Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle is unquestionably one of Washington's most diverse and fascinating neighborhoods. There is never a shortage of things to do in this area, which is named for Samuel Du Pont, a decorated Civil War hero and member of the famous Du Pont family. Embassies, non-profit organizations, bookstores, and beautiful row houses radiate from the namesake Dupont Circle traffic circle and park.
Dupont (as the locals call it) is the heart of DC's gay community, and it's also home to several well-known art galleries, including the Phillips Collection and the Hillyer Art Space. Scores of restaurants line the streets, so dining choices are nearly endless.
Logan Circle is often mistaken as Dupont because it's only a few blocks east, but it's begun to be considered a neighborhood in its own right, with new restaurants, bars and shops cropping up all the time. Beautiful people enjoy the happy hour specials at Halo, one of the city's premier gay hotspots. When you're done partying, walk to the end of the block for organic gelato at Pitango. Sushi Taro serves delicious, fresh sushi in a modern, high-ceilinged upstairs dining room.