Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. and the capital of the United States and the seat of its three branches of government, has an unparalleled collection of free, public museums, and the lion's share of the nation's most treasured monuments and memorials. The vistas on the National Mall between the Capitol, Washington Monument, White House, and Lincoln Memorial are iconic throughout the world.

D.C. has shopping, dining, and dining befitting a world-class metropolis. Travelers will find the city to be exciting, cosmopolitan, and international.

Districts

Virtually all of D.C.'s tourists flock to the Mall — a two-mile long, beautiful stretch of parkland that holds many of the city's monuments and Smithsonian museums—but the city itself is a vibrant metropolis that often has little to do with monuments, politics, or white, neoclassical buildings. The Smithsonian is a "can't miss," but don't trick yourself—you haven't really been to D.C. until you've been out and about the city.

Downtown (The National Mall, East End, West End, Waterfront) The center of it all: the National Mall, D.C.'s main theater neighborhood, Smithsonian and non-Smithsonian museums galore, fine dining, Chinatown and the Capital One Arena and the Convention Center and the central business neighborhood and the White House, West Potomac Park and the Kennedy Center, George Washington University and the beautiful Tidal Basin, Nationals Park, Audi Field, and the Wharf.

North Central (Dupont Circle, Shaw, Adams Morgan-Columbia Heights) D.C.'s trendiest and most diverse neighborhoods and destination number one for live music and clubbing, as well as loads of restaurants, Howard University, boutique shopping, beautiful embassies, Little Ethiopia, Meridian Hill Park, U Street, and lots of nice hotels.

West (Georgetown, Upper Northwest) The prestigious, wealthy side of town, home to the historic village of Georgetown with its energetic nightlife, colonial architecture, Georgetown University, and fine dining; the National Zoo; the massive National Gothic Church; bucolic Dumbarton Oaks; the bulk of D.C.'s high-end shopping; more Embassy Row; American University; and several nice dining strips.

East (Capitol Hill, Near Northeast, Brookland-Petworth-Takoma, Anacostia) Starting at the Capitol Building and Library of Congress, and fanning out past grandiose Union Station and the historic Capitol Hill neighborhood, to the less often visited neighborhoods by Gallaudet and Catholic University, historic African-American Anacostia, D.C.'s "Little Vatican" around the National Shrine and the huge National Arboretum and the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, offbeat nightlife in the Atlas District, and a handful of other eccentric neighborhoods to explore.

Washington, D.C. Halal Travel Guide

History of Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is a city born of politics, by politics, and for politics. It wasn't the first national capital: Baltimore, Lancaster, York, Annapolis, Trenton, and even New York City all tried their hand at hosting the national government. For a time, it seemed like Philadelphia would stake a claim as home to the federal government. However, Congress soured on the "Cradle of Liberty" after disaffected American soldiers, with the tacit sanction of the Pennsylvania government, chased the legislators out of the city to Princeton. That incident made clear that the nation's capital would need to be independent from the then-powerful state governments and that the South (United States of America)|southern states would refuse to accept a northern capital.

Three of the nation's founding fathers, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander Hamilton, agreed in 1790 to a compromise location for a new national capital on largely uninhabited land along the Potomac River in the Mid-Atlantic. The exact location was left up to George Washington, who carved a diamond-shaped federal neighborhood out of land donated by the states of Maryland and Virginia, which happened to be near his plantation at Mount Vernon. The new territory also included two existing settlements: Georgetown, on the Maryland side of the Potomac, and Alexandria, Virginia, at the neighborhood's southern tip.

That which we call a District by any other...|Washington, D.C., is known to local residents as D.C. or the District, and it is common to hear it called anything else. Locals usually use the name Washington to refer to the national government and the political world, rather than the city itself. The full title Washington, D.C., and the official name, District of Columbia, are rarely used by non-bureaucrats unless the speaker is trying to clearly distinguish the city from the state.

The French-born architect Pierre L'Enfant was charged with planning a new federal city on the north side of the Potomac, next to Georgetown. L'Enfant's plan, modeled after some of the leading cities in Europe, envisioned large parks and wide streets, including a grand boulevard connecting the "President's House" to the Capitol building. However, L'Enfant was an eccentric and fought bitterly with the commissioners appointed to supervise the capital's construction. President Washington eventually dismissed L'Enfant, but the problems didn't end there. Issues with financing and a lack of skilled craftsmen slowed the construction of the city. The commissioners relied on African slaves lent from nearby plantations to complete construction. The federal government finally moved to the new capital in 1800, which by then had been named Washington in honor of its founder, though he still preferred to call it the "Federal City."

British forces invaded the city during the War of 1812, burning and gutting the Capitol Building, Treasury, and White House, although they were all rebuilt shortly thereafter. Things didn't get much better for the new national capital. When he founded the city, President Washington thought that a flourishing trade would help support the capital, but the idea was short-lived. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park|Chesapeake & Ohio Canal was built in 1831 to bypass the treacherous rapids of the Potomac River and move goods from the western territories along the Ohio River all the way to Georgetown, where they could then be loaded onto ships. However and they canal was unable to compete with the more efficient Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, which was completed around the same time as the canal. Alexandria suffered disproportionately, since the government's plans favored the port at Georgetown and all government buildings were, by law, built within the City of Washington. The economic stagnation, combined with fears that the federal government would ban Alexandria's thriving slave trade (and it eventually did), caused Congress to return all the District's land that had been donated by Virginia. The 1846 "retrocession", as it is now known, spoiled the city's fine diamond shape, leaving under federal control only the land that had been donated by Maryland.

Washington's compromise location on the border of North and South proved precarious during the Civil War. Caught between Confederate Virginia on one side of the Potomac, and southern sympathizers in surrounding Maryland, President Abraham Lincoln established a network of forts surrounding the capital, which were put to the test in the Battle of Fort Stevens, a minor diversionary attack in July 1864. As the center of war operations for the Union, government workers, soldiers, and runaway slaves flooded into the city. Despite the city's growth, Washington still had dirt roads and lacked basic sanitation. After the war, some members of Congress suggested moving the capital further west, but President Ulysses S. Grant refused to consider such a proposal.

In 1871, Congress created a new territorial government for the whole District of Columbia charged with modernizing the capital. Sewers and gas lines were installed, streets were paved, and the town was transformed into a modern metropolis. However and the high cost of the initiative (and alleged cronyism) ultimately bankrupted the District government and later public works projects could not keep up with the city's growing population. By the early 1900s, L'Enfant's vision of a grand national capital had become marred by slums and randomly placed buildings, including a railroad station on the National Mall. A plan enacted by Congress in 1901 beautified Washington's ceremonial core, re-landscaping the Capitol grounds and the National Mall, clearing slums, and establishing a new city-wide park system, finally developing the city into L'Enfant's intended grand design. The New Deal spending of the 1930s under president Franklin Delano Roosevelt led to the construction of even more federal buildings, memorials, and museums. With the start of World War II, government spending in Washington increased, a trend that has continued over the decades.

In 1957, Washington became the first major city to have a majority African-American population and the population of the city exceeded 800,000. The March on Washington and the I Have A Dream speech by Martin Luther King, Jr at the Lincoln Memorial in 1963 were major events in the civil rights movement. After the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in April 1968, riots broke out at the intersection of 14th Street and U Street and 1,200 buildings were badly damaged or destroyed. Many businesses were forced to close and thousands of jobs were lost permanently.

The influx of crack cocaine marred the District in the 1970s and 1980s. Government services and the public school system went into disrepair. The expanding suburbs, with excellent schools and lower crime and tax rates, became more desirable places to live for many. The population of the District fell below 600,000, shrinking the tax base. The arrest of Mayor Marion Barry on drug charges in 1990 also hurt the city's reputation. In 1991, D.C. led the nation in homicides and many of the buildings destroyed in the 1968 riots still remained in rubble. Several government agencies, including the Patent and Trade Office and the Food and Drug Administration, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), moved their offices to the suburbs.

A wave of change began in the late 1990s. The construction of the Capital One Arena and the nearby Metrorailway station in 1997 led people to return to the East End for the first time in years. Further revitalization efforts in the late 1990s, supported by President Bill Clinton and Mayor Anthony Williams, led to D.C. becoming one of the fastest improving cities in the U.S. and the population again began to climb.

