Best places to stay in Washington, D.C. for WorldPride
The U.S. capital is brimming with events celebrating WorldPride 2025 and the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride. Discover the best places to stay in Washington, D.C. to be close to it all for culture, dining, and more.
By Paul Oswell | May 15, 2025
Paul Oswell
Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.
This year represents a milestone for Washington, as the city celebrates the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride (June 7 - 8) and hosts WorldPride (May 17 - June 8). Millions of revelers will attend from across the globe, with a wealth of events planned. Here’s our guide to making the most of WorldPride and the best places to stay around town.
For the culture lover
WorldPride events started as early as May 1, but the official welcome ceremony and concert takes place on May 31 at Washington’s Nationals Park. Performances will showcase the rich history and culture of the local LGBTQ+ community, with international pop stars closing out the night. From mid-May, parades, parties, other cultural events run the gamut of art exhibitions, walking history tours, concerts, and sporting events. Workshops and seminars fill the days,, while block parties light up almost every night. Located a few minutes' drive from Nationals Park, Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf is the ideal base for the opening ceremony and boasts a stunning rooftop cocktail lounge with sweeping views of the Potomac River.
For foodies
If you’re planning to be downtown for nightlife, dining, and the parade, stay at a hotel that’s convenient for exploring by checking into downtown’s Capital Hilton. With a prime location near McPherson Square, you can easily hop around the city by metro or enjoy a relaxing night at the on-site eateries, North Gate Grill and The Statler Lounge. For downtown elegance in the heart of CityCenter DC, stay at Conrad Washington, DC and be close to both the parade route and some of the city’s top fine dining options. The hotel’s Estuary Restuarant & Bar offers seasonal, contemporary American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients while Summit at Conrad Rooftop Bar is a relaxing spot to unwind after a day of exploring and enjoy a signature cocktail with panoramic views of downtown, the Washington Monument, and more.
For the city explorer
Washington’s dynamic LGBTQ+ community was historically centered around Dupont Circle but has expanded into Logan Circle and beyond. Trendy shops and other points of interest can also be found in Adams Morgan and NoMa. Even Capitol Hill has some clutch shopping opportunities, like the buzzing weekend stalls at Eastern Market. For more upscale designer wear, try the boutiques in Georgetown or the hip spots on U Street, a neighborhood once known as Black Broadway. If you’re here for the first time, walking tours like DC Pride Walks and A Tour of Her Own provide great insights into the city’s LGBTQ+ history. Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Convention Center is perfectly central for jaunts to every corner of the city. Its modern, two-room suites are ideal for groups, and the indoor pool is a relaxing oasis for in between events.
WorldPride 2025
As the Official Host Hotel of WorldPride 2025, Hilton welcomes travelers from across the globe to stay with us. Need more suggestions for where to stay? Explore our amazing portfolio of hotels in the Washington, D.C. area and book your stay now.
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