Dupont Circle

Is Dupont Circle Right for You?

Dupont Circle Neighborhood: Dupont Circle is a trendy, urban area in the heart of DC. It is perfect for a romantic getaway to Washington, DC. Close to downtown and to the major tourist destinations, this neighborhood is a mix of many things—high rise buildings and massive row homes, young professionals and seasoned diplomats, local boutiques and national chains. A bustling area full of embassies and wealthy residents, this area is comfortable and regarded as safe by nearly all travelers. As for things to do at night the area is home to the DC Improv, dive bars (try the Big Hunt), dance clubs (Eighteenth Street Lounge is a local favorite), and many restaurants. Give Dupont Circle consideration if you are coming to Washington, DC, but be prepared to pay dearly for parking, and extra on hotels.

Dupont Circle – Where to Eat, What to Do, Pictures

Who is Best for this Location?

Staying in the area to be pricey, but for those not traveling on a budget the proximity to downtown DC and the vibrancy of the neighborhood is worth the money.

Neighborhood Vibe: Dupont Circle is a trendy, urban area in the heart of DC. Close to downtown and to the major tourist destinations, this neighborhood is a mix of many things—high rise buildings and massive row homes, young professionals and seasoned diplomats, local boutiques and national chains. A bustling area full of embassies and wealthy residents, this area is comfortable and safe, though you may find some of the city’s homeless taking up residence inside the park at the center for Dupont Circle.

Things to Do: Museum lovers will find some unique options in Dupont, such as the Phillips Collection, an art museum offering rotating exhibitions; the Heurich House Museum, the home of one of DC’s original brewmasters; and the Mansion at O Street, which offers the opportunity to tour through its object-filled rooms—over 100 with lots of secret doors. Dupont is also the home of Embassy Row, a concentration of embassies and diplomatic residences. Walk down Massachusetts Ave and admire their architecture, testing yourself on the flags of the world. Or, visit in May when many of the European Union countries open their buildings to the public. Kramerbooks is a local indie bookstore with an adjoining café that is a favorite of locals. Dupont Circle is also traditionally the center of LGBTQ life in the city, so look to find the Pride Parade winding through in June.

What to Eat: Dupont Circle is a busy neighborhood on weekends as the area hosts a variety of nightlife, from the DC Improv to dive bars (try the Big Hunt) to dance clubs (Eighteenth Street Lounge is a local favorite). This area is a popular party destination for college students and young professionals and also for bachelor parties, as one of the city’s gentleman’s clubs is located here. Visitors will also find a wide variety of restaurant options in Dupont Circle. For a casual bite, visit Shake Shack for burgers or Sweetgreen for healthier options. Pizza Paradiso offers award-winning pizzas and a wide selection of craft beers (the Obamas have been known to stop in) or enjoy seafood classics at Hank’s Oyster Bar.