U Street

 

 

Known as Washington’s cultural center at the turn of the century, U Street has long been the backbone of the city’s homegrown jazz, arts, and civil rights movements. Once bearing the scars of riots and protests, today it has regained its rightful place as the street to showcase DC’s vibrant cultural life, from music and food to activism and art.

 

U Street has historically brought Washingtonians together to the sound of its homegrown music, from jazz and blues to rock and go-go. Today its renovated clubs, new restaurants, and shops are once again the centers of DC’s humming nightlife. U Street is home for those who want to march to their own beat.

 

 

U Street sees a critical mass of revelers pass down its narrow sidewalks each weekend-increasingly on weeknights, too. The area is no longer just for nightlife, though, and its lifestyle amenities have evolved to support the dramatic influx of new residents. Grocery stores, markets, and hardware stores have popped up to serve all of the neighborhood’s basic and luxury needs.

 

 

Residents can walk to an endless array of entertainment options. The metro and ample bus lines make it an easy launching point for downtown commutes. U Street sports a self-confidence and a brash style that’s unique in the city.

U Street knows how to celebrate its past while looking firmly to the future.

 

 

Though weekends on U Street are dominated by fun-seekers from outside the neighborhood, locals have the run of the area most other days and nights. Longtime neighborhood restaurants know their regulars by sight and greet them by name.

 

 

Long gone are the days of finding a true bargain around U Street. Row houses have long since been renovated and condos tend to cater to those who can afford to pay a premium for urban proximity.

 

 

U Street proudly displays its past amid the signs of change and growth. Diversity and a welcoming attitude are second nature to the neighborhood.