Living in Washington, DC is an amazing opportunity to explore its museums, restaurants, and rich history. Each of the neighborhoods in the DC area has its own unique vibe and places to visit. Foggy Bottom comes by its name honestly. In the early morning hours, the fog rolls in off the Potomac River along the southern edge of the neighborhood. It then stretches to encompass the West End and reaches almost to Georgetown. Here are a few exciting and unique things to do in Foggy Bottom.
Foggy Bottom is one of the oldest areas in the city and the location of some of the earliest settlements. It’s thought to have been settled in the 17th and 18th centuries. During the Industrial Revolution, this area was heavily industrialized due to its location on the Potomac River. It was home to many German and Irish immigrants in the 19th century. However, the neighborhood made great strides towards becoming a residential area in the 20th century.
Today, the neighborhood almost entirely covers George Washington University (GWU), giving the area a young, trendy vibe. Even if you aren’t a student, you can enjoy the feeling of academia and high ideas buzzing around the streets. If you’re looking for an apartment in the area, Circle Arms Apartments have everything you need in a new home.
Top Things to Explore in Foggy Bottom
Foggy Bottom’s History: One of DC’s oldest neighborhoods, Foggy Bottom has a rich history dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. It was heavily industrialized during the Industrial Revolution and became more residential in the 20th century.
Rock Creek Park: Located at the southern end of Foggy Bottom, this park offers over 2,100 acres of outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, and picnicking. It also features a nature center, planetarium, golf course, and Civil War fortifications.
Tonic Restaurant: A popular spot for both brunch and dinner, Tonic offers delicious appetizers, locally brewed craft beers, and high-end cocktails in a cozy setting. Try their famous Granny’s Rum Cake for dessert.
Watergate Hotel: Known for its historic significance, the Watergate Hotel offers fantastic views from the Top of the Gate cocktail bar. It’s an iconic spot for a meal or drinks and offers a view of the Potomac River.
Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: This cultural hub hosts live shows every night, many of which are free. Enjoy a variety of performances, from orchestras to modern dance, in a stunning venue named after President John F. Kennedy.
Founding Farmers DC: This co-op owned restaurant serves comfort food and farm-to-table meals. It’s especially popular for its burgers and seasonal dishes. The mezzanine with silo-shaped booths adds a fun twist to your dining experience.
State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms: Take a tour of these elegant rooms where diplomats gather. You’ll see rooms like the Thomas Jefferson room with neoclassical architecture, stunning artwork, and a sculpture of Jefferson.
George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum: A great spot for those interested in history and textiles. This museum houses early maps and documents about Washington, DC, and showcases beautiful Turkish and Japanese fabrics.
Rock Creek Park
The southernmost end of the Rock Creek Park finds its home in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood. The park encompasses more than 2,100 acres of walking and biking paths, shaded picnic areas, a horse stable, and so much more. When the weather is good, you can enjoy your morning run through the park or meet up with friends on the weekend for a picnic and to catch up.
You can learn more about the park’s ecosystem at the nature center or bring your golf clubs and hit the links on the park’s golf course. If stargazing is more your speed, the park has a planetarium. You can learn more about DC’s history as you explore the Civil War fortifications and working mills within the park. Rock Creek Park is part of the National Park Services, so you can enjoy ranger-led programs.
Tonic
Whether you’re looking for a hot spot for a weekend brunch or a new place for dinner, Tonic fits the bill. Start your meal with one of the traditional appetizers, a basket of tater tots with three dipping sauce, Buffalo Chicken Tots, or Coney Island tots. Designed with rich, warm colors and cozy booths, Tonic is a great spot to take a date or visit with friends.
This restaurant offers weekly specials to expand its food and drink menu with delicious pizzas and high-end cocktails. You’ll find a rotating selection of locally-brewed and craft beers. Don’t forget to save room for a piece of Granny’s Rum Cake for dessert.
Watergate Hotel
On June 17, 1972, a break-in at the Watergate Hotel would change the course of American history and politics, shaking Americans to their roots. President Richard Nixon had ordered the break-in into the DNC’s offices. While he was never impeached, Nixon left office voluntarily under a cloud of scandal and innuendo.
