Eastern Market

This is by far the best farmer’s market in the area. The huge selection, great location and neighborhood vibe make it a fun spot to simply walk around for hours. It’s super metro accessible with its own station right off Seventh Street S.E. in Capitol Hill. A nasty fire in the spring of 2007 may have broken many hearts and temporarily altered operations at this historic marketplace, but the spirit of this D.C. landmark continues to shine bright as a prime spot for local residents and visitors alike.

You can shop for fresh, quality produce, flowers, art, antiques and so much more at consistently fair prices. Merchants of the newly constructed East Hall, which is temporarily housing vendors displaced from the South Hall, offer up reasonably priced baked goods, meats, seafood and dairy products and other delicacies Tuesday through Sunday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. (Be sure to stop by Bowers Dairy for their famous chive cheddar cheese, you won't be sorry.)

The real fun is on the weekends, when the marketplace expands to include a local farmers line, arts and crafts and a small but stellar flea market that's brimming with people looking to scoop up reasonably priced vintage furniture, decorative home accents from around the world, handmade jewelry and amazing works of original art from local artists. Any seasoned local will tell you that Eastern Market has a lot of soul and genuine charm, the perfect destination year-round for a casual date, brunch and shopping with friends or strolling solo with a cup of coffee.