D.C.’s original neighborhood has roots that go back to 1751 – 40 years before the nation’s capital itself – but it has firmly established itself as the modern-day darling of the city thanks to its buzzy shopping, dining and cultural scene. Stroll cobblestone streets, pause for a waterfront picnic or simply marvel at the charming homes that line the streets with style.
An icon from its 1943 unveiling, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a historic testament to the third President of the United States and Founding Father and has long been seen as one of the city’s greatest attractions, located in West Potomac Park. A must-see during cherry blossom season. The Memorial is accessible 24/7 and admission is free.
A mile-long playground set on the Potomac, The Wharf is D.C.’s most exciting new landmark, featuring a careful curation of restaurants, shops, live events and inimitable D.C. personality. Set alongside Pendry, this is the center of everything, just steps from your guest room.
This 405-mile river stretches from Maryland to West Virginia, but we’re partial to its Washington, D.C. shorefront. Hop on a water taxi, take a tour cruise, borrow a kayak for the day or relax on a dinner cruise at sunset. Either way, this unique view of the city is one of our favorites.
A significant 19-foot structure honoring the life of Abraham Lincoln, this must-see attraction on the western end of the National Mall is open to the public 24 hours a day. Since its 1922 dedication, the Memorial has been a beacon of D.C.’s illustrious history and continues to awe to this day.
Built to honor George Washington, the United States’ first president, the 555-foot marble obelisk towers over Washington, D.C. as a focal point of the city’s skyline for 150 years. Open daily from 9am to 5pm – we recommend an early morning or evening visit for a quiet viewing, sans crowds.
The only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture, this stunning structure on the National Mall has collected more than 36,000 artifacts since its 2016 formal opening. Closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays, free timed-entry passes required.
A Capitol Hill favorite. The Eastern Market boasts some of the city’s best food and arts & crafts vendors and makers in and indoor and outdoor market setting in the famed history-rich neighborhood. Perfect for an afternoon stroll, a quick bite or a simple glimpse of some of the best of D.C. Closed Mondays.
Shop, eat, drink, see. Union Market is one of our favorite epicenters for food, culture and good times in the city. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, a live show, some boutique browsing or just a look around, you will see why the neighborhood has grown into one of the city’s best since its 1871 inception.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is situated on a four-acre site along the National Mall’s Tidal Basin and features a 30-foot statue of Dr. King, which emerges powerfully from two large boulders, known as the Mountain of Despair. Open to the public for free viewing, 24 hours a day.