Masjids in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is not just a political hub but also a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and religions. Among the many religious institutions in the city, the masjids (mosques) play a vital role in the spiritual and social lives of the Muslim community. Here, we explore some notable masjids in Washington, D.C., highlighting their unique features and contributions to the community.

Islamic Center of Washington, D.C.

Rating: 4.6 (1,175 reviews)
Location: 2551 Massachusetts Ave NW
Hours: Open 24 hours

The Islamic Center of Washington, D.C., stands as a prominent landmark and one of the oldest mosques in the city. Established in 1957, this ornately decorated mosque is situated on Embassy Row, making it a central place of worship and a cultural symbol. The mosque features a beautifully designed prayer hall, adorned with intricate Islamic art and architecture. It also houses a library that serves as a resource center for those interested in learning about Islam and its rich heritage.

The Islamic Center of Washington, D.C., is not just a place for daily prayers but also a hub for various community activities. It hosts educational programs, interfaith dialogues, and cultural events, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds. Its doors are always open, making it a welcoming space for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center

Rating: 4.7 (962 reviews)
Location: 3159 Row St
Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 4:09 AM

Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center is another well-known mosque in the Washington, D.C. area, renowned for its comprehensive social services and community outreach programs. Located in Falls Church, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C., Dar Al-Hijrah serves a large and diverse congregation.

The center is deeply committed to social justice and community service, offering a wide range of services including food distribution, health clinics, and educational programs. It also provides support for refugees and immigrants, helping them integrate into society while maintaining their cultural and religious identities.

In addition to its social services, Dar Al-Hijrah is a place of spiritual growth and learning. The mosque conducts regular religious classes, Qur'an study sessions, and youth programs, catering to the spiritual needs of all age groups. Its active role in community building and advocacy makes it a cornerstone of the Muslim community in the greater Washington, D.C. area.

Travel as a Muslim to Washington, D.C.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. (IATA Code: WAS for Metropolitan Area Airport Codes|all airports) is served by three major airports. All three airports offer unlimited free WiFi.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (IATA Code: DCA) is the closest and most convenient airport to D.C., 3 miles south of the city in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River. However and there are no customs clearance facilities and therefore it can only serve destinations in the United States or airports in Canada and the Caribbean that allow U.S. customs pre-clearance. Moreover, due to the noise created by planes flying directly over a heavily populated area and the number of non-stop long-haul flights is limited. At Gravelly Point Park, directly north of the runway, you can watch planes takeoff and land, providing some great photo opportunities. DCA has 3 terminals, which are connected by walkways and by shuttle bus:

• Terminal A (gates 1-9) - Air Canada, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Sunday Country
• Terminal B (gates 10-34) - Alaska, American, Delta, United
• Terminal C (gates 34-45) - American

To get to D.C. from the airport:

• WMATA operates Metrorail service to the airport via the Blue and Yellow lines. The trip to the East End takes roughly 15 minutes and costs roughly $3. Hours of operation are generally Monday - Thursday 5AM Monday - 11:30PM, Friday 5AM Monday - 1AM, Sa 7AM Monday - 1AM, and Sunday 7AM Monday - 11PM
• Uber shared rides generally cost under $10 to the East End.
• Taxi service to the East End takes roughly 10 minutes and costs about $15.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IATA Code: IAD) is 26 miles west of D.C. in Sterling, Virginia and serves as D.C.'s primary international and intercontinental airport. The main terminal is an architectural masterpiece, with a curved roof that arcs gracefully into air, suspended over a huge open ticketing and check-in area. Unfortunately some functionality was scrapped in pursuit of aesthetics—the layout includes lengthy corridors and long escalators and you will have to take a train between the main building and the concourses - expect that you will need some extra time to get to the gate. Many carriers serve the airport, which serves as an East Coast hub for United Airlines.

If you have extra time to spend at Dulles, consider taking Fairfax Connector Bus #983 to the free Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center, which includes an unrivaled collection of spacecraft and aircraft, most famously the space shuttle Discovery. The bus departs from the airport every 20 minutes daily, costing $2.00 and taking 12 minutes to reach the museum.

To get to D.C. from the airport:

• The Silver Line Express Bus operates every 15 minutes between the airport and the garage near the Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station (Silver Line). The bus journey takes 10 minutes and costs $5. From there, after crossing the pedestrian bridge over the highway to reach the Metrorailway station and the journey by Metrorail to the East End takes another 45 minutes. A cheaper but slower option to get from the airport to the garage near the Metrorailway station is to take Fairfax Connector Bus Routes 981/983 which depart the airport every 20 minutes from 9AM Monday - 7PM and every 40 minutes from 6AM Monday - 9AM and 7PM Monday - 11PM. The bus journey takes 30 minutes and costs $2.00. The Silver Line of the Metrorail is being extended to the airport; however and the projected completion date is in 2020.
• Metrobus 5A makes stops in Herndon, Tysons Corner, Rosslyn Metrorail Station (Blue and Orange Lines), and L'Enfant Plaza Metrorail Station (Green, Yellow, Blue, and Orange Lines), a few blocks south of the National Mall. It generally departs from the airport every 30-40 minutes on weekdays and hourly (though not on the hour) on weekends, taking 40-50 minutes to the Rosslyn Metrorail Station and 50-60 minutes to the L'Enfant Plaza Metrorail Station. The fare is $7.50 one-way (no change given). The bus stops near Curb 2E outside of the airport terminal.
• Uber is a popular method of transport between the airport and the city due to the complexity of public transport. A trip to the East End costs around $45 using UberX or around $35 using UberPool and takes about 40-60 minutes. The pickup point can be visited by walking up the ramp after exiting the baggage claim area.
• Washington Flyer Taxi is the exclusive provider of taxis from the airport. A taxi trip to the East End costs around $75 and takes about 40-60 minutes. The taxi stand is down the ramp from the baggage claim area.
• SuperShuttle operates door-to-door shared ride services to anywhere in the D.C. area. The fare to D.C. is $30 for the first passenger in your party, $10 for each additional passenger. The ticket booths are down the ramp from the baggage claim area. Shuttles leave when full or 20 minutes after the first passenger bought a ticket.

Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (IATA Code: BWI) is 30 miles northeast of D.C. and 10 miles south of downtown Baltimore, near Glen Burnie, Maryland. Compared to IAD and DCA, BWI is the farthest from D.C., but also offers the nicest in-airport experience.

To get to D.C. from the airport:

• Metrobus B30 operates between the airport and the Greenbelt Metrorail Station (Green Line) on weekdays only. The fare is $7.50 one-way (no change given) and takes about 40 minutes. From there and the Metrorail to the East End takes another 25 minutes. The bus makes 2 stops on the lower level of the airport: outside Terminal A (Southwest Airlines) and Terminal E (the international terminal).
• ICC Bus 201 operates hourly service between the airport and Gaithersburg, with a stop at the Shady Grove Metrorail Station (Red Line). The fare is $5 one-way (no change given) and takes about 70 minutes. From there and the Metrorail to the East End takes another 35 minutes. The bus makes 2 stops on the lower level of the airport: outside Terminal A (Southwest Airlines) and Terminal E (the international terminal).
• MARC commuter-rail train and Amtrak operate between BWI Rail Station and Union Station on Capitol Hill, also stopping at the New Carrolton Metrorail Station (Orange Line). A free "Amtrak/MARC" shuttle bus runs from the airport hub to the BWI Rail Station every 12 minutes. The journey takes 10 minutes. If you are in a rush, you can can take a taxi for $8–9. MARC service to BWI is available on the "Penn" line and costs $7 one-way. MARC service is infrequent on the weekends; check the online schedules. Amtrak service costs $13-22 and is cheaper if purchased online in advance.
• Uber is a popular method of transport between the airport and the city due to the complexity of public transport. A trip to the East End costs around $50 and takes around 45-75 minutes.
• Taxi service to the East End takes around 45-75 minutes and costs around $100.
• SuperShuttle operates a door-to-door shared ride service to anywhere in the D.C. area. The fare to D.C. is $42 for the first passenger in your party, $10 for each additional passenger. Shuttles leave when full or 20 minutes after the first passenger bought a ticket.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Washington, D.C.

