Dupont Circle/Kalorama

Where: Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire Avenues, at P and 19th Streets

What’s in a name: The Circle is named in honor of Civil War naval hero, Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Dupont.

Thumbnail: Bistros, bars and boutiques line the streets that come together at Dupont Circle, the meeting place for this cosmopolitan neighborhood. The largest concentration of international embassies sits just northwest of the circle, giving the neighborhood an extra dash of global flavor. Arts and entertainment collide with restaurants, shops, hotels, quaint B&Bs, galleries and museums (The Phillips Collection, The Textile Museum, Woodrow Wilson House and National Geographic Society’s Explorers Hall to name a few).

Calling Cards: Join in a pick-up game of chess in the Circle, or people-watch as locals roll past on bicycles or stroll past with dogs. Stop by the neighborhood farmer’s market on Sunday for fresh local produce and cooking demonstrations by local chefs. Try the popcorn shrimp and fried clams at Hank’s Oyster Bar or choose from the world’s largest selection of beers at The Brickskeller. View breathtaking art in an intimate setting at The Phillips Collection.

Getting there: Take Metro to Dupont Circle.