Lafayette Square: A Historic Oasis in the Heart of Washington, D.C.
Discover Lafayette Square, a historic park in Washington, D.C. with stunning views of the White House and rich cultural significance.
Lafayette Square is a picturesque park located just steps from the White House, offering visitors a serene retreat amidst the vibrant energy of Washington, D.C. Renowned for its historic significance and stunning views, this park is a must-visit for tourists seeking a blend of nature and culture.
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 quieter experience and beautiful morning light for photography.
- Check the local events calendar for any special activities or performances taking place in the square.
- Bring a blanket and pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas of the park.
- Don't forget to explore the nearby historic sites and buildings that enrich the experience of your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
From Waldorf, head to the nearest bus stop at the Waldorf Marketplace. Board the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) Route 34 bus towards Washington, DC. Stay on the bus for approximately 45 minutes, and disembark at the 'L' Enfant Plaza' station. From there, transfer to the Metro subway system by following the signs to the 'Blue, Orange, or Yellow Line'. Take the train towards 'Gallery Place' and get off at 'Farragut West' station. Once you exit the station, walk northeast on 17th St NW towards Pennsylvania Ave NW, then turn left onto Pennsylvania Ave NW. Lafayette Square will be on your right, just across from the White House.
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Metro
Take the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) Route 34 bus from Waldorf to the 'L' Enfant Plaza' Metro station. Once you arrive at 'L' Enfant Plaza', follow the signs to the Metro. Board the Blue, Orange or Yellow Line train heading towards 'Gallery Place'. Get off at 'Farragut West' station. After leaving the station, walk northeast on 17th St NW towards Pennsylvania Ave NW, and then turn left onto Pennsylvania Ave NW. Lafayette Square is located on your right.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route and don't mind spending a little more, you can call a taxi or use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply provide the driver with the address: Pennsylvania Ave NW &, 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20001. The drive from Waldorf to Lafayette Square typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
If you enjoy cycling, consider renting a bike. Start at the Waldorf area and follow the bike paths leading towards Washington, DC. You can use the Southern Avenue pathway, then connect to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Continue heading north until you reach the National Mall area in downtown DC. From the National Mall, make your way towards the White House, and Lafayette Square will be just across the street.
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
0.3 km
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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
0.5 km
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The Octagon Museum
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The Ellipse
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National Theatre DC
0.6 km
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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
3.9 km
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
4.0 km
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Ragtime Restaurant
4.2 km
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Fire Works Pizza
4.5 km
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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
0.3 km
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Chesapeake And Ohio Canal Historical Park In Georgetown
2.1 km
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Lock 4
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Urban Dwell
2.6 km
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A Mano, Inc.
2.9 km
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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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francesca's
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Storytellerz Boutique
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Stars and Stripes Washington DC Souvenir Store
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Westpost at National Landing
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Fashion Centre at Pentagon City
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tiki TNT & Potomac Distilling Company
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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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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The M Club Lounge
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Cloud Lounge
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Crystal City Restaurant - Gentleman's Club
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The Flirt Lounge
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Clarendon Ballroom
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Darna
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Shadows Private Club 2.0
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Diversity Hooka lounge
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@ LOUNGE
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Gee's Lounge
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Coco Cabana
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Evangadi sports bar
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Diva lounge
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Bethesda Theater
11.0 km
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Replay at Pose Rooftop Lounge
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