Washington D.C. is a great destination for travel. It has an amazing selection of museums, historical and political landmarks and offers many things to do year-round. But did you know that Washington also offers an incredible shopping experience? Whether you’re looking to shop in high-end boutiques, large department stores, or souvenir shops, there’s a wide array of shopping options to fit any taste or budget. The main reason there are so many shopping options in D.C. is because of the way the city is laid out.
While Washington D.C, as the national capital, is a full-fledged city complete with downtown and its share of executive buildings, many areas remain quaint and have a small-town feel to them. It’s also close to neighboring Virginia and Maryland, giving shoppers access to numerous outlet malls and department stores. Thanks to a convenient metro system, these shopping destinations are typically just a few stops away.
Dupont Circle
A great place to begin shopping in Washington D.C especially if you’re in the downtown area is to head to Dupont Circle. This charming neighborhood has the perfect mix of local boutiques and high-end stores. The neighborhood is also well known for its trendy bookstore cafes such as Kramer Books. It also has a great selection of antique and vintage clothing stores.
Georgetown area
Not far from Dupont Circle, is the Georgetown area which has an unparalleled diversity in shops. Shoppers may want to explore the boutiques that run up and down M Street which sell everything from antique paintings, organic bath products, vintage furniture, and anything else you can think of. Those feeling homesick can venture into Banana Republic, ALDO, and H&M; for a breed of familiarity, and a more modern shopping experience.
Adams Morgan
Anyone visiting Washington D.C should seriously consider heading over to Adams Morgan, right off of Woodley Park Zoo. While Adams Morgan used to be a dilapidated Latin neighborhood, it has been completely redone but still retains much of its charm, and has the stores to match. Don’t expect glass buildings and modern store chains. Instead modest colorful townhomes are stacked along tree-lined streets housing largely independent shops. You can find invaluable local art, unique artifacts, handmade accessories, and a variety of local odds and ends at affordable prices that you won’t be able to resist.
Mazza Gallery
Another shopping favorite of Washingtonians that is still within the perimeter of Washington D.C. is Mazza Gallery. This little shopping haven is located in the Friendship Heights neighborhood, which is just a few metro stops away from downtown. It borders Maryland and has a shopping mall with local shops, and national chains but also large department stores such as Lord & Taylor’s and Neiman Marcus. The mall also features a seven-screen theater, popular outlet stores such as Loehmann’s, and many bookstores, spas, and restaurants.
Eastern Market
If you’re looking for a distinct Washington D.C shopping experience, head over to Eastern Market. This diverse neighborhood has one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the United States. On the weekends, you can find a great selection of organic fruits, vegetables, fresh fish and valuable art being sold by local artists.
Georgetown Flea Market
If you want to explore more flea markets, then another one to definitely check out is the Georgetown Flea Market on Wisconsin Avenue, which offers unique goods and collectibles that make outstanding gifts you won’t find anywhere else.