Guide to Washington D.C.: Popular Neighborhoods

From Cosmo Chic to U-Street: Find a Home in D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a city of diverse and tightly-knit neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive flavor. Linked by subway or bus, these neighborhoods are easily accessible for leisurely strolling. From eclectic to parochial, the capital's distinctive boroughs provide a haven for students of all backgrounds and interests, each with its own vibe. Here are some of the most famous neighborhoods and hangouts for college students and residents alike.

Top 6 D.C. Neighborhoods and Hangouts

  • Dupont Circle: Dupont Circle is a cosmopolitan neighborhood at the intersection of Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire Avenues. Stacked with classy restaurants, shops, hotels, and museums, Dupont Circle is famous for Embassy Row, home to over 150 international embassies.
  • Georgetown: The cobblestone streets of Georgetown provide access to some of the most notorious names in fashion and a splattering of flourishing restaurants and boutiques. Home to Georgetown University and situated on the waterfront, this neighborhood represents the most luxurious the city has to offer.
  • Lafayette Square: Home to the world famous Corcoran Gallery of Art, Lafayette Square is graced with outstanding architecture and public displays of art that showcase the nation's historical legacy of elegance and refinement.
  • U-Street District: A weekend hotspot and the center of African-American nightlife in the city is the thriving U-Street district. This neighborhood is also home to the African American Civil War Memorial and Howard University, and is the birthplace of legendary jazz musician Duke Ellington.
  • Downtown D.C.: The region of D.C. known as Downtown is a bustling center for entertainment, dining, and business. Touring Broadway productions and distinguished museums are among the attraction in the Downtown area, as is D.C.'s Chinatown, recognizable by the prominent "Friendship Arch."
  • The Hill: Often abbreviated as simply "the Hill," Capitol Hill is also a lively residential neighborhood that includes the Library of Congress and Supreme Court Building.
Sources:
Lonely Planet
Washington, D.C. Tourism