5 cool neighbourhoods to explore in Washington, DC

Many first-time visitors to Washington, DC understandably make a beeline for the striking monuments and museums of the National Mall — the vast expanse of parkland that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the US Capitol. Look further afield, however, and the city’s eclectic charm unfurls. Over 131 neighbourhoods, each with their own flavour and flare, can be found throughout the city, from the historic enclaves of Georgetown to the global cafes and jazzy bohemian quarters of Adams Morgan. 

1. Capitol Riverfront and Southwest 

The former site of one of the nation’s oldest naval facilities, Capitol Riverfront has been transformed into a haven for sports fans, nature-lovers and foodies. Set along the banks of the Anacostia River, just south of the US Capitol, this fast-growing, urban area has seen its dining scene blossom in recent years. Now, visitors can enjoy house-brewed beer at Bluejacket, locally-sourced seafood at The Salt Line and spectacular waterfront views at District Winery, to name a few. The area also draws in legions of passionate baseball and soccer fans. Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals have their home stadium here, which features outstanding views of the US Capitol dome from many of its 40,000-plus seats, while Audi Field, home to Major League Soccer’s DC United, offers state-of-the-art facilities that also host a variety of cultural events, community activities and concerts. 

Just around the corner, Southwest and The Wharf is another riverside neighbourhood peppered with idyllic parks and green spaces. This makes it the perfect spot for a variety of watersports, free festivals and unique events, such as the District’s Holiday Boat Parade and the Running of the Chihuahuas on Cinco de Mayo.

2. Georgetown

Widely regarded as DC’s most historic neighbourhood, Georgetown was originally established in the 1700s as a tobacco-port town and housed a lumber yard, cement works and the Washington Flour Mill. Today, visitors can amble its cobblestone streets to scout out its federal architecture, historic brick-and-frame row houses and iconic landmarks, such as the Old Stone House, the famous steps from The Exorcist and the one-time homes of JFK and TV chef Julia Child. The area is also home to the iconic Blues Alley Club, which is the oldest, continuously-operated jazz supper club in the US and has played host to many international artists. 

For food, head to Georgetown’s waterfront, where an array of restaurants, such as Sequoia, Tony and Joe's Seafood Place, Founding Farmers Fishers & Bakers and Fiola Mare, offer patio seating and scenic views. Those looking for a slightly more upscale experience should visit the 1789 Restaurant & Bar, which serves seasonal, contemporary American cuisine in a historic federal townhouse.

3. Shaw 

Steeped in African American history, Shaw is one neighbourhood that’s seen major revitalisation in recent years. It’s located in the popular northwest quadrant of Washington, DC and takes its name from Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, who commanded an all-Black regiment during the Civil War. Visitors can learn about the area’s rich history at the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, which recalls the events of the war through to the Civil Rights movement with related photos, letters, artefacts and soldier’s uniforms.

Shaw also had a thriving alley culture in the 19th and 20th centuries. Located behind DC’s blocks of rowhouses, these intersecting, brick-paved zones, once filled with stables, workshops and working-class dwellings, have now become a mecca for trendy restaurants, hip bars and boutiques. Head to Causa, located in Blagden Alley, for Michelin-starred Peruvian seafood, Andean cuisine and one of the nation’s largest pisco sour libraries. Alternatively, Supra, located just down the street, is the place to sample traditional Georgian fare, including khachapuri (cheese bread and eggs) and khinkali (soup dumplings). 

4. U Street 

Few of DC’s neighbourhoods feature the variety and notoriety of U Street and its trendy 14th Street corridor. An epicentre of art and African American heritage, this bustling stretch of hospitality-packed real estate includes everything from dive bars to avant-garde dining rooms. It’s also the place to experience the city’s exciting music scene. Bordering the Shaw neighbourhood to the east, the iconic Howard Theatre is one of the best venues to catch a live jazz performance and has seen the likes of Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald grace its hallowed stage. Meanwhile, for rock and alternative groups, make a beeline for the revered 9:30 Club. This legendary venue features an electrifying lineup, with sold out shows from upcoming bands and artists. 

U Street is also a unique destination for shopping, with various vintage and artisanal stores, quirky boutiques and bookshops. Stop by Salt & Sundry, located on 14th Street corridor, to peruse its eclectic emporium of home wares, jewellery and gifts. These products are created by a mix of independent makers and designers, both local and international.

5. Adams Morgan

Known for its historic houses, colourful murals and cosmopolitan culinary scene, the Adams Morgan neighbourhood captures the essence of the city’s diversity. Here, restaurants range from Ethiopian and Ghanaian to Dutch, Cajun, Palestinian, Peruvian, Pakistani and Lebanese. Whatever visitors are looking for, they’ll find it along the area’s main thoroughfare — vibrant 18th Street. The pace picks up at night when the District’s iconic bars, such as Roofers Union and Madam’s Organ, host live music, DJ sets and karaoke, while a more lowkey spot, Perry’s Rooftop, serves Japanese fare with an extensive drinks menu, including whiskey and sake cocktails. 

Adams Morgan is also the ideal place to while away a long afternoon. Scout out the region’s kaleidoscope of street art, including vibrant murals, colourful building faces, painted jersey barriers and more, before taking a long stroll through Meridian Hill Park to admire the cascading fountain, which is one of the largest in North America. The best time of year to visit, however, is in September for the annual Adams Morgan Day Festival, which sees the streets come alive with international music, art and food.