12 Best Washington DC Bars, from Rooftops to Political Hangouts
Ready for a night out in DC that’s full of craft cocktails and unbeatable views? These are the best bars in Washington DC.
I love bar-hopping in Washington DC because there are so many different options. Whether you want a rooftop with a view (my personal favorite), a luxe spot for the political elite, or a classy hotel lounge, you’re going to love these fantastic Washington DC bars.
Top Bars in Washington DC
1. Round Robin Bar
The Round Robin Bar at the Willard Hotel is steeped in history and political lore. This historic bar has been a legendary gathering place for DC’s power players for over a century.
The circular mahogany bar at the center of the room gives the venue it’s name. The entire place has a rich, cigar-lounge ambiance of dark wood paneling and leather seating. Portraits of notable past visitors line the walls and peer down at you.
The bar’s signature drink, the Mint Julep, traces its DC origins to Senator Henry Clay, who is said to have introduced it to the capital right here. And if you believe the rumors, there’s even a chair bearing a cigar burn from President Ulysses S. Grant himself.
Get the Mint Julep or a classic Martini made to your liking. From their signature cocktails, I recommend the Bee’s Knees or the Rum Passion.
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
2. Off The Record
Off The Record is tucked away beneath The Hay-Adams, a sultry, subterranean hideaway where DC’s insiders gather for discreet conversations over expertly crafted cocktails.
Known as “the place to be seen but not heard” and decorated with red-and-black décor sharp-witted political cartoons, this bar feels like a secret clubhouse for political junkies. Their signature touch? The collectible coasters featuring caricatures of DC’s most powerful figures — see if you can score your favorites.
Get a classic cocktail like flawlessly executed a Martini or an Old Fashioned, or go for one of their specialty cocktails. I recommend the Blue Wave Sparkling Cocktail or the Classic Pear Martini.
800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006
3. Bar Pendry
Bar Pendry is an intimate spot located in the lobby of the Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf.
With its moody, dark velvet interiors, this is a sleek and sexy place to meet up for afternoon drinks — they even have their own boozy twist on afternoon tea.
They have a rotating menu of inventive hand-crafted cocktails. I recommend their Paloma or the Don’t You Pear!
655 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024
4. Hi-Lawn
Hi-Lawn is a fun and laid-back rooftop bar on top of the Union Market. This is one of DC’s most expansive rooftops, and there’s plenty of drinking, outdoor dining, and greenspace for socializing.
Grab a draft cocktail or an adult juice pouch punch, a craft beer, spiked seltzer, or a glass of wine and enjoy your drink at a colorful picnic table under a patio umbrella.
I recommend their Strawberry Fields Mojito, the Hi-Waiian Punch, or the Berry and Soda.
1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
5. Kirwan’s on The Wharf
Kirwan’s on the Wharf is an Irish pub located along the waterfront beneath the Hyatt House Washington DC / The Wharf.
The Wharf, once home to a thriving Irish immigrant community, is the perfect setting for this cozy-yet-lively spot. True to its Irish heritage, Kirwan’s has a drink menu of premium whiskey, high-end beers, and creative signature cocktails.
A whiskey flight is a great way to try a few. For the signature cocktails, I recommend the Róisín Corcra (Violet Rose) or the Galway Girl.
749 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
6. Hank’s Oyster Bar
Hank’s Oyster Bar has been a DC staple since 2005. They bring a laid-back yet elevated seafood experience to two prime locations—Dupont Circle and The Wharf. It’s not only one of the best bars in Washington DC, but it’s one of the city’s best restaurants too.
I’m a big fan of the location at The Wharf because their no-fuss coastal flavors fit right in at their waterfront location.
I recommend trying out their house cocktails, which rotate seasonally, like the Love Me Some Lavender and the Apple & Eve. And during cherry blossom season, they have some great Japanese-inspired specials.
The Wharf: 701 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Dupont Circle: 1624 Q St NW STE 100, Washington, DC 20009
7. Whiskey Charlie
Whiskey Charlie is a rooftop bar perched on the 10th floor of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf.
This rooftop gem at the Wharf offers unbeatable waterfront views and front-row seats to stunning DC sunsets. Whether you’re sipping inside the chic, intimate lounge or out on the expansive deck, the sight of planes gliding over the Potomac adds to the picture-perfect backdrop.
Their menu leans upscale with premium cocktails and shareable bites, making it an ideal spot for pre-dinner drinks. For a cocktail that’s as photogenic as it is delicious, try the Purser’s Bane — it mirrors the golden hues of sunset. I also recommend the Coastal Vibes and the Captain’s Choice.
975 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20024
8. Tiki TNT & Potomac Distilling Company
Tiki TNT & Potomac Distilling Company is a tropical, Hawaiian-themed tiki bar that brings island vibes to The Wharf.
The combined tiki bar and distillery is a lively spot with waterfront views and expertly crafted rum cocktails. The multi-level outdoor seating offers prime views, but for the full tiki experience, head to the upper deck, where string lights and lush greenery create a private island oasis.
