John MacArthur

If you are wondering, what makes the area “vibrant”, the rich history of the neighborhood may be a clue. Long home to immigrant communities from Africa, Asia, South and Central America, Adams Morgan is a global village in the heart of the city where restaurants serve cuisine from all around the world and where DC residents go to let their hair down. You can catch live music most nights of the week throughout the neighborhood and find cheap eats and white tablecloth restaurants for all tastes and pocketbooks. There are also many locally owned shopping gems with unique clothing, jewelry, art, furniture and household goods.

The area is a cultural smorgasbord. As mentioned, you can enjoy cuisine from all over the world, visit art galleries featuring local artist as well as work created across the globe. Catch live bluegrass on Wednesday nights at Madam’s Organ or swing by Habana Village to show off your salsa moves (or take a free lesson). Join in the neighborhood’s signature events, including Adams Morgan Day (Sept.), Crafty Bastards (fall) and Festivus (winter).

I love Adams Morgan. It was my childhood home. Visiting there today, I find the same wonderful melting pot that existed when I was a boy. It is a walk-able neighborhood. Sidewalks carry you beneath old oaks as you pass by some of the finest old architecture found anywhere in the area. Yes, it is quite possible to live here and take a short hike to the Metro stop in Dupont Circle or the stop near the zoo. There are zip car stations and capital bike share stations close by as well. The commercial routes provide a framework for a true neighborhood experience.

Adams Morgan compares favorably with the U Street Corridor, NOMA and H St NE