| Capital One Arena Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team(s) | Washington Wizards (NBA), Washington Capitals (NHL), Georgetown Hoyas (NCAA) |
| Opened | December 2, 1997 (as MCI Center; Verizon Center 2006–2017; renamed Capital One Arena in 2017) |
| Capacity | ~20,356 (basketball), 18,573 (hockey) |
| Best Value Seats | Upper-level corners with clear sightlines at mid-tier pricing |
| Premium Seating | Executive suites, Monumental VIP Club, Ultra Club, United & Players Clubs, Caesars Sportsbook Lounge |
| Top Arena Foods | Elevated vendors: PhoWheels, Kong Dog, Little Miner Taco, Fuku, Jerk at Nite, Astro Doughnuts, more |
| Nearby Bars & Restaurants | Clyde’s Gallery Place, Bantam King (ramen), Zaytinya, Jaleo, The Smith – solid pre/post-game options |
| Closest Hotels | Hotel Harrington, Grand Hyatt, The Darcy—all within a few blocks |
| Transit Access | Washington Metro at Gallery Place–Chinatown station (Red/Green/Yellow lines) |
| Renovation Update | Undergoing ~$800 M, 3-year overhaul—expanded concourses, food hall, new facade & premium spaces for 2027–28 |
Best Seats At Capital One Arena
Opened in 1997 in the heart of Chinatown, Capital One Arena sits literally on top of the Gallery Place Metro station and hosts the Capitals, Wizards, and Georgetown Hoyas. With a capacity of 20,308 for basketball and 18,506 for hockey, it’s one of the most accessible arenas in the country—no car needed. Right now, it’s in the middle of a $1 billion transformation that’ll run through summer 2027, adding 40% more restrooms, wider concourses, brand-new premium clubs like the United Globe and Lexus Vaults, enhanced club-level spaces, and a completely rebuilt Gallery Place atrium. The best part? They’re doing it in phases while keeping events running, so you get upgraded amenities rolling out season by season instead of shutting the whole place down.
Seating Guide
Whether you’re catching Ovechkin chase history or watching the Wizards rebuild, where you sit at Capital One changes the entire experience—and hockey versus basketball seating strategies are completely different.
For Capitals Games – The Shoot Twice End (Sections 105 to 106, 205 to 206): The Caps attack toward sections 105 and 106 for two periods, making these the most coveted hockey seats in the building. Section 106, Row M is the sweet spot—you’re elevated enough to see breakouts develop but close enough to hear chirping on the ice. Lower bowl runs $150-250 depending on the opponent, while 200-level center drops to $80-120. I sat Section 205, Row B for a Penguins game last season, and watching Ovi on the power play from that angle twice is absolutely worth the climb. The downside: defensive zone action feels a mile away for one period, and you’re basically watching a TV screen.
For Wizards Games – Center Court Sideline (Sections 101, 111, 109 to 113): Sections 101 and 111 are dead-center court and the absolute best basketball sight lines in the arena. The Wizards bench sits in front of Section 101, so you get bench reactions, timeouts, and player interactions all game. Section 111 on the opposite sideline is where visiting teams set up. Lower bowl sideline seats run $100-200 for most games (less when the Wizards are struggling, more for Lakers/Celtics). Sections 109-113 flanking center court are nearly as good and often $30-50 cheaper. Row 10 and up gives you the elevated angle to see plays develop without craning your neck.
Lower Bowl Corners & Behind Basket (Sections 115-119, 103-107): For Wizards games, corners are budget-friendly ($60-90) and actually solid for watching fast breaks and three-point shooting. Behind-the-basket seats (Sections 103, 119) are great for seeing offensive sets unfold but terrible for watching action on the opposite end. For Capitals games, these same sections work as “attack once” hockey seats—cheaper ($90-140) but you only get one period of offensive zone action toward your end.
Club Level First Rows (200s, Row A-C): Here’s the insider secret for both sports: Club Level Row A sits directly above the lower bowl with zero overhang obstruction, and you get club lounge access. For Wizards games, this is the value king—$120-160 for elevated center court views with cushioned seats, private bathrooms, and upgraded food access. Section 214, Row A for Caps games puts you at center ice with perfect sightlines and lounge perks. I’d take this over lower bowl corners any day.
