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Vibrant Cultural Scene
Dupont Circle is a lively neighborhood in Washington, DC, renowned for its rich arts, music, and cultural offerings.
Eclectic Shopping and Dining
The area is a hub of independent boutiques, vintage shops, and diverse dining experiences, catering to various tastes and interests.
Dynamic Nightlife and Entertainment
From chic cocktail lounges to casual bars and live entertainment venues, Dupont Circle provides an array of options for evening enjoyment.
Inclusive and Diverse Community
Dupont Circle has a long standing reputation as an LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusivity for all residents and visitors.
What's it like to live in Dupont Circle?
Dupont Circle is a vibrant and historic neighborhood in Washington, DC, known for its lively atmosphere, diverse community, and timeless beauty. With tree-lined streets, charming rowhouses, and elegant architecture, Dupont Circle exudes a sense of historic charm. The neighborhood offers a rich cultural scene with art galleries, museums, and theaters, and its culinary landscape boasts an array of international cuisines and trendy eateries.
Dupont Circle is also renowned for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, serving as a hub for the LGBTQ+ community with numerous LGBTQ+-owned businesses, bars, and cultural events that celebrate diversity. From the iconic Dupont Circle Pride Parade to the welcoming establishments along P Street, the neighborhood's inclusive and vibrant character adds an extra layer of charm to its eclectic ambiance. Whether exploring its namesake park, visiting local shops and markets, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Dupont Circle offers an exciting living experience in the heart of the nation's capital.
What is the housing market like in Dupont Circle?
Dupont Circle offers a mix of housing options, ranging from historic row houses and charming townhomes to modern condominiums and apartments. The neighborhood features a variety of architectural styles, showcasing the area's rich history. If you're considering buying a home in Dupont Circle, the median sale price is $465,000. There are plenty of apartments for rent in the area as well.
What’s the best way to get around Dupont Circle?
Dupont Circle boasts excellent transportation options, making it convenient for residents to navigate the neighborhood and beyond. The area is well-served by the Dupont Circle Metro station, providing access to the Red Line and connecting to other parts of Washington, DC. With a Walk Score of 98, the neighborhood is also highly walkable, with tree-lined streets and a pedestrian-friendly layout, and offers bike-friendly infrastructure like designated bike lanes and bike-sharing stations.
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Top things to do in Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle Fountain: The iconic Dupont Circle Fountain is a popular gathering spot and a symbol of the neighborhood. Relax by the fountain, people-watch, or enjoy a picnic in the nearby park.
Phillips Collection: As America's first museum of modern art, the Phillips Collection houses an impressive collection of works by renowned artists. Explore its galleries and appreciate the diverse range of artistic styles on display.
Dupont Circle Farmers Market: On Sundays, the Dupont Circle Farmers Market comes alive with local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and more. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and support local businesses.
Dupont Underground: Located beneath the streets of Dupont Circle, the Dupont Underground is a unique art space that hosts rotating exhibitions, installations, and performances. Explore this subterranean venue and immerse yourself in its thought-provoking artistic offerings.
Enjoy the bookstores and vintage shops: Dupont Circle is known for its eclectic collection of bookstores and vintage shops. Spend some time browsing through the shelves of iconic bookshops like Kramerbooks & Afterwords or discover hidden gems in the vintage stores scattered throughout the neighborhood.
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Must-try restaurants and cafes in Dupont Circle
Iron Gate: A charming restaurant housed in a historic carriage house, offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and a beautiful outdoor patio.
Bistrot du Coin: A lively French bistro known for its authentic cuisine, lively atmosphere, and outdoor seating options.
Pizzeria Paradiso: A local favorite for pizza lovers, serving up delicious wood-fired pizzas with a variety of gourmet toppings.
Hank's Oyster Bar: A seafood-focused eatery serving fresh oysters, seafood classics, and creative cocktails.
Bagels, etc.: A local favorite known for their freshly baked bagels and a variety of delicious toppings.
Doyle: A glamorous mid-century bar with a seasonal patio and a drinks menu inspired by the '50s and '60s, serving classic and creative cocktails with delicious small plates.
MI CASA: A vibrant Mexican restaurant serving authentic cuisine, including tacos, enchiladas, and flavorful margaritas.
Tips and insights from Dupont Circle locals and experts
- "Dupont Circle has a lot to offer, and one of its standout features is the weekly Sunday farmers market, which is a true highlight. This neighborhood has everything you could want or need, including an array of fantastic restaurants and shops. Among them, my personal favorite is Sura Izakaya, known for its delightful eclectic fusion Thai cuisine.” - Local DC photographer, Jared Wolfe
- "Dupont Circle is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a little something for everyone. Our favorite way to kick off a fun evening is with margaritas and guacamole on the spacious patio at Mission, where they have an amazing daily happy hour. From there, we love strolling over to Kramers to browse books that we can enjoy reading by the fountain in the heart of Dupont Circle. To cap off the night, we make a pit stop at The Admiral, where we indulge in delicious late-night bites and cocktails at their inviting outdoor bar.” - Lydia Thompson, Marketing Manager at Mission Group DC
- "There are many reasons why we love Dupont Circle. Steeped rich in history, our neighborhood is home to numerous embassies, art galleries, restaurants, and cultural institutions. Some of our favorite things to do include attending our monthly ArtWalk Dupont, grabbing an evening cocktail at The Doyle or The Golden Age, eating dinner at La Tomate Italian Bistro, or attending a concert in Dupont Circle Park. We hope you will come and experience all of the incredible events and businesses that make Dupont Circle an international destination.”- John Curran, communications manager for Dupont Circle BID, a nonprofit dedicated to elevating DC's iconic Dupont Circle neighborhood
- "While Dupont Circle is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, its daytime charm is equally delightful. It’s a perfect setting for sketching and journaling, whether sipping on a coffee from Tatte or enjoying a quick lunch at Kramers. And if you have a sweet tooth like I do, don't miss the amazing gelato at Dolcezza. The neighborhood offers prime people-watching opportunities as its sidewalks are always bustling with activity. And for fellow stationery enthusiasts, a visit to our store is a must, with its enticing array of notebooks, pens, and paper.” - Jenni Bick, owner of Jenni Bick Custom Journals
- "Dupont Circle's dining scene offers a dynamic and diverse array of options, making it a food lover's paradise in Washington, DC. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal, fine dining, or something in between, you're likely to find a restaurant that suits your taste in Dupont Circle. Our favorite spots include Sushi Taro, a go-to for authentic Japanese dishes, and Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café, an iconic indie bookstore with American comfort food and cocktails. Don't miss Hank's Oyster Bar, celebrated for its oysters and memorable dining moments, a place that holds special memories from our initial visit to the US.” - Celal Gulluoglu, owner of ala a michelin-rated Levantine restaurant.
- "As the heart of Washington, DC’s vibrant art scene, Dupont Circle is a cultural hub conveniently located within walking distance to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, parks, and attractions. A meal at The The Pembroke is a must, and Kramers bookstore is one of DC’s most iconic spots for any bibliophile.” - Doyle Bar