Washington DC’s most buzz-worthy neighborhoods

The action in Washington, DC extends far beyond Capitol Hill. In fact, if you want to know what’s goes on behind the scenes, explore the District’s diverse neighborhoods. Most are just a Metro stop away.
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Adams Morgan neighborhood | Flickr CC: Ted Eytan

A taste of Latin America and late night hub in Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan’s culturally-diverse bent is reflected in its businesses. There are steaming hot salsa lounges, restaurants featuring everything from Ethiopian to Central American cuisine and boutiques stocked with goods from Africa, Asia and Latin America. The main thoroughfare, 18th Street, is a favorite place for bar-hoppers who enjoy late-night refreshments.
Metro: Woodley Park/Zoo-Adams Morgan Red Line

U Street Corridor | Flickr CC: Elvert Barnes

Vintage and Variety in the U Street Corridor

The area around 14th and U Streets may well have been DC’s first hipster neighborhood. Filled with indie shops and ethnic eats, it more recently has become home to cutting-edge retailers like Shinola and Room and Board. The U Street Corridor is the place to hunt for bargains on everything from clothing to home decor. Within a few blocks, you can find at least a dozen vintage and thrift stores.
Metro: U Street Green and Yellow Lines

Howard Theatre in the Shaw neighborhood | Flickr CC: Ron Cogswell

African-American history and a hot music scene in Shaw

Adjacent to the U Street Corridor, Shaw has always played an important note in the city’s history. It was once called Black Broadway, thanks to the existence of the Lincoln Theatre and the Howard Theatre, both of which still operate today. Another hip entertainment option is the 9:30 Club, one of DC’s original venues for alternative acts. More recently, this neighborhood has been the place for star chefs and untested newbies alike to open new restaurants like Convivial, All Purpose and the Dabney.
Metro: Shaw/Howard University Green and Yellow Lines

Union Market | Flickr CC: Tom Bridge

Industry turned indie chic in NOMA

NOMA takes its name from its location north of Massachusetts Avenue, NE. It is best known for Union Market, which houses dozens of local food vendors and a green market. Other creative businesses are taking root in the industrial zone surrounding the market, including an Angelika theater pop up and a gelato factory. In late 2016, a state-of-the-art REI store is moving into the area as well.
Metro: NOMA/Gallaudet U Red Line

Basilica of the National Shrine | Flickr CC: NCinDC

Little Rome and Lots of Art in Brookline

 Brookland is home to Catholic University, the Basilica of the National Shrine (the largest Roman Catholic Church in North America) and the Saint John Paul II National Shrine. There’s even a Franciscan monastery (open for tours) in the neighborhood. No wonder, then, that Brookland’s nickname is Little Rome. Aside from the religious icons, the Arts Walk at Monroe Street Market is worth a pilgrimage. This hub for DC’s creative community contains artist galleries and spaces for performances.
Metro: Brookland/CUA Red Line

The Yards at Capitol Riverfront | Flickr CC: Mr.TinDC

Sports of all sorts in Capitol Riverfront

Just south of the U.S. Capitol, this emerging area on the Anacostia River is home to Nationals Park, home of Washington’s major league baseball team. The Yards Park area hosts free concert series during temperate months and houses an ice rink come winter. The daring can fly at a trapeze school, while those preferring to stay closer to earth can rent a river kayak or canoe.
Metro: Navy Yard/Ballpark Green Line

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