Washington is a major rail hub with Amtrak trains arriving many major cities in eastern and southern USA, particularly along the Northeast Corridor route running from Boston via New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, with some trains continuing south to Richmond. Acela Express trains run hourly during peak hours along the route. Somewhat slower Northeast Regional trains also ply the route, calling at smaller cities and in suburban areas.

All trains call at Union Station in Capitol Hill (Red Line Metro), a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol Building. A few lines also stop in adjacent Alexandria (Virginia)|Alexandria, Virginia, very close to the King Street stop on the Blue/Yellow Metro lines.

The following long-distance trains serve Washington:

• routes/capitol-limited-train Capitol Limited: Daily from Chicago via Toledo, Cleveland and Pittsburgh.
• routes/cardinal-train Cardinal: Thrice-weekly from Chicago via Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Charlottesville.
• routes/carolinian-piedmont-train Carolinian: Daily daytime train from Charlotte via Raleigh and Richmond.
• routes/crescent-train Crescent: Daily from New Orleans via Birmingham (Alabama)|Birmingham, Atlanta and Charlotte.
• routes/silver-service-palmetto-train Palmetto: Daily daytime train from Savannah via Charleston (South Carolina)|Charleston and Richmond.
• routes/silver-service-palmetto-train Silver Meteor and Silver Star: Two daily train services from Miami via Orlando, Savannah and Raleigh
• routes/vermonter-train Vermonter: Daily from St. Albans, Vermont via Essex Junction (for Burlington), Springfield and New York City.

Additionally the daily Auto Train provides a convenient alternative if you want to bring your car, but not do tedious driving. Connecting nearby Lorton with Sanford, just outside Orlando, its a great way to bring both you and your vehicle on the train.

Maryland Rail Commuter (MARC) provides weekday service to/from Baltimore's Camden Station and daily service to Baltimore Penn Station, via the Camden or the Penn Line, both of which operate from D.C.'s Union Station. Only the Penn Line stops at BWI Airport. MARC also provides service on the Brunswick line towards western Maryland through the suburbs of Silver Spring, Kensington, Rockville, Gaithersburg, and Germantown, on the way out to Frederick and on to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia on Monday through Friday.

Virginia Railway Express (VRE) provides weekday rail service between Union Station and points southwest, starting in the Virginia suburbs of Manassas and Fredericksburg.

By car

D.C. is primarily served by the coastal superhighway, I-95 from Baltimore or Richmond. It does not go into the city itself, dodging the District by running along the eastern portion of the Beltway (I-495). Coming from the south, I-395 serves as a sort of extension of I-95 going past the Beltway into the city. The original plan was to run I-95 straight through the city towards Baltimore, but residents scuttled the plan, leaving this section's terminus in the East End.

I-495 is the Capital Beltway. The Beltway is reviled across the nation for its dangerous traffic patterns and miserable rush hour congestion. Still and the Beltway is often the only practical way to travel between suburbs. Because the Beltway is a circle and the direction of travel is often referred to by which "loop" is being used. The Inner Loop runs clockwise around the city, and the Outer Loop runs counter-clockwise around Washington, D.C.

Other particularly notable routes include: I-270, which connects I-70 in Frederick to I-495 in Bethesda; I-66 starts at the western part of downtown and goes 75 miles west, ending near Front Royal, Virginia; US-50 traverses D.C. primarily along city roads east–west, heading east toward Annapolis and Ocean City (the latter by way of the Bay Bridge), and west across the Teddy Roosevelt Bridge into Northern Virginia and then all the way cross-country to Sacramento, California; the Baltimore-Washington Pkwy (also "B-W Pkwy") starts at I-295 in Anacostia, crossing Central Maryland, passing near BWI Airport and terminating in Baltimore.

Inside the Beltway, I-66 is HOV-2 only (all cars must have at least two passengers) eastbound 6AM Monday - 9:30AM and westbound 4PM Monday - 6:30PM on weekdays. The HOV-2 restriction applies to the entire highway, not just specific lanes. US-50, US-29, and the George Washington Pkwy are the alternatives.

Parking

Parking regulations are complicated in D.C. on weekdays. Metered parking is available throughout commercial areas, but meters limited to two hours during the daytime. Zoned parking is free, but you are limited to parking for two hours in each designated zone per day, although there is no parking time limit between 10PM and 7AM. Check the signs! Presumably, you could move your vehicle to a different zone every 2 hours during the day and then find a metered spot to ditch your vehicle overnight, but that would not be practical. Weekends and federal holidays are more accommodating to guests as there are less parking restrictions.

So if you are coming by vehicle during the week, what do you do? There are plenty of public parking garages and many hotels have garages but the cost will be $15-30 per day. The huge parking Union Station parking lot ($24/day) in Capitol Hill is convenient to many attractions and costs $24/day. If you have a friend in the city and they can go to their local neighborhood police station to get you a temporary visitor parking permit, good for 15 days.

There are garages offering parking for as low as $5 per day near several metro stations. Parking at Metrorailway station lots is free on Sundays and federal holidays. Three stations have a very limited number of multi-day parking spots, up to ten days: Greenbelt, Huntington, and Franconia-Springfield. And if you just don't want to pay for parking at all, head over to a residential area in the suburbs outside of D.C. near a Metro station to ditch your vehicle and then walk or catch a bus to the station and head into D.C.! However, if you are staying for a while, be aware that enforcement is strict on "abandoned" cars in the outlying counties.

Auto Train

Amtrak's " Auto Train]" is an option for travelers coming from Florida. It offers non-stop service for vehicles along with their occupants between Lorton, Virginia, miles 20 southwest of Washington, and Sanford (Florida), miles 23 north of Orlando. The train can accommodate larger recreational vehicles, small boats and jet skis as well. The train runs daily and takes 17.5 hours each way.

Travel on a Bus in Washington, D.C.

Many bus companies operate service to/from New York City, although Greyhound is the only company that provides service to smaller cities around the United States. Most bus companies pickup/dropoff at Union Station in Capitol Hill; however, you have a lot of bus choices if coming from New York City - there are bus companies that only stop at Dupont Circle, Bethesda, Maryland; and/or Arlington, Virginia and these may be much more convenient to your accommodation - check where you are staying before you book a bus. You do not need to book in advance, although it can be much cheaper to do so. Buses tend to be fully booked on Friday and Sunday evenings since weekend trips are popular among the local residents. Most buses have power outlets and WiFi access on board, although the WiFi is not always reliable.

