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Brimming with Latin culture and friendly bars, this historic northwest DC neighborhood pulses with energy.
A dramatic tiered fountain, statues of historic figures like Dante and Joan of Arc and aggregate concrete walls make this early 20th-century park feel like a slice of Europe in the middle of the District. Benches, a large grassy quad and tall, shade-producing trees make it an ideal spot for relaxing and reading, for a picnic with your kids or for a jog. On weekends, the greenspace hops with yoga-practicing millennials, frisbee-throwing families and, every Sunday afternoon for the last 40 years, a free African-style drum circle.
Queen's English © Jennifer Chase
Many restaurants thrive on 11th Street NW, but most notably, it is a buzzing byway for happy hours and late-night drinks. Dance to DJs on weekend nights upstairs at the delightfully divey, memorabilia-filled Wonderland Ballroom.
From April through December, produce farmers, flower sellers, taco-makers and local crafters set up shop on Saturday mornings on a paved plaza near the Metro station on 14th Street NW. Live music and kids activities like balloon-animal making add to the fun.
One of only a few Laotian restaurants in the region, this brightly decorated, popular restaurant serves up the country’s signature spicy fare, much of it accompanied by sticky rice in little baskets. Curries, soups and stir-fries use lemongrass, tamarind and lots of chilies; there’s also a “jungle menu” for exotic choices like goat stew or minced alligator.
Mexican Cultural Institute
In a grand, early 20th-century mansion that once held the Mexican Embassy, this museum and cultural center hosts art exhibits, concerts and popular cooking classes given by PBS star and local resident Pati Jinich. Even if there isn't an event happening, have no fear – the space is open to the public, so you can marvel at the historic site and its colorful collection of murals, which depict Mexican history dating back to ancient times.
Bold Fork
On the western edge of Columbia Heights, you’ll find this quaint enclave clustered around its conveniently named central avenue, Mount Pleasant Street. Here, you'll find Salvadoran markets, dive bars and family-owned restaurants, as well as independent cook book store Bold Fork.
Since it’s located at the top of a hill (see Meridian Hill Park), Columbia Heights is easy to get around by bike. Simply head to the Capital Bikeshare station near the Metro stop and get rolling.
Located in a portion of the restored Tivoli Theatre, one of the country’s oldest and most respected Spanish-language theater groups puts on plays (with simultaneous English translation) and regularly hosts visiting acts like Spanish flamenco dancers and Argentine musicians.
Hungry? Check out where to eat and drink in Columbia Heights.
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