Looking to go off the beaten path in Washington, DC? Our local partners at Washington, DC Urban Adventures gave us the low-down on five of the best little-known gems outside the main area of the American capital.

5. Capitol Hill

 

 

 

While Capitol Hill is also the name for where the Capitol Building stands, it’s actually most commonly used to refer to the residential neighbourhood nearby. One of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in the city, Capitol Hill is also one of the oldest residential areas in the capital.

4. Library of Congress

 

 

Sure, so the Library of Congress is perhaps not as off-the-beaten path as you’d like, but we promise it’s worth a visit. The caveat? You need to go inside. It’s one of the most ornate buildings in the city, and a wander inside will not disappoint. Also worth noting is that the Library of Congress houses 159 million different artefacts, making it the largest library collection in the world.

3. Navy Yard

 

 

Dating back to the 1800s, Navy Yard now houses the decommissioned USS John Barry, named for the first commissioned naval officer in the US Navy. Navy Yard offers some beautiful views when the weather is nice, and is a great place to go for a brisk walk or run if you fancy a little exercise while travelling.

2. Fairgrounds

 

 

A really innovative use of public space, Fairgrounds is located south of Capitol Hill and right near Nationals Park (where the Washington Nationals baseball team plays). Surrounded by shipping containers, Fairgrounds is open daily from May 1 to October 3, playing host to game-day events, concerts, art fairs, food and music festivals, and just about any other kind of event you can imagine. A real local spot, there’s bound to be something happening at Fairgrounds while you’re in Washington, DC.

1. Eastern Market

 

 

Eastern Market is Washington, DC’s oldest continuously operating market, dating back to the 1800s. The Eastern Market is a vibrant place, with hundreds of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce, meat, poultry, dairy, and baked goods, to flowers, arts, crafts, antiques, and everything in between! It’s a local gem that not many tourists get to, but if you’re in town and want to experience local life, it’s a must-see.

 

After you've had a gander at our top 5, you might want to join in on one of our Washington, DC tours. Have a look to see if there's one you fancy!