An Insider’s Look at the Best Things to Do in Logan Circle

Logan Circle was once a place that hardly made a blip on most people's radars, but that has rapidly changed. Now, in many ways, it’s the heart of the city — the place where people go to see, experience, and share life in Washington, D.C.

At night, it has some of the best restaurants and most popular bars in D.C. By day, you can’t beat the convenience of gyms, workout studios, and groceries right outside your door. When you factor in the actual circle — which has become a nexus for picnics and dog walking — it’s clear Logan Circle belongs in the company of the Eastern Seaboard’s great urban hubs.

History lends us an invaluable perspective, and you can always share what you learn after visiting historical sites. Logan Circle, a neighborhood that dates back to the 19th century, continues to pay homage to its past.

 

One spot that will delight the history buffs among us is the Logan Circle Heritage Trail. The trail is a living tribute to Logan Circle’s history. Visitors can take a two-hour self-guided tour through some of the historic homes and other buildings that dot the Logan Circle landscape. Landmarks that you will want to experience include the Whitman-Walker Clinic and Automobile Row.

 

 

Logan Circle gets its name from a traffic circle with a beautiful park in the middle that has become wildly popular with families and those out for a walk with their dogs. Once you’re done with your picnic in the circle, walk the streets. Many 19th-century Victorian and Richardsonian homes surround the area, so you will always have something interesting in view.

Visitors to Logan Circle won't be able to miss the giant statue of General John A. Logan that is directly in the middle of this park. It was first erected in 1901 in memory of the long-time Congressman, Senator, and Union General in the Civil War. It is in large part due to the efforts of General Logan that the nation now celebrates Memorial Day every year.

After a long day, some people just want to return to their homes, but others are interested in getting out and seeing what the neighborhood has to offer. If you are in the latter group, then you won't be disappointed once you have had the chance to check out the Logan Circle community.

After a long day of checking out the numerous historical sites in your neighborhood, you might want to kick back and enjoy the nightlife. If that sounds like you, then check out the Black Cat. This club is famous for its diverse line-up of musical talent that performs on a nightly basis.

Another fun event in Logan Circle is improv at the Source Theater. Who doesn't love to cut loose and have a laugh from time to time? Let the tensions of your busy week diffuse as you step into the Source Theater and enjoy some of the best comedians giving it their all in an improv performance. Laughter might be exactly what you need after a long day, and any improv player will attest it can be fun to try something new.

 

Speaking of theater, why not step into the Studio Theater and enjoy some of the latest and greatest performances? Performers from around the country come in to do shows at this theater, so you are truly being treated to the highest caliber of talent and performances.

While you are in Logan Circle, you can't miss out on some of the most delightful food and beverage locations. Visitors love sampling all of the local favorites, and there’s usually a new restaurant on the block. There will always be a debate about where the best spots are, but there is some consensus that the following locations are pretty close to the top of the pack.

 

Cork Wine Bar and Market has the word "wine" in their name, and yes, you can choose from many fine bottles of wine while here. You might also want to treat yourself to some of their wonderful cheese offerings in the market section. They also serve award-winning chicken by the bucket, making it the perfect meal to take over to Logan Circle park for a nice afternoon out.

One of the most interesting things about the Cork Wine Bar and Market is that they are perhaps the place where the avocado toast craze got started. They have sold some 70,000 avocado toast dishes in the last eight years (since they’re closed Mondays, that's about 28 avocado toast dishes every day on average!).

MAIZ64 is one of several ethnic restaurants along eclectic 14th St. Its owners describe MAIZ64 as a modern homage to authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu here boasts a seasonal ceviche and raw bar; steak or broccoli tacos; and savory entrees such as Chile relleno de Mariscos (stuffed green pepper). MAIZ64 also serves brunch and a rotating roster of homemade cocktails.

Further north on 14th St. is BRESCA, a playful bistro serving fresh takes on French cuisine. More specifically, head chef Ryan Ratino applies French cooking techniques to prime and fresh ingredients sourced from the mid-Atlantic region and abroad. Its relaxed environment belies the supreme quality of the food and cocktails at BRESCA (the restaurant earned a Michelin star in 2019, 2020, and 2021).

The bustling neighborhood of Logan Circle boasts stylish shops and trendy boutiques. You’ll find what you need in shops ranging from quality brands like West Elm to antique stores for one-of-a-kind purchases.

 

14th St. is the epicenter of Logan Square’s shopping scene. In addition to numerous home goods and boutique clothing stores, the district is home to Filson, the famed outdoorsy retailer founded in the 19th century; Cork & Fork, a global wine store offering tastings and classes; and cosmetics chains SEPHORA and Blue Mercury.

Residents of Logan Circle should be the ones who are in the know when it comes to the hidden gems of their neighborhood. When out-of-town guests come in to visit, these are the places that Logan Circle residents should take them to.

 

The National City Christian Church is a few blocks southwest of the Logan Circle roundabout. It has served as the house of worship for two Presidents, Garfield and Johnson, and it even had the honor of holding the state funeral for LBJ back in 1973. It is a peaceful place where one can take some time out. The sweet sounds of church organ pipes are often heard all throughout this church, which adds to this church’s aura.

 

 

The Old Korean Legation Museum is under the control of the South Korean government, but it has been in much dispute over the centuries, and there is a lot of history contained within these walls. It’s a wonderful place to learn a little more about the history of Logan Circle.

If you want to make Logan Circle your home, reach out to Homaira Karimi. She’s the top real estate agent in D.C., always looking to help buyers, and delivers significant local expertise in neighborhoods like Logan Circle. Contact Homaira today and take the next step to luxury living in D.C.