Summary
Washington, D.C., commonly known as D.C., serves as the capital of the United States and is recognized as one of the most pivotal cities in the nation. It boasts the White House and is the center of all three branches of the American government. While politicians and civil servants contribute to its rich and sophisticated atmosphere, students from around the globe infuse the city with vibrancy and affordability. Tourists also contribute to the eclectic and dynamic nature of D.C.
This city houses an unmatched array of museums, national monuments, and memorials. Its streets are adorned with shopping venues, dining establishments, and a lively nightlife. The National Mall, a stunning two-mile stretch that includes many of D.C.’s landmarks and the esteemed Smithsonian Museums, attracts the majority of visitors. A diverse mix of individuals from various backgrounds and locales enriches the city, enhancing the multicultural ambiance of one of the world’s most powerful metropolises.
Below is an overview of some of the most renowned neighborhoods in Washington D.C., designed to assist you in determining your accommodation options during your visit.
Georgetown
As one of the oldest areas in the city, Georgetown is celebrated for its cobblestone streets lined with buildings dating back to 1751. It features modern shopping and dining avenues, combining historical charm with contemporary flair. Overlooking the scenic waterfront of the Potomac River, this neighborhood hosts the prestigious Georgetown University, lending the area a lively collegiate atmosphere. Lush old trees adorn the paths, and 18th and 19th-century architecture punctuates the landscape. Catering to both elite socialites and enthusiastic college students, Georgetown is home to several historic landmarks, including the Exorcist Steps and Dumbarton Oaks.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Notable Attractions: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Blues Alley, Tudor Place, Book Hill, Washington Harbor, Oak Hill Cemetery, and Old Stone House.
Recommended Hotels:
- The Georgetown House Boutique Inn – Situated a short distance from the beautiful Georgetown Waterfront, this cozy hotel offers well-equipped guestrooms featuring air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, seating areas (in select rooms), and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The hotel also provides a communal kitchen and complimentary Wi-Fi. Ideal for various types of travelers.
- Georgetown Inn – Located within a brief walk from Georgetown Waterfront Park, Georgetown Inn presents fully-furnished accommodations equipped with comfortable double beds, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, ironing facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathrooms. Additional amenities include a 24-hour cardio room, a fitness club, private parking, and a 24-hour business center. Appropriate for all types of travelers.
- Georgetown Suites – Nestled in the historic district, this property offers luxurious, well-furnished suites featuring extra-large double beds, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, safety deposit boxes, and ensuite bathrooms with bath/showers. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily, making it suitable for solo travelers and couples.
Dupont Circle
One of the trendiest districts in the city, Dupont Circle is marked by its numerous art galleries, exclusive boutiques, cafes, bars, and of course, the iconic traffic circle. Originally termed Pacific Circle, this area features a notable marble fountain established in 1921. Highly preferred by the affluent young demographic, Dupont Circle fosters a vibrant LGBT community. Home to some of the finest museums and historic residences in D.C., this neighborhood is often considered the epicenter of the city’s nightlife scene. Significant structures in the vicinity include Woodrow Wilson House, The Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle, and Brewmaster’s Castle. For a dose of humor, be sure to visit DC Improv, reputedly the most famous comedy venue in the city.
Suitable for: All types of travelers, particularly the young and affluent.
Other Notable Attractions: The Phillips Collection, Second Story Books (a must-see for book enthusiasts), Embassy Row, Sunday Farmer’s Market, The Spanish Steps, National Geographic Museum, The Mansion on O & O Street Museum, and Anderson House.
Recommended Hotels:
- The Dupont Circle Hotel – Just a few steps from the metro station, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations featuring extra-large double beds, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, seating areas, iPod docks, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests may also enjoy the business center or relax outdoors by the fountain. Suitable for various types of travelers.
- The St. Gregory Hotel – Equipped with a 24-hour front desk and a fitness center, this establishment offers comfortable guestrooms and suites that include extra-large double beds, flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view channels, ironing facilities, dining areas, and ensuite bathrooms with free toiletries. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- The Embassy Row Hotel – Located among charming row homes and historic embassies, this thoughtfully decorated hotel features comfortable beds, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, seating areas, iPod docks, closets, and ensuite bathrooms. The rooftop terrace includes cabanas and an outdoor pool, making it great for various types of travelers.
