The Shops at National Place

Introduction to the Shops at National Place

The Shops at National Place is a three-level shopping mall located in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C. within the National Press Club Building. This vibrant shopping destination features over 75 specialty shops and eateries, including popular options like Filene’s Basement, Bandolino, Simply Wireless, and the White House Gift Shop.

Conveniently situated near Pennsylvania Avenue, it is just steps from the National Theatre and Freedom Plaza, making it an ideal spot for adventure on school trips or family vacations. The Food Hall operates throughout the day, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a fast and affordable dining experience in the city’s heart.

With two accessible entrances—one on 13th & F Streets, NW just a block from Metro Center, and the other at 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue across from Freedom Plaza—the Shops at National Place and National Press Club are easily reachable within a few minutes’ walk from both the Metro Center and Federal Triangle Metro stops.

Commonly referred to as “Eat at National Place” due to its expansive food court, this location is one of four major shopping malls in Washington, D.C., recognized for having the largest food court among them.

The Eat at National Place Food Court

A standout feature of this bustling mall is the food court, known as Eat at National Place, where visitors can experience a wide range of cuisines at unbeatable prices. This food court, expeditiously located inside the Shops at National Place, gives patrons the ability to sample various dishes from an array of restaurants.

Dining options at the National Place food court currently include Esprinto Cafe, Five Guys, Grill Kabob, Kabuki Sushi & Teriyaki, Moe’s Southwest Grill, A Slice of Italy Pizzeria, Smak, Soul Wingz, and TaKorean Korean Taco Grill. These establishments offer diverse flavors that cater to different preferences.

Moreover, groups can take advantage of meal vouchers available for purchase in advance at a lower group rate, ensuring a cost-effective dining experience in the Washington, D.C. area. However, it is important to note that these meal deal programs must be requested in advance via an online form.

When visiting the National Place, diners should anticipate longer wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours; hence, planning ahead is advisable. It is best to coordinate group meals during off-peak times, such as from 10 a.m. to noon and between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Nearby Attractions for Group Trips

Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is replete with attractions that cater to both educational school trips and enjoyable family vacations. The Eat at National Place food court is conveniently located just a short walk from iconic sites such as the White House, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Mall, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and the United States Capitol Building.

For those willing to stroll a little further, monuments like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial await, along with the renowned Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool.

Furthermore, several museums greatly enrich the experience, including the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, the Smithsonian Institution, the International Spy Museum, the National Building Museum, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the National Geographic Museum. Each location typically warrants about half a day to explore its fascinating exhibits and learn from its rich history.