Visit Southwest Waterfront
Popular places to visit
White House
Explore the home and workplace of the president of the United States. See entertainment areas and state rooms and learn about the history of this famous building.
National Mall
Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.
Smithsonian Institution
Smithsonian Institution is a popular museum in Washington with a rich history. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.
United States Capitol
Sitting on top of Capitol Hill is a Washington landmark that’s been the home of American democracy for more than 200 years.
Arlington National Cemetery
Pay tribute to those who lost their lives fighting for their country in the best-known military cemetery in America.
Georgetown University
Explore the campus of Georgetown University during your visit to Washington. Experience the area's great live music and fascinating museums.
Things to do
City Cruises Washington DC: Signature Lunch Cruise
George Washington's Mount Vernon Gardens & Grounds Admission
Capitol Hill Tour with US Capitol & Library of Congress Admission
One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York
Top hotels in Southwest Waterfront
Washington Plaza Hotel
Staff is always extremely professional and welcoming.
Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC
Fantastic
Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025
Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC/U.S. Capitol
Very clean hotel
Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025
Glover Park - Georgetown
The location of this hotel was great. Also, very walkable in the area. Grocery store is nearby, and other services. Particularly good if you plan to go to the National Cathedral. Very close to it.
Reviewed on 8 Dec 2025
Salamander Washington DC
Comfortable, clean, beautiful spaces
Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025
Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel
Room was perfect for my partner and myself get away!
Reviewed on 8 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Southwest Waterfront
The Wharf
You'll enjoy the restaurants and riverfront in The Wharf. You might want to make time for a stop at The Anthem or The Municipal Fish Market at The Wharf.
Southwest
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Southwest. Check out top attractions like Smithsonian Institution and United States Capitol, and jump on the metro at Waterfront Station or L'Enfant Plaza Station to see more of the city.
Navy Yard
While you're in Navy Yard, take in top sights like Washington Navy Yard and jump on the metro at Navy Yard Station to see more of the city.
Southwest Federal Center
While you're in Southwest Federal Center, take in top sights like Smithsonian Institution or L'Enfant Plaza, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at L'Enfant Plaza Station or Federal Center Station.
Capitol Hill
Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Capitol Hill. Check out top attractions like United States Capitol and Folger Shakespeare Library, and jump on the metro at Capitol South Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the city.
Penn Quarter
While you're in Penn Quarter, take in top sights like United States Navy Memorial and jump on the metro at Archives Station to see more of the city.
Southwest Waterfront Travel Guide
- Arena Stage
- Benjamin Banneker Park
- White House
- National Mall
- United States Capitol
- Arlington National Cemetery
- University of Maryland
- Capital One Arena
- Union Station Shopping Center
- Smithsonian's National Zoo
- National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Lincoln Memorial
- George Washington University
- Washington Monument
- Pentagon
- National Air and Space Museum