Adams Morgan
The picturesque and historic neighborhood of Adams Morgan, located just west of Columbia Heights, is favored by visitors for its cultural vibrancy, outdoor markets, international dining, and eclectic shopping options. This area boasts the highest concentration of bars and nightclubs in D.C. Named after the historic John Quincy Adams Elementary School and Thomas P. Morgan Elementary School, Adams Morgan’s primary attraction is the two-hour self-guided heritage walk that guides visitors through all essential locations in the neighborhood, showcasing luxurious embassies, Lanier Heights, and the Victorian row houses along 18th Street.
Suitable for: All types of travelers, particularly the young.
Other Notable Attractions: Madam’s Organ blues bar, Kalorama Recreation Center, and Meridian Hill Park.
Recommended Hotels:
- The LINE Hotel DC – With magnificent 60-foot vaulted ceilings and a neoclassical design, this transformed church features elegant accommodations equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, a curated micro-library, custom furnishings, and handmade bath products. Guests can choose from various on-site dining and drinking options, alongside stunning views of the city. Ideal for discerning travelers.
- American Guest House – Situated ten minutes’ walk from the nearest metro station, this establishment offers well-appointed guestrooms with comfortable double beds, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, ironing facilities, and ensuite bathrooms with free toiletries. A complimentary breakfast is served daily, making it suitable for solo travelers and couples.
- 1BR in DC Hotspot Adams Morgan – Located in the heart of this lively neighborhood, this property features fully-furnished one-bedroom apartments equipped with amenities such as air-conditioning, washing machines, tumble dryers, wardrobes, private entrances, sofas, fireplaces, safes, and ensuite bathrooms. Guests are also welcome to utilize the shared kitchen and lounge area, which is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
Logan Circle
Logan Circle is predominantly a residential neighborhood and historic district, previously known as Iowa Circle and renamed in 1930 to honor John A. Logan, a General in the Union Army, Illinois state senator, and Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. This neighborhood has retained its historical integrity, showcasing Late Victorian and Richardsonian architecture constructed between 1875 and 1900. A key feature of this area is the Logan Circle Park, which once served as the site of Camp Barker during the Civil War and currently houses a 25-foot-tall eponymous equestrian statue.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Notable Attractions: Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, Studio Theatre (recipient of 60 Helen Hayes Awards), Gallery Plan B, Logan Circle Heritage Trail, and Mary McLeod Bethune Council House.
Recommended Hotels:
- The Westin Washington, D.C. City Center – A sophisticated hotel, it offers stylish accommodations with modern amenities such as extra-large double beds, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, refrigerators, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests can utilize the common lounge, on-site dining, and a cutting-edge fitness center. Suitable for various types of travelers, including larger groups of up to five members.
- Washington Plaza Hotel – Located just a short distance from the White House, Washington Plaza Hotel features luxurious guestrooms equipped with modern conveniences such as tea/coffee makers, ironing facilities, laptop safes, wake-up service, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and ensuite bathrooms. Additional facilities at the hotel include a seasonal outdoor pool, a restaurant and lounge, on-site parking, and a fitness center. Ideal for diverse types of travelers.
- Kimpton Donovan Hotel – A chic eco-friendly establishment, this hotel offers stylish accommodations along with premium amenities and services. Guests have access to trendy guestrooms, on-site dining, a rooftop pool boasting expansive city views, 24-hour concierge services, a bar menu, and a lounge area. It is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
Foggy Bottom
Primarily composed of private residences, the Foggy Bottom neighborhood ranks among the oldest areas in the city and is home to the esteemed George Washington University. Located west of the White House, it features many of D.C.’s noteworthy landmarks, including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the infamous Watergate Complex, and the George Washington University Museum. Significant organizations such as the World Health Organization, World Bank, and the American Red Cross have established offices in the area. A brief walk toward Pennsylvania Avenue leads to one of the city’s most iconic structures, the White House.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Notable Attractions: Simon Bolivar Memorial, State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms, Thompson Boat Center, Textile Museum, Lincoln Memorial, and Rock Creek Park.
Recommended Hotels:
- State Plaza Hotel – Situated a short distance from the prestigious George Washington University, State Plaza Hotel offers fully-furnished accommodations equipped with comfortable sleeping arrangements, tea/coffee makers, dressing rooms, kitchen facilities, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs. Guests can also enjoy the on-site fitness center and dining options, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
- ARC The Hotel, Washington, DC – Located within short walking distance of the John F. Kennedy Center, this luxurious hotel offers spacious guestrooms featuring extra-large double beds, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with CD players, coffee makers, and private bathrooms. Additional facilities at the hotel include on-site dining, underground valet parking, and a fitness center. Ideal for a wide range of travelers.
