The Top 10 Things To Do In Logan Circle Washington DC

One of Washington’s most historically rich neighborhoods, Logan Circle has seen much change. During the Civil War, it became known as an executioner’s square, where spies and deserters were hanged. At the turn of the 20th century, it became the social and artistic center for African Americans in Washington. Today, Logan Circle is an arts, entertainment and dining destination that has retained much of its historic charm. Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do and see between its streets.

Check out Logan Circle Park

During the Civil War, Logan Circle Park was the site of a refugee camp for freed slaves from Virginia and Maryland. Today, the site’s history is marked by an equestrian statue of John A. Logan: a Union Army general during the war; he later served as a U.S. Senator. Come to admire the imposing 25-foot monument, complete with two reliefs depicting events from Logan’s life. It was dedicated by President William WcKinley in 1901. On a nice day, bring a book and grab a spot on one of the park’s many benches.

1. Dine at Le Diplomate

Bar, Bistro, Cafe, Restaurant, American, French, Tea , Seafood

Enjoy an authentic French dining experience at Le Diplomate, which has quickly become one of Washington’s top restaurants since opening in 2013. The joint has a spacious sidewalk seating area that recreates the atmosphere of a café in Paris. Here you can savor French delicacies such as country duck terrine, steak frites and escargot.

Admire the architecture

After the Civil War, Logan Circle became one of Washington’s most appealing residential neighborhoods. Developers built a number of grand houses in the Gothic Victorian, Second Empire and Romanesque Revival styles. Admirers of architecture and design will enjoy a stroll through the neighborhood’s streets to take in the interesting details of these homes, like the grand bay windows and the wrought-iron banisters.

Take the Logan Circle House Tour

For the past 36 years, the Logan Circle Community Association has hosted an annual house tour that takes guests through some of the neighborhood’s most awe-inspiring homes. Though the exact date isn’t regular, the tour typically takes place in December. In the past, musicians and singers have been posted at many of the homes to encourage guests to get into the holiday spirit.

Walk the Logan Circle Heritage Trail

History buffs will enjoy the Logan Circle Heritage Trail, a series of 15 signs scattered throughout the neighborhood that provide information about the area’s social and cultural heritage. This 1.5-mile walk is the best way to appreciate Logan Circle’s dynamic history, from its beginnings as open farmland to its status today as one of DC’s most vibrant arts and entertainment districts. By Jonathan Stern