Capital One Arena

Getting There from the ROOST White House

Capital One Arena is at 601 F Street NW, about 15 to 20 minutes away depending on your route. You have a few easy ways to get there:

• Walk: A straight 15–20 minute stroll. If you cut through Judiciary Square or follow 7th Street NW, you’ll avoid heavier traffic and get there faster.
• Metro: Take the Blue, Orange, or Silver Line from McPherson Square or Metro Center to Gallery Place-Chinatown Station, which opens directly into the arena. It’s the best option if the weather is bad or the event is sold out.
• Rideshare: Roughly a 5-minute trip depending on traffic. After events, wait times can get long, so walking or using Metro may be quicker on the way back.

What Happens at Capital One Arena

The arena draws more than three million visitors each year and remains D.C.’s main hub for major sports, concerts, and entertainment.

Sports

• Washington Wizards (NBA)
• Washington Capitals (NHL)
• Georgetown Hoyas (College Basketball)
• Occasional boxing, wrestling, and esports tournaments

Even if you’re not a diehard fan, the atmosphere makes game nights worth experiencing. A Capitals game, in particular, feels like a city-wide celebration.

Concerts and Touring Shows

This stage has hosted everyone from Elton John to Kendrick Lamar to Dave Chappelle. Upcoming artists range from pop icons to rising indie performers. You’ll also find touring productions like Cirque du Soleil, WWE SmackDown/Raw, and family-friendly shows throughout the year.

Inside the Arena

Capital One Arena is in the middle of an $800 million renovation designed to modernize the entire experience. Projected finish time is 2027, so there could be some nuances to consider as part of your trip. Visitors can expect:

• New seating with improved comfort and sightlines
• Upgraded restrooms throughout the arena
• Private suites and VIP lounges with exclusive entries
• Cashless concessions with faster mobile ordering
• Wider food and beverage selections
• Enhanced lighting and video displays for better visuals

The updates are rolling out in phases, but the improvements are already noticeable, especially around the concourses and seating areas.

What to Do Before or After Your Event

You don’t have to rush straight into the arena. Penn Quarter and Chinatown are full of things to do within a few blocks. Whether you have an hour before a show or time to unwind after, you can easily fill it with culture, food, or a short walk.

• National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum: Two connected Smithsonian museums under one roof. Free admission and open until 7 p.m., perfect before an evening event.
• International Spy Museum: Lighthearted and interactive, with exhibits on espionage, Cold War gadgets, and real-life spy stories. Great for groups or families.
• Ford’s Theatre: Historic and still active as a working theater. Check for matinee performances or take a quick self-guided tour during the day.
• National Building Museum: A quieter stop with exhibits on architecture and urban design. The building itself is worth a visit.
• CityCenterDC: A few blocks away, filled with shops and outdoor seating areas that are perfect for walking and shopping before heading inside.

Where to Eat Near Capital One Arena

You’ll find plenty of food options inside the arena, but the surrounding neighborhood has some of D.C.’s best dining within a ten-minute walk.

• The Smith: A lively restaurant that offers comfort food classics like pasta and burgers.Great service, energetic atmosphere, and ideal for pre-show dinners.
• Daikaya Ramen & Izakaya: Two levels, two experiences. Grab quick ramen downstairs or enjoy cocktails and Japanese small plates upstairs.
• Momiji: Excellent sushi and sashimi with fast service. Perfect if you want something quick and light before a show or game.
• Clyde’s of Gallery Place: A D.C. staple known for classic American fare like New York strip and Oysters Rockefeller.  Enjoy generous portions among a buzzing crowd before and after events.
• Crimson Whiskey Bar & Rooftop: Located in the Motto Hotel, offering a relaxed rooftop bar and an extensive whiskey list downstairs.

If you prefer to stay near your seat, the arena’s new concessions now include local vendors and a wider mix of food than standard stadium fare.

A Sample Arena Evening

Here’s a simple itinerary to make your Capital One Arena night stress-free and memorable.

Afternoon: Wrap up work or sightseeing around 3:30 p.m. and freshen up at the ROOST White House.

Early Evening: Walk or ride toward Penn Quarter around 4:30 p.m. and enjoy an early dinner at The Smith or Daikaya.

Before the Show: Take a short walk up 7th Street or stop by the Portrait Gallery for a quick look around. Enter the arena through the Gallery Place-Chinatown entrance by 6:45 p.m.

Showtime: Enjoy your event at 7 p.m. The energy inside rarely disappoints, whether it’s hockey, basketball, or live music.

After the Event: If you’re still up for it, head to Bar Deco or Crimson Whiskey Bar for a nightcap. Then make your way back to the ROOST White House by Metro, rideshare, or a casual evening walk if the weather is good.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

• Buy tickets early. Popular events sell out quickly, and prices rise as dates approach.
• Travel light. Large bags aren’t allowed, and storage options are limited.
• Go cash-free. The arena accepts only digital payments, including for food and merchandise.
• Leave a little early or linger after. The post-event crowd can slow down rideshares and Metro lines.
• Check the arena schedule ahead of time. Some events include pre-show activities or local promotions worth catching.

Why Capital One Arena Belongs on Your DC Itinerary

Capital One Arena is one of the city’s social centers, where locals and visitors gather for big nights out. Between the sports, concerts, and entertainment variety, there’s almost always something happening that fits your interests.

From the ROOST White House, one of the best hotels near Capital One Arena, you’re close enough to join the excitement anytime. It's perfect for a night where you didn’t plan anything but decide you want to be part of the city’s pulse. You can walk there, grab dinner nearby, and still be back in your suite before midnight.

If you want your stay in D.C. to include more than sightseeing, add a game or concert to your list. Capital One Arena gives you an easy, walkable way to experience the city’s energy up close while keeping The ROOST White House as your comfortable home base.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guide to the Best Things To Do in Washington, D.C. — from iconic landmarks to hidden local gems, all just minutes from ROOST White House.