- The Watergate Hotel Georgetown – This prestigious hotel features luxurious, state-of-the-art accommodations overlooking the river, equipped with flat-screen TVs, work desks, and ensuite bathrooms. Guests enjoy access to a fully-equipped fitness center, a rooftop bar, an exceptional spa, an indoor pool, and on-site dining. Perfect for all types of travelers.
Woodley Park
A section of Upper Northwest, Woodley Park, along with the surrounding areas, is regarded as one of the nation’s most privileged and affluent neighborhoods. Specifically, Woodley Park is recognized for its array of elite dining options, upscale bars, expansive green spaces, and opulent residences. This neighborhood has been home to several prominent figures, including former President Grover Cleveland and WWII Secretary of War Henry Stimson. The area’s key attractions include the Smithsonian’s National Zoo (make sure to see the pandas) and the National Cathedral. As a sophisticated alternative to the bustling streets of Adams Morgan, Woodley Park’s two-story vintage shopping haven, Via Gypset, is essential for all shopping enthusiasts.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Notable Attractions: Tregaron Conservancy, St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church, Marilyn Monroe Mural, Rock Creek Park, and Uptown Theater.
Recommended Hotels:
- Kalorama Guest House – A short distance from the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Kalorama Guest House offers comfortable guestrooms featuring air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, tumble dryers, cable TVs, and ensuite bathrooms. Guests are treated to a complimentary breakfast each morning, making it ideal for solo travelers and couples.
- Washington Marriott Wardman Park – With a fully-equipped fitness center, on-site restaurant, and bar, this upscale hotel features extra-large double beds, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, ironing facilities, iPod docks, wardrobes, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Optional breakfast is available daily. Suitable for various types of travelers.
- Omni Shoreham Hotel – Nestled in the picturesque green settings of Rock Creek Park, this hotel features beautifully designed guestrooms with extra-large double beds, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, laptop safes, iPod docks, and ensuite bathrooms. Superb amenities include a dry sauna, an outdoor pool, in-room spa services, and on-site dining options, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
Downtown DC
At the heart of various attractions and activities lies the neighborhood of Downtown DC, providing a diverse range of historical, cultural, and entertainment experiences along with opportunities to appreciate some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Bordered by the notable address of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, this area serves as a thriving hub for business, dining, shopping, culture, and nightlife. Prominent attractions here, apart from the White House, include the National Gallery of Art, CityCenterDC (a shopping paradise), and DAR Constitution Hall. When visiting, be sure to take a walk around the National Mall to explore the finest D.C. museums.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Notable Attractions: National Museum of Women in the Arts, POV Rooftop Lounge and Terrace (for a cocktail with a view of the White House), Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and National Geographic Museum.
Recommended Hotels:
- Hampton Inn – Washington DC/White House – Within a five-minute walk from the White House, this luxurious hotel features plush accommodations with state-of-the-art amenities, an indoor pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, a fully-equipped fitness center, a business center, private parking, and a remarkable complimentary breakfast. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- One Washington Circle-A Modus Hotel – Located next to Washington Circle in the heart of Downtown DC, this elite hotel features well-appointed suites with amenities including extra-large double beds, air-conditioning, iPod docks, ironing facilities, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. On-site dining, a gymnasium, and an outdoor pool are also available. Appropriate for various types of travelers.
- Hotel Lombardy – Positioned on the renowned Pennsylvania Avenue, Hotel Lombardy features exceptional accommodations with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, tea/coffee makers, safety deposit boxes, minibars, ironing facilities, seating areas, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests enjoy gourmet dining, a bar and lounge, a cafe, in-room spa services, and a fully-serviced gym. Ideal for luxury travelers.
Capitol Hill
For those interested in observing prominent American politicians, Capitol Hill, often referred to as “the Hill,” is the ideal destination. Centrally focused around the United States Capitol, commonly known as the Capitol Building, this neighborhood accommodates two-thirds of the three branches of the U.S. government and the United States Congress. During a brief visit, take advantage of the opportunity to explore key attractions within the area, beginning with the Capitol Building, followed by the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and the Statue of Freedom. For a lighter experience, visit Eastern Market, the largest of its kind in the city and operational since 1873. Union Station also offers shopping and budget-friendly dining options. Barrack Row, in contrast, is an establishment for fine dining and bar-hopping experiences.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Notable Attractions: U.S. Botanic Garden, Peace Monument, Ulysses S Grant Memorial, National Guard Museum, Congressional Cemetery, Robert Taft Memorial and Carillon, and James Garfield Monument.