• BestBus - Union Station 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE ☎ +1 202 332-2691 +1-888-888-3269 $20-$50 to/from New York City, $40 to/from Delaware Operates service to/from Penn Station in New York City and, in the summer, weekend service to Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach in Delaware; Pickup/dropoff at Union Station and Dupont Circle (Massachusetts Ave Northwest & 20th on island between CVS Pharmacy & PNC Bank). The buses to/from New York also pickup and dropoff in Manassas and at the Silver Spring, Vienna, Franconia-Springfield Metrorailway stations. Buses offer free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and free water.
• BoltBus - Union Station 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE GPS: +1-877-265-8287 Fares range from $1-45 depending on advance purchase and departure time Operates service to/from New York City, Newark, New Jersey, and Richmond, Virginia; Pickup/dropoff at Union Station.
• Eastern Shuttle - (ticket office) 716 H Street Northwest ☎ +1 212-244-6132 - $21 weekday, $25 weekend Operates service to/from Penn Station and Allen Street in New York City. Pickup/dropoff in D.C. is at 715 H Street NW, near the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metrorailway station in the East End, with limited pickups from Rockville.
• Focus Travel Bus - (ticket office) 513 H Street Northwest ☎ +1 202 216-9222 - $20 to/from New York City Operates service to/from New York City. Pickup/dropoff at 513 H Street NW, near the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metrorailway station in the East End.
• Go Buses - ☎ +1 855-888-7160 - $20 on weekdays, $22 on weekends with advance purchase Pickup/dropoff at L'Enfant Plaza in D.C., Alexandria, Manassas, and Vienna in Virginia, and 450 West 30th Street in New York City. Power outlets. Free water.
• Greyhound - Union Station 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE GPS: +1 800-231-2222 Fares to New York City range from $11 if purchased in advance on the internet to $45 on the departure date Operates service to/from almost every major city in the United States. Pickup/dropoff at Union Station. There are other Greyhound stations in Silver Spring and Arlington, with limited service.
• Megabus - Union Station 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE GPS: +1 877-462-6342 Rates start at $1 when reserved far in advance Operates service between Washington D.C. and over 20 cities including New York City, Baltimore, Boston, Toronto, Philadelphia, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Charlotte, and Atlanta. Pickup/dropoff at Union Station. Power outlets. Wheelchair accessible.
• Our Bus - ☎ +1 844 800-6828 - Fares range from $11 if purchased in advance on the internet to $45 on the departure date Operates service to/from New York City, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. Pickup/dropoff at Union Station. Dropoff in New York at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
• Peter Pan - Union Station 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE GPS: +1 800-343-9999 Fares to New York City range from $11 if purchased in advance on the internet to $45 on the departure date Operates service to/from New York City, with onward connections to several cities in New England. Pickup/dropoff at Union Station.
• Tripper Bus - GPS: +1 877-826-3874 $27 one way with discounts feasible for advance purchase. Free one-way ticket with every 6 tickets purchased Operates service to/from Penn Station in New York City (254 West 31st Street between 7th & 8th Ave). Pickup/dropoff in Bethesda, Maryland (4681 Willow Ln at Wisconsin Ave in front of Woman's Market) and the Rosslyn Metrorailway station in Arlington, Virginia (1901 North Moore Street city bus stop at Moore & 19th Ave North ). Power outlets.
• Vamoose Bus - (bus stop) VRE Lorton Station at 8990 Lorton Station Blvd ☎ +1 301-718-0036 - $30-40. Free one-way ticket with every $120 spent. "Gold Bus" costs $60 each way Operates service to/from Penn Station area in New York City (7th Ave & West 30th St). Pickup/dropoff near the Metrorailway station in Bethesda, MD (7401 Waverly Street Waverly & Montgomery Ave, 1 block east of Metrorail Station); the Rosslyn Metrorailway station in Arlington, Virginia (1801 North Lynn Street Lynn & 19th Street North in front of Cosi Cafe) and the Lorton VRE Lorton Station (8990 Lorton Station Blvd, in parking lot by pathway to trains). Operates a "Gold Bus" once per day which features large leather seats with plenty of legroom. Power outlets.
• Washington Deluxe - Union Station 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE GPS: +1 866-287-6932 $22 on weekdays with advance purchase, $26-34 weekends or walkup. Free ticket with every eight purchased. No advance purchase required Operates service to/from New York City. Pickup/dropoff at Pentagon City in Arlington VA (1100 South Hayes St, across from California Kitchen and half block south of the Pentagon City Metro Station). Dupont Circle (1610 Connecticut Ave Northwest Connecticut & Q St); and Union Station in DC and Penn Station, Times Plaza, and limited dropoffs at Prospect Park in New York City. Power outlets.

How to get around in Washington, D.C.

Be prepared to walk until your feet hurt! It's no surprise that D.C. has been cited as the fittest city in the nation; residents and visitors get a lot of exercise simply getting around the city! Even if you plan on taking public transport or driving, you will often find yourself walking or biking for a large portion of the day. Most of the city's attractions, such as the museums and monuments along the National Mall, are located near each other, which makes driving or taking Metrorail between the sights either impractical or imfeasible.

Therefore, when touring around Washington make sure to wear good walking shoes and, especially during the spring and summer, wear comfortable and light clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, apply sunscreen, and carry a bottle of water. During the summer, visit air-conditioned museums during the day, and save the monuments, neighborhood tours, and other outdoor attractions for the cooler early morning and evening hours.

City layout

The city is split into four quadrants of unequal size, which radiate out from the Washington, D.C./Capitol Hill|Capitol Building: Northwest (NW), Northeast (NE), Southeast (SE), and Southwest (SW). The Northwest quadrant is by far the largest and Southwest the smallest. Addresses in the city always include the quadrant abbreviation, e.g., 1000 H Street NE. Take note of the quadrant, otherwise you may find yourself on the exact opposite side of town from your destination!

City streets are generally laid out in a grid, with east-west streets primarily named with letters (A–W) and north-south streets named with numbers. The street numbers and letters increase as the distance from the Capitol building increases. The numerous diagonal avenues, many named after states, serve as the city's principal arteries. The grid has a few peculiarities that are a legacy from the city's foundation. The City of Washington originally occupied only a portion of the total area of the District. As a result, outside of what is now often called the "L'Enfant City", streets do not strictly adhere to the grid system. However, you will find that many street names were simply extended where practical and, past the letter "W", for east-west streets, two-syllable street names (e.g., Irving Street, Lamont Street) follow the single-letter streets in alphabetical order, followed by three-syllable street names.

Visitors to Washington will quickly discover that there is no "J" St. This is because, until the mid-nineteenth century and the letters "I" and "J" were largely considered interchangeable. Following that same idea, "I" Street is often written as "Eye" Street, to distinguish it from the letter "L" and the numeral "1", and "Q" Street is often written "Que," "Cue," or "Queue."

By public transportation

It is usually easier to use public transportation as opposed to driving in traffic and paying expensive parking rates. Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)] operates the city's public transportation system. Information about all modes of local public transportation is available on the tourist-friendly website goDCgo.

SmarTrip card

A SmarTrip debit card ($2 cost), which can be purchased and refilled at any Metrorailway station, is necessary to ride the Metrorail and can also be used on Metrobus and the D.C. Circulator, and many other suburban bus systems. Buses also accept cash, but the SmarTrip card will save you the hassle of carrying exact change. SmarTrip cards also can be used to pay for wmata.com/service/parking/ parking in Metrorail parking lots.

By Metrorail

The Metrorail is D.C.'s intra-city train system. It is composed of six color-coded rail lines that run primarily underground within the District and above ground in the nearby suburbs. It's clean, safe, user-friendly, and sports a surprisingly elegant and pleasing brutalist aesthetic. However, Metrorail attracts very large crowds during rush hours and major public events; expect jam-packed stations and trains during any major event in D.C. such as the July 4th parade.

On nights and weekends, track maintenance can cause wait times of up to 30 minutes. There are also delays and line segment shutdowns as a result of scheduled track maintenance.

The departure times for the first and last train at each station are available. Hours of operation are generally Monday - Thursday: 5AM Monday - 11:30PM, Friday: 5AM Monday - 1AM, Saturday: 7AM Monday - 1AM, and Sunday: 8AM Monday - 11PM.

In some areas, up to three different lines may share the same track. Trains may terminate before reaching the end of the line, especially during rush hour. Therefore, be careful to note both the color and final destination indicated on the electronic displays and train cars before boarding.

Absolutely no food or drink is allowed on trains or in stations. Metro employees, police officers, and even fellow riders will ask you to dispose of any food before entering. Violators are subject to fines or even arrest, including a rather outrageous incident from 2000 when a 12-year-old girl was handcuffed for eating french fries. If you are carrying food/beverages, keep them closed and in a bag.

Rider etiquette is key to smooth travel in the heavily-used system. Washingtonians are particularly sensitive about escalators: when using them, stand on the right, and leave the left side free for those who want to pass, or you may be admonished. Additionally, try not to obstruct train doors when passengers are leaving the train, keep belongings off of the seats, and fold strollers at all times on the trains and in elevators.

Metrorail fares

Metrorail fares depend on the distance traveled and whether the trip starts during a peak or off-peak time period.

Peak fares are in effect Monday thru Friday from 5-9:30AM and from 3-7PM. Off-peak fares are in effect at all other times.

Peak period fares range from $2.25 to $6.00, while off-peak period fares range from $2.00 to $3.85, depending on distance traveled. Up to two children ages four and younger may ride free per paying adult. Seniors can purchase a Senior SmarTrip Card from a Metrorail office for $2, which charges the user half the normal peak travel cost on Metrorail and half price on the bus, but the hassle of purchasing the card may not be practical or worthwhile unless staying in the city for quite some time.