Upper Bowl Budget King (Sections 416-418, 401, 433): Section 417 center ice for Caps games runs $40-70, and you genuinely see everything—zone coverage, line changes, breakouts. For Wizards games, sections 415-419 give you center court from the 400s for $30-60 depending on the opponent. The stairs are steep (classic ’90s arena design), concourses are narrow, but DC crowds pack these sections with actual knowledgeable fans. Upper bowl center beats lower bowl corners for game-watching purposes every single time.
The Glass Seat Reality Check: Rows 1-7 behind the glass for hockey have terrible viewing because the glass distorts and obstructs the ice. If you’re paying for glass seats, sit Row 1 where you’re level with the action, or save $50-100 and sit Row 8+ where you actually see the full rink. For Wizards games, courtside (Rows 1-3) is legitimately great—no obstructions, just pure basketball inches from your face. Totally different experience between sports.
Loge Boxes: Private boxes seating 6-8 people tucked just above the lower bowl. These are perfect for small groups who want semi-private space without committing to a full suite. You get your own perch with waiter service, and it’s easily the best “special occasion” move for families or small corporate groups without dropping $4,000 on a suite.
Premium Seating Options
DC’s undergoing a premium hospitality arms race right now, and Capital One Arena is going all-in with spaces opening throughout the 2025-26 season.
United Globe Club & Lounge (Opening 2025-26 Season): This is the big one—24,000+ square feet across two levels, making it 30% larger than any existing club space in the arena. The Globe Club holds 800+ guests with all-inclusive food, complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks for Capitals and Wizards VIP seat holders. The kicker? Direct street-level access to your seats without ever touching the main concourse. You’re basically bypassing the entire public arena experience, which in downtown DC during rush hour or big games is a massive flex. The theming is “elegance of flight” with day-and-night contrast spaces —very DC corporate sophisticated, not Vegas flashy. This is for season ticket holders and corporate groups who want the full VIP ecosystem.
The Vaults (Lexus Vaults – Opening 2025-26): Brand-new luxury lounge-style suites seating around 20 guests with private restrooms and high-end furnishings. These are “Innovation Suites” designed as first-of-their-kind spaces, meaning they’re doing something different than traditional box suites. Pricing isn’t fully public yet, but expect premium-tier rates similar to Bunker Suites elsewhere. Best for groups who want lounge vibes instead of stadium seating—you’re watching the game from couches and high-tops, not rows.
Traditional Luxury Suites: Standard suites hold 18-28 guests depending on the level (Lexus Level, Kettler Loft, Lower Level, Mega Suites). Capitals games run $2,500-5,000 per suite on average; Wizards games are slightly cheaper at $2,000-3,000. Two VIP parking passes included, plus access to the PwC Club on the Club Level Concourse. Catering is extra but available. Weekday games against big rivals (Penguins, Rangers) hit the high end; Tuesday night against Columbus hits the low end.
PwC Club: High-end restaurant and bar on the Club Level Concourse, open 90 minutes before sports games and one hour before concerts. Suite and club seat holders get access. This is where you camp out pre-game if you have the ticket access—full bar, upgraded food, private restrooms, and lounge seating away from the masses.
Ultra Club & VIP Glass Seating: Club-level access with padded seats, premium views, and all-inclusive food and bars. For Capitals games, VIP Glass seats are the front rows of the 200 level with club perks. Shorter lines, better food, actual cocktails instead of just beer. If you’re doing one or two games a season and want to treat yourself without a suite, this is the move
Seating Chart for Capital One Arena
The capacity of Capital One Arena is around 20,000 for most events. Here is a link to the Seating Chart for Capital One Arena.
The seating chart includes maps for Wizards games, Capitals games, concerts, and other events. It also includes information on suite rentals and VIP parking. You can use the interactive seat maps to view row and seat numbers, seat views, and ticket information.
Wizards and Capitals Tickets
You can usually find good tickets to most events at the arena with a little planning. To get tickets for Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals games at Capital One Arena, you have several options:
- Get Tickets To Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals Games Here! To get tickets to any event at Capital One Arena check out our partnership with Vivid Seats.
