A New Resident’s Guide to Living in D.C.
Welcome to Washington, D.C! Moving to a new city is an exciting life event and we’d love to help with some tips for navigating the city that we call home.
Along with choosing a place to live, you’ll also need to scout out pet-friendly spots to explore with your pup, some tips on the go-to restaurants and shops, and resources for staying informed. To help ease this transition and your move to the District, we’ve curated our top recommendations for where to live, shop, and enjoy life as a new resident.
Staying Connected + Informed
Wondering how to stay up to date with local news and events? Washingtonian and DCist are helpful sources for keeping up with all that is happening in the District. For insider information on neighborhoods, DC news and more, PoPville will be your go-to source and Modern Luxury will keep you updated on happenings, style, and dining. Food aficionados should be sure to follow @eatdrinkdc and @dcfoodporn on Instagram for the latest restaurant openings and eatery content. Edible DC and Eater DC are also valuable resources for recommendations and information about the D.C. culinary scene. If you appreciate architecture and beautiful urban landscape photography, @igdc and @walkwithlocals are worth a follow to see amazing images of the city.
The Neighborhood
Living in Southwest Waterfront D.C. means having some of the city’s best restaurants, entertainment, and historic landmarks nearby. Situated adjacent to the National Mall and District Wharf, 1331 is in the center of many exciting events. From the famous Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring to live music at the Wharf, there’s always an enjoyable experience close by.
Getting Around
Car, plane, Metro, scooter—there’s no shortage of transportation methods in the District. The Metro is a convenient way to commute to work and get around the city. The closest station to 1331 is L’Enfant Plaza at a seven-minute walk away. For rideshare services, Uber, Lyft and Via are popular for easily getting to where you need to go. D.C is also very walkable and bike friendly. Capital Bikeshare has over 500 stations across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, providing an enjoyable way to see the city. The closest bike station is just a five-minute walk away from 1331 at 12th& C Street NW. Need to travel out of town by plane or train? 1331’s location is only a short car ride away to both Reagan National Airport and Union Station.
Shopping + Grocery
Whether you’re looking for something to wear for a special event or new décor to spruce up your home, there are endless places to shop throughout the city. You can find all of your favorite luxury retailers at CityCenterDC. Take a stroll down the bustling 14th street and you’ll find unique boutiques nestled between popular restaurants and cocktail bars for when you need a shopping break. The shopping district in Georgetown is home to many popular stores including West Elm, J.Crew, and Apple. In Penn Quarter you’ll find stores like Zara, Macy’s, Anthropologie, and a seasonal Holiday Market. District Wharf also offers a unique waterfront shopping experience with stores like Shop Made in DC and local artist Maggie O’Neill’s studio and showroom.
When it comes to grocery shopping, you’ll find plenty of Whole Foods locations that also offer convenient delivery through Amazon. Safeway on 4th Street SW is also only a short walk away from 1331. Streets Market and Union Kitchen are other options that offer healthy and delicious locally-made products. Grocery delivery from Instacart is available for stores like Harris Teeter, Costco, and Wegman’s.
Leisure + Entertainment
Live music, art, history and culture-filled museums, and tranquil nature – you can find it all in D.C.
For music fans, we recommend catching a show at The Anthem or Pearl Street Warehouse. History buffs will love spending the day at the National Mall. Filled with monuments and museums, there’s always something to learn or see. Our favorites are the Hirshhorn for modern, contemporary art and the National Gallery of Art for a collection of pieces dating back to the Middle Ages.
When you’re in need for a nearby escape to nature, The National Arboretum, Rock Creek Park, and Meridian Hill Park are waiting filled with greenery and trails to explore. When the weather is nice, kayaking on the Potomac River or paddle boating on the Tidal Basin are two ways to enjoy a day on the water.
Pet Owner Tips
D.C. is full of parks, outdoor spaces and dog-friendly patios that are ready to welcome you and your furriends. When your dog is in need of a space to run around and meet new friends, we recommend S Street Dog Park, Yards Park Dog Park, or the National Arboretum. The National Mall and Tidal Basin are also great places to enjoy a scenic walk with your pup.
Bring them along to happy hour at The Salt Line, Kafe Leopold, or Dacha Beer Garden. Along with amazing food and drinks, all three have dog-friendly patios.
Pets can also stay happy and healthy right from their own home at 1331’s dog run and fully-fitted grooming station.
Health + Wellness
Mandarin Oriental is the ideal place for relaxation, where residents of 1331 can enjoy access to their five-star spa and fitness center. 1331 Sky Suites residents receive elevated access to the Mandarin and an additional selection of personalized services. The infinity pool on the rooftop of 1331 also provides a serene place for rest surrounded by spectacular views of the Tidal Basin.
Keeping up with your fitness routine is easy in 1331’s 4,000 SF Fitness Center. Fully equipped with Peloton Bikes and custom fitness classes, you’ll have a variety of workout options to choose from. Our 360-degree rooftop Sky Walk is another place you can get your steps in while taking in views of the Jefferson Memorial, Tidal Basin, Washington Monument, and other landmarks.
There are many running routes throughout the city, with the nearby Tidal Basin being scenic spot to run surrounded by monument views. For cyclists, we recommend checking out the Capital Crescent Trail, C&O Canal, or Mount Vernon Trail to bike alongside the Potomac River.
If you are looking for group fitness classes, Orange Theory, [solidcore], and Equinox all have locations in close proximity to 1331. On days you need to find some zen, we recommend a yoga class at District Flow Yoga.
Team sports fans can find community in one of D.C.’s many social sports leagues. DC Fray and Volo City have a variety of leagues from volleyball to bocce that offer a way to meet new people and compete all over the city.
D.C. is an exciting place to call home. Full of incredible history and culture, you can always find something exciting to do or see. 1331’s prize location puts residents at the center of the city, with convenient access to transportation, restaurants, and museums. Residents of 1331 can enjoy a rich recreational and social life without ever leaving the building with exclusive amenities including an infinity pool, library, rooftop lounge, fitness center, and access to the Mandarin Oriental hotel. From studios to three-bedrooms, we have a variety of floor plans to fit every lifestyle.
Discover our available floor plans and lease your new home today.