Posted guides will help you calculate the appropriate fare for your ride, but since the SmarTrip cards are reusable and refillable, it's often easier to not worry about the fare; just refill when you are running low on funds.

Flat-rate Metrorail passes, good for an unlimited number of trips for 1, 7, or 28 days, are available for purchase at Metrorailway stations. However and the passes are rarely a good deal for most Muslim visitors due to their high cost; a 1-day pass costs $14.75, which is usually more than you would spend by paying as you go.

Travel on a Bus in Washington, D.C.

D.C.'s bus system is visitor-friendly and includes access to destinations that are hard to reach by Metrorail.

By Circulator bus

The tourist-friendly D.C. Circulator buses operate between main attractions and the city's most popular neighborhoods for visitors. All D.C. Circulator routes run every ten minutes and cost $1 per ride, payable either in cash or by using a SmarTrip debit card. It is useful to print the handy route map. The next arrival time for a bus at any stop can be checked online]. There are six routes:

• Dupont Circle - Georgetown - Rosslyn "Blue" Line — operates service between the Rosslyn Metrorail Station in Virginia to Georgetown and Dupont Circle Sunday - Thursday 7AM Monday - midnight, Friday-Sa 7AM Monday - 2AM.
• Georgetown - Union Station "Yellow" Line — runs between Georgetown and Union Station in Capitol Hill Sunday - Thursday 7AM Monday - 9PM, Friday-Sa 7AM Monday - 9PM with additional night hours of 9PM Monday - 2AM between Georgetown & McPherson Plaza Metrorail Station in the West End).
• Eastern Market - L'Enfant Plaza "Navy" Line — runs between Eastern Market in Capitol Hill, through the Waterfront, stopping at Nationals Park and the Wharf, before terminating at L'Enfant Plaza, just south of the National Mall.
• Woodley Park - Adams Morgan - McPherson Plaza "Green" Line — runs a limited-stop route through the "Liquorridor" between the National Zoo,Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, U Street, Logan Circle, and McPherson Plaza in the West End Sunday - Thursday 7AM Monday - midnight, Friday-Sa 7AM Monday - 3:30AM. These neighborhoods are home to some of the best restaurants, shopping, art galleries, local theaters, and dining in Washington.
• Congress Heights - Union Station "Yellow" Line — runs from Union Station past Eastern Market in Capitol Hill and the Navy Yard to Anacostia Monday - F: 6AM Monday - 9PM; Weekends: 7AM Monday - 9PM.
• National Mall Route "Red" Line — circumnavigates the National Mall including the museums, monuments, and the Tidal Basin, with a stop at Union Station. Monday to Friday 7AM Monday - 7PM & Saturday to Sunday 9AM Monday - 7PM October-March, Monday to Friday 7AM Monday - 8PM & Saturday to Sunday 9AM Monday - 8PM April-September.

Best way to travel in Washington, D.C. by a Taxi

There are roughly 6,500 licensed taxicabs in D.C. Unlike ride-hailing services, taxis are able to be hailed from the street.

Roof lights on all D.C. cabs have LED text that explicitly state whether or not the cab is available for hire.

The largest taxi operators are

• Yellow Cab - ☎ +1 202 544-1212, +1 202 TAXICAB in D.C.
• Barwood - ☎ +1 301 984-1900 in Montgomery County (Maryland)|Montgomery County
• Silver Cab - ☎ +1 301 277-6000 in Prince George's County
• Red Top - ☎ +1 703 522-3333 - In Virginia, is the largest operator in both Arlington County and Alexandria.

Taxicab drivers are required to take passengers anywhere within the D.C.-area. With the exception of rides to and from the airport, it is illegal for cabs to pick up passengers outside the jurisdiction in which they are based.

Taxi fares

All cabs are required to accept credit cards and provide receipts on request.

Taxi rates for all D.C.-area taxicabs are fixed by the jurisdiction in which they are based and the rate does not change when state lines are crossed. page/taxicab-fares Rates for DC-based taxicabs are $3.50 for the first eighth of a mile and 27¢ for each additional eighth of a mile. There is a $1.00 surcharge for additional passengers, regardless of the number of people. There is no rush hour fee, although meters do charge a "wait rate" of 42¢ for each minutes the vehicle is stopped in traffic or traveling under 10 mph.

Rates for cabs based in Montgomery County, Maryland include a $4.00 initial charge plus a $2.00 per mile distance fee.

By ride-hailing services

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are extremely popular in D.C. and, although most ride-hailing drivers work only part time and there are more Uber and Lyft cars than taxis operating in D.C. Base rates for Uber and Lyft in the D.C.-area are much lower than those of taxis, and if there are more than 2 people in your party, ride-hailing is often cheaper than Metrorail!

By car

Driving in downtown D.C. is difficult, particularly during rush hour, where traffic can make it take 10 minutes to drive a couple city blocks. In addition, limited and expensive parking, ruthless enforcement of complicated parking rules, sadistic traffic circles, fines from automated red light cameras and absurd speed traps, potholes, frequent street direction changes, and street closures without warning make driving in D.C. a headache.

Street parking downtown is limited to two hours only (even at meters), so be prepared to park in a private lot or garage, which cost anywhere from $10–25 per day. Avoid driving and parking during rush hour (weekdays, 7AM Monday - 10AM and 4PM Monday - 7PM), since this is when the majority of the city's traffic congestion, street direction changes, and parking restrictions are in effect. If you do park on the street, pay close attention to traffic signs. Most streets downtown restrict parking during rush hour and visitors often return to the spot where they parked only to find that their vehicle has been ticketed or towed!

Local opposition prevented the construction of interstate highways directly through Washington, which would have cut off access to certain neighborhoods and required demolition of historic buildings. The two freeways that feed into the city from Virginia, I-66 and I-395, both terminate quickly. Washington and its innermost suburbs are encircled by the Capital Beltway, I-495, which gave rise to the expression "Inside the Beltway" (which refers to matters only relevant to people in D.C. political circles).

Washington has several classic drives:

• Pennsylvania Ave from Fourteenth Street Northwest toward the Capitol.
• Eastbound Independence Ave from the Lincoln Memorial, from the right lane of which you can continue in a loop around the Tidal Basin.
• Rock Creek Pkwy, one of the world's earliest highways, and which was planned as part of an inner beltway, follows Rock Creek through D.C.'s own urban oasis and then traces the Potomac River to the Lincoln Memorial. This roadway becomes one-way (and terribly confusing) during weekday rush hour (6:45AM–9:30AM southbound only, 3:45PM–6:30PM northbound).
• Canal Road heading west from Georgetown's Monday St, which turns into the leafy Clara Barton Pkwy alongside the C&O Canal, continuing to the Capital Beltway.
• Embassy Row, Massachusetts Ave between Scott Circle and Wisconsin Ave.
• George Washington Memorial Pkwy, which follows the Potomac on the Virginia side of the river to Mount Vernon.

By bicycle and scooter

D.C. is ranked as one of the top cities in the U.S. for bicycling. Many streets, including the iconic Pennsylvania Ave, have dedicated bike lanes and there is plenty of bike parking available. Most of the downtown area is flat, although areas north of downtown are more hilly. The vehicle traffic is slow enough that helmets may not be necessary. Biking in the street is legal and biking on the sidewalk is legal for non-electric bikes everywhere except downtown. Bicycle maps of the downtown are available at this site].

By hop-on-hop-off tour bus

• City Sights DC operates hop-on, hop-off bus tours in Washington DC.

What to see in Washington, D.C.

Most of the attractions in D.C. are on the National Mall and the West End, and Capitol Hill. While there are many maps on display throughout the city, you should print out and carry with you the official National Mall map (pdf)], which also includes most of the West End and Capitol Hill.

The National Mall is a unique National Park, filled with an intense concentration of monuments, memorials, museums, and monumental government buildings instantly recognizable to people all over the world. The Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Vietnam War Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial and the National Gallery of Art and the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, and the Holocaust Museum, are just a few of the top attractions on the National Mall. To walk down the National Mall is to thread the halls of world power in the modern era. Here the world's most powerful politicians and their staffs fill the grand neo-classical buildings of the three branches of US Government, making decisions that reverberate in the remotest corners of the world. The National Mall is larger than it looks, and a walk from one end of the National Mall to the other will take a while and may wear you down a bit. Plan ahead what you want to see and concentrate your activities in one section of the National Mall each day.