- Official Team Websites: Visit the official websites of the Washington Wizards and the Washington Capitals. Both teams typically sell tickets directly through their websites, and you can often find a wide range of ticket options, including season tickets, single-game tickets, and special packages.
- NBA and NHL Websites: The official NBA and NHL websites also offer information on upcoming games and links to authorized ticket sellers. You can use these websites to find links to purchase tickets for the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals games.
- Box Office: Visit the Capital One Arena’s box office in person to purchase tickets directly. This allows you to avoid service fees associated with online ticket purchases. Check the box office’s operating hours and availability before visiting.
- Season Ticket Holders: Some season ticket holders may occasionally sell their tickets for individual games. You can find these opportunities through online marketplaces or local classified ads.
- Official Team Apps: Download the official apps of the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals. These apps often allow you to buy tickets directly and provide updates on game schedules, promotions, and exclusive offers.
Upcoming Events at Capital One Arena
Being the premier arena in our nations capital there are events happening at Capital One Arena most of the year. You can see a full calendar of upcoming games, events, concerts and more here
When purchasing tickets, always ensure you are dealing with reputable sellers to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets. Be cautious of excessively high prices, and consider checking the official team websites and box office for face-value tickets. Also, keep an eye out for any official promotions, fan club memberships, or subscription newsletters that may offer exclusive access to tickets or discounts.
Captial One Arena Bag Policy
Capital One Arena enforces a strict NO BAG policy that catches a lot of first-timers off guard. If you’re coming from an NFL game at FedEx Field or thinking this works like other stadiums, listen up: do NOT bring a large clear plastic tote bag. Unlike NFL stadiums that allow clear bags, Capital One Arena doesn’t care if your bag is see-through—if it’s bigger than a clutch, you’re getting turned away at the gate.
What’s actually allowed: Small clutches no larger than 5″ x 7″ (about the size of an index card). That’s it for general admission. If you need to bring more, you’ll need a medical or parenting exception.
Medical and parenting bags: Allowed up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″ for medical necessities or diaper bags. You can’t use the main entrance with these—you must enter at the 6th St. & F St. Entrance and look for the ADA/Medical signage to have your bag X-rayed. Plan an extra 10-15 minutes for this process, especially during busy events.
No bag check at the arena: If you show up with a bag that’s too big, the arena doesn’t have an official bag check. Your only option is third-party Binbox Lockers usually located on F Street near the 6th Street corner. They cost around $15 per bag, and you’ll need the Binbox App downloaded on your phone to rent one. Download the app before you leave for the arena if you think there’s any chance your bag won’t make it through security—you’ll save yourself 15 minutes of fumbling at a kiosk while missing the opening tip or puck drop.
Capital One Arena Insider Tips
Capital One Arena sits at the heart of D.C.’s entertainment district with direct Metro access, making it one of the most accessible venues in the country—if you know the tricks. The 2025-26 renovation brought major upgrades including local celebrity chef concepts, VIP entrance lanes for cardholders, and self-serve refill stations that actually save you money. The catch is the bag policy here is stricter than almost any arena in the country, and the entrance strategy matters way more than most venues because of how the Metro connects underground.
Entrance Hacks: Skip the Lines
Capital One Cardholder VIP Lane: If you have a Capital One credit or debit card, don’t stand in the general admission lines. Head straight to the dedicated VIP Entrance at 6th St & F St NW and flash your card to skip 90% of the crowd. The real advantage is this entrance opens 15 minutes before general doors, letting you grab food and drinks before the rush hits. I’ve tried this a few times and it saves you 20-30 minutes of standing in security lines during big Caps playoff games.
The Winter Tunnel (Underground Metro Access): The arena sits directly on top of the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station (Red/Green/Yellow lines). In freezing weather or rain, you don’t need to go outside at all—follow the “Arena” signs inside the Metro station to the underground entrance or take the escalator that drops you right at the F Street glass doors. You can go from train to seat without ever putting on a coat. This is a lifesaver during January Wizards games when it’s 20 degrees outside.
