Top 5: Neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

The administration that took over in 2008 turned Washington, D.C., on its head, bringing hip new chefs, innovative developers and forward-thinking millennials to the city, all eager to make a contribution to the country’s growth. As such, formerly dilapidated neighborhoods underwent serious facelifts and now breed a new generation of foodies and small business owners. Here are a few of D.C.’s newest neighborhoods to sprout the city’s best food, shopping and social scenes.

Logan Circle

The 14th-Street corridor saw massive growth within the past 10 years, but has since leveled off. However, it’s still a hot strip to visit for delectable dining options and specialty bars like Black Whiskey and Pearl Dive Oyster Bar.

Shaw

Bordering one of the District’s most sought-after neighborhoods (Logan Circle), Shaw is a more affordable alternative with a more friendly, accessible feel. A melting pot of residents range from young parents to millennials to the elderly, who have inhabited the ‘hood long before trendy restaurants and pubs made their debuts.

Southwest Waterfront

With the opening of a new retail- and restaurant-heavy District Wharf, Southwest has become a desirable neighborhood in which to spend lazy Sundays strolling the shops and gorging on bottomless brunches.

Columbia Heights/Petworth

Formerly considered a hipster neighborhood, Columbia Heights and Petworth welcomed a slew of first-time homebuyers who crave a suburban feel in the center of D.C.

Brookland/Edgewood

Riddled with crime once upon a time, this Northeast neighborhood underwent a visible transformation and saw growth in the interest of homebuyers. Historic row houses line the pedestrian-friendly streets, and Brookland’s Metro station-adjacent complex, The Arts Walk, features a neighborhood pub, art gallery and the American Poetry Museum.