. After working up an appetite, seek refuge in the trendy cafés, bars and restaurants the neighborhood has to offer.
10 Things To Do, See And Eat In D.C. This Fall
For more places to venture to in the nation's capital, head over to Uptown’s Washington D.C. Guides page for listings.