Food Strategy: The 2026 Upgrades
The 2025-26 renovation brought massive local food upgrades that put Capital One Arena in a different tier than most NBA/NHL venues. Skip the generic pizza and hot dogs—this is D.C., and the arena finally reflects that.
Arena Bar & Eats (Chef Spike Mendelsohn): Brand new for this season. Celebrity Chef Spike Mendelsohn (Top Chef alum and D.C. restaurant legend) opened this concept replacing the old Signature Club. Order the “Waffle-Pressed Cuban” or the “Mumbo Jumbo Crab Roll”—it’s legitimately the best food in the building and rivals what you’d get at his standalone restaurants. Located near the club level, but accessible to all ticket holders.
Federalist Pig (Sections 107 & 402): Widely considered the best BBQ in D.C., their brisket sandwiches are now inside the arena. This is a massive upgrade over the old generic BBQ stands that served dry pulled pork. If you’re hungry, this is where regulars go.
Capital One Discount Hack: Use your Capital One card at checkout for 10% off all food and drink, plus 20% off merchandise at the Team Store. If you’re buying a round of beers for friends ($15 each), this saves you $10+ instantly. Flash your card every single time you buy something.
Unlimited Refill Cups: New for 2025-26—the arena now offers Souvenir Cups with Unlimited Refills at self-serve machines. If you have kids or you’re planning to stay for the whole game, buy one cup for $12-15 and share the refills all night. Pays for itself after two sodas.
Seating Secrets: Attack Zones & Sightline Quirks
The “Attack Zone” for Capitals Games: The Caps shoot twice towards Sections 105-106 (lower bowl) and 417-418 (upper deck). If you want to see Ovechkin’s office—the left faceoff circle where he’s scored 500+ goals—sit in Section 107. You’ll watch him load up for one-timers all night, and when he scores, you’re 30 feet away from the celebration.
Upper Deck Center (The Value Play): The 400-level upper bowl is steep, which is actually great news. Rows A-E in Sections 400, 401, 417, 418 offer a perfect “tactical view” where you can see plays developing—hockey breakouts, basketball pick-and-rolls—for under $50. You’re high up but the angle is dead-center, so you’re never watching at a diagonal. Avoid the corner sections (404-408, 424-428) if you can—the sightlines get awkward.
Don’t Assume Lower Is Always Better: For Wizards games, avoid the first 5 rows behind the baskets (Sections 103/114)—the angle is too flat and you lose depth perception on shots and defensive rotations. Being 15 rows up (Rows M-Q) actually gives you a better view of the game. I learned this the hard way sitting Row C behind the basket and spending the whole game standing to see over photographers.
Traditions: “Unleash the Fury”
The “Fury” (Capitals Games): Late in the 3rd period of a close game, the jumbotron plays a montage called “Unleash the Fury” featuring Tom Green. The entire crowd screams “UNLEASH THE FURY” in unison and the arena becomes deafening. If you’re a first-timer, just follow along—it’s one of those traditions that makes Capital One Arena feel like a real hockey town and not just a corporate D.C. venue.
D.C. Hockey Culture: Don’t expect generic “Let’s go!” chants at Caps games. D.C. crowds lived through the Ovechkin era and a Stanley Cup win in 2018, so fans are knowledgeable and vocal about specific plays, defensive breakdowns, and power play setups. It’s a legitimately smart sports town, which makes the atmosphere way more engaging than casual NBA/NHL crowds in other cities.
Getting To Capital One Arena
Public transit is the smartest way to get to Capital One Arena—you’re in downtown D.C. where the Metro literally drops you underneath the building, and parking costs $30-50 while taking 45 minutes to exit after games. Rideshare works if you’re coming from outside the Metro coverage area, but surge pricing gets brutal during Caps playoff games. Driving is possible but you’ll pay premium rates and fight traffic both ways.
Metro: The Underground Entrance
The Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station sits directly beneath Capital One Arena with access via the Red, Green, and Yellow lines. This is the easiest transportation option in D.C.—you take the escalator from the platform, follow the “Arena” signs, and you’re inside the building without ever going outside. In winter, this underground connection means you never deal with cold or rain.
