Local Tips for your DC Getaway

Curated by your hosts Nadia, Blair, and Pasha the dog

Welcome to DC! Whether you're here for monuments and museums or looking to explore the city's hidden gems, Capitol Haven is a perfect home base. Located in a peaceful, residential neighborhood in Northeast DC, it’s a quiet place to relax after a day of exploring — and it’s just a short walk to the Metro, so getting around the city is easy.

Here are our insider tips to help you make the most of your stay.

💡 Travel Tip: Booking directly through our website gives you access to our best rates. We host several properties in the area – check them all out here.

🚇 Getting Downtown is a Breeze

Deanwood Metro Station (Orange Line) is just a 7-minute walk from the house. From there, you’re only:

  • 20 minutes to the National Mall

  • 25 minutes to the Smithsonian Museums

  • 30 minutes to the Capitol and Library of Congress

No car or parking stress — just hop on the train and go.

🌿 Hidden Nature in the City

Need a nature fix? These nearby parks offer beautiful escapes, all without leaving DC.

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens – Water lilies, lotus ponds, and boardwalks through wetlands make this national park a hidden gem.
Visit Site

National Arboretum – A huge, peaceful park with bonsai trees, wooded trails, and historic Capitol columns. A great spot for a morning walk or picnic.
Visit Site

🛍️ Local Markets & Weekend Vibes

You won’t find commercial development in our neighborhood — and that’s part of its charm. But we love heading just a few miles west to some of DC’s most lively spots:

Eastern Market – On weekends, stroll through outdoor art and farmers’ stalls in a beautiful, historic neighborhood. Great local energy and good food nearby.

Union Market – One of DC’s most exciting food halls, packed with global vendors, boutique shops, and rooftop views. It’s fun for all ages.

H Street Corridor – Edgy and eclectic, H Street is full of restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Great for an evening out.

Navy Yard – Buzzing waterfront neighborhood with parks, breweries, and riverside dining — especially nice on a warm day.

🍽️ Where We Eat (and Order In)

Our favorite restaurants are just a short drive or metro ride away:

Union Market Area

  • Paraiso – Cozy, upscale Mexican with incredible guac and a coriander-pineapple Mezcal cocktail.

  • Yellow – A Palestinian café by a Michelin-starred chef. Amazing coffee and pastries (expect a line!).

  • St. Anselm – Southern tavern vibes with grilled meats and a killer cocktail list. Reserve ahead.

H Street NE

  • Beau Thai – Great for flavorful Thai takeout.

  • Lazizi – Excellent Indian food.

  • The Little Grand – Top-notch pizza and friendly neighborhood vibes.

  • Granville Moore – Belgian frites and craft beers in a rustic tavern.

  • Stellina – Fresh pasta and Italian street food.

  • Café Fili – Casual Mediterranean bowls, salads, and sandwiches.

For Delivery

  • Andy’s Pizza – Great for New York-style pies.

  • Beau Thai – Reliable and delicious every time.

🛒 Grocery & Essentials

  • Menick’s Market – A small neighborhood store 5 minutes away on foot. Good for drinks, snacks, and basic supplies.

  • Whole Foods / Trader Joe’s / Giant – Full-service grocery options on H Street. You'll need a car or rideshare, but we’re happy to help coordinate if needed.

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Walks Near the House

Looking for a quick nature break or after-dinner stroll? You’ve got two quiet trails just steps away:

  1. Wooded Trail with Bridge – Head out the front door, turn right, cross 44th, and keep walking. A small park will be on your left. At the end of the block, you’ll find a bridge that leads into the woods.

  2. Even Closer Trail – From the front door, turn right, then left at the end of the block. You’ll see the trailhead drop down just ahead.

📆 What’s On While You’re Here?

We love checking Washingtonian Magazine for current events, concerts, exhibits, and restaurant roundups — it's a great way to see what’s happening in DC while you’re in town.

📸 Share What You Discover

We always love hearing what our guests find — whether it’s a favorite bite, new trail, or secret view. Tag us in your photos on Instagram: @ahavenaway

🔑 Book Direct & Save

We host through Airbnb, but you’ll always get the best rates, early check-in options, and more flexibility when you book directly at:

👉 www.ahavenaway.com

We also have vacation homes near the Chesapeake Bay and in the Blue Ridge Mountains if your next trip is calling for salty air or forest views.