Watergate Complex
2600 Virginia Ave. NW, Washington DC, Washington DC, USA, 20037
An architectural landmark stretching along the banks of the Potomac River, the six buildings of Washington DC’s Watergate Complex house a luxury hotel, apartments, and office blocks. Most famously, it was also the site of the eponymous 1972 political scandal that led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon.
The basics
Tours of Washington DC’s political buildings and monuments often include a stop at the Watergate Complex and put into context the fateful events of the Watergate Scandal. While most of the complex is filled with private offices and apartments, it’s possible to visit the Watergate Hotel—head up to the rooftop bar for a drink with a view of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Washington Monument, and the city skyline. For a different view, admire the Watergate Complex from the water as you cruise along the Potomac River.
Things to know before you go
Architecture enthusiasts won’t want to miss a visit to the Watergate Complex—the distinctive buildings are one of the city’s most important examples of 1960s modernism.
The site comprises six different buildings; the office building at 2600 Virginia Avenue is the location of the notorious Watergate burglary.
The exterior of the Watergate Complex and the Watergate Hotel are both accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
The Watergate Complex is located along the Potomac riverfront in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, right next door to the Kennedy Center. The closest Metro station is Foggy Bottom (served by the Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines), about a 2-minute walk away. There is limited, 2-hour street parking available along Virginia Avenue.
When to get there
Visit the Watergate Hotel rooftop bar in the evening hours for the most dazzling views of Washington’s skyline, or come in the daytime to admire the building’s architecture.
Political sights in Washington DC
While the star location of Washington DC has to be the White House, the US capital is full of significant political landmarks and monuments. After seeing the home of the President, head to Capitol Hill to see the Capitol Building, the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate; walk along the National Mall to the Washington Monument; visit the Lincoln Memorial and Thomas Jefferson Memorial; or even take a tour of President Lincoln’s Cottage.
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