The Judiciary Square, Metro Center, and Archives-Navy Memorial Penn Quarter stations are all within a 5-10 minute walk if those lines work better for your route. Travel time from most of D.C. is 15-25 minutes, and trains run every 6-12 minutes depending on the line. Check WMATA schedules and maps for current timing—service changes on nights and weekends.
Bus: Metrobus & DC Circulator
Multiple Metrobus lines serve Capital One Arena including the 70, 74, 79, X2, P6, X9, 80, and D6. These routes connect neighborhoods not directly served by Metro and cost $2 per ride. Buses drop you within a block or two of the arena.
The DC Circulator runs $1 routes that loop through downtown D.C. and stop near the arena. It’s slower than Metro but works if you’re coming from Georgetown, Union Station, or other areas the Circulator covers. Buses run every 10 minutes during peak hours.
Rideshare: Uber/Lyft
Rideshare pickup and drop-off zones are at designated intersections around the arena:
- 7th and H Street NW
- 7th and F Street NW
- 6th and F Street NW
- 6th and G Street NW
- 6th and H Street NW
Expect to pay $10-20 from most D.C. neighborhoods during normal hours. Surge pricing during Caps playoff games or big Wizards matchups can push this to $30-50, especially right after the final buzzer. Request your ride 15-20 minutes after the game ends to avoid peak surge rates, or walk a few blocks away from the arena to a quieter pickup spot.
Train: Amtrak & MARC
If you’re arriving from out of town, Amtrak and MARC trains stop at Union Station, about a 20-minute walk or 5-minute Metro ride (Red Line, two stops) from Capital One Arena. Union Station is also connected to the Metro system, so you can transfer directly without going outside.
Driving & Parking
I strongly recommend Metro over driving, but if you’re coming from outside the city or have no other option, here’s the reality: parking runs $30-50 for most garages and lots near the arena, and you’ll sit in traffic for 30-45 minutes just to exit after big games.
Capital One Arena Garage: The arena has its own parking garage, but it fills up 90+ minutes before tip-off or puck drop and charges premium event rates ($40-50). Only worth it if you arrive very early.
Gallery Place Parking: Located beneath the Gallery Place shopping complex at the Chinatown Metro station, this garage is within walking distance and slightly cheaper ($30-40). It fills fast but has more capacity than the arena garage.
Parking Apps: Use SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve spots in advance at nearby garages—you’ll often save $10-15 compared to day-of rates and guarantee a spot. Book at least a day ahead for popular games.
Street Parking: Metered street parking exists in the blocks surrounding the arena, but it’s nearly impossible to find within 5 blocks during events. Meters run until 10pm on weekdays and cost $2-4 per hour. If you’re willing to walk 10+ minutes, you might get lucky, but it’s not reliable.
Hotel Parking: If you’re staying at a hotel downtown, check if they offer event parking for non-guests. Some hotels near the arena allow you to park for $20-30 and walk over, which beats arena garage pricing.
Bars and Restaurants Near The Arena
The Penn Quarter and Chinatown neighborhoods surrounding Capital One Arena are packed with restaurants and bars that cater to the pre-game and post-game crowds. You’re in one of D.C.’s busiest entertainment districts, so you’ll find everything from Jose Andres celebrity chef concepts to dive bars with $5 beers and pool tables. Most places are within a 5-minute walk of the arena, and the smart move is hitting happy hour specials between 4-6pm to save money before prices jump once the crowds arrive.
Oyamel – Located on 7th Street, just steps from Capital One Arena. This is Jose Andres’ Mexican small plates spot, and it’s a D.C. institution. The Salt Air Margarita is the perfect pre-game drink—it’s topped with foam that tastes like the ocean and pairs perfectly with their made-to-order guacamole and Yucatan-style pork tacos. Hit their weekday happy hour (4-6pm) to save on drinks and appetizers, but get there early because it fills up fast on game nights. The atmosphere is lively and festive, matching the vibe of a big Caps or Wizards game.
