Adams Morgan: Where a Buttoned-up City Lets Its Hair Down

With all its monuments and traditions, Washington, D.C., can be a bit stodgy. So where does this buttoned-up city go to let its hair down?

"Adams Morgan," answers Scott Suchman, a Southern Living photographer who's lived in the neighborhood for years. "It's diverse. It's really cool architecturally. It's more like New York City than any other section of D.C."

The intersection of 18th Street and Columbia Road NW. forms the heart of this northwest D.C. neighborhood. Coffeehouses, sidewalk cafes, and funky boutiques snuggle next to all-night bars and dance clubs. Step just off the main drag, though, and you'll find shady streets lined with brownstones, row houses, and elegant apartment buildings.

Restaurants here feature flavors from around the world. You can find just about any cuisine--from Ethiopian and French to Mexican and Caribbean--all within a few city blocks. The food scene points to the rich diversity in both residents and visitors that adds to Adams Morgan's unique character and vibrant atmosphere.

NextTable Tennis at Comet Ping Pong