The East End, just north of the National Mall, includes many more museums and attractions, including the Newseum and the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum, and the home of an original copy of the Constitution at the National Archives.

The White House, as well as the Textile Museum and the Kennedy Center, are in the West End. The Capitol Building and the Supreme Court are on Capitol Hill. Another attraction here that shouldn't be missed is the Library of Congress, which has some of the most beautiful architecture that can be seen in the city.

The free National Zoo in Upper Northwest is one of the nation's most prestigious zoos, and the National Gothic Church is an awe-inspiring mammoth. Dupont Circle is home to much of Embassy Row, an impressive stretch of some 50 foreign-owned historic and modernist mansions along Massachusetts Ave, as well as several brilliant small museums, such as the Phillips Collection and the Woodrow Wilson House.

The historic neighborhood of Georgetown is the oldest part of the city, full of beautiful old colonial buildings and the 200+ year-old Jesuit campus of Georgetown University that resembles a Harry Potter film set, restaurants along the waterfront and the C&O canal, and the infamous Exorcist steps.

By vehicle or bus, you can get to some of the capital's more far-flung and less-frequented attractions, like the National Arboretum in the Near Northeast, or the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in eastern Anacostia. By taking the Metro red line to Brookland-CUA, you can easily visit the magnificent Catholic Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. This is the largest Catholic church in North America.

While many attractions and museums are free and there are several that aren't. The Washington DC Explorer Pass includes admission to your choice of 3 ($54) or 5 ($84) popular attractions at a discounted price.

What to do in Washington, D.C.

Outdoor activities and parks

D.C. is 21.9% covered in parkland, one of the highest ratios among U.S. cities. Many of these parks are crowded with soccer, football, rugby, kickball, baseball, and ultimate frisbee players. The National Mall may be the most famous park, but there are several other large beautiful parks in the city.

The 2,000 acre Rock Creek Park, a national park, bisects the city north of the Anacostia River. The park is full of deer (who overpopulate, due to lack of predators), squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, birds, and even a few coyotes. The park includes paved biking/running trails that extend from Maryland to the Lincoln Memorial and connecting with the Mount Vernon trail in Northern Virginia. There are also plenty of hiking trails, picnic spots, a golf course, a variety of Ranger-led/educational programs, and boats can be rented for kayaking ($16-22/hour) and sailing at the Thompson Boat Center on the Potomac River. There are plenty of nice outdoor spaces just beyond the park. South of Massachusetts Ave, you can take a path west out to the beautiful Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown, and then on to enormous Archibald-Glover Park, where the trails can lead you as far south and west as the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and Palisades Park. Following the main trail along the creek all the way south will take you under the Whitehurst Freeway and down to the National Mall, where joggers avail themselves of the incredible path right along the Potomac beneath the monuments.

Roosevelt Island is one of those gems just far enough out of the way that it is missed by most Muslim visitors. The Teddy Roosevelt Memorial is at the center of the island, which includes a couple fountains and several stone obelisks inscribed with his quotes. The rest of the island is a nice natural park of woods and swamp with a boardwalk in the center of the Potomac, with great views of Georgetown University on the northwest side and of the Kennedy Center on the east. What could be better befitting the "conservationist president" than an island park memorial? To reach the island, walk down the stairs at the Rosslyn side of the Key Bridge—which connects Rosslyn with Georgetown—then head east on the trail (the Mount Vernon Trail) to the footbridge to the island. Rosslyn is the nearest Metro stop. By car, you can access the parking lot just north of the Roosevelt Bridge from the northbound lanes of the George Washington Pkwy only.

There are several other parks worth visiting, including the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in Anacostia and the National Arboretum in Near Northeast, Meridian Hill Park in Columbia Heights, and the C&O Canal Towpath in Georgetown.

Study in Washington, D.C.

D.C. has a long list of highly accredited universities. It's a political town, and the best known institutions are undoubtedly those with the political connections. Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University are arguably the best academic options period for those looking to cozy up to the Washington elite and/or launch a public career. They are also excellent bets for international students looking for a politics-oriented exchange program, as their international politics programs are consistently ranked among the world's best, producing world leaders from kings to African finance ministers. D.C. is also home to a number of acclaimed universities with a more specialized focus: Gallaudet University is the world's only university for the deaf, Howard University is one of the nation's most esteemed historically black universities, and the prestigious National Defense University serves the military elite. Other large and well-respected institutions include The Catholic University of America and graduate-level programs such as the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. The only public university in D.C. is the University of the District of Columbia, which serves mostly local students.

It is not advisable for Foreign Muslims to study in any US university due to the Pro Zionist movement that control the schools and most local governments.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Washington, D.C.

Souvenirs are easy to find at stands and stores near the National Mall and East End. However and these offerings tend to be tacky (shot glasses, magnets, t-shirts, etc...). The gift shops of the Smithsonian museums have unique but more expensive offerings and are great places to buy gifts.

Eastern Market in Capitol Hill is a favorite Saturday or Sunday afternoon shopping destination for locally produced food and artwork. Even if you're not buying, it's a great time.

Eclectic boutiques and vintage stores abound in Georgetown,Adams Morgan, Upper Northwest, and Shaw. However, prices are high; you are not likely to find many bargains.

Art galleries are plentiful throughout the city and make for great browsing, although the prices are on the high side.

Halal Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC, is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, and for those seeking halal options, the city does not disappoint. Whether you're in the mood for Middle Eastern, (Pakistani), Indian, or other international cuisines, the following list highlights some of the best halal restaurants in the nation's capital.

City Kabob & Curries House - 2 (D.C)

Rating: 4.6
Location: 204 Michigan Ave NE

This modest eatery serves up delicious (Pakistani) fare. With high ratings for its quality and taste, it’s a must-visit for halal food lovers in DC.

Himalayan Doko

Rating: 4.2
Location: 1108 K St NW

Offering a buffet of Indian and (Pakistani) cuisine, Himalayan Doko is highly recommended for those looking for variety and authentic flavors.

Aladdin House of Kabob and Gyros

Rating: 4.7
Location: 2132 Wisconsin Ave NW

Known for its late hours, Aladdin House is perfect for night owls craving kabobs and gyros. They offer dine-in, kerbside pickup, and no-contact delivery.

Aladdin's Kitchen

Rating: 4.0
Location: 1782 Florida Ave NW

Another favorite from the Aladdin chain, this kitchen offers a cozy dining experience along with kerbside pickup and no-contact delivery.

Sacrificial Lamb Kabobs & Wraps

Rating: 4.3
Location: 1704 R St NW

This underground spot is popular for its Kebab and wraps, offering a unique dining experience in the city.

New York Grill

Rating: 4.8
Location: 1764 Columbia Rd NW

This highly-rated grill offers a range of halal options with a focus on quality and taste, available for dine-in, kerbside pickup, and delivery.

Halal Wrist

Rating: 4.7
Location: 3019 Georgia Ave NW

Open until the early hours, Halal Wrist provides a variety of halal dishes with dine-in, kerbside pickup, and no-contact delivery options.

DC Halal Shawarma

Rating: 2.5
Location: 4903 Wisconsin Ave

Worse Halal restaurant in DC. Stay away

Aalif Restaurants (Halal)

Rating: 4.8
Location: 706-A Central Ave

Boasting some of the best halal food in town, Aalif Restaurants is a top choice for fast food lovers.

Halal Everyday

Rating: 4.2
Location: 3518 Connecticut Ave NW Unit B

A convenient spot for everyday halal meals with dine-in, takeaway, and no-contact delivery options.

Food Corner Kabob & Rotisserie

Rating: 4.4
Location: Ilab, Georgia Ave NW

Specializing in Indian and (Pakistani) cuisine, this restaurant is praised for its rotisserie and kabob dishes.

The Hut

Rating: 4.3
Location: 3657 Georgia Ave NW

A great spot for late-night dining, The Hut offers a range of halal dishes with dine-in, takeaway, and no-contact delivery.