For those interested in history, having drinks or a meal at this iconic hotel is one of the best things to do in Foggy Bottom. For stunning views of the sunset, opt for the Top of the Gate cocktail bar with its views from the rooftop in every direction. It’s a great spot to meet friends on the weekends. The Kingbird offers meals with a touch of French flair, while you can enjoy a Kentucky Hug at the Next Whisky Bar.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Named after American President, John F. Kennedy, the Kennedy is a centerpiece for culture and the arts. At this stunning theater, there is a live show every night of the year at 6 pm. The best part? You can attend any evening for free; however, you may want to get there early for good seats. The shows vary. You might see an orchestra one night and a performance of modern dance on another night. There’s something for everyone.
Founding Farmers DC
On the outer edges of the neighborhood, you find the best burgers and comfort foods, such as seven cheese macaroni and cheese, in town at Founding Farmers DC. Co-op owned, this restaurant offers seasonal farm-to-table meals in addition to its juicy burgers. It’s also a wonderful place for brunch in Foggy Bottom on the weekends. Your friends will enjoy the novelty of eating on the mezzanine in the silo-shaped booths. If you bring a date, there’s more intimate seating available.
State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms
Delve into America’s history and get a peek at the rooms where diplomats come together to discuss the world’s most important matters. You can take a tour of the State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms and get a glimpse at where the magic happens. These ornate rooms are filled with stunning and elegant artwork.
You’ll get to see the Thomas Jefferson room, Built in the neoclassical style. The room features a variety of niches and columns. It’s truly a room befitting America’s first Secretary of State and third President of the United States. You can even see a sculpture of Jefferson. Be sure to snap lots of pictures of the luxury for your Instagram account.
George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum
Located in the same architecturally stunning building, these two museums are a great place to visit on a rainy afternoon. Washington DC memorabilia and exotic textiles war for your attention. You can view hundreds of early maps and documents pertaining to the founding of the nation’s capital while viewing the gorgeous Turkish ikats and Japanese silks. Make sure to view the stunning interior spiral staircase while visiting the museums.
Find More Things to Do in Foggy Bottom
We take pride in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood and all that it has to offer. From great food to the sight of history-changing events, this neighborhood has a lot to offer. We can help you find the next fun thing to do in Foggy Bottom. Contact us today for a tour of the grounds.
FAQs about Things to Do in Foggy Bottom
What is the history of Foggy Bottom?
Foggy Bottom is one of Washington, DC’s oldest neighborhoods, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. It was heavily industrialized during the Industrial Revolution and became more residential in the 20th century. The area was once home to many German and Irish immigrants before transforming into the vibrant neighborhood it is today.
What activities can I enjoy at Rock Creek Park in Foggy Bottom?
Rock Creek Park, located at the southern end of Foggy Bottom, offers over 2,100 acres of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, picnicking, and even golfing. The park also features a planetarium and nature center, where you can learn about the park’s ecosystem, and explore Civil War fortifications and working mills.
What is Tonic restaurant known for?
Tonic is a popular restaurant in Foggy Bottom, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious menu. The restaurant serves traditional appetizers like tater tots and Buffalo Chicken Tots, along with locally brewed craft beers and high-end cocktails. Their rotating weekly specials and Granny’s Rum Cake for dessert are a must-try!
What can I experience at the Watergate Hotel in Foggy Bottom?
The Watergate Hotel is famous for its historical significance. It’s a great place to have drinks or a meal. Enjoy stunning rooftop views at the Top of the Gate cocktail bar, offering panoramic views of the Potomac River. For dining, you can visit Kingbird for French-inspired meals or the Next Whisky Bar for drinks.
What can I see at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts?
The Kennedy Center hosts live performances every night, offering a variety of shows from orchestras to modern dance. The best part is that many performances are free to attend. It’s a cultural hub in the heart of Foggy Bottom, offering something for everyone who enjoys the arts.
What type of food does Founding Farmers DC serve?
Founding Farmers DC offers comfort food with a farm-to-table twist. Known for its juicy burgers, mac and cheese, and seasonal dishes, it’s a perfect place for brunch or dinner. The unique silo-shaped booths and intimate seating make it a great spot for any occasion.
What can I see at the State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms?
The State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms are ornate and filled with stunning artwork. You can take a tour and explore rooms like the Thomas Jefferson Room, built in neoclassical style, featuring elegant columns, niches, and a sculpture of Jefferson. It’s a glimpse into the rooms where important diplomatic matters take place.
What can I expect at the George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum?
The George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum showcases a mix of Washington, DC history and beautiful textiles. You can view early maps and documents related to the nation’s capital while admiring Turkish ikats and Japanese silks. The museum’s stunning spiral staircase adds an architectural beauty to the visit.
