This upscale DC neighborhood, once the home of Washington's elite, is now known for being the location of many foreign embassies. Embassy Row is the informal name for the section of Massachusetts Avenue, NW, between Scott Circle and the United States Naval Observatory. Besides being home to many foreign embassies, Embassy Row in Washington DC is also home to many other important offices and institutions. Enjoy a walking tour of this fascinating part of our nation's history!
History
This neighborhood was at one time considered DC's premier residential address and was home to so many millionaires during the late 19th and early 20th century that it was nicknamed “Millionaire's Row.” It was the center of the city's social and political circles. However, the Great Depression caused many families to sell their mansions, which turned out to be well-suited for use as foreign diplomatic missions. The concentration of embassies in the area began with the British and Japanese embassies, completed in 1930 and 1931. There are also a number of prominent think tank organizations headquartered in the Embassy Row DC area.
The Embassy Row DC Visits
Though foreign embassies are not generally open for walk-in visits, many do participate in an annual open house event called Passport DC. If you are lucky enough to be here in May, there are numerous events open to the public during this time, when the various embassies are eager to share their culture with you. The Around the World Embassy Tour is a free day of family fun at more than 40 embassies, which includes sharing of art, food, culture, and more from a variety of countries. Similarly, the European Union Embassies Open House showcases the offerings of 28 EU-member countries. Both events are free and open to the public, however, it is recommended to bring a government-issued ID with you.
If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, check out the annual Embassy Chef Challenge! It's an exclusive culinary experience paying tribute to world-class international cuisine. More than three dozen private chefs from Washington's various embassies will compete, serving small-bite appetizers to showcase the unique flavors of their home countries. A panel of celebrity judges will select the winner, and attendees will vote on the people's-choice prize. It's a fun way to explore the world through flavor! Embassy Row in Washington DC is a fascinating walk through history and world culture.
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