U Street is bounded on the north by Florida Avenue NW, on the west by 16th Street NW, on the south by T Street NW, and on the east by 9th Street NW.
The side streets surrounding the neighborhood’s entertainment corridor feature stately rowhomes that feel like manors, as well as cozier Wardman-style rowhomes. Many of the latter are bedecked in vibrant greens and reds and yellows and blues, giving the streets here the feel of a colorful candy shop.
Condo living is also a major part of U Street’s housing stock. Recent years have the seen the arrival of majestic condominium buildings including Union Row Flats, 20 20 Lofts, The Shay, and Lumen Condominiums (not to mention more traditional buildings such as The Balfour). These buildings feature impressive square footage and plenty of modern amenities including hardwood floors, stainless-steel appliances, and glamorous front lobbies.
THE DAYS OF "BLACK BROADWAY"
In the early 20th century, U Street was the nexus of African-American culture in Washington, DC. Built over open fields after the Civil War, the neighborhood grew with the arrival of streetcar lines that carried residents along its streets and helped African-American owned businesses grow and thrive.
For a while, U Street was referred to as “Black Broadway.” This name is obvious given some of the many cultural luminaries who lived in the neighborhood or who played at venues including Howard Theatre and the Lincoln Theatre. Among them: Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, and Louis Armstrong.
As with other surrounding neighborhoods, U Street was hit particularly hard by the 1968 Riots. Subsequent decades were devoted to strengthening the community’s resolve, improving infrastructure, preserving history, and sparking redevelopment projects that have since breathed exiting new life into the area.
GROWTH CONTINUES, HISTORY REMAINS
While U Street is much more populated than it was decades earlier, that vibrant cultural energy that’s an important part of its character and charm still remains.
U Street itself is a music-lover’s paradise, home to places like The Black Cat, U Street Music Hall, and the 9:30 Club. Both Lincoln Theatre and Howard Theatre are still around and playing host to exciting musical performances, as well.
Recent years have seen the growth of sleek, ultra-modern condominium and apartment buildings adding more density and excitement to the area. Still, U Street remains very much a place of single-family rowhomes with their own unique touches.
And even with all the changes that have come to U Street in recent decades, the neighborhood still hasn’t lost its cultural link with the past. History remains an integral part of the U Street experience—and mostly likely always will.
Walk to almost everything you could need for the perfect urban lifestyle. Travel farther afield with help from the U Street Metro station (serving the Green and Yellow Lines), Capital Bikeshare stations, or a Metrobus routes.
Enjoy an unforgettable breakfast at Florida Avenue Grill. Dine on gastropub fare at The Fainting Goat or Mediterranean carryout at The Greek Spot. Treat yourself to a chili dog at neighborhood institution Ben’s Chili Bowl.
Get in a solid workout at the YMCA’s Anthony Bowen Branch. Relax alone or with friends along the iconic cascading fountain at Meridian Hill Park. Catch a show at the historic Lincoln Theatre.
Pick up weekly groceries and other essentials at spots like Rite Aid, CVS Pharmacy, and Trader Joe’s. Window shop at 14th Street NW boutiques including Lou Lou Boutiques, Little Leaf, and Madewell.
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Listing information last updated on November 29th, 2023 at 5:15am CST.