Jaleo – Located on 7th Street in Penn Quarter, about a 3-minute walk from the arena. Another Jose Andres restaurant, this one specializes in Spanish tapas and has been transforming the Penn Quarter neighborhood since 1993. Order a mix of traditional tapas like patatas bravas, jamón serrano, and paella to share with your group. The sangria here is excellent, and the energy inside matches the festive spirit of Spain. This is where you go if you want a sit-down meal before the game with a little more substance than bar food.
Daikaya – Located on 6th Street in Chinatown, right next to Capital One Arena. This spot has two levels: Sapporo-style ramen on the first floor and an izakaya (Japanese tavern) upstairs. The ramen downstairs is some of the best in D.C.—rich, umami-forward broth with perfectly cooked noodles and tender pork. Expect a short wait during peak hours, but they turn tables fast. Upstairs at the izakaya, you can get Japanese small plates, yakitori, and sake if you want a more relaxed group dining experience. This is comfort food done right, and it’s perfect if you’re craving something warm before sitting in the arena for three hours.
Rocket Bar – Located on 7th Street, literally across from Capital One Arena. This is the unofficial pre-game meeting spot for Caps fans—a dark, dingy dive bar in the best possible way. Head down a steep set of stairs and you’ll walk into a space packed with pool tables, dart boards, shuffleboard, and arcade games. Happy hour runs from 4-8pm daily with $5 beer, wine, and rail drinks. The best part? You can bring your own food from nearby restaurants or from home, so grab takeout and post up at the bar for a few hours. Beers are way cheaper here than inside the arena, and the crowd is rowdy, loud, and genuinely into the games.
Clyde’s Gallery Place – Located on 7th Street, directly across from Capital One Arena. This is a reliable American restaurant with happy hour deals that are legitimately good—discounted oyster platters, $6 draft beers, $5 seltzers, and deals on burgers and cocktails from 3-5pm and again late-night from 10pm to close. The crab-and-artichoke dip is a must-order starter. It’s a step up from a sports bar but still casual enough for game-day crowds, and the service moves fast if you’re in a rush to get to your seats.
Penn Quarter Sports Tavern – Located on Indiana Avenue, about a 5-minute walk from the arena. This is your classic sports bar with two full bars, tons of TVs, and sidewalk seating. It’s perfect for groups who want to watch other games before heading into Capital One Arena, and the crowd skews local Washingtonians who care about D.C. sports. The menu is standard pub fare—wings, burgers, nachos—but the atmosphere is the real draw here.
City Tap House – Located on 9th Street, a few blocks from Capital One Arena. This is the spot for craft beer fans—they have an extensive tap list and daily happy hour from 3-6pm with discounted beers and a late-night menu featuring pizzas and wings. The space is bigger and more polished than Rocket Bar, so it works if you want a beer-focused pre-game spot without the dive bar chaos.
Mi Vida – Located on 7th Street, directly across from Capital One Arena. Modern Mexican restaurant with daily happy hour from 3-6pm at the bar. Crispy fish tacos, mango margaritas, and family-style options make this a solid choice if you’re with a group or have kids. The vibe is more polished than Oyamel but still casual enough for game day.
Hotels Near Capital One Arena
If you’re traveling to D.C. for a Caps or Wizards game, staying downtown near Capital One Arena puts you in the middle of everything—walking distance to the venue, Metro access to monuments and museums, and surrounded by restaurants and bars that stay open late after games. The Chinatown/Penn Quarter area is the sweet spot: safe, walkable, and you’ll never need a car. Most out-of-town fans choose hotels within a few blocks of the arena so they can walk back after games without dealing with surge pricing or Metro crowds.
Luxury & Premium Options
Conrad Washington DC – Located at New York Avenue and 10th Street, about a 5-minute walk from the arena. This luxury hotel delivers with floor-to-ceiling windows offering city views, a rooftop bar (Summit) that’s popular with locals, and upscale rooms with modern design. You’re close enough to walk to Capital One Arena and surrounded by high-end dining. Perfect for corporate trips or milestone celebrations where you want the full D.C. experience.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC – Located in Penn Quarter, just a few blocks from the arena. This is peak luxury—opulent rooms with marble bathrooms, an on-site spa, and the Michelin-recommended Sushi Nakazawa restaurant. The service is white-glove, and you’re close enough to walk to games but far enough to feel removed from the game-day crowds. Best for once-in-a-lifetime trips or serious Caps fans with money to burn during playoff runs.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC – Located on F Street, about a 7-minute walk from Capital One Arena. Boutique hotel in a historic building with character—high ceilings, bold decor, and a hosted evening wine hour that’s actually good. Walking distance to the arena and Penn Quarter restaurants. Great for couples or groups who want something more intimate than a chain hotel. The vibe is stylish without being pretentious.
