Your guide to Washington DC's up-and-coming suburbs

Think you know Washington DC? Think again.

Washington DC is well known for its uniquely American museums and history, but you’ll find even more to this city than a stoic seat of government. Today, it’s a diverse capital that’s constantly evolving and growing thanks to the best suburbs of Washington DC, delighting visitors with vibrant eateries, bars and entertainment.

You’ll still find iconic attractions like the Smithsonian Institution and the United States Capitol, but you’ll also discover what the locals love about DC – namely, that it’s a city rich in culture, history and passion, with lots of locally owned restaurants and shops, museums and parks to explore.

If it’s been a few years since you visited, you might be surprised just how much it’s changed. Here are some of the best DC neighbourhoods to explore.

When you’ve seen the icons, it’s time to explore the up-and-coming trendy suburbs.

1. Penn Quarter & Downtown

Just north of Pennsylvania Avenue, you’ll find Penn Quarter, a happening downtown area that’s great for shopping, dining and museums. You’re just steps from the White House, but also make sure to check out some of this neighbourhood’s more under-the-radar museums, including Planet Word, the only voice-activated museum, this unique space dedicated to the love of words and language.

You’ll also find Capital One Arena here, making Penn Quarter the ideal base for catching a concert, hockey match or NBA game. Afterwards, walk or Uber over to The Mirror on K Street NW, a fabulous speakeasy hidden behind a mirror. This dimly lit den transports you back to the 1920s, when the martinis were strong and the music was hot.

For a taste of lux DC hospitality, base yourself at Riggs Washington DC; this five-star hotel and former Riggs National Bank building was built in the grand Romanesque Revival style. Besides accommodation, inside you’ll find award-winning speakeasy, Silver Lyan, hidden inside the building’s original vault.

Discover the only voice-activated museum, Planet Word.

2. Georgetown

Renowned for its Colonial, Federal and Victorian architecture, cobblestoned streets and distinguished university, Georgetown is DC’s most historic neighbourhood – and conveniently just a short bike ride away from the National Mall.

In Georgetown, book a table at 1789 Restaurant & Bar. It’s one of the city’s most iconic dining experiences, serving modern seasonal fare in antique-filled dining rooms in a renovated historic home. While Georgetown is a year-round delight for boutique shopping, nightlife and dining, it’s also an ideal spot for warm weather fun, as its position on the Potomac River makes it perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.

You’ll find no shortage of five-star hotels here, including The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown. For something different, book into The Poppy; this charming boutique townhouse offers guesthouse-style accommodation and a serene backyard for relaxation, complete with an outdoor fire pit.

Explore DC’s most historic neighbourhood.

3. Dupont Circle

The northwest neighbourhood of Dupont Circle has long been a favourite for unique dining, bars and beautiful architecture. Home to many nation’s embassies, it also played a key role in the city’s LGBTQI+ history.

You’ll find DC’s diversity well represented in food in Dupont Circle and the nearby neighbourhood of Adams Morgan, a popular area known for its nightlife and restaurants. Visit Lapis, a family-owned Afghani bistro that does a mean weekend brunch, and Anju, a contemporary Korean gastropub serving up comfort food in a stylish spot. Dupont Circle is also home to Kramers, one of the city’s best independent bookstores, so pop in for a browse before grabbing a bite to eat.

Nothing pairs better with food than a local brew, so make a visit to the relatively unknown Heurich House Museum, where you’ll learn the fascinating tale of German immigrant and philanthropist Christian Heurich, DC’s most famous brewer.

To nod off to sleep in style, check in at The Dupont Circle, a Top 10 Hotel in the 2023 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

Find unique dining, bars and beautiful architecture at Dupont Circle.

4. U Street & Shaw

A visit to U Street and the nearby neighbourhood of Shaw will connect visitors to DC’s heart and soul through music. U Street was the birthplace of jazz musician Duke Ellington. His musical legacy lives on here today, as this part of DC draws visitors to its live music venues nightly. The 9.30 Club is a beloved local spot that’s been named the top nightclub in the US by Rolling Stone, and Black Cat is a favourite for listening to alternative live music while mingling with an eclectic crowd.

Refuel at Ben’s Chili Bowl, an iconic DC staple and Black-owned business. It’s known not only for its unforgettable chilli dogs and half-smokes, but also for its importance to the neighbourhood’s civil rights movement.

Of course, you can find quieter parts of U Street and Shaw, too. Meridian Hill Park, a serene National Historic Landmark, is worth a visit to see the largest cascading fountain in North America.

Refuel at the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl.

5. Capitol Riverfront

Just south of the US Capitol, Capitol Riverfront and nearby Southwest are two vibrant neighbourhoods along the Anacostia River. It’s perhaps best known as the home of the Washington Nationals baseball team, but it’s just as popular for the eye-catching street murals sprinkled around town.

With plenty of restaurants, shops and watersports to enjoy in this pocket of DC, you’ll never run out of fun activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding. When you work up an appetite, All Purpose Pizzeria is one of the best picks for casual waterfront dining; their bottomless brunch is a big hit and it’s just across the street from Nationals Park.

For something unique (and free!), climb aboard the Wharf Jitney, a ferry service which runs on the Washington Channel between Recreation Pier and East Potomac Park. The latter is a top spot to enjoy mini golf, tennis and cycling.

Go kayaking along the river.