Capitol Hill Travel Guide

Explore the best of Capitol Hill with our travel guide, which includes places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a historic neighborhood located in Washington, D.C., and is home to some of the most recognizable landmarks in the country, including the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, and Supreme Court. It is also a lively residential neighborhood with a mix of restaurants, shops, and parks.

List of Places to Visit in Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a treasure trove of culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and historic landmarks. Here is a list of must-visit places in the neighborhood:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • U.S. Capitol: The seat of the United States Congress, the U.S. Capitol is a magnificent building with stunning architecture and history.
  • Library of Congress: The largest library in the world, the Library of Congress is a treasure trove of books, manuscripts, maps, and other documents.
  • Supreme Court: Witness history in the making by attending a Supreme Court session.
  • National Mall: A large park in the heart of Washington, D.C., the National Mall is home to many of the city’s most famous monuments and memorials.
  • Smithsonian Museums: A collection of 19 museums and galleries, the Smithsonian is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, science, and culture.

Natural Attractions of Capitol Hill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lincoln Park: A lovely park with a beautiful fountain and a statue of Civil War General Emancipation, Lincoln Park is a great spot for picnics and relaxation.
  • United States Botanic Garden: Located near the Capitol, the Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis with various gardens, including a butterfly exhibit.
  • Capitol Hill Parks: The neighborhood has several parks, including Folger, Congressional Cemetery, and Marion.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill offers several scenic biking and hiking routes. Here are a few examples:

  • Capitol Hill Loop: This 6.5-mile route takes you around Capitol Hill and past many of the neighborhood’s historic landmarks.
  • Anacostia Trail: A 20-mile trail that connects to Capitol Hill, the Anacostia Trail offers great views of the Anacostia River and arboretum.
  • National Mall: Ride your bike or hike from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial via the National Mall.

Best Things to Do in Capitol Hill: Activities and Tours

Capitol Hill offers plenty of activities and tours for every interest. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Capitol Hill Tour: Take a guided tour of the Capitol, Library of Congress, or Supreme Court to learn about the history and architecture of these iconic buildings.
  • Historic Home Walking Tour: Explore the neighborhood’s historic homes and buildings on a walking tour.
  • Food and Drink Tour: Sample some of the neighborhood’s best food and drink on a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Capitol Hill

To make the most of your visit to Capitol Hill, here is a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress
2 Explore the National Mall and Smithsonian Museums
3 Bike or hike the Anacostia Trail
4 Take a guided tour of historic homes
5 Enjoy a food and drink tour
6 Relax in Lincoln Park
7 Visit the Supreme Court and Capitol Hill parks

Food and Drink Scene of Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill has a vibrant food and drink scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Half-smoke: A delicious sausage sandwich with a spicy kick, the half-smoke is a local favorite.
  • Maryland crabcakes: Made with fresh, local crab, Maryland crabcakes are a delicious seafood treat.
  • Ethiopian cuisine: Capitol Hill has a great selection of Ethiopian restaurants that serve flavorful stews and injera.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer: Capitol Hill is home to several breweries, including Bluejacket and Atlas Brew Works.
  • Coffee: The neighborhood has plenty of great coffee shops, including Ebenezer’s Coffeehouse and Peregrine Espresso.
  • Local wine: Try some local wines from Virginia and Maryland at Capitol Hill Wine & Spirits.

Where to Stay in Capitol Hill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Capitol Hill offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Capitol Hill Hotel: A stylish hotel with spacious rooms and a great location.
  • Hostelling International-Washington DC: A budget-friendly hostel with private rooms and dorms.
  • The William Lewis House: A historic guesthouse with beautifully furnished rooms and great breakfast.

What to Buy in Capitol Hill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Capitol Hill has plenty of great souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are a few ideas:

  • Books: The neighborhood has several independent bookstores, including East City Bookshop and Capitol Hill Books.
  • Artisanal food products: Buy some local honey from DC Beekeepers Alliance or artisanal cheese from Eastern Market.
  • Souvenirs: Visit the Capitol Hill Restoration Society or the Eastern Market to find unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a diverse neighborhood with a rich history and culture. Here are a few customs to keep in mind:

  • Respect the historic landmarks: When visiting the Capitol or other historic buildings, be respectful of the significance of these sites.
  • Be mindful of noise: Capitol Hill is home to many families and young professionals, so be considerate of noise levels late at night.
  • Tipping: It is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars in the US.

Best Time to Visit Capitol Hill

The best time to visit Capitol Hill is from March through May and September through November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy. Visit during the spring or fall to enjoy shorter lines at attractions and more affordable accommodations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Capitol Hill

Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Capitol Hill:

Do:

  • Visit the National Mall early in the morning to beat the crowds.
  • Take a guided tour of the Capitol or other historic landmarks to learn about the history and significance of these sites.
  • Sample some of the neighborhood’s delicious food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Try to take photos inside the Capitol or other historic buildings without permission.
  • Be disrespectful of the significance of these sites or the neighborhood’s residents.
  • Wander around the neighborhood late at night alone.

Safety and Health

Capitol Hill is generally a safe neighborhood for visitors, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions. Here are a few tips:

Safety in Capitol Hill

  • Keep your valuables safe and be mindful of pickpockets.
  • Avoid wandering around the neighborhood alone late at night.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Health in Capitol Hill

  • Bring plenty of sunscreen and water, especially during the summer months.
  • Consult with your doctor or healthcare provider about any travel-related health concerns.
  • Wash your hands frequently and practice good hygiene to avoid getting sick.

Getting to Capitol Hill: Transportation Options and Logistics

Capitol Hill is easily accessible by several transportation options. Here are a few suggestions:

Airports Near Capitol Hill

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: Located just a few miles south of Capitol Hill, Reagan National Airport is the closest airport to the neighborhood.
  • Dulles International Airport: Located about 30 miles west of Capitol Hill, Dulles International is another option for visitors.

Bus Stations Near Capitol Hill

  • Union Station: A major transportation hub located in Capitol Hill, Union Station offers bus and train services.

Other Options

  • Metro: The Capitol South, Eastern Market, and Union Station subway stops provide easy access to the neighborhood.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services: Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available in Washington, D.C.

How to Get Around in Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a walkable neighborhood, but there are also other transportation options available. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Bike rental: Rent a bike from Capitol Bike Share to explore the neighborhood and surrounding areas.
  • Public transportation: Take the Metro or bus to get around the neighborhood.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services: Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available in Washington, D.C.

Where to Go Next from Capitol Hill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Capitol Hill is located in the heart of Washington, D.C., and there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Georgetown: A historic neighborhood with great shopping and dining options.
  • Smithsonian National Zoo: A fun and family-friendly destination with over 2,700 animals.
  • Mount Vernon: The historic home of George Washington, located just outside of Washington, D.C.

Conclusion

Capitol Hill is a dynamic neighborhood with plenty to see and do. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, cultural attractions to local cuisine, there is something for every visitor. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your next trip to Capitol Hill and explore all that this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.

The U.S. Capitol Building The U.S. Capitol Building The Contemplation of Justice, U.S. Supreme Court The Contemplation of Justice, U.S. Supreme Court Supreme Court spiral staircase Supreme Court spiral staircase Historic Barracks Row Historic Barracks Row The gilded ceiling of Union Station The gilded ceiling of Union Station View over the Mall from the Capitol View over the Mall from the Capitol