The Coziest Neighborhoods in D.C.
The arrival of fall has us craving a cozy atmosphere. While Washington D.C. is a major city, there are plenty of neighborhoods that have a close-knit, inviting vibe with historic streets, warm coffee shops, and cocktail bars offering seasonal sips by a fireplace. These five D.C. neighborhoods embody “sweater weather.”
Georgetown
Georgetown’s status as one of D.C.’s oldest neighborhoods gives it quaint and cozy charm. Historic homes and cobblestone streets create the ideal background for fall foliage. Get a jump on holiday shopping along M Street, and stop at a neighborhood cafe for a seasonal latte or treat.
Cozy Spots to Check Out:
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Baked & Wired: Tourists flock to Georgetown Cupcake, but stop in this tiny locals’ favorite for a chai cupcake and coffee.
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District Doughnuts and Coffee: The fall menu here includes a pumpkin spice latte creme brulee donut—enough said.
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Cafe Bonaparte: Cozy up with a crepe and cappuccino at this French nook ideal for people-watching.
Dupont Circle
With turn of the century rowhouses, alleys, and stately embassies at the neighborhood’s edge, Dupont Circle is a hip and lively commercial corridor that’s teeming with historic charm. Dupont’s curb appeal and cozy neighborhood spots make it great for fall strolling.
Cozy Spots to Check Out:
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Kramerbooks: Curl up with a book and coffee at one of D.C.’s favorite neighborhood bookstores that doubles as a cafe.
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Tabard Inn: Just down the street from Kramerbooks, locals love this spot for their famous donuts and drinks by the fireplace.
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FreshFarm Market: Before it gets too cold, come on a Sunday for seasonal squashes and apple cider.
Cleveland Park
With its hilly landscape that facilitates fall breezes, Cleveland Park is especially cozy for fall. This neighborhood has a suburb-in-the-city feel with tree-lined streets, 19th century homes, and walkable commercial corridors.
Cozy Spots to Check Out:
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Firehook Bakery: This local chain offers fall-friendly treats like apple pie and giant chocolate chip cookies.
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Nanny O’Brien’s: Get extra autumnal at this cozy Irish pub with Samuel Smith’s organic apple cider and beef stew.
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St. Arnold’s Mussel Bar: Mussels, fries, and lots of beer to keep you warm.
U Street Corridor
The U Street Corridor is a cultural hub of D.C., densely packed with hot eateries and music venues. The never-boring neighborhood also has cozy coffee shops and bars aplenty.
Cozy Spots to Check Out:
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Wydown Coffee Bar: Pair artisanal coffees with sweet treats like coffee cake muffins and blackberry lavender scones.
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The Colada Shop: A cafe con leche is a warming pick-me-up.
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The Gibson: This candle-lit speakeasy has craft cocktails and a romantic atmosphere.
Shaw
Shaw is populated with Victorian-era rowhouses and recently, plenty of redevelopment. This historic neighborhood straddles the present and past with ease. Its restaurants and coffee shops are comfortable and warm.
Cozy Spots to Check Out:
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Convivial: The menu features French-American comfort food and autumnal cocktails.
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Calabash Coffee & Tea: A D.C. favorite, baristas serve up vegan pastries and write inspirational messages on to-go cups.
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ButterCream Bake Shop: A cheerful little bakery with cakes, pastries, and coffee—but no WiFi.