I recommend getting TNT Problem Forgetter for a boozy, tropical kick, or stick with a perfectly made classic Mai Tai — either way, you’re in for a rum-fueled adventure.
1130 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
9. City Tap House
City Tap House is a laid-back pub with locations in both Penn Quarter and Dupont Circle.
The menu covers all the essentials — brick oven pizzas, hearty sandwiches, and quality sirloin — alongside a solid selection of creative cocktails. While the food and drinks deliver, the ordering system is entirely phone-based, which may be frustrating for those who prefer traditional service or don’t have reliable mobile access.
If you’re up for navigating the system, it’s worth it for the refreshing Cucumber Crusher or the tropical, fruit-forward Passionista.
Penn Quarter: 901 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Dupont: 1250 Connecticut Ave NW suite 105, Washington, DC 20036
10. Tipsy Scoop
At Tipsy Scoop in Chinatown, dessert and cocktails collide in the best way possible — this 21+ ice cream parlor serves boozy, liquor-infused scoops.
Whether you opt for a single scoop, a cocktail sundae, or a pint to-go, every flavor is a perfectly balanced blend of rich creaminess and spirited kick. Expect creative options like Spiked Mint Chip, Vanilla Bean Bourbon, and Dark Chocolate Whiskey Salted Caramel.
But since you’re in DC, don’t miss the exclusive Cherry Blossom Old Fashioned.
I recommend getting a flight so you can get the full experience; each flavor is artfully garnished, making it as fun to look at as it is to eat
675 I St NW, Washington, DC 20001
11. The Anthem Marquee Bar
The Anthem Marquee Bar is a rooftop bar perched above The Anthem music venue. This is a unique rooftop escape with sweeping views of the Washington Channel.
The bar is open during every show, and it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, soak in the fresh air, and take in the glow of the venue’s iconic marquee lights.
The drink menu is limited but well-curated, with a mix of cocktails and beers to keep the night going. I recommend the Sunset on The Wharf. Arrive early to claim a prime balcony spot and enjoy the waterfront views before the music starts.
901 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
12. H Bar at Hyatt House
The H Bar is the hotel bar at the Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf, and while the bar is open to anyone, the outdoor patio is supposedly only for hotel guests.
But here’s a little secret: there’s a door that’s always unlocked, so you can still get out onto the rooftop patio even if you aren’t a guest (and yes, I’ve been told by one of the managers that they don’t mind non-guests enjoying the space, so I’m sharing it with you!).
The door by the bar is locked and requires a room key to access it. But to reach the secret rooftop door, just head back toward the elevators and look around the corner
This spacious outdoor patio offers stunning views of the Washington Channel and bustling Pearl Street. With comfortable seating, fire pits, umbrellas, and grills, it’s a relaxed spot to enjoy drinks without the crowds, making it a perfect hideaway to unwind.
I recommend getting the French 75, a Moscow Mule, or a Classic Margarita.
725 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Washington DC Bars Map
Ready to drink your way around Washington DC? Use the map below to find all these amazing bars in DC listed here.
I hope you have an amazing night out in Washington DC!
Save on Washington DC’s Top Attractions
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Where to Stay in Washington DC
Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Washington DC, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.
- Where We Stayed: Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center or the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
- Top Hotel: The Hay-Adams
- Great Value: Phoenix Park Hotel
- Unique Stay: Unique DC Row House Near Historic H Street
Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center
We enjoyed our stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center when attending an event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
This hotel has a great location. It’s just on the edge of Chinatown and is within easy walking distance to the National Mall and all the tourist hot spots. There are plenty of restaurant options and nightlife nearby.
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
We love the location of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf, though the hotel’s customer service could use some work.
The Wharf is a great spot to be for beautiful waterfront views and lots of dining and nightlife. It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from two different Metro stations, and it’s really easy to get to and from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
More Things to Do in Washington DC
Explore even more of the nation’s capital! Check out these other top tips for visiting Washington DC.
- 45+ Best Things to Do in Washington DC
- 27 Free Things to Do in Washington DC
- 21 Best Restaurants in Washington DC
- 10 Best Washington DC Tours That Are Worth the Money
- 11 Amazing Washington DC Hotels for the Perfect Stay
- Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
- 4 Best Rooftop Bars at The Wharf in Washington DC
- Visiting the Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC
- 6 Best Restaurants in Chinatown DC
- One Day in Alexandria, Virginia: Day Trip from Washington DC
- One Day in Baltimore, Maryland: Day Trip from Washington DC
Ready to visit Washington DC? Plan your trip with these tips.
- Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
- Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Washington DC using Hotels.com.
- Start Packing: Check out my packing list resources so you’re prepared for your trip.
- Explore DC in a New Way: Enjoy a Mystery Picnic in Washington DC to discover more of the city.
Cheers!
Paige
Which of these best bars in Washington DC will you try next? Let me know in the comments!