Lafayette Square: A Historic Haven in the Heart of Washington, D.C.
Discover the charm and history of Lafayette Square, a beautiful park adjacent to the White House, perfect for relaxation and exploration in D.C.
Lafayette Square is a picturesque park located in the heart of Washington, D.C., adjacent to the White House. This historic square is a must-visit for tourists, offering beautiful landscapes, monuments, and a vibrant atmosphere infused with history. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll, capturing stunning photographs, or simply relaxing on a bench with a view of the iconic White House, Lafayette Square represents the perfect blend of nature and culture in the nation's capital.
A brief summary to Lafayette Square
- Pennsylvania Ave NW &, 16th St NW, Washington, Northwest Washington, DC, 20001, US
- +1202-619-6344
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch in the park while taking in the historic views.
- Check out the various events and exhibitions that often take place in the square.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the area around Lafayette Square can involve a lot of walking.
- Don't forget to visit the nearby cafes for a delicious coffee or snack after your visit.
Getting There
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Metro
From your location in Silver Spring, walk to the Silver Spring Metro Station located at 8400 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Take the Red Line towards Glenmont. Stay on the train for approximately 15 minutes and get off at the Farragut North Metro Station. Exit the station and walk south on 17th St NW for 2 blocks until you reach Pennsylvania Ave NW. Lafayette Square will be directly ahead on your left.
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Bus
Walk to the nearest bus stop at Colesville Rd and Fenton St. Take the Ride On bus Route 1 towards the Silver Spring Metro Station. After about 10 minutes, get off at the stop for the Metro station. From there, take the Red Line towards Glenmont and ride for 15 minutes to Farragut North Metro Station. Exit and walk south on 17th St NW for 2 blocks until you reach Pennsylvania Ave NW. Lafayette Square will be on your left.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from downtown Silver Spring and head south on Georgia Ave. Continue straight for about a mile until you reach the intersection with Pennsylvania Ave NW. Turn left and walk east for another mile until you reach Lafayette Square, which will be on your right just before you reach 16th St NW.
Discover more about Lafayette Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
General Andrew Jackson Statue
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The White House
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Decatur House
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US Treasury Department
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Eisenhower Executive Office Building
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William Tecumseh Sherman Monument
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Zero Milestone
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World War I Memorial
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1250 New York Ave NW
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One Freedom Plaza
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Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church
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The Lockkeeper's House
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General José Gervasio Artigas Statue
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Old Post Office Pavilion
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Ford's Theatre National Historic Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
St. John's, Lafayette Square
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Blair House
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Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum
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McPherson Square
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Farragut Square
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Sam & Sal Tours
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National Christmas Tree
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Corcoran School of the Arts & Design at GW
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White House Visitor Center
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The Octagon Museum
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The Ellipse
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National Theatre DC
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National Museum of Women in the Arts
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Essential places to dine
Salt
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Barley Mac
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Quarterdeck
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Inca Social
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Mele Bistro
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Guerra Steakhouse
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Rhodeside Grill
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
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Ragtime Restaurant
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Fire Works Pizza
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Epic Smokehouse
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El Fuego Peruvian Kitchen
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Buena Vida Gastrolounge
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Maison Cheryl
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Texas Jack’s Barbecue
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White House Gifts
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Chesapeake And Ohio Canal Historical Park In Georgetown
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Lock 4
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Urban Dwell
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A Mano, Inc.
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NT Souvenir Wholesale
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Fort America Pentagon
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Colonial Village Shopping Center
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Arlington Courthouse Plz 1 & 2
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Pinktini Fashion Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Continental Pool Lounge
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QUINN'S
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Courthaus Social
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Verre Wine Bar
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Galaxy Hut
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BABA
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Screwtop Wine Bar
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Ms. Peacock's Champagne Lounge
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Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant
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Spider Kelly's
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O'Sullivan's Irish Pub
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L.A. Bar & Grill
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First Down Sports Bar & Grill
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WHINO
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