Washington, D.C. was ranked the most overworked city in the country last year, so it’s no surprise that residents often feel the need to stay connected for work. With remote work becoming increasingly popular, finding the perfect workspace outside of home is essential. Here’s a curated list of the best spots in D.C. to boost your productivity while enjoying a comfortable environment.
If you thrive in coffee shop atmospheres, don’t forget to check out our guide to the top coffee shops in D.C. Alternatively, if a brewery’s vibe suits you better, explore our selection of the best breweries around the city that accommodate remote work!
Kogod Courtyard, National Portrait Gallery – Penn Quarter
For an inspiring place to work, the Kogod Courtyard offers a stunning ambiance between the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery. While the limited space can be challenging, the breathtaking surroundings compensate for it. If seating fills up, you can settle for a bench and enjoy the atmosphere.
SIMONA Café – NoMa
At SIMONA Café in NoMa, the combination of strong Wi-Fi and soothing background music creates an ideal workspace. Their extensive menu offers delicious pastries, sandwiches, and drinks, perfect for fueling your productivity. Don’t miss their rotating selection of scones and breakfast sandwiches on house-made focaccia!
Private Study Spaces, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library – Penn Quarter
MLK Jr. Memorial Library offers private study rooms, enhancing focus and reducing distractions. Enjoy reliable Wi-Fi and a café on the first floor for snacks and coffee. On sunny days, step outside to the library’s rooftop terrace for a refreshing break.
Tryst – Adams Morgan
Tryst is a beloved local hangout featuring cozy indoor seating and an inviting outdoor patio. The menu includes excellent food and drinks, making it a perfect place to unwind after a productive work session. Arriving early is recommended to secure your preferred seating.
Main Reading Room, The Library of Congress – Capitol Hill
While mainly a quiet area for serious individuals, the Library of Congress offers a unique atmosphere for remote work. Keep in mind the necessity for a “Timed-Entry Ticket” reservation and a Reader Identification Card. Once everything’s sorted, you gain access to one of the world’s largest information centers, ideal for focused work sessions.
Dolcezza – Dupont Circle
Dolcezza Gelato & Coffee’s Dupont Circle location offers a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Their espresso is exceptional, and the food, especially the gelato, makes for a delightful work break. It’s the perfect spot for those who prefer a relaxed environment.
Pitango Gelato – Adams Morgan
Pitango Gelato is an unexpected yet ideal work location. With a reliable Wi-Fi connection and plenty of charging options, it’s perfect for any remote worker. Here, you can reward yourself with delicious gelato while enjoying a productive day.
Le Bon Café – Capitol Hill
Though it operates only from 8 AM to 3 PM, Le Bon Café serves some of the best French coffee and pastries in town. Perfect for early risers, it sets the tone for a productive workday while offering a taste of French elegance.
Compass Coffee – Shaw
One of the city’s favorite coffee chains, Compass Coffee, started in Shaw and has expanded across D.C. Known for its exceptional coffee, especially the Nitro Cold Brew, it’s a popular spot among remote workers seeking a lively environment.
Big Bear Cafe – Bloomingdale
With free Wi-Fi during weekdays, Big Bear Cafe is a quaint local spot ideal for remote workers. Enjoy great coffee and delicious food while you settle in for a few hours of productive work, maintaining a comfortable volume to respect other patrons.
The LINE DC – Adams Morgan
Located in the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood, The LINE DC offers ample workspace with its coffee shop, restaurant, and bar, all equipped with free Wi-Fi, making it an excellent all-day hangout for remote workers.
Rue Cafe – Columbia Heights
Rue Cafe combines solid coffee and delicious food like their chicken salad sandwich. With reliable Wi-Fi and welcoming staff, it’s a favored spot for focused work and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for long hours spent working.
Best Remote Work Spaces in Washington, D.C.
In the wake of increased remote work opportunities, Washington, D.C. offers a plethora of unique and stimulating locations for professionals to stay productive outside their home offices. Here’s a curated list of some of the best spots to work remotely while soaking in the vibrant D.C. atmosphere.
Kogod Courtyard, National Portrait Gallery
Located between the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, the Kogod Courtyard is a stunning architectural gem. This courtyard is ideal for remote work, but do note that seating may be limited. When the tables fill up, there’s always the option to find a cozy bench!
Location: Between the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery
SIMONA Café, NoMa
With an inviting ambiance, SIMONA Café is a hotspot for remote workers. The café boasts high-speed wifi and an assortment of delicious pastries and sandwiches, including delightful breakfast scones. You’ll find that the music creates just the right atmosphere for productivity.
Location: 35 N St NE
Private Study Spaces, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
The MLK Jr. Memorial Library has private study rooms available for booking, making it easy to work without distractions. You can also grab a coffee at the first-floor café. On sunny days, don’t miss the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views and relaxation.
Location: 901 G St. NW
Tryst, Adams Morgan
Tryst is a cozy neighborhood café known for its warm environment, excellent food, and outdoor seating. Remote workers often flock here, especially since the café serves alcoholic beverages in the afternoons, allowing you to unwind after a long work session.
Location: 2459 18th Street NW
Main Reading Room, The Library of Congress
This iconic location provides an inspiring environment for remote work, ideal for those looking for somewhere quiet to concentrate. Just be aware that you’ll need a Timed-Entry Ticket to access the Thomas Jefferson Building, which is easy to reserve online.
Location: 101 Independence Ave SE
Dolcezza Gelato & Coffee, Dupont Circle
Dolcezza’s Dupont Circle location offers a relaxed vibe that feels like you’re working at home. Enjoy their exceptional espresso and tasty gelato when you need a sweet break from your tasks.
Location: 1704 Connecticut Ave NW
Pitango Gelato, Adams Morgan
Pitango is not just a gelato shop; its ambiance and reliable wifi make it an excellent place for remote work. You can indulge in their fresh gelato while powering through your emails or reports.
Location: 1841 Columbia Road NW
Conclusion
Washington, D.C. offers a variety of attractive spots for remote workers