Washington, D.C. Neighborhoods

Washington, D.C. consists of a variety of distinct neighborhoods that are rich in history, culture and entertainment. Explore the destinations below:

Dupont Circle: With its funky shops and trendy restaurants and bars, Dupont Circle is one of the hippest neighborhoods in Washington. Its cosmopolitan air draws a vibrant crowd. Once a neighborhood of old money and the nouveau riche, Dupont Circle today is home to artists, intellectuals and young professionals. The neighborhood's turn-of-the-century mansions and brownstones, formerly home to prominent families, today house art museums, restaurants, embassies and fun shops. Dupont Circle is also home to the Phillips Collection, one of the city's foremost art museums with paintings by Renoir, Degas and Cézanne.

Farragut Square: Farragut is the epicenter of corporate Washington, D.C. The square though is filled with an upbeat ambience where picnickers can enjoy the sounds of street musicians in summer. On Thursdays in the summer months, the Square hosts free jazz at lunchtime. A statue of Civil War Admiral David Farragut stands in the middle of the square, spyglass in hand. Farragut coined the phrase "Full speed ahead!" during the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay, Alabama.

Georgetown: This historic neighborhood is lined with trendy boutiques and fine restaurants. The abundant nightlife at Georgetown draws both locals and visitors. Just wander down busy M Street and Wisconsin Avenue and explore the eclectic shops, or stop in for a pint at one of the numerous pubs overflowing with college kids. After you get your fill of the hoopla, stroll off the main strip onto the tree-shaded streets filled with Georgian and Victorian townhouses that are home to many politicians and celebrities. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park lies below M Street.

United States National Arboretum: Best known for its vast collection of azaleas, (Washington's favorite porch-flower), this 444-acre (180-hectare) garden park has much else to offer. Fountains, pools and open space separate a series of focused gardens at United States National Arboretum. The National Bonsai Collection, a gift from Japan, is a fascinating exhibit of tiny trees. Other notable sections are the aquatic garden (filled with lotuses of many varieties) and the National Herb Garden.