Visit Southwest Waterfront
Popular places to visit
National Mall
Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.
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.
Arlington National Cemetery
Pay tribute to those who lost their lives fighting for their country in the best-known military cemetery in America.
Smithsonian Institution
Smithsonian Institution is a popular museum in Washington with a rich history. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene 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.
University of Maryland, College Park
Explore the campus of University of Maryland, College Park, a top university in College Park. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.
Things to do
Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
City Cruises Washington DC: Signature Lunch Cruise
US Capitol & Library of Congress Guided Tour with Capitol Hill
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
Guided Capitol Hill Walk with US Capitol & Library of Congress
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Southwest Waterfront
Washington Plaza Hotel
Very clean
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC
The front desk staff is beyond helpful in providing you any information that you need.
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Didn’t get the breakfast but it was clean.
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC/U.S. Capitol
The staff was amazing!! The manager is top notch!! He accommodated us for the Marine Corp Marathon with the metro being closed for hours…. Can’t say enough about this hotel and staff. This is the 3rd time we have stayed at this hotel while visiting DC!!
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Glover Park - Georgetown
Always a great place to stay when in DC
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
citizenM Washington DC NoMa
Love the staff and accommodation
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Check Southwest Waterfront hotel availability
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 Gangplank Marina.
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.
Southeast
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Southeast. Spend some time visiting top spots like Washington Navy Yard, and catch the metro at Potomac Ave Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the area.
Southwest Waterfront Travel Guide
- Arena Stage
- Benjamin Banneker Park
- National Mall
- White House
- Arlington National Cemetery
- United States Capitol
- University of Maryland
- Capital One Arena
- National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Union Station Shopping Center
- Smithsonian's National Zoo
- Washington Monument
- George Washington University
- National Air and Space Museum
- George Washington's Mount Vernon
- Lincoln Memorial
- Pentagon
