10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Washington DC
Where to Shop in Washington DC and What to Buy?
The best places to go shopping in Washington DC range from high-end shops and name-brand stores to trendy boutiques and thrift stores. The US capital is known for its incredible history, impressive monuments, notable memorials, world-class museums, and beautiful cherry blossoms. However, the city is also one of the top shopping destinations along the USA’s east coast.
Each of the eclectic and distinctive neighborhoods has its own unique retail and dining scene that locals and tourists have come to love. Whether you’re looking for a quirky souvenir or want to buy a designer handbag, Washington DC’s best places to go shopping have it all.
1. National Harbor
Popular outdoor mall with a view of the monuments
Good for: Families, Nightlife, Photo, Shoppers
National Harbor is a massive, resort-like destination just across the Potomac River from Downtown Washington DC. After perusing the mall’s 75 boutique stores, you can ride the Capital Wheel. This 180-ft-tall observation wheel boasts some impressive sunset views.
For the best shopping at National Harbor, you’ll want to walk along the waterfront district or head to the Tanger Outlets mall. After a busy day shopping, head to one of the varied eateries for a fantastic dinner, such as Topgolf, where you can also enjoy both cocktails and a bit of high-tech golf.
Location: 141 American Way, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, USA
National Harbor
2. Georgetown
A classy shopping district near the Potomac River
Good for: Couples, Luxury, Photo, Shoppers
Georgetown is a quaint neighborhood in the western part of Washington DC, just a few miles from the city center. Known for its beautiful waterfront park that features views of the Potomac River, quaint historic homes, and an extensive mix of boutiques and high-end stores, Georgetown is a favorite for everyone who is looking to spend a few hours in Washington DC.
If you want to be in the center of it all, head to M Street where most of Georgetown’s top shops and restaurants are located, or head to lesser-known Cady’s Alley for a more unique range of options.
Location: Washington, DC 20007, USA
Georgetown
3. CityCenterDC
An open-air mall with designer stores
Good for: Food, Luxury, Shoppers
CityCenterDC is an urban development with 10 acres of high-end shops, trendy cafes, and a popular pedestrian street. This shopping hub is known as the go-to place for designer brands like Gucci, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and more. Most shops are centered around a pedestrian street that’s often decorated with hanging lights or lanterns.
Dining options include high-end restaurants like Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse and Fig & Olive. CityCenterDC is just a few blocks east of the White House, making it easy to get to from anywhere Downtown. Parking can be scarce, so the best way to get there is by taking the metro.
Location: 825 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Open: Daily from 7 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 202-289-9000
CityCenterDC
4. U Street
For independent stores, restaurants, and live music
Good for: Couples, Food, Shoppers
The intersection of U Street and 14th Street is the place to go shopping in Washington DC. Also known as the 14th Street corridor, this section of the city has an old school vibe and plenty of independent shops, attracting a good mix of locals and out-of-towners.
Along with unique clothing boutiques, U Street has a wide variety of vintage stores, old-fashioned furniture and home goods stores, as well as antique shops. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, make sure to grab a world-famous half-smoked sausage from Ben’s Chili Bowl, a local favorite that still has its trademark storefront which is great for grabbing a good photo. Read more
U Street
5. DuPont Circle
An eclectic mix of high-end shops and flea markets
Good for: Budget, Food, Shoppers
Dupont Circle is one of the most well-known traffic circles and historic districts in Washington DC. This high-end neighborhood has a beautiful park in its center, along with a variety of stores, restaurants, and art galleries.
If you’re visiting on a Sunday, make sure to head to the Metro station entrance on Q and 20th Street to find the Dupont Circle Farmers’ Market. Dining options include everything from Michelin-starred restaurants like Sushi Taro to down-to-earth eateries like Floriana, which is known as a favorite dining spot among many US politicians.
Location: Washington, DC 20036, USA
DuPont Circle
6. Union Market
A trendy food market
Good for: Food, Shoppers, Unusual
Union Market hosts over 40 local vendors, live music, and a huge variety of food, making it a great place to spend an afternoon in Washington DC. After you’re done perusing the shops, head to the open-air rooftop for a bite to eat at picnic tables or enjoy a cocktail in the laidback green space.
The roof also has lawn games, amazing views of the city, and even some free events throughout the year. Make sure to walk around the outside of the market before you leave as you’ll see many beautiful murals by local artists. If you’re looking for a place in Washington DC to try new cuisines and discover trendy shops, Union Market should be on your list.
Location: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Open: Monday Saturday from 8 am to 9 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm
Phone: +1 202-902-2600
Union Market
7. Union Market
A trendy food market
Good for: Families, Food, Shoppers
Union Market hosts over 40 local vendors, live music, and a huge variety of food, making it a great place to spend an afternoon in Washington DC. After you’re done perusing the shops, head to the open-air rooftop for a bite to eat at picnic tables or enjoy a cocktail in the laidback green space.
The roof also has lawn games, amazing views of the city, and even some free events throughout the year. Make sure to walk around the outside of the market before you leave as you’ll see many beautiful murals by local artists. If you’re looking for a place in Washington DC to try new cuisines and discover trendy shops, Union Market should be on your list.
Location: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Open: Monday Saturday from 8 am to 9 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm
Phone: +1 202-902-2600
Union Market
8. Eastern Market
Historic market with great food and local arts
Good for: Budget, Couples, Food, Shoppers
Eastern Market is a historic market, operating since 1873, in the heart of Capitol Hill. You can find both an indoor space that opens 6 days a week and an outdoor space that features different markets throughout the week.
On Tuesdays, you’ll find a farmer’s market selling local produce, meats, and cheeses from 3 pm to 7 pm. On weekends, the open-air space is packed with local farmers selling fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, and handpicked flowers. An outdoor art market also appears on weekends. It’s adjacent to the farmer’s market and hosts local artists specializing in handmade jewelry, arts, and antiques. Read more
Location: 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
Phone: +1 202-698-5253
Eastern Market
9. Gallery Place
A vast mall in the city centre with dining and entertainment
Good for: Families, Shoppers, Food
Gallery Place is an urban retail hub known for its premier shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It offers a whole range of different shops, including major retailers and high-street brands, as well as some more eclectic boutiques. You can also find popular local restaurants like Clyde’s and District Bites.
If you’re looking for a way to spend a few fun-filled hours with the whole family, head to the Regal movie theatre to catch the latest movies. Gallery Place is in the heart of Washington DC’s Chinatown, just 1 block north of the Capital One Arena.
Location: 616 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Gallery Place
10. H Street Corridor
Independent designer shops and artsy boutiques
Good for: Couples, Nightlife, Shoppers
The H Street Corridor is a chic and vibrant street between North Capitol Street and Maryland Avenue NE. It hosts impressive art exhibitions, boutiques, trendy cafes, and the Atlas Performing Arts Center.
During summer, the Saturday-only H Street Farmer’s Market offers a wide variety of goods by local farmers, bakers, butchers, and florists. Head to H Street after dinner if you’re in the mood for lively bars, clubs, and music venues. This corridor has some of the best nightlife scenes in Washington DC.
Location: Washington, DC 20002, USA
H Street Corridor
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