The holiday season is fast approaching, which means Washington, DC, will become a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, cheerful music, and, of course, the delightful aroma of seasonal treats. Visiting the lively holiday markets throughout the city is one of the best ways to experience the spirit of the season. You will be able to find lots of gifts and really good food at these markets. These markets make shopping in Washington DC a dream during the holiday season.
The Wharf Holiday Market
The Wharf Holiday Market has a stunning view of the waterfront because of its location at The Wharf. At this market, you will be able to buy things like artisanal gifts and delicious holiday snacks. The Wharf Holiday Market is the ideal place to bring friends and family for a day out, with its festivities and beautiful views of the Potomac River, you won’t go wrong.
Getting to The Wharf from the Arlo Hotel is straightforward. It’s about a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles), which provides a lovely route to the market. For those who prefer a quicker commute, a short Metro ride will have you there in no time. You can also take a taxi, which will take around 10-15 minutes, allowing you to save your energy for shopping.
Union Market’s Holiday Pop-Up
If you’re on the hunt for one-of-a-kind gifts while shopping in Washington DC, the holiday pop-up at Union Market is the place to be. This place features a variety of local artisans offering handcrafted goods and delicious foods. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying the holiday season while you shop.
Union Market is a bit farther from the Arlo Hotel, requiring about a 40-minute walk (2 miles), but it allows you to enjoy some interesting sights along the way. If you prefer to minimize your walking, you can easily jump on the Metro for a swift ride. Alternatively, a taxi will get you there in about 15-20 minutes, making it convenient to carry all your goodies back with you.
CityCenterDC Holiday Market
CityCenterDC hosts a festive season celebration, which turns the center into something very similar to a holiday market that offers a chic shopping experience in downtown D.C. Known for its upscale atmosphere, the market features a variety of luxury retailers, local artisans, and gourmet food vendors. The beautifully lit central plaza is a must-see, with sparkling decorations and a giant Christmas tree that adds to the festive ambiance.
From the Arlo Hotel, CityCenterDC is just a 20-minute walk, covering about 1 mile. It’s a scenic route that allows you to experience the city’s holiday decorations along the way. Alternatively, you can take a quick Metro ride, or opt for a taxi, which will have you there in about 5-10 minutes.
National Harbor’s Holiday Market
Not far away from DC is the National Harbor Holiday Market, which has an amazing European flair to its festivities. You are left with endless options when it comes to cuisine, as there are local and international choices.
Since National Harbor is too far to walk from the Arlo Hotel, the best option is to take the Metro for a short ride, followed by a taxi or rideshare. If you prefer a direct route, a taxi will get you there in approximately 20-30 minutes.
Georgetown GLOW
The magic of the season is perfectly captured at Georgetown GLOW. Despite not being a market in the traditional sense, this place has gorgeous light installations and shopping events that you must see. To add to the festive vibe, you will find many local artists showcasing their work in various pop-up shops as you walk along the streets with the beautiful lights.
Georgetown is about a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles) from the Arlo Hotel, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the city’s ambiance. You can also opt for a quick Metro ride for convenience. A drive or ride share will take you approximately 10-15 minutes, allowing you to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of D.C. during this festive season.
Stay at the Arlo Hotel
D.C. truly comes alive during the holiday season, offering delightful markets filled with local crafts, tasty treats, and a chance to soak in the festive spirit. Each market brings its own special atmosphere, making it easy to find the perfect gifts for loved ones—or to simply enjoy the holiday cheer.
For those staying at the Arlo Hotel, these markets are just a short commute away, making your shopping adventures even more accessible.
Ready to immerse yourself in the holiday magic? Book your stay at Arlo Hotel and enjoy all the festive delights D.C. has to offer!
