Neighborhood profile: Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a sprawling neighborhood east of the Capitol, bounded to the south by the Anacostia River and extending north to Union Station.

Perhaps the oldest residential neighborhood in the District, by the 1800s most of its residents were congressmen living together in boarding houses, as well as laborers who worked at the Navy Yard.  Pierre L'Enfant, the neighborhood's (and DC's) primary architect, incorporated 59 small parks into the large network of streets.

The neighborhood's population has diversified over the years, and is now home to young families, empty-nesters, and government employees.  It has maintained its distinct historical flavor with its row houses, as well as some low-rise apartment complexes and historic churches that have been carefully re-purposed as condos. 

The combination of historic charm and trendy restaurants and coffee shops makes it it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.  Two popular destinations are Eastern Market, home to an indoor food market open daily and a weekend flea market, as well as Barracks Row, several blocks of shops and restaurants. 

The neighborhood is very walkable and has some bike lanes, as well as easy access to buses and the metro through the red and blue/orange lines.  Community resources include a public swimming pool near Eastern Market and the Southeast and Northeast libraries.  Other nearby popular sites include the Library of Congress, Folger Shakespeare Library, and several Smithsonian museums.

To learn more:

• The Hill is Home: a website with neighborhood events and tips

• The Hill Rag : a monthly newspaper with local news and events