Washington D.C. is the center of American politics. Steeped in history and marked with importance, it's grand monuments and majestic spaces are enough to make you swell with pride - even more so when the sunset casts vibrant colors across the sky.
From national parks to national landmarks and nationally-ranked restaurants, DC offers an impressive array of sunset watching spots. Cotton candy skies come to life every evening, and we scoured the city to find the best vantage points. Whether by the water or in the sky, at the dinner table or front row at a show, these are the best places to watch the sunset in D.C.
See also: Top 9 Places to Watch the Sunset in Boston
Lincoln Memorial
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2 Lincoln Memorial Circle Northwest / Website
Arguably one of the most Instagrammable spots in D.C., the Lincoln Memorial offers spectacular views of the sunset along with heavy historical atmoshpere. Relax on the granite steps and enjoy the multicolored skies as they shift behind the Washington Monument. Take a stroll along the water’s edge of the National Mall and catch the colors as they reflect in the pool. Truly, it's one of the most comprehensive outlooks on D.C.’s finest landmarks.
Jefferson Memorial
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16 East Basin Drive Southwest / Website
One of the most awe-inspiring monuments in the District, the stone inscriptions hit different backed by the stunning sky. The view is great from the steps and along the Tidal Basin. The water’s surface reflects the bright sun and pastel-painted skies for a picturesque night you won't soon forget.
Cantina Bambina
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960 Wharf St SW, cantinabambina.com
Dig into delicious quesadillas and sip on a margarita or two as the sky bursts with colors. This two-story waterfront restaurant is unbeatable for its pizza, snacks and cocktails paired with an unobstructed views of the horizon. Celebrate another day in the land of the free and toast the sun to sleep.
See also: Top 10 Places to Watch the Sunset in Philadelphia
Georgetown Waterfront Park
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3303 Water Street Northwest / Website
Stretching along the banks of the Potomac river, this national park was completed in 2011 and has since become a favorite for sunset gazers across the city. From here, you’ll enjoy views of the Rosslyn skyline and the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Walk along the water’s edge and enjoy the sky’s shifting hues with an eye-full of the city to boot.
W Hotel
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515 15th Street Northwest / Website
The W Hotel’s rooftop bar offers unbelievable views of D.C. landmarks and of course, D.C. sunsets. This is this the spot for a chance to photograph the colorful skies from above. Visible landmarks include the White House and the Washington Monument.
John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
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2700 F Street Northwest / Website
After enjoying the free performance at the Millenium Stage (presented each evening at 6 p.m.), climb to the roof for a second show presented by Mother Nature. Balcony views overlook the city and its famous sites. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the Potomac, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
Photography by:
SAUL LOEB
