Updated February 17, 2022. In Washington, DC, with its majestic, white marble monuments and memorials, there’s never a shortage of something nice to look at. Sometimes, all it takes is just finding the right view.
Of the many rooftop bars and restaurants in the District, there are a few that stand out for stunning views, ranging from a sophisticated site located yards from the White House to a game-centered space boasting multicolored picnic tables on the fourth floor. Find out about them all below.
Crimson View
Get a bird’s-eye view of Chinatown at local bar and restaurant Crimson DC. On the top level, you’ll find the Crimson View, where guests can catch breathtaking views of the Washington Monument at sunset and people-watch the various Caps fans and concert goers entering the arena. The View’s menu is small but mighty with various cocktail, wine, and beer options, as well as snacks like an artisanal cheese board, three types of chips and dips, oysters, and more. Pod DC Hotel: 627 H St. NW, Washington, DC
Players Club
Just like it sounds, Players Club is a one-stop hub for adults trying to take a break from day-to-day life and be a kid again. While the basement is sourced with old-school video games from the ’70s and ’80s—think skeeball and pinball—the fourth floor roof is a fun-filled space with views overlooking the bustling 14th Street neighborhood. Aligned with multicolored picnic tables, the setting is great for a big group of friends who want to hang out, sip on a drink, and play games like Jenga and cornhole. 1400 14th St. NW, Washington, DC
VUE
Come for the panoramic views of the District, stay for the specialty cocktails. At the VUE bar located atop the Hotel Washington, you can sit back and relax while dining on a burger and sipping on a beverage that pays homage to the city you’re looking over. While the floor-to-ceiling windows are retractable for the cooler months, come spring and summer, the glass will be removed, letting you feel the breeze as you sip on the Power to the Peaches or First Ladies Lemonade. Reservations are strongly suggested. W Washington DC: 515 15th St. NW, Washington, DC
The Lafayette
When entering The Hay-Adams’ The Lafayette, it feels as though you’re stepping back in time due to the waiters in sport coats, elegant china on the table, and, of course, the views looking directly over Lafayette Square and the White House. It’s political and chic, recognized as a destination for “power dining” (be sure to get a reservation). As for the food, you can dine at The Lafayette for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch on the weekends too, enabling you to feel important (and full on seafood like Maine lobster salad and pan-seared halibut) at all hours of the day. The Hay-Adams: 800 16th St. NW, Washington, DC
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The Skydome Restaurant
While not technically located in Washington, DC, it certainly feels like you’re right in the heart of it all while dining at Arlington-based Skydome Restaurant. Atop a 15-story building, you’ll have 360-degree views of the city across the water, including the Washington Monument and the United States Capitol. Plus, as you look out on the world around you, you’ll enjoy gourmet dining options like filet mignon or lobster roll bites. Hilton Hotel: 200 Army Navy Dr., Arlington
Top of the Yard
Come April—when the Washington Nationals hit the field—opt out for a different view of the game at Top of the Yard, open April through October. Located at the Hampton Inn & Suites in the Navy Yard, the rooftop bar and lounge has a direct, bird’s-eye view of Nationals Park. Plus, happy hour starts at 5 p.m. with a baseball-inspired menu and daily specials too. The best part? You can even bring the kids along, as there is no age restriction on who can enter the space. Hampton Inn & Suites: 1265 First St. SE, Washington, DC
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