What’s On the DC Metro Yellow Line

Written by – Updated July 5, 2021


Yellow Line Overview

things_to_do_in_washigton_on_the_yellow_lineThe Yellow Line serves as the fastest way to get from the Airport (DCA) to the downtown DC. The line starts just outside of Alexandria, and ends by connecting with the Red Line at Georgia Avenue. It can act as a direct route to get from Howard University and U Street to the Airport. Most of the Yellow line is shared with the Blue Line in VA, and then the Green Line for stops in DC and NE sections of DC. You can connect with rail transportation like the VRE and Amtrack at the King Street station.

Tourism & Entertainment on the Yellow Line

things_to_do_in_washigton_on_the_yellow_line_touristThe most impressive stop for nightlife along the Yellow line is U Street. The U Street stop is home to the 930 club along with a variety of bars and restaurants. As for museums the Archives Stop or L’enfant Plaza will be your best jump off point for Smithsonian Museums and the Mall. The Yellow Line also has a stop right by the Verizon Center, that stop is also home to The Spy Museums, American Art Gallery and many restaurants including DC’s Chinatown. The King Street Station will give riders’ access to Alexandria or Old Town, a free street car will help riders get to the restaurants and main street shopping areas of Old Town Alexandira.

Crystal City


hotels near crystal city metro

nieghborhood_vibe_48Crystal City Neighborhood: Crystal City offers tourist and business traveler’s immediate access to DCA Airport with a short commute to downtown DC, or the National Mall. Located in Arlington, VA altogether the area is a welcoming urban pocket. The neighborhood can empty out after business hours. Often the local residents are young professionals making their home in one of numerous luxury high rises that blend in with office buildings and hotels. Families should note Crystal City straddles a major highway, so those with small children should be cautious of traffic while walking around. With plenty of restaurants and access to the Mt. Vernon trail, DCA, Alexandria, and a short commute to all the tourist attractions Crystal City should always be considered when visiting Washington, DC.

Smithsonian Metro


nieghborhood_vibe_48Smithsonian Neighborhood: Since the Smithsonian Metro station sits on the National Mall chances are that you are either going to stay south of the National Mall toward the L’Enfant Plaza station or north of the Mall in downtown DC near the Chinatown, Metro Center, or Farragut Sq.. The National Mall is major divider in terms of the type of neighborhood. South of the Mall is dead at night. This can be welcome for those who enjoy a peaceful walk through the National Mall, or families who want to be in a less chaotic atmosphere. The area is surrounded by massive government buildings and when five o’clock rolls past commuters travel home leaving the area bland and sterile. North means that your stay in downtown with lots of restaurants, attractions and nightlife options to choose from. Of course, much more hustle and bustle. Travelers who want the easy walk to and from the National Mall will be happy being south. Travelers who want to be able to walk from their hotel to more things to do will appreciate being in downtown. There will be lots more hotel options north of the Mall in downtown.

Braddock Metro (Alexandria)


nieghborhood_vibe_48Braddock Neighborhood: The Braddock station is location Alexandria. All the hotels are a five block walk to the station. On the upside the hotels are also close to most of the attractions in Alexandria. Alexandria is home to many unique restaurants, riverfront parks, and will be appreciated for its easy access to downtown DC, DCA, and Mt. Vernon. It is hard for any tourist to go wrong with Alexandria. For a nicer night out that won’t break the bank, The Majestic and Columbia Firehouse both offer slightly upscale takes on American classics and terrific service. You’ll also find that the bars run the spectrum from divey sports bars to upscale cocktails. Old Town also offers its share of shopping. While you’ll find a number of national chains, such as Anthropologie or Lululemon, you’re more likely to find locally-owned antiques shops and clothing boutiques.

Chinatown, Downtown DC


nieghborhood_vibe_48Chinatown Neighborhood: Chinatown is the pulse of downtown DC. The area is home to the National Portrait Smithsonian Museum, Spy Museum and home to many bars and restaurants that keep things happening at all times. It’s easy to walk to the National Mall from here. Visitors not interested in a noisy, rowdy neighborhood should look elsewhere. Visitors will notice a higher amount of panhandling in Chinatown and should be cautious in the area at night. Chinatown is the home of the Verizon Center which hosts the Washington Capitals, Wizards, and Mystic. The Verizon Center also hosts major concerts and a variety of other entertainment options throughout the year. This area boasts a wide variety of dining options and nightlife. While there aren’t as many Chinese restaurants as you might expect, visit China Boy for a no-frills but authentic and budget-friendly experience.