A Guide To Dupont Circle

Things to do / Highlights

As mentioned before, Dupont Circle has a myriad of things to do. The neighborhood is vast enough for you to spend a couple of days exploring every nook and cranny it has to offer. Here are some of the highlights.

Historical buildings

There are several historical buildings in Dupont Circle perfect for the nerdy historian in you. You can start off with a walk down Embassy Row, an avenue that is home to a number of embassies and stretches from the Australian Embassy down to the South African Embassy. You’ll also find the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial along the way. Next up, drop by Woodrow Wilson House to get an authentic glimpse of the 1920s home of the former president. Venture into another historical building, the Anderson House, which houses manuscripts and documents dating as far back as the American Revolution.

Cultural stops

Of course you can’t miss out on the cultural stops at Dupont Circle. Start off with The Phillips Collection, which is America’s first museum for modern art. Browse through its unique pieces and exhibitions and be sure to check out their special events as well. After, you can check out Kramerbooks & Afterwords and go through a variety of literature while enjoying a cup of coffee at Afterwords. You can also visit unique and fun museums like National Geographic Museum, The Mansion on O&O Street Museum, and Heurich House Museum.

Night out

Even when the sun sets, there are endless things to do at Dupont Circle. For the party-goers, you shouldn’t miss out on Eighteenth Street Lounge, where the DJ and dance floor become your best friend. You can also check out Café Citron for some fiery salsa dancing. You will also find at Dupont Circle the most popular comedy club around, DC Improv. Grab a good drink and some friends to tag along for a night of endless laughs and fun.

What to eat

Because of the diversity of the neighborhood, Dupont Circle offers a variety of restaurants and cuisines perfect for your cravings. You can begin your food trip with a Michelin-starred restaurant, Sushi Taro, said to be the best Japanese restaurant in the area. If you want to try some specialties in the area, go to Bagels ETC, where they serve homemade bagels with your favorite spreads and fillings. For some comfort food like pizza and sandwiches, you can also check out Glen’s Garden Market. Other popular dining options include Iron Gate, a revived version of an old inn, and Hank’s Oyster Bar, where you can have seafood galore.

Things to buy

Your best bet for shopping at Dupont Circle is at Connecticut Avenue, which is home to several top brands like H&M, Gap, and Brooks Brothers. You will also find small jewelry and tinker shops down the street. If you’re around on Sundays, check out the Dupont FreshFarm Market that’s held from 10am to 1pm for some fresh local produce.

Travelers tips

Be ready to walk a lot

Dupont Circle is unique for being a big neighborhood nestled with shops and sights within close vicinity of each other. Despite that, you will definitely have to walk to get to one place to another. It’s the best way to experience Dupont Circle as riding around in a vehicle won’t give you that same feeling.

Dupont Circle Fountain

If you want to take a break from all the walking and touring, simply lounge on the Dupont Circle Fountain, the heart of Dupont Circle. It’s a great place to relax and where you can either read a book, have a small picnic, or watch the people go by.

How to get there

The easiest way to get around D.C. is by Metrorail and luckily, it can take you conveniently to Dupont Circle. Get on the Red Line and your stop will be at Dupont Circle.

You can also take the bus. Simply board the Dupont Circle-Georgetown-Rosslyn DC Circulator route or take the 42, 43, L1, or L2 Metrobus routes.

Dupont Circle information

Dupont Circle

Address: Washington, D.C., United States

Department of tourism: Visit Washington D.C.