Top 10 Things To Do in Dupont Circle

If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind and enjoy yourself in Washington DC, get Dupont Circle on your radar! An area rich in both history and local spirit, this DC neighborhood boasts a wide range of shops, restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking to relax after work, enjoy the DC nightlife, or spend quality time with friends and family, Dupont Circle is the place to be. Discover the best this area has to offer with our recommendations of the top 10 things to do in Dupont Circle.

Play crazy golf at Swingers Dupont Circle

Tee off with a round (or two) of crazy golf at Swingers. Our Dupont Circle location is right in the heart of DC and features two immersive courses, both with an English countryside theme: think gazebos, waterwheels, and trailing wisteria. But the atmosphere doesn’t stop there! Stylish botanical decor can be found throughout the entire venue, perfect for your Instagram and TikTok.

Take a look at our Dupont Circle Gallery for all the vibes. How about making a night of it at one of our four trendy cocktail bars? Sip a delectable cocktail while listening to our in-house DJs, and fill up on gourmet street food when you get hungry. Take your pick from pizza, tacos, and juicy burgers. Then round things off with a signature brownie sundae. Check out our Dupont Circle Menu for drinks and dishes in store. 

Also, if you’re after a private hire for an event, look no further! We’ve got four exclusive private rooms for parties, and eight hireable spaces in total. So whether you’re in charge of a big night out, a city-dweller looking for something new, or want to kick back over the weekend with some friends, be sure to check out Swingers in Dupont Circle.

Explore the Mansion on O Street

This one’s for those seeking a quirky weekend activity. The Mansion on O Street is dedicated to exploring creativity. This luxury boutique hotel and museum is full of secret corridors, themed rooms, and more. Take a tour of the mansion and immerse yourself in stories behind the eccentric decor and artifacts. Their vast collections include Prince’s Purple Rain Jacket, as well as Bob Dylan’s signed guitar. Learn more on what to expect during your visit to this DC treasure trove.

Dance the night away at Twelve After Twelve

Get your dancing shoes ready for a night at Twelve After Twelve! This 800 square foot, multi-level lounge opened up in late 2021, and has an intimate and lively atmosphere. Located in the heart of DuPont, Twelve After Twelve is all about showcasing the finest in local DJ talent across diverse music genres. Whatever you’re into, it’s likely you’ll find it playing here! Guests can enjoy four different dance floors, and grab some fresh air on the covered patio.

Try delicious Thai izakaya cuisine at SURA

Feeling hungry? Head to SURA for lunch or dinner. Calling itself an ‘underground spicy dinette with distinguished cocktails’, this restaurant specializes in Thai-inspired drinks and small plates. How does garlic pepper shrimp, five spice braised beef, and lychee creme brulee sound? Make sure to check their Instagram for the secret menu item of the day.

Peruse the books (and craft beers) at Kramers

Books and booze: it just makes sense. Having first opened its doors in 1976, Kramers was the very first cafe/bookstore in DC. Today, it remains independent and now offers a full-service bar, and all-day dining. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a local beer whilst finding your next read! The book titles available are carefully curated, with plenty to interest even the most particular bookworms. So take a quiet moment for yourself, sit in the solarium with an espresso martini,  and open up the latest best seller. If you get your timings right, you can enjoy happy hour between 3-6pm. And remember to keep an eye on their socials for  their weekly fun bookstore events.

Stock up on local goods at the farmer’s market

Keep things local and take a leisurely stroll through Dupont Circle Freshfarm Market. Every Sunday from 8.30am-1.30pm, this market becomes a foodie paradise – and did we mention it’s year-round? Discover artisan cheeses, homemade confectionery, pastries, seasonal vegetables, fresh pasta, locally-roasted coffee, and more. Whether you’re looking for a snack or ingredients for tonight’s dinner, Freshfarm market is sure to hit the mark.

Take a tour of historic Embassy Row

Are you a history buff, or have one in tow? Be sure to check out Embassy Row, a stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that features impressive architecture and – as the name implies – multiple embassies and diplomatic missions from around the world. Here you’ll find over 150 mansions steeped in history, in a range of architectural styles. Book a guided tour to learn the incredible stories behind these grand facades, and experience the rich history that lies within Dupont.

Sample pastries and cakes at Un je ne sais Quoi

For locals or visitors with a serious sweet tooth, stop in for authentic French patisserie at Un je ne sais Quoi. This award-winning pastry shop and café specializes in all things fluffy and delicious. We’re talking delicate millefeuille, almond-filled pan au chocolat, and chestnut pastries that look like little mountains. Guests can sit inside, enjoy the relaxed ambience, and tuck into their delectable treat of choice.

Contemplate the incredible Phillips Collection

Here’s something for the culture vultures: The Phillips Collection was the very first museum of modern art in the country. Opened by its eponymous founder in 1921, the collection today is home to over 5,000 works. Guests can enjoy breathtaking permanent collections as well as temporary exhibitions, with pieces from artists including Renoir, Matisse, and Van Gogh. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, be sure to stick around for the concert series! Tickets are $16 for adults, and concessions are available.

Visit the “wonderland” of Madhatter Tavern

We’re all a little mad here. Enjoy a whimsical libation at Dupont Circle’s Madhatter Tavern next time you’re free for an evening! This Alice-in-Wonderland inspired venue serves up a delightful menu of cocktails and classic American eats. A Family-run staple of Dupont for over 40 years, the atmosphere remains fun and lively. Check out their social channels and website for upcoming weekly events, including trivia night and live DJs.