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Fri / Feb 26
Primarily an industrial area during the nineteenth century – its name derives from the caustic blasts of coal plants that once mixed with low fog off the Potomac River – present day Foggy Bottom is home to a large collegiate population thanks to George Washington University’s campus, not to mention the ever-present federal workers from the headquarters of the United States Department of State.
Although largely residential, a diverse mix of raucous college bars and taverns give GW students a place to let loose, while laid-back pubs, fine eateries, and mixology spots keep Washington, DC Department workers happy.
Most of these venues, which include a sprinkling of nightclubs, thrive along the main drag of Pennsylvania Avenue, but in terms of overall nightlife Foggy Bottom doesn’t exactly float to the top, and much of the younger crowd heads to nearby Georgetown on the weekends.
During the day, the Rock Creek Park Trail that runs all the way from the Tidal Basin up through Georgetown is a haven for joggers, bikers, and anyone looking for a scenic stroll along the Potomac, weaving directly past the famous John F. Kennedy Center, which entices thousands of visitors every year with free concerts, national stage shows, art classes, and major award ceremonies.
Although the The Kennedy Center is an internationally renowned venue for its ongoing productions, the adjacent Watergate complex, despite its luxury apartments and hotel suites, is still best known for the wiretapping scandal that led to President Nixon’s resignation in 1974.
It might be said that Nixon had his bottom served to him in Foggy Bottom.
30s / 40s / After Work / Bar Food
Reviewed by Kelly M.
"My Take: Located on Washington Circle, District Commons is a spot that mustn’t be missed in the Foggy Bottom area. I was looking to visit the restaur ..." more
2200 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest
Washington, DC 20037
All Ages / Anything goes / Beer
Reviewed by Kelly M.
"My Take: Located right off of the George Washington campus on Washington Circle, Burger Tap & Shake, more commonly known as BTS, is a GW student’s go ..." more
2200 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest
Washington, DC 20052
20s / 30s / 40s / Bar / Brunch / Casual
Party Earth Review Whether stopping in for the jambalaya ‘n’ grits or a Bloody Mary made with pickled okra, hungry diners are guaranteed to taste the flavors of New Orleans at Bayou – where they’re equally ... more
2519 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20037
20s / 30s / Beer / Blouses / Breakfast
Reviewed by Karla J.
"I visited Founding Farmers for the first time over the summer. Honestly, I think I was crazy for not eating there sooner. The atmosphere is very coo ..." more
1924 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest
Washington, DC 20006
20s / 30s / Bottle Service / Chic / DJ
Party Earth Review Besides its sleek minimalist décor, high ceilings, and ample VIP areas, the most talked-about element of Shadow Room is how the venue blends technology with all the signature trappings ... more
2131 K Street NW
Washington, DC 20037
20s / 30s / After Work / All Types
Reviewed by Anastasia H.
"Nooshi has it all, from delightful dumplings and steamy spring rolls, to fresh sushi and delectable Pad Thai. This is the place for a great corporate ..." more
1120 19th Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20036
18 and over / Affluent / Blazers
Reviewed by Dylan H.
"My Take: Out of the many coffee shops in the Washington, D.C. area, Filter Coffeehouse is one reserved for the elite. Located blocks from the White H ..." more
1916 I Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20006