Explore D.C.

Explore D.C. The Washington D.C. Metro Area Guide

Welcome to D.C.! Though its official name is Washington D.C., there are more than just a few ways to name the capital including; the District of Columbia, “The District,” or just D.C. Due to its position as the capital of the United States, the city has a very metropolitan and international feeling. Many people who work in the city live in the surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland. Different areas of D.C. are referred to as being either inside or outside “The Beltway”, which is a highway that encircles the city. Although housing in downtown neighborhoods – such as Georgetown and Capitol Hill – tends to be more expensive and less available than housing in the suburbs, Inside the Beltway communities like Arlington, VA or Bethesda and Chevy Chase, MD, with their highly-ranked school systems, are pricey as well. Outside the Beltway towns include Oakton, Reston, and Vienna, VA; and, Gaithersburg and Potomac, MD. Downtown D.C. is a landlord’s market, and higher prices are more prevalent during the beginning of the year when there is a lower inventory of available properties. Depending on the lease start date, landlords commonly offer to extend beyond 12 months to prevent their properties from being vacant between December to February. Proximity to the METRO, D.C.’s rapid transit system, also affects rental rates and availability. Security deposits in D.C. are limited to one month’s rent by law. D.C. Area Housing Unfurnished Apartment 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom 5 Bedroom Downtown D.C. $2100-3500 $2600-4200 $3400-5400+ N/A N/A Chevy Chase, Silver Spring $1800-2600 $2400-4000 $2900-4200 N/A N/A Bethesda $1700-2900 $2100-3700 $3000-4800 N/A N/A Gaithersburg $1600-2200 $2000-3000 $2600-3200 N/A N/A Unfurnished House 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom 5 Bedroom Downtown D.C. N/A N/A $4500-6000+ $6200-7900+ $6800-9000+ Chevy Chase, Silver Spring N/A N/A $3600-5000+ $4000-5500+ $5000-8000+ Bethesda N/A N/A $3300-4500 $3600-5200 $5000-7000+ Gaithersburg N/A N/A $3200-4200 $3700-5000+ $4000-6000+

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Washington, D.C. – Area Guide

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Downtown Neighborhoods Adams Morgan Location and Culture

With a never-sleep vibe, Adams Morgan is one of D.C.’s most culturally diverse areas with a real international flair. Its mix of ethnic restaurants and popular bars keep the main street area of Columbia Road busy on most nights. This area attracts young professionals, families and retirees, creating a diverse neighborhood both ethnically and demographically. The blending of many cultures makes this a hotspot for good cuisine and new experiences in bars, food trucks, and boutiques. Because of this area’s steady popularity, there are plenty of new and old apartment buildings in addition to row houses off the main streets of 18th Street and Columbia Road. Housing Housing in the area is mostly Federal style architecture with most homes sporting simple lines, limited details, and bold colors. There are eclectic single-family homes and apartments are available for rent, in addition to newer apartment District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) are one of the many options for education inside D.C. DCPS offers public education from kindergarten through 12th grade based on location and education through the city’s more than 52 public charter schools. There are also approximately 92 private schools, which provide many residents with an appealing alternative to public school education. Activities and Landmarks Madams Organ Blues Bar is a local hotspot with a long reputation as a fun gathering place. It contains a huge mural of the Madam on the building and a maze of floors for visitors to explore. complexes. Schooling

The neighborhood has its own heritage trail that you can follow to learn the colorful history of the area. Adams Morgan’s great location also makes it easy to travel to other areas of town for entertainment. Locals can often be found out and about on weekend nights grabbing dinner or drinks with friends. Lots of little pocket restaurants offering outdoor seating in the warmer months are scattered all over the neighborhood with many bars and pubs for a relaxing night with friends. + 18th & U + Meze Restaurant + Bar Charley + Mellow Mushroom Pizzeria + The Diner + Grand Duchess

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Washington, D.C. – Area Guide

