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Explore Southwest & The Wharf, a vibrant neighborhood with an array of arts and entertainment options, a historic fish market and The Wharf.
The dynamic, groundbreaking waterfront development opened in October 2017, encompassing 24 acres of land and 50 acres of water. Spanning the length of the shoreline from the Maine Avenue Fish Market to Fort McNair, The Wharf features four hotels, retail and plenty of restaurants from the District’s most prestigious chefs.
Arena Stage
The second-largest theater complex in Washington, DC has inspired the revitalization of the neighborhood. A breathtaking renovation was completed in 2010, preserving the original theater-in-the-round and adding two new stages for experimental productions and theater education. The Mead Center encloses the stages with views of the waterfront from its floor-to-ceiling windows.
Jessie Taylor Seafood
Established in 1805, this DC landmark is the oldest continuously operating open-air seafood market in the nation. Several vendors sell prepared and raw seafood – some from floating barges. It’s a great place to sample the region’s iconic Chesapeake Bay crabs and oysters.
The Gangplank Marina is a commercial marina serving Washington’s premier sightseeing cruises. See the Jefferson Memorial and other DC landmarks from the glass-enclosed luxury of City Cruises' The Odyssey, featuring elegant multi-course meals, and the Spirit of Washington, which is known for popular brunch cruises. The Washington Marina was established in 1951 and remains a vibrant home of many “live aboards,” or owners of boats who reside here year-round.
Housed in a former 19th century Baptist church, Culture House DC, previously known as the Blind Whino SW Arts Club, is dedicated to bringing an "accessible arts environment with multiple experiential opportunities" to the community. These experiences come in the form of avant-garde productions, edgy events and an art annex with a gallery open to the public on Wednesdays and on weekends.
With the opening of The Wharf comes two new music venues in this happening neighborhood. The Anthem is an acoustically optimized, 6,000-person concert hall while Pearl Street Warehouse is a cozy venue that allows you to get up close and personal with your favorite rock, country or blues artist. Both venues promise a musical experience you won’t soon forget.
The scenic peninsula between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River is a recreational haven with golf, swimming and fishing, as well as trails for running and biking. There are plenty of activities to spend the whole day with family and friends in this perfectly Instagrammable park.
Formerly a fixture in DC’s Downtown neighborhood, the International Spy Museum has moved to a new, purpose-built facility in L’Enfant Plaza. The state-of-the-art museum offers enough spy-related intrigue and interactive family fun to fill an entire day. Explore the museum's expansive exhibits, test your spy skills on an undercover mission and so much more.
The Wharf has essentially its own dining scene unto itself, showcasing award-winning chefs, fast-casual favorites and much more. The culinary creations of Fabio Trabocchi are no secret, but the toque behind Fiola brings Spanish fare – specifically coastal dishes native to Mallorca – to DC’s waterfront with Del Mar. There's also La Vie, a stunning and sleek restaurant with fantastic waterfront views from its alfresco terrace. Sophisticated Mediterranean vibes abound and mains like the handmade lobster ravioli are an immediate fan favorite. If you’re looking to pair a guacamole and margarita-fueled fiesta with Instagram-worthy waterfront views, then the 400-seat Mi Vida is the place for you. Last but certainly not least, slurp down bivalves at local favorites Hank’s Oyster Bar and Rappahannock Oyster Bar.
Built in 1875, this neighborhood gathering place has an impressive illuminated steeple and 24 stained glass windows illustrating the life of the church’s patron saint, Dominic. On Sunday evenings, the church hosts religious movie seminars.
Located in Washington Channel Park, this memorial was authorized by Congress in 1917 and funded by donations from 25,000 American women honoring the men who died during the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. You may remember Kate Winslet, striking a similar pose, in the Academy Award-winning movie Titanic.
This charming street claims some of the oldest homes in the District. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these late Georgian-style row houses date back to the 1700s and were designed by a Washington architect William Lovering.
Considered one of the most luxurious spas in DC, experience personalized holistic treatments for the body, mind and spirit, with amenities including an amethyst steam room, plunge pool, tranquil lounges and more.
There are many exciting neighborhoods in the District – explore them all and pick your next adventure.
