Washington D.C., United States
Best places to shop in Washington D.C.
4 markets, malls and shopping districts in Washington D.C. — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.
Last updated 2026-08-09
1. Eastern Market, Capitol Hill
Photo: AgnosticPreachersKid · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
The 1873 brick market hall — butchers, bakers and produce inside, with a weekend flea and farmers' market outside.
- Where: Market
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Tuesday to Sunday 07:00–19:00; weekend outdoor markets 09:00–17:00
- Cost: Mid-range
2. Georgetown: M Street and Wisconsin Avenue
Photo: Famartin · CC0 · source
The historic district's shopping crossroads — international brands, independent boutiques and the Georgetown Park mall.
- Where: Street Shopping
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Daily 10:00–20:00
- Cost: Mid–Luxury
3. Union Market
Photo: Farragutful · CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
The renovated food hall in NoMa — local producers, restaurants, a bookshop and a rooftop, in the old wholesale market district.
- Where: Market
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Daily 08:00–20:00
- Cost: Mid-range
4. Smithsonian museum shops
Photo: Smithsonian Institution · No restrictions · source
The museum stores across the Mall — genuinely good books, prints, jewellery and craft, with proceeds supporting the institution.
- Where: Street Shopping
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Daily 10:00–17:30
- Cost: Budget–Mid
- Tip: The National Museum of the American Indian shop sells certified Native-made work with the maker named, which the souvenir shops downtown do not.
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