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DC's U Street neighborhood is the part of the city that never sleeps.
One of DC's most historic storefronts is the beacon of U Street: Ben’s Chili Bowl. It’s been continuously serving the community since opening in 1958. Locals, presidents and celebrities have flocked inside for service at the original stools, booths and Formica counter for its signature dish: the traditional DC half-smoke smothered in chili. It’s open early and very late, and now offers multiple locations, including one at Reagan National Airport.
Live music abounds on U Street – underground jazz, funky ska bands, European-imported DJs and sold-out indie-rockers are just a few of the shows you can on a given weekend. And if you think this range of musical genres is impressive, take a look at the collection of revered venues, many of which have hosted the likes of legends like Washington natives Duke Ellington and Pearl Bailey, as well as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong and Nat King Cole.
Founded in 1922, the Lincoln Theatre was considered a precursor and influence on the Harlem Renaissance. Today, the historic theater continues to attract national talent to its stage with a packed calendar of touring acts. Another mainstay of the music scene is The Howard Theatre, which played a significant role in the history of "Black Broadway" in DC. These days, it's also known for its dance parties. The 9:30 Club is a more modern DC icon – but it doesn't lose touch with its own rich history, dating back to a stint when the building was owned by Duke Ellington. Over the years, it's hosted surprise shows from legends like Bob Dylan and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and it keeps growing its influence with the opening of The Atlantis, an intimate 90s-style venue whose rooftop bar will transport you to old U Street.
Situated a couple blocks north of U Street, Meridian Hill Park is the largest public park in this part of town. The design inspiration comes from an Italian garden, complete with a thirteen basin cascading fountain that's longer than any you'll find on the continent. A unique, community-led drum circle forms every Sunday afternoon and evening, while groups play soccer, have picnics and simply enjoy the sun. Locals often refer to it by its alias: Malcolm X Park.
Among its many nicknames, U Street was also once known as “Little Ethiopia” for a stretch of restaurants that dotted the street. Many Ethiopian eateries have since moved to Silver Spring, Md. and Alexandria, Va., but there are still a couple time-honored eateries that pay tribute to the Horn of Africa region, like Dukem Restaurant. Go there for intriguing spices, bright colors and a spongy bread called injera, all of which you eat with your hands.
This important memorial is hidden in plain sight, right at the U Street Metro stop exit. The bronze statue and related museum just across the street, where kids can try on Civil War attire and commemorate the more than 200,000 African American soldiers who fought for the Union during the Civil War. The memorial was placed here in honor of this neighborhood being a heart of African American culture in the city.
Though it is known for having more museums than any city in the country, street art is an unsung highlight of the nation's capital. From Phillips Collection-commissioned work on 905 U Street NW to the side of Ben’s Chili Bowl, it's easy to wander through U Street's most colorful corners, where you'll see tributes to historic trailblazers, joyful depictions of jazz legends and thought-provoking commentary.
After a long day of taking in this one-of-a-kind street, do as DC’s 9-to-5 set does and unwind at a happy hour. The many restaurants and bars here offer fantastic deals starting at 5 p.m. on food and drinks. Take a minute to relax.
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