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A row of colorful townhouses with red, blue, and light blue facades and striped awnings in Washington, D.C.

9 Things to See & Do in Petworth



Enjoy a variety of experiences in this vibrant District neighborhood

You can spend the whole day in Petworth hopping around from shops to restaurant to bars. The area also plays host to fun neighborhood gatherings, and features one of the most historic sites in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Filled with tasty eats and a healthy dose of culture, Petworth should be on your DC must-see list. Take a look at these things to do in the neighborhood.

01

Have a crafty time at Merry Pin

Merry Pin


Merry Pin is a one-of-a-kind craft store and cafe where teams can come to create, connect and have fun. Whether on-site in the cozy space or at your own venue, Merry Pin delivers hands-on crafting experiences that spark creativity and collaboration. Choose from a variety of activities like glass-painting, a keychain bar, pom pom art and more. All materials and guidance are provided, making it easy for everyone to jump in, whether they're beginners or seasoned crafters.

02

Discover President Lincoln's hilltop retreat

After breakfast, take a tour of President Lincoln’s Cottage. We bet you didn’t know that for over a quarter of his presidency, Abraham Lincoln lived on a hilltop in Northwest DC. Here, he visited with wounded soldiers, spent time with self-emancipated men, women and children and developed the Emancipation Proclamation. Tours are guided and space is limited, so you’ll want to book your visit in advance.

03

Vibe out at Hook Hall

Hook Hall


Nestled in the heart of Petworth, Hook Hall began as a cherished backyard gathering space for neighbors and friends to celebrate life’s everyday joys. Its outdoor garden space is a laid-back, pet-friendly space that’s perfect for a catch-up with friends, pre-gaming before a night out or posting up for the big match.

04

Visit the Adams Memorial

Walk around the neighborhood and check out all of its residential developments — single-family homes, rowhouses and a number of condos. Then, visit the Adams Memorial, commonly known as the Grief Statue, by Augustus St. Gaudens in Rock Creek Cemetery. Henry Adams commissioned the memorial two years after the suicide of his wife in the winter of 1884. The figure symbolizes "the acceptance, intellectually, of the inevitable.” Find some reflection and solace in Petworth.

05

Peruse Loyalty Bookstores

At this neighborhood bookstore, owners Hannah Oliver Depp and Christine Bollow focus on curating titles, stationery, home goods and programming that reflect the communities of Petworth and Silver Spring. Be sure to check out Loyalty's stacked calendar of events – and, if you're looking for a particularly fun way to discover the work of BIPOC, queer, disabled or otherwise marginalized writers, consider its quarterly Leap of Faith surprise box. 

06

Bring the whole family to Petworth Neighborhood Library

This historic library hosts more than just books – you can do arts and crafts or enjoy family story-time. We recommend choosing one of your favorite novels and taking it for a read at Grant Circle. The park within the circle is owned and administered by the National Park Service and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

07

Find a culinary gem, casual or award-winning

Timber Pizza Co.

Timber Pizza Co.

From pop-up dining destinations to buzzworthy restaurants and local watering holes, there's a restaurant for everyone in Petworth. Discover the best places to eat in the neighborhood and find out where you can get wood-fired Neapolitan pies, try "New Japanese" fare, get a book with your booze and much more.

08

Unwind at a local hangout

By now, you’re probably ready for a post-dinner drink. Head to any one of Petworth's low-key neighborhood drinking holes for craft cocktails, brews or natural wines. At Red Derby, for instance, you'll find crews of locals perched on the rooftop drinking canned beers and playing board games. 

09

Have a laugh at a BYOB comedy show

A cozy stage setup at a venue featuring a vintage armchair, a microphone on a stand, and artwork displayed on the green-painted walls.

Room 808

Room 808 is a comedy club that feels like your artsy friend's living room. Five nights a week, you can find up-and-coming comedians performing from a patterned rug at the front of the space. Not only is it a uniquely intimate experience, Room 808 is also one of the best deals in town: pay approximately $10 a ticket and bring your own food and drink.

Looking for your next adventure? Check out all of the neighborhoods in the District.

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