Eastern Market — Attraction in Washington

Eastern Market: The Historic and Cultural Heart of Capitol Hill History and Architecture

Eastern Market is where history, architecture, culture, and community life come together. From its opening in 1873, through its expansion in 1908, the devastating fire of 2007, and its triumphant reopening in 2009, it has remained the historic and cultural heart of Capitol Hill. For both residents and visitors, Eastern Market is an essential stop to experience the authentic spirit of Washington, DC.

Opened in 1873 and designed by German-born architect Adolf Cluss, Eastern Market is one of Washington, DC’s most enduring landmarks. With its Italianate brick façade, arched windows, and functional layout, it was conceived as a modern public market that combined both utility and elegance.

In 1908, architect Snowden Ashford expanded the market with the Center Hall and North Hall, establishing the market as a focal point of the Capitol Hill community.

A defining moment in its history occurred on April 30, 2007, when a devastating fire destroyed much of the South Hall. Despite the damage, vendors continued operating in a temporary market nearby. Following an extensive restoration effort, Eastern Market reopened in 2009, fully restored and recognized for excellence in historic preservation and design.

Products and Culture

Eastern Market is more than a place to shop; it is a thriving cultural hub where flavors, traditions, and creativity converge.

Inside the South Hall: fresh meats, seafood, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, and gourmet specialties.

Weekend outdoor market: local farmers, antiques, arts and crafts, with over 100 exhibitors representing a wide variety of cultures.

Cultural events: live music, art shows, and seasonal festivals, which keep the market at the heart of community life.

Culinary Highlights

One of the best-known spots inside the market is Market Lunch, famous for its crab cake sandwich and blueberry pancakes. Visitors can also enjoy artisan breads, charcuterie, cheeses, and homemade desserts. Tip: although most vendors accept cards, some still prefer cash.

Location and Access

Address: 225 7th Street SE, Washington, DC.

Metro: Eastern Market Station (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines), one block from the market.

Bus: Several Metrobus routes, including 30N, 30S, and 32, stop nearby.

Bike: Multiple Capital Bikeshare stations are located around the area.

Car: Limited street parking with meters and a few small private lots; weekends are busy, so arriving early is recommended.

Hours of Operation

South Hall (indoor market): Tuesday to Saturday: 7 a.m. – 6/7 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Farmers’ market and arts & crafts (outdoors): weekends, from morning through mid-afternoon.

Tip: Arrive early on Saturdays for the freshest produce, or visit on Sundays for a lively cultural atmosphere.

Visiting Tips

Go early on Saturdays if your priority is fresh food.

Sundays are perfect for music, art, and community gatherings.

Bring a reusable shopping bag.

Check the official calendar of events before your visit.

Explore Capitol Hill’s cafés, bookstores, and restaurants within walking distance.

I rate it 4 because I think the place could be better and more organized. I think it's a historical gem and it's a...

This is my favorite brunch spot in DC. It has the local feel I think many of the local brunch hot spots doesn't have. It doesn't have the over-commercialized and impersonal feel. I love that I walk back in and Tom remembers me. I love that he remembers that I came in and took pictures of the place for my photography class and that I've brought in my parents in the past. I love that the place is closed on Sunday since there's the same core group of employees that work there and they want to give the staff a day off. Commendable. I love the sound of them screaming "BLUEBUCKS". Gives me chills. I absolutely love their bluebuck pancakes. First time I went, insisted on having the plain with peaches and nuts. Next time I came, Tom told me I didn't want that -- instead that I wanted the bluebucks. "Trust me, they're better". He was right. Pay the extra money for the real maple. It's worth it. Your dentist might not agree, but it's mighty fine. Other good variations are the chocolate chip pancakes (yes, also with maple...) -- but when has chocolate gone wrong? French toast was pretty good too, but my votes with the pancakes. Can't wait to welcome Tom and crew back to being in operation 8/25. Been very...

From the inside marketplace to the vendors outside, Eastern Market is a place that has something for everyone.

The marketplace has a wide variety of meats, cheeses, seafood, baked goods/breads, prepared foods, and also houses a small restaurant - Market Lunch (which ironically makes a great breakfast). Just outside, local farmers/vendors sell fresh and delicious fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Oh, and don't forget to check out the mini-donuts outside, on the North side of the market, as well as grab freshly-squeezed lemonade (I do this every time I go; it's basically a tradition of mine). Check out Big Poppa for some delicious kettle-cooked popcorn!

There are also a bunch of vendors that sell their crafts, mainly to the East of the market, in a nearby parking lot. You can find art, furniture, jewelry, clothes, antiques, soaps, and a whole lot more from all the vendors here on the weekend. All the vendors I've engaged with have been extremely nice, and you can tell that most of them take pride in the items they sell. It's a great place to go look for art/photos/maps to hang up in your home.

It's a shame that I don't live closer, as I'd love to come...