Georgetown is and always will be
Washington, D.C.'s main shopping area, though nearby Dupont Circle can certainly give the neighborhood a run for its (and your) money. Most of the stores sit on two main, intersecting streets,
Wisconsin Avenue and
M Street NW. You’ll find both chain and one-of-a-kind shops, chic as well as thrift. Sidewalks and streets are almost always crowded in these areas, and parking can be tough, especially on the weekends. But our favorite retail spots make a visit more than worth your while.
Payton Chung/Flickr
Cady's Alley
Not long ago, the location of this grouping of about 20 stores was all industrial space and abandoned lofts. Now, if you walk through a bricked archway off M Street and descend a flight of stairs into a hidden alcove, you’ll discover shops such as Contemporaria for Italian furniture, Bulthaup for ultraluxe culinary gadgets, Circa Lighting for European lighting, and Poggenpohl Studio for German kitchen fixtures.
Elvert Barnes/Flickr
Intermix
What started in NYC has landed in D.C.: a satellite store for Marc Jacobs jackets, Diane von Furstenberg wrap dresses, rhinestone cowboy boots, Norma Kamali jumpsuits, and oversize shades—priced to make you feel as though the paparazzi are waiting at the front door.
Tiny Jewel Box
Tiny Jewel Box
Thinking of popping the question or surprising your sweetie with a fabulous bauble, expensive watch, or eye-popping ring from an estate sale? Look no further than
this D.C. mainstay, a peddler of romantic, unique adornments.
Elvert Barnes/Flickr
Lou Lou
Head to this boutique for a bonanza of accessories, from beaded necklaces to brooches to headbands and handbags—all at very reasonable prices. Then visit its adjacent clothing store for fun apparel.
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Where to find it: Five locations in D.C., including 1601 Connecticut Ave. NW in Dupont Circle and 1304 Wisconsin Ave. NW in Georgetown
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More info: www.loulouboutiques.com
Tedeytan/Flickr
Politics and Prose
If on principle you’d rather give your hard-earned cash to Mom and Pop than a big chain, head north of downtown to
this two-story bookstore. It’s famed in D.C. for its warm vibe, nearly nightly author readings, excellent selection, and cozy coffeehouse.
Mack Male/Flickr
Eastern Market
If Washingtonians could name only one institution endemic to the city that had nothing to do with politics, 9 out of 10 would say
Eastern Market. Locals gather here on weekends for the flea market, outdoor vendors, artisans, and brunch spots. Its permanent buildings are open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday; the outdoor lot fills on weekends (Mar–Dec) with farmers and fresh produce, plus bargain-hunters looking to score great deals.
Frommer's Washington, D.C. day by day
For more on what to see and do in the nation's capital, pick up a copy of Frommer's Washington, D.C. day by day, our portable, authoritative, and up-to-date guide to the best that the city has to offer. Inside you'll find scores of full-color photos and useful maps, itineraries tailored to suit every type of traveler, and reliable recommendations for hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more—in short, everything you need to make the most of your time in Washington, D.C. is right here.