Mid-Tier & Solid Value
Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center – Located literally across the street from Capital One Arena on H Street. This is the closest hotel to the venue, making it perfect if walkability is your priority. Modern micro-hotel concept with compact but smartly designed rooms. You’re trading space for location—ideal if you’re spending most of your time at the game or exploring the city. The rooftop bar (Hush) has views of the arena.
Grand Hyatt Washington – Located at Metro Center, just a 3-minute walk from the arena. Spacious rooms, multiple dining options including the Boulevard Bar & Grille, and a massive atrium lobby. This is a reliable chain hotel that delivers on comfort and convenience. Popular with families and business travelers who want predictability. Connected to Metro Center station, so you have transportation options beyond just walking.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Washington DC/Downtown – Located on New York Avenue, about a 5-minute walk from Capital One Arena. Mid-priced Marriott property with free breakfast (actually decent quality), modern rooms, and free Wi-Fi. This is the best value-for-money option near the arena—you’re getting a clean, comfortable room in a safe area without paying luxury rates. Great for families or anyone going to multiple games over a weekend.
Courtyard by Marriott Washington Downtown/Convention Center – Located on New York Avenue, about an 8-minute walk from the arena. Another solid Marriott mid-tier option with comfortable rooms, a small gym, and The Bistro restaurant on-site. Slightly farther from the arena than Fairfield Inn but often cheaper. Still an easy walk to Capital One Arena.
Budget Options
Generator Hotel Washington DC – Located on O Street NW, about a 12-15 minute walk from Capital One Arena. Hostel-style accommodation with private rooms and shared dorms. This is the budget play if you’re under 30 or traveling solo and don’t mind a social atmosphere. Clean, trendy design, communal spaces, and a rooftop bar. You’re saving money compared to hotels, but you’re also walking a bit farther or taking one Metro stop.
Pod DC Hotel – Located in the H Street Corridor neighborhood, which requires a short Metro ride (Red Line, two stops) or 15-minute walk to the arena. Another micro-hotel concept with small but efficient rooms. Good option if you want to experience a different D.C. neighborhood with great bars and restaurants while saving money on your hotel.
Things To Do in Washington D.C
National Mall: The National Mall, a sprawling park at the heart of Washington, D.C., is not only home to the city’s most famous monuments and museums, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, but it’s also a gathering place for iconic events and cultural celebrations, making it a vibrant hub of history and civic life.
Washington Monument: The iconic Washington Monument, located on the National Mall, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its pinnacle, providing visitors with a unique and unforgettable perspective of the nation’s capital.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Situated on the National Mall, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History showcases a captivating array of exhibits on natural history, from awe-inspiring dinosaurs to stunning gems and minerals, making it a must-visit for those with a curiosity about the world’s wonders.
National Gallery of Art: Found on the National Mall, the National Gallery of Art is a treasure trove of American and European art, offering diverse exhibitions that provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the artistic heritage of both continents, all within the heart of the nation’s capital.
National Air and Space Museum: Located on the National Mall, the National Air and Space Museum invites visitors to explore the history of aviation and space exploration, offering an engaging and informative journey through humanity’s quest to conquer the skies and reach the stars.
Why You Should Go
Capital One Arena delivers one of the most accessible gameday experiences in professional sports—you literally take the Metro and walk up an escalator directly into the building without stepping outside. The 2025-26 renovations brought legitimate upgrades with local D.C. food vendors, VIP cardholder lanes that actually save you time, and a Penn Quarter location that puts you in the middle of the best restaurant and bar scene in the city.
If you’re looking for some other great stadiums and arenas, here are some guides to some other spots in the region and around the world.
Northwest Stadium — Home of the Commanders and Nationals Park
Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your matchday.