Summary
Capitol Hill is the most prestigious address in Washington, DC and serves as the political center of the nation’s capital, with the Capitol Building gracefully set atop a hill overlooking the National Mall. Members of Congress and their staff, along with lobbyists and journalists, call Capitol Hill home. Additionally, the neighborhood attracts residents who can afford the steep prices of real estate here. Capitol Hill is recognized as the largest residential historic district in Washington, DC, showcasing numerous 19th and 20th-century row houses that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby Union Station provides ample options for shopping and dining.
Location
Capitol Hill is strategically located north of the Washington Navy Yard, east of Judiciary Square, south of Union Station, and west of the Southeast Waterfront. For those interested in exploring the area, maps are widely available to assist visitors in navigating this historic neighborhood.
Neighborhoods within Capitol Hill
Noteworthy neighborhoods within Capitol Hill include Barracks Row, Mass. Ave., NE Corridor, Eastern Market, Southwest Waterfront, and H Street.
Public Transportation and Parking
The neighborhood is well-served by multiple Metro stations, including Union Station, Capitol South, and Eastern Market. Metrobus routes such as 30-36, 91-97, X8, and D6 also service the area, alongside connections from MARC and Virginia Rail Express at Union Station. However, street parking is extremely limited; thus, visitors may find the parking garage at Union Station, which accommodates over 2,000 cars and offers 24/7 access, particularly useful.
Major Attractions on Capitol Hill
- U.S. Capitol Building – This cornerstone of the neighborhood hosts U.S. Congressional offices. Visitors can explore the building through guided tours, gaining insight into the legislative branch of government.
- U.S. Botanic Garden – The gardens are a year-round attraction, featuring an indoor conservatory with a stunning variety of plants and flowers.
- The Supreme Court – The highest court in the country, accessible to visitors Monday through Friday.
- The Library of Congress – Known as the world’s largest library, this beautiful building opens its doors to the public, offering exhibits, lectures, films, and special events.
- Union Station – DC’s bustling train station doubles as a shopping and dining venue.
- Eastern Market – This historic marketplace is an excellent place to purchase fresh produce and local goods.
- Folger Shakespeare Library & Theatre – The national landmark offers a variety of educational and artistic public programs.
- Navy Museum – A tribute to the contributions of the U.S. Navy.
- Sewall-Belmont House and Museum – Dedicated to the U.S. women’s suffrage and equal rights movements.
- Smithsonian National Postal Museum – A museum dedicated to the history of the U.S. Postal Service, featuring hands-on exhibits and activities.
Capitol Hill Parks
Capitol Hill boasts an impressive collection of 59 inner-city parks. Designed by Pierre L’Enfant, these triangles and squares provide residents and visitors a welcoming urban green space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Notably, these parks are located between 2nd Streets NE and SE and the Anacostia River. For those looking to explore, maps are available to guide your journey.
Among the largest parks are:
- Folger Park – Located at 3rd & D Sts., SE, this park features the unique “fountain bench” and boasts one thousand ornamental trees.
- Lincoln Park – Situated at East Capitol and 11th Sts, NE, this 7-acre park includes monuments to President Abraham Lincoln and Civil Rights Activist Mary McLeod Bethune.
- Marion Park – Found at E St. and South Carolina Ave. NE, this park dates back to the city’s original plans in 1791 and features a playground and a variety of trees.
- Stanton Park – Located at 5th and C Sts. NE, this four-acre park is named after President Lincoln’s Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton. It features a statue of General Nathanael Greene surrounded by formal walkways and flower beds.
Restaurants and Dining
Capitol Hill is home to numerous exceptional dining establishments where you might encounter a Senator or Member of Congress. The area offers a vibrant culinary scene suited for diverse palates.
Capitol Hill Hotels
Hotels located in this vibrant area provide luxurious accommodations and are within walking distance of Washington, DC’s most popular attractions. Visitors should note that weekday stays are typically busier, while weekends often offer more affordable rates.