Capitol Hill Location and Culture

Georgetown Location and Culture

Capitol Hill is generally a quiet area with many young families. It is within walking distance to restaurants, shops, bars and parks with great public transportation. There are many row houses converted to apartments in this area with Victorian homes scattered throughout, dating back to the first days of Washington D.C. Housing Homes in Capitol Hill are some of the best examples of all architecture types in D.C. There is a good mix of Federal, Georgian, and Victorian style architecture that get more detailed in style, respectively. Most homes are tall and deep, often built right next to one another. Painting each one a different color is a popular way to set each house apart and bring color to the neighborhood Sports and Outdoors Full of little neighborhood parks and nice walks, Capitol Hill offers residents many ways to stay active. With the William H. Rumsey Aquatic Center close by for a quick swim and Bikeshare in the neighborhood, fitting in that work out is easy. Activities and Landmarks The US Capitol can be seen from many surrounding streets, and the Library of Congress is in the neighborhood too! One of the area’s unique gems is the Eastern Market . Selling everything from food and produce to clothing, artwork and home goods at their weekend flea market, there is something for everyone to explore. For even more shopping, head over to Barracks Row which has pet shops, antiques, vintage clothing and more!

Nestled along the Potomac River and the canal, Georgetown is an 18th century sea port that morphed into an enclave of tree-lined neighborhoods and upscale boutiques, restaurants and bars. Some of the best shopping is in this area on Wisconsin Avenue and M Street as great shops and restaurants creep into the lovely neighborhoods for a block or two. Enjoy the picturesque row houses, single-family homes, and shopping in a neighborhood with a youthful, upscale feel thanks to Georgetown University and the neighborhood’s chic residents. Housing Homes in Georgetown are typically single-family houses or larger homes that have been turned into two to four unit apartments. Some are lucky enough to have small backyards to make it seem like you are further from the big city. Most homes are often Georgian or Federal architecturally and give the neighborhood its unique and historic feel. Closer to the river, you get a more modern feel with larger and new apartments available. Activities and Landmarks Combining history and beautiful views of the Potomac, Georgetown is full of landmarks like Georgetown University and relaxing spots on the water. Running and hiking along the Canal is very popular with residents and visitors, as well as kayaking or canoeing along the Potomac. Georgetown is full of nightlife and entertainment. With lots of bars, restaurants, venues like Mr. Smith's Piano Bar , there is always something going on. Dumbarton Oaks Museum is a nod to the Byzantine and Pre-Columbian periods of art at a gallery surrounded by beautiful gardens.

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Washington, D.C. – Area Guide

Maryland Suburbs Silver Spring Location

Chevy Chase Location

A popular suburb immediately north of D.C. is Silver Spring, which boasts easy access to parks and transportation, including the Metro. The downtown area has been totally revitalized to be a walkable city center. All around this city center there are apartments and single-family homes for rent and purchase. As its own city all of its amenities are a draw for young professionals and young families, but its location right outside of DC makes it a great location. Housing Simple, yet comfortable homes are the norm for Silver Spring, and the area often brings to mind the friendly suburban neighborhoods of the past century. Apartments and rentals are abundant in Silver Spring making this a great location for young professionals. There are all sorts of apartment options such as high-rises, small three-to-four story complexes, and larger apartment communities. Schooling Silver Spring is part of the large Montgomery County Public School System , but schools in Silver Springs have a larger disparity in rankings. Depending on preference, some residents chose to send their children to one of the many private schools in the area. Activities and Landmarks With so many indoor and outdoor options in the area, there are all kinds of fun activities to enjoy. Rock Creek Park and Sligo Creek Park have bike and walking trails with picnic areas along the paths. The Fillmore offers live entertainment and music, and the Silver Spring Jazz Festival attracts a variety of musical acts every autumn season. The AFI Cultural Center and its movie theater also provide an endless supply of entertainment.

Chevy Chase has a very small-town feel with a mix of young and old families. Though popular with families, there are apartment buildings and condominiums located along Connecticut Avenue. This area also includes shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It is nicely positioned with proximity to major roadways and transportation into D.C. if you are looking for calm outside the city. It is a great place to start and settle-into for years to come. Housing Chevy Chase offers a variety of housing options. Apartments are common and offer residents great amenities and proximity to town, while homes in Chevy Chase are often traditional and stately. Tree- lined streets are common in Chevy Chase and many homes come with great yards for kids to play in.

Schooling Part of the Montgomery County School District , Chevy Chase is home to two public schools, but residents attend schools in the surrounding areas. Public schools in Montgomery County have a great reputation, creating an excellent option for families.

