HOME TO HISTORIC LANDMARKS
Given its central location, Penn Quarter has always played an important role in DC life. Streets here are suffused with a sense of history—both of the city itself and of the entire nation.
Perhaps the most iconic example of this is Ford’s Theatre. Located at 511 10th Street NW, this historic landmark is infamous for being the site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination in 1865. In addition to offering tours, the theatre still puts on performances that residents can enjoy.
Also central to Penn Quarter is nearby Chinatown—which, with its eye-catching friendship arch, you can’t miss. While it has shrunk in recent years, the area is still known for some of the city’s best, most authentic Chinese food at spots like Chinatown Express and Tony Cheng.
CITY CENTERS ABOUND
Much of the credit for the neighborhood’s growth in recent decades goes back to 1997 and the establishment of the Capital One Arena (originally known as the MCI Center and, subsequently, the Verizon Center). The revitalization of the neighborhood has brought in a bold new wave of restaurants, bars, and shops catering to residents and visitors alike.
Another recent trend in the Penn Quarter neighborhood: city centers. First, there was Gallery Place, which was built around the Capital One Arena. This complex is home to Lucky Strike bowling, a movie theater, and more.
In recent years, equally exciting city centers have emerged in and around the neighborhood. Chief among them: CityCenterDC, where you can find everything from Christian Dior to Momofuku CCDC. Then, just a few blocks north, there’s CityVista. Here, you can find a Safeway grocery story, fast-casual eateries like sweetgreen and Chipotle, and a VIDA Fitness.
