Running northwest from the White House, Foggy Bottom DC is one of the oldest areas in town. Dating from the mid-18th century, its name comes from a geographic quirk in which the area’s low-lying riverside land tends to trap fog or smoky air, and the name was extended to the US Department of State when they moved their headquarters there in the mid-20th century.
It is also one of the most desirable areas of town, and rentals here are the highest in the DC market.
Foggy Bottom DC Landmarks
Foggy Bottom is home to some of the most iconic DC landmarks outside of the National Mall area.
The infamous Watergate complex is here, alongside the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. George Washington University is an ever-expanding presence in the area. In addition, many federal buildings are located in the area, including the Executive Office Building, and many international organizations and embassies are located here as well.
Easy to Walk, Easy to Love
One of Foggy Bottom’s big attractions is its walkability. Because of the many offices in the area, proximity means the ability to walk to work for much of the year. For outdoors and recreation-lovers, trails along the river are a major draw as is sprawling Rock Creek Park, whose southernmost side starts here. And for everyone else,
Foggy Bottom offers walking access to world-class restaurants and shopping, and beloved areas like Georgetown and Dupont.
Foggy Bottom Real Estate & Restaurants
Foggy Bottom offers a variety of real estate choices, including high rise condos and co-ops, townhomes, and apartments. In addition, the historic area features two-story rowhouses dating from the late 19th century. The price range varies widely, and there are some co-ops that can be had for around $200K. At the other end of the spectrum, pricey Watergate co-ops can range north of $2 million.
The Watergate Complex of buildings, including the office building, residences, and the hotel, offers a variety of fabulous dining and entertainment experiences. The Kingbird Restaurant is a soaring space at the Watergate Hotel. Besides the expected meals, this is the place to go for holiday feasts if cooking is not your thing. Their gorgeous and classic-with-a-twist afternoon high tea is also a must-do.
Bars at The Watergate include gorgeous and elegant The Next Whiskey Bar as well as the rooftop bar Top of the Gate. This winter Top of the Gate has an ice skating rink with a skate-up bar and spectacular 360-degree views.
Headed to a show at the Kennedy Center? Their Roof Terrace Restaurant is a perennial favorite and one of the most elegant dining experiences you can have anywhere. Cocktails and dinner here, then a performance by The Washington Opera, The NSO, or a touring Broadway show makes for a truly memorable evening.
Farm-to-table favorite Founding Farmers has a location in Foggy Bottom, as does District Commons. For a taste of Foggy Bottom history, check out Tonic at Quigley’s Pharmacy. The restaurant has spent the last decade serving up tater tots, cocktails, and fun events from this former old-timey soda fountain and shows no signs of slowing down. Or visit beloved Kaz Sushi Bistro and find out why they have been at the top of everybody’s best-of list for the last 20 years.
Parks & Rec
If you love the outdoors, check out Boating DC’s Thompson Boathouse located in Foggy Bottom. You can rent everything from bikes to paddleboards to kayaks to canoes, take classes, and even hold a Regatta. (Just don’t forget the Regatta Gala afterward.)
If you love politics and gorgeous spaces, be sure to check out the Diplomatic Reception Rooms on display at the State Department. These exquisitely curated rooms are used for meetings with ambassadors, emissaries, and world leaders, and tours are given daily by prior arrangement.
There is so much to love in Foggy Bottom, one of DC’s most desirable neighborhoods. If you are looking for your own little piece of this historic neighborhood, look no further! Sign in at our website and let us help you find the home that’s just right for you and right where you want to be.