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Washington, D.C. – Area Guide

Bethesda, MD Location

Gaithersburg, MD Location

Bethesda is a vibrant neighborhood located right next to D.C. with an array of retail stores and markets along Wisconsin Avenue. Many businesses settled here because of metro access and a Downtown that is home to NIH Medical Center and Walter Reed. It's mostly popular with young professionals and young families with children because neighborhoods sport houses and apartment buildings as well as some town homes. The real draw is you can walk to grocery, entertainment, transportation, etc. from most neighborhoods in Bethesda within 15 minutes. Housing Homes in Bethesda are often very traditional and simple, with clean lines and stonewalls. Over the years, many homes have included additions remodels to create the mix of homes you see today. Bethesda is also home to quite a few apartment complexes. Schooling Bethesda public education is provided by the Montgomery Country Public School System for grades K-12. Schools in the Bethesda area are highly ranked and boast an excellent college enrollment rate. Residents also have their pick of close-by private schools to choose from. Activities and Landmarks The major medical centers in the city are what have made Bethesda a popular location, but the downtown area is the talk of the town with great shopping, restaurants, and bars. There are also several gyms and studios in the area. The Capital Crescent Trial runs through the city and goes from Silver Spring to Georgetown. You can bike, roller blade, run or walk it. + The Strathmore Music Hall + Round House Theatre + Bethesda Farm Women’s Market

With roughly 67,000 residents, the City of Gaithersburg is one of the largest cities in Maryland, located northwest of D.C. in Montgomery County. It is divided into east and west sections, separated by Interstate 270. The eastern section of the city is older and is the original portion of the town before more recent growth. The western side has undergone significant urbanization, with several newer developments including the Kentlands and Lakelands communities. Schooling As part of the Montgomery County School District, Gaithersburg offers parents a wide range of quality choice for their children. There are 25 public schools within the city of Gaithersburg, several of which have received high ratings, and another 30 private schools ranging from elementary through high school. Activities and Landmarks The RIO Washingtonian Center is a popular shopping and business district, and the primary attraction in town. Other top dining and entertainment options include: + Gaithersburg Community Museum + Arts on the Green + Copper Canyon Grill + Coastal Flats

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Washington, D.C. – Area Guide

Transportation Options Major D.C. Highways and Roads Highways and Roads

Public Transportation Rail and Bus

+ METRORAIL (Subway) and METROBUS: A stress- free way to get around the D.C. metro area. You can explore the city and its Virginia and Maryland suburbs without the hassles of traffic and parking, or the expense of gas. The website links you to rail and bus information. - New to Metro : Your Dwellworks consultant can help you get acquainted with the Metro system. This website is also a helpful resource for those new to this mass transit system. + SmarTrip® : A permanent, rechargeable farecard. It's plastic, like a credit card, and is embedded with a special computer chip that keeps track of the value of the card. + Buses: There are several transportation systems that allows D.C. residents to travel by bus for easy and cheap. It is mostly used to go to New York City. For schedules and fees, please find the websites below:

D.C. is divided into four quadrants – northwest, southwest, northeast, and southeast. The alphabetized streets move east and west, beginning with A Street on both sides of East Capitol Street, moving outward. The numbered streets move north and south, beginning with 1st Street on either side of North and South Capitol Streets. + I-495: The Capital Beltway , encircles the city with a 10- mile radius of downtown. + I-95: Becomes part of the Beltway on the east, joining I-395 south of the Beltway and continuing north. + I-395: One of the main roads into the city from the south, crossing the Potomac River. + I-295: A major highway running north-south inside the Beltway, through the east side of the city.

- www.boltbus.com - www.dc2ny.com - www.vamoosebus.com - www.megabus.com

Taxis + www.commuterpage.com/taxi.htm : Taxis are often an important link for people who carpool or use public transportation. The website provides links to companies in virginia, D.C., and Maryland, as well as companies that specialize in airport service. Uber and Lyft are widely available.

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Washington, D.C. – Area Guide

© 2020 Dwellworks, LLC The information contained in this publication is provided by Dwellworks, LLC (the “Company”) and should be used for general informational purposes only. The information within this publication is property of Dwellworks and may not be modified, reproduced, sold, or otherwise distributed without the express written consent of the Company. Page | 8

Washington, D.C. – Area Guide