Rumi's Kitchen - DC

Rating: 4.5
Location: 640 L St NW

Known for its Persian cuisine, Rumi's Kitchen is a well-regarded spot for halal food in the VA/DC/MD area.

Ala

Rating: 4.3
Location: 1320 19th St NW

This chic eatery serves delicious Middle Eastern fare with a touch of elegance. They also offer reservations for a more planned dining experience.

Ilchi Uyghur Cuisine

Rating: 4.4
Location: 2412 Wisconsin Ave NW

A must-visit for Uyghur cuisine enthusiasts, this restaurant is praised for its authenticity and quality.

Pizza Corner (Halal)

Rating: 4.5
Location: 1501 U St NW

For those craving pizza with halal options, Pizzas Corner offers a variety of choices with dine-in, kerbside pickup, and no-contact delivery.

Capital Doner (Shawarma - Gyro)

Rating: 4.7
Location: 2035 P St NW

This informal doner Kebab place with a patio is popular for its delicious and authentic Turkish flavors.

George's King of Falafel and Cheesesteak

Rating: 4.4
Location: 1205 28th St NW

Known for its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, George’s is a staple for halal shawarma in DC.

Grill Kabob

Rating: 4.7
Location: 1028 19th St NW

This Middle Eastern eatery offers some of the best halal kabobs in the city, making it a popular spot for food lovers.

Moby Dick House of Kabob

Rating: 4.2
Location: 1300 Connecticut Ave NW

A fast-food chain known for its tasty halal foods, Moby Dick House of Kabob is a convenient and delicious option.

RASA

Rating: 4.4
Location: 1247 First St SE

This chic spot offers flavor-packed Indian food with a modern twist, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Mama Ayesha's Restaurant

Rating: 4.3
Location: 1967 Calvert St NW

Decorated exotically, Mama Ayesha’s serves Middle Eastern cuisine in a unique and inviting atmosphere.

Muncheez

Rating: 4.2
Location: 1071 Wisconsin Ave NW

Known for its Lebanese comfort food, muncheez is a trendy spot for halal Chicken and more.

Aladdin's Kitchen II

Rating: 4.5
Location: 6230 Georgia Ave NW

Another location from the Aladdin’s chain, offering the same great halal food options with dine-in, kerbside pickup, and no-contact delivery.

Whether you're a local or visiting Washington, DC, these halal restaurants offer a variety of delicious options to satisfy your culinary cravings. From Middle Eastern to (Pakistani) and Indian cuisine, the city's halal food scene is diverse and thriving.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Washington, D.C., is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Washington, D.C.. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Washington, D.C. and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Washington, D.C.. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Washington, D.C.. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inWashington, D.C.: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Washington, D.C..

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Washington, D.C.: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Washington, D.C., allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Washington, D.C..

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Washington, D.C., ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Washington, D.C., enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Washington, D.C. and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Washington, D.C., stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Washington, D.C., a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Washington, D.C. without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Washington, D.C. is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Washington, D.C..

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Washington, D.C. is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Washington, D.C., please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Washington, D.C. Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Washington, D.C.

eHalal Group Washington, D.C. is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Washington, D.C.. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Washington, D.C..

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Washington, D.C. ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Washington, D.C.. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Washington, D.C., offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Washington, D.C. are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Washington, D.C.

• Beacon Hotel & Corporate Quarters Washington DC
• Best Western Capital Beltway Hotel Lanham
• Best Western Fairfax Hotel
• Best Western New Hampshire Suites Hotel
• Capital Hilton
• Capitol Hill Hotel Washington DC
• Capitol Skyline Hotel Washington DC
• Carlyle Suites Hotel Washington DC
• Channel Inn Hotel Washington DC
• Club Quarters In Washington DC
• Comfort Inn & Suites New York Avenue Washington DC
• Comfort Inn Capitol Heights
• Comfort Inn Conference Center Bowie
• Comfort Inn Downtown DC, Convention Centre
• Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Capitol Heights
• Courtyard By Marriott Washington Capitol Hill Navy Yard Hotel
• Courtyard By Marriott Washington Convention Center
• Courtyard By Marriott Washington Embassy Row
• Courtyard New Carrollton Landover
• Courtyard Washington DC Northwest
• Courtyard Washington DC, U.S. Capitol
• Crowne Plaza Hotel The Hamilton - Washington DC
• Days Inn Lanham Washington DC
• Days Inn Washington DC Connecticut Avenue
• Days Inn Washington DC Gateway
• Donovan House A Kimpton Hotel Washington
• Doubletree Hotel Washington DC
• DoubleTree Suites By Hilton Hotel Washington, DC
• Embassy Inn Washington DC
• Embassy Suites Washington D.C.
• Embassy Suites Washington D.C. - at the Chevy Chase Pavilion
• Embassy Suites Washington D.C. - Convention Center
• Extended Stay America Washington DC Landover Hotel
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Washington DC New York Avenue
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Washington, DC, Downtown
• Four Points By Sheraton Washington D.C. Downtown
• Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC
• Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center Washington DC
• Georgetown Suites Hotel Washington
• Georgetown Suites Washington DC Hotel
• Georgetown University Hotel & Conference Center Washington DC
• Grand Hyatt Washington DC
• Hampton Inn Bowie
• Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center
• Henley Park Hotel Washington DC
• Hilton Embassy Row Washington DC
• Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC Downtown
• Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC, US Capitol
• Holiday Inn Capitol Washington
• Holiday Inn Express Washington DC Northeast
• Holiday Inn Washington Central - White House
• Holiday Inn Washington-Georgetown
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington
• Hotel Helix Washington DC - A Kimpton Hotel
• Hotel Lombardy Washington DC
• Hotel Monaco Washington DC
• Howard Johnson Express Inn Washington DC
• Howard Johnson Inn Washington DC North - BW Parkway Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Washington DC
• InterContinental The Willard Washington DC Hotel
• JW Marriott Hotel Washington, DC
• Kellogg Conference Hotel At Gallaudet University
• L'enfant Plaza Hotel Washington DC
• Loews Madison Hotel
• Madera Hotel Washington DC, A Kimpton Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental Washington DC
• Marriott at Metro Center
• Marriott Washington DC
• Morrison Clark Inn Washington DC
• Omni Shoreham Hotel Washington DC
• One Washington Circle Hotel
• Palomar Hotel Washington DC
• Park Hyatt Hotel Washington DC
• Phoenix Park Hotel Washington DC
• Quality Inn Governor
• Quality Inn Hotel Washington DC
• Quality Inn Mount Vernon
• Quality Inn Takoma Park
• Renaissance Hotel Washington DC
• Renaissance Marriott Street Hotel Washington DC
• Renaissance Mayflower Hotel Washington DC
• Residence Inn By Marriott Washington DC Capitol
• Residence Inn By Marriott Washington DC Vermont Avenue
• Residence Inn National Harbor Washington, DC
• Residence Inn Washington DC Dupont Circle
• Rouge, A Kimpton Hotel
• Savoy Suites Georgetown
• Sofitel Lafayette Square Washington DC
• St Gregory Hotel & Suites Washington DC
• St Regis Hotel Washington DC
• State Plaza Hotel Washington DC
• The District Hotel Washington DC
• The Dupont Circle Hotel Washington DC
• The Fairfax At Embassy Row Washington DC
• The Fairmont Washington Hotel
• The George A Kimpton Hotel
• The George Washington University Inn
• The Georgetown Inn Washington DC
• The Graham Georgetown
• The Hay-Adams Hotel Washington
• The Jefferson Hotel Washington
• The Liaison Capitol Hill, An Affinia Hotel
• The Normandy Hotel
• The Quincy Hotel Washington DC
• The Ritz Carlton Georgetown
• The Ritz Carlton Washington DC
• The River Inn Washington DC
• The Washington Court Hotel
• The Westin Georgetown Hotel, Washington DC
• The Westin Tysons Corner
• The Westin Washington DC City Center
• The Westin Washington National Harbor Hotel
• The Windsor Inn Washington DC
• Topaz Hotel Washington DC, A Kimpton Hotel
• W Hotel Washington DC
• Washington Hilton
• Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel
• Washington Plaza Hotel
• Windsor Park Hotel Washington DC

Stay safe as a Muslim in Washington, D.C.

