 |
|
|
| HOME : WASHINGTON, DC : NEIGHBORHOODS |
|
 |
| Searching for the best affordable hotels in Washington DC? Use BOOKitCHEAP to find the cheapest prices at the best hotels in Washington, DC. Our "Special Internet Rates" are the guaranteed lowest on the Web! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
Washington, DC Neighborhoods: An Overview
Adams-Morgan
Popular with the young, hip crowd, Adams-Morgan is considered one of Washingtons most colorful neighborhoods. Though it is primarily home to Latinos and West Africans, the neighborhood is brimming with people of many backgrounds. Its a great place to find ethnic restaurants, and with its mix of nationalities, Adams-Morgan is one of the most interesting and cosmopolitan neighborhoods in the city. The cultural diversity is evident in its quirky shops and offbeat bars and clubs.
Anacostia
Just across the Anacostia River in Southeast Washington, Anacostia is a historic African-American neighborhood. The neighborhood, named after its Native American inhabitants, dates back to John Smiths arrival in the New World in 1607. Of particular interest are the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Woodlawn Cemetary and the Anacostia Neighborhood Museum, a Smithsonian Museum showcasing African-American culture.
Capitol Hill
"The Hill" is known not just for the imposing U.S. Capitol, but for its interesting blend of government buildings, Victorian row houses, restaurants and shops. The Capitol dominates the neighborhood, and the U.S. Supreme Court, Library of Congress and Union Station are other prominent buildings. But you'll also find Eastern Market, one of the citys oldest farmers' markets, and the Folger Shakespeare Library, which features theatre, chamber music, baroque opera and other performances.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a small neighborhood, but easily accessible by Metro or foot from downtown Washington. The neighborhood is marked by the colorful Friendship Archway, and many of the citys Asian restaurants and shops can be found here. Chinatown is the site of the popular Chinese New Years Day parade. Its also home to the new MCI Center, an entertainment and sports complex.
Dupont Circle
Washingtons gay neighborhood is equally popular with heterosexuals looking for lively nightlife, exceptional restaurants and funky shops. With its historic town houses, art galleries and theatres, Dupont Circle is a great place to explore. At the circle, three of the Districts major avenues?New Hampshire, Connecticut and Massachusetts?converge. With its large central fountain and shade trees, the circle is a great place to sit and watch the crowds or enjoy lunch.
Foggy Bottom
Once called Funkstown (after a German immigrant), Foggy Bottom appears institutional and bureaucratic; its the home of the Department of State, the Kennedy Center, the Watergate complex and George Washington University. Foggy Bottom derived its name in a most unique way. During the late 19th century, smoke from the neighborhood factories and the swampy air of the low ground combined to produce a permanent fog along the waterfront.
Georgetown
Trendy, fashionable and fun describe the atmosphere in Georgetown, Washingtons oldest neighborhood. Yes, its a neighborhood of tree-lined streets and handsome brick houses, but its also home to Georgetown University and its a popular place to shop, take in dinner and a movie, and, of course, enjoy the nightlife. Busy M Street is lined with trendy boutiques and upscale stores, restaurants and bars. Expect big crowds on the weekends.
Southwest/Waterfront
The eastern shore of the Anacostia River is home to Arena Stage, Benjamin Banneker Circle and Fountain, and L'Enfant Plaza. The waterfront runs several blocks along Maine Avenue SW with piers, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, seafood markets and restaurants.
Alexandria & Arlington
These distinct Virginia communities across the Potomac River from Washington are very different. Alexandrias history stretches back to 1699, long before Washington was formed, to become the nations capital. Old Town Alexandria boasts hundreds of restored buildings?homes, churches and taverns?from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can walk cobbled streets and visit clipper ships along the revitalized waterfront. Arlington, on the other hand, is clearly part of contemporary Virginia. Arlington boasts three major attractions: Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Marines Corps War Memorial and the Pentagon. In the Rosslyn section?just across from Georgetown?is the Newseum, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the news business.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
