While most Washington “must see” lists point visitors towards a Smithsonian Museum or cherry blossom trees on the National Mall, Adams Morgan is a hidden cultural gem featuring entertainment and cuisines from around the world.
Nestled in a five square mile corridor at the intersection of Columbia Road and 18th Street NW, Adams Morgan is brimming with specialty bars, unique restaurants, and picturesque shopping boutiques.
Grab a Morning Boost
Photo courtesy of Philz Coffee
Start your morning right with a custom blend from Philz Coffee. Established in 2016, the California-based coffee shop blends beans from around the world and pours coffee one cup at a time to personalize your drink to your taste.
Website | 1827 Adams Mill Road NW Washington, D.C. 20009
If you need more than just a morning caffeine jolt, Tryst is an Adams Morgan favorite. Always a perfect stop to fuel up for your day, Tyrst offers a cozy daylong brunch at its laid back lounge. For a bit of indulgence, I recommend my go to: death by chocolate waffle.
Website | 2459 18th Street NW Washington, DC 20009
One Word: Shopping
Caffeinated and ready to go, shopping at one of the many stores and vintage boutiques in Adams Morgan is the perfect way to burn off some of that brunch!
For starters, Urban Dwell offers hand-picked merchandise ranging from wall art and kitchenware to fashion accessories and baby gifts. Not sure what you’re looking for? Let it find you in this little shop that has something for everyone.
Website | 1837 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC 20009
Next on your list has to be the award winning boutique, Commonwealth, that specializes in pioneering culture and style that communicates its ideals through visual storytelling campaigns. Leaders in the art and music communities help provide progressive designs for individually crafted products.
Website | 1781 Florida Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
Adams Morgan is also home to every book lovers dream, Lost City Books. There’s nothing second-rate about this second-hand book shop. Track down rare editions or discover your next favorite book or author at this multi-level book store. Filled with iconic, timeless works of literary art, this is the perfect spot to get lost.
Website | 2104 18th Street NW, Washington DC 20009
Add Some Art
In addition to the eccentric shops, Adams Morgan has a thriving arts scene.
Immerse in a variety of rotating visual arts at the District of Columbia Arts Center. Additionally, if you time it right (or check their website), you might be able to pop into one of the many improv or live productions in their 50-seat theatre.
Website | 2438 18th Street, NW Washington, DC 20009
As Adams Morgan has a variety of record shops and musical hideaways, music fans of every genre can find their happy place. Drop by Songbyrd Record Cafe & Music House to experience the rock star life by dropping a beat in the vintage recording booth. At night, the party continues with DJs and live music in the basement club.
Website | 2477 18th Street NW Washington, DC 20009
Dance the Night Away
As a champion of culturally diverse neighborhoods in DC, Adams Morgan has a multitude of nightlife opportunities. There is always someplace to learn new dance styles, taste authentic cuisines, and find the perfect nightcap!
You can spice up your night at Bossa, a candlelit lounge that will have you swinging to jazz, stepping the flamenco, and moving to bossa nova music on the dance floor. Offering Brazilian food, but music from every continent, the intimate spot is a perfect place to bring a date.
Website | 2463 18th Street NW, Washington, DC
Habana Village offers another great cultural experience. The Cuban inspired restaurant features authentic cuisine, art, music, and dancing. If you’re a little rusty on your moves, don’t worry! Habana Village offers classes in all types of Latin dance, so you’ll be ready to impress your entire crew.
Website | 1834 Columbia Road NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