Muggings and robberies

Muggings are a problem in the nightlife-centered neighborhoods of Shaw, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, and Near Northeast and the area around the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station. However, visitors should not avoid these areas—on the contrary, it would be a shame to miss out on them—but visitors should be vigilant. In particular, avoid walking at night on side streets—stick to the well-lit main commercial strips, travel in groups, and maintain a basic level of sobriety.

Be extra vigilant with your mobile phones; they are a very popular snatch-and-grab item around the Metro stations and on the trains.

Cope

Embassies & Consulates in Washington, D.C.

Indonesian Embassy to the USA - 260px|The Indonesian Embassy on Embassy Row As the capital of the United States and the D.C. area is home to more embassies than any other city in the world, and any country without one will have consular representation one way or another. Most are housed in beautiful old buildings (or impressive modern ones), especially those most prominently located along Embassy Row on Massachusetts Ave through Dupont Circle and Woodley Park. If you just want to visit one for the heck of it, try ringing the buzzer of one from a small, lesser-known country—they may well let you in and give a little tour! Each May, dozens of embassies open their doors to the public for the Passport D.C. festival, which showcases the buildings themselves, as well as exhibits, talks, and performances. A number of countries have a (separate) consulate for their consular services such as issuing visas, passports, notary services, etc through a separate entry next to the embassy chancery or in a different location. Check their website or call before going to the embassy.

Baggage storage

One inevitable problem with sightseeing in D.C. is that few major attractions will let you bring in bags, (or cameras, in the case of the White House) and baggage storage options are limited for security reasons. Free lockers are available at many Smithsonian museums; however and they are only big enough to store small bags and are only supposed to be used while visiting the museums. There is baggage storage near Gate A in Union Station but it is extremely expensive - costing as much as $50 per bag per day. Otherwise, use a mobile app such as Store Me to find a baggage storage location or give a tip of at least $20 to a hotel bellman and ask nicely if he might store your bags.

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Washington, D.C.

Northern Virginia destinations

• Alexandria is south of Arlington, along the Potomac River, and a short metro ride away from DC. Old Town Alexandria features cobblestone streets, nearly 4,000 buildings dating as far back as the 1600s, and retail outlets and good restaurants. The George Washington Masonic Memorial, dedicated to George Washington, is a must-see. Alexandria also includes Mount Vernon and the home of George Washington and the first President of the United States. The mansion overlooks the Potomac River and includes a huge museum dedicated to the life of America's first president.
• Annandale and Centreville are the D.C. area's Koreatowns, with some of the best Korean BBQ you'll find anywhere outside Seoul, many of which are open 24 hours per day!
• Arlington is directly across the Potomac River from D.C. and includes attractions such as the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery and the Iwo Jima Memorial, as well as Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, an indoor shopping mall.
• Charlottesville, 114 miles southwest of D.C., is home to the University of Virginia, as well as Thomas Jefferson's Monticello estate and vineyard, Ash Lawn-Highland and the former home of President James Monroe.
• Falls Church is home to the largest Vietnamese community on the East Coast, and the food is magnificent!
• Fredericksburg, roughly halfway between D.C. and Richmond and accessible via the VRE Train, was founded in colonial perioid as a "port city". The town was heavily contested in the Civil War and has a historic neighborhood with galleries, music venues, and fine dining. The downtown area and battlefields have been well preserved due to strong local commitment to historic preservation, providing a unique blend of old and new culture.
• George Washington Memorial Parkway is a scenic road that runs along the Virginia side of the Potomac River between Mount Vernon and Great Falls. Two trail networks for running/walking/cycling intersect the parkway: the 18-mile gwmp/planyourvisit/mtvernontrail.htm Mount Vernon Trail and the pohe/index.htm Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, which runs between Theodore Roosevelt Island and Mount Vernon.
• Great Falls (Virginia)|Great Falls]] includes Great Falls Park, an 800-acre park along the Potomac River, 14 miles northwest from Washington, DC. The park includes many beautiful hiking trails and the area's largest waterfall. Great Falls also has the area's most beautiful homes and is compared to Beverly Hills.
• Leesburg is a historic city that includes Simon's Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets.
• Manassas is a quaint town near Manassas National Battlefield Park, which contains two major Civil War battlefields.
• McLean and Tysons Corner have beautiful mansions and very large shopping malls.
• National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, near Dulles International Airport, houses large air and spacecraft including an SR-71 "Blackbird" spy plane, a Concorde supersonic jet, and the space shuttle Discovery. Admission is free. Parking is available for $15/vehicle or take the public bus from the airport.
• Reston offers some nice restaurants, shops, and bars with nightlife.
• Woodbridge is the location of Simon's Potomac Mills, a humungous shopping mall that has the best discounts in the D.C. area.

Suburban Maryland

• [[Annapolis is 32 miles east of Washington DC, along Route 50. It is the Maryland state capital and home to the Naval Academy. Its historic neighborhood has numerous shops and restaurants along the Chesapeake Bay waterfront. It is a good place to take a boat trip.
• [[Bethesda is accessible using the Red Line Metro and features almost 200 restaurants with food from all over the world.
• [[Bowie is accessible using the MARC train and is home to the Bowie Baysox minor league baseball team.
• [[Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park features several hiking trails as well as Great Falls and the most impressive waterfall in the area. The park also offers kayaking and rock climbing. It can be visited from the Maryland and Virginia sides off of I-495 or via a 13-mile scenic hiker-biker trail from Georgetown.
• College Park is a vibrant college town just outside the D.C. city limits that is home to the University of Maryland.
• Eastern Shore (Maryland) is a great place to charter a boat for the day or eat Maryland's famous crabs.
• Ellicott City is 14 miles west of Baltimore and 29 miles north of Washington DC. It is known for it's historic neighborhood which contains a number of buildings dating back towards the 1800s, in addition to restaurants, boutiques, and antique stores.
• Frederick, 40 miles northwest of Washington DC and accessible via the MARC Train, is a charming city, dating back to the mid-18th century. It is a major antique center with many shops, eateries, galleries and antique dealers and there are also several Civil War sites nearby including the Monocacy National Battlefield.
• Greenbelt includes the NASA Goddard Visitor Center which is a great attraction, especially for kids.
• Kensington hosts an amazing annual Christmas light display at its massive church/temples/washington-dc?lang=eng Mormon Temple visible from the Beltway, which looks a lot like the Emerald Palace of Wizard of Oz fame. Antique Row is also worth a look.
• Largo (Maryland) includes the america Six Flags America theme park, featuring roller coasters and a water park.
• National Harbor, accessible by MetroBus, includes the Tanger Outlets at National Harbor and the Marriott lord National Convention Center, and the Capital Wheel, a 180-foot ferris wheel.
• Silver Spring is accessible using the Red Line Metro and features the American Film Institute's Silver Theatre and the Fillmore Silver Spring concert venue, along with plenty of restaurants and retail, and upscale parks.
• Takoma Park, a bohemian Victorian suburb, is accessible using the Red Line Metro and has eclectic shops.
• Wheaton is accessible using the Red Line Metro and has some of the best ethnic dining in the entire metro area.

Baltimore

Baltimore is easily accessible using the MARC train ($7, 1 hour). The Penn Line is the only MARC train line that operates on the weekends. If you are only going for the day and the last train back to D.C. is around 9PM; however, Greyhound Bus and ride-hailing services are viable alternatives if you can't make the last train. The Baltimore/Inner Harbor|Inner Harbor is home to the National Aquarium and the U.S.S. Constellation, and great restaurants. During the spring and summer, Camden Yards is a good place to see a baseball game, and the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum is near the ballpark. The Midtown and Fells Point neighborhoods also have many popular restaurants, especially in Little Italy. From spring to fall, you can take a water taxi from the Inner Harbor to historic Fort McHenry.

Richmond

Richmond, which includes a historic downtown, confederate civil war museums, and Carytown - a walk-able strip of trendy restaurants and retail outlets - is a logical stop if you are heading south. Eastern Shuttle, Greyhound, and Megabus operate bus service to Richmond for around $15.

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