Welcome to Capitol Hill
Set in the shadow of the United States Capitol and including other esteemed institutions such as the Supreme Court and Library of Congress, the Capitol Hill neighborhood radiates history at every corner and along every street. In addition to that celebrated past, which dates back to the country's very beginnings, Capitol Hill has a longstanding reputation for being a bit stuffy and reserved. In modern times, the area is transforming itself into a far more eclectic and welcoming neighborhood.
Yes, there is an intense, hurried pace here—no surprise, given the location. But Capitol Hill does showcase a comfortable, more informal side. Consider it quaint and quiet, methodically driven to succeed, yet fashionably chic and ready to let down its guard when the mood strikes.
The homes here reflect Capitol Hill's ever-changing dynamics, with a mix of styles highlighting the area's evolution as D.C.'s largest historical neighborhood. The architecture includes traditional Federal Rowhomes, and classic Greek, Victorian, and Queen Anne architecture. However, modern developments are also taking hold throughout the area, particularly in the vicinity of Eastern Market.
What to Love
- Historically significant neighborhood housing some of the city's best classical architecture
- Home to the U.S. Capitol, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress
- Close to the trendy neighborhoods Navy Yards and Capitol Riverfront
- Excellent selection of homes near good schools and numerous parks and green space
People & Lifestyle
The lifestyle in Capitol Hill is passionate—highly educated individuals work hard to achieve their dreams. The area also includes many established residents, plenty of power brokers among them, who've already tasted success but are looking for more. In both cases, the residents give Capitol Hill palpable energy, befitting a place so close to the corridors of power.
But it's also quickly becoming a spot where young professionals are opting to start a family. Capitol Hill's proximity to rapidly growing destinations along the Anacostia River—Capitol Riverfront and Navy Yards—position it as the de facto bedroom community to these up and coming neighborhoods to the south. Residents want to be near the newest and trendiest D.C. hotspots without having to live directly in the middle of the action.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
A recurring theme in Capitol Hill is history. It even proves true with the community's primary retail district, Barracks Row, celebrated as the city's oldest such commercial area. There's a multitude of shops and restaurants, but the shortlist of must-visit eateries include Rose's Luxury and Pineapple and Pearls.
The H Street Corridor is another vibrant commercial district with great international dining and a robust bar scene. Toki Underground, Copycat Co., and Maketto are worthy of a visit.
Keeping with the historical theme, Eastern Market stands as D.C.'s oldest public market, dating back to 1873 and fast approaching its 150th year in existence. It’s an outstanding shopping experience and a top destination for purchasing meats, poultry, seafood, produce, flowers, and baked goods.
Things to Do
Although Capitol Hill is predominantly a residential district with a straightforward mix of dining and retail, its proximity to sports, culture, and history proves the neighborhood's most underrated quality.
Of course, there's the U.S. Capitol Building, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress, all of which are available for public tours. The Marine Barracks, located in Capitol's Hill's southeastern corner, was built in 1801 and is the "Oldest Post of the Corp."
You can take in a Friday Night Concert along the Capitol Riverfront. In the neighboring Navy Yards, make it a ballgame at Nationals Park, home of the M.L.B. Washington Nationals, or visit Audi Field and watch the M.L.S. soccer team D.C. United. Head a little further west, and you'll encounter the Anthem Concert Venue.
Schools
Capitol Hill is home to a number of excellent schools. Some of the most celebrated educational opportunities include
