Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill spreads across the southeastern and northeastern quarters of Washington D.C., displaying rows of 19th-century houses with bay windows, turrets, and stained glass along tree-lined streets. The neighborhood surrounds the Capitol grounds and fans out in all directions with a mix of residential blocks, small parks, and retail sections.

The neighborhood emerged after 1793 when Congress chose to build the United States Capitol on this hill. Over the course of the 19th century, the area grew into the first major residential quarter of the new federal capital.

The Eastern Market from 1873 serves as a central meeting point where local farmers, artists, and craftspeople bring their wares to sell. The market hall draws residents from across the city who come to buy fresh food and browse the stalls on weekends.

The Capitol South and Eastern Market Metro stations offer direct access to the area and sit just a few walking minutes from most points of interest. The streets are manageable on foot, and most shops and restaurants open during daytime hours.

The Marine Barracks Washington from 1801 form the oldest active post of the Marine Corps and hold public ceremonial programs on Friday evenings. Visitors can watch the parade featuring Marines in historical uniforms performing traditional marches.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture, Queen Anne style architecture, Romanesque Revival architecture

Elevation above the sea: 27 m

Shares border with: Navy Yard, Southwest Federal Center, Near Northeast

GPS coordinates: 38.88889,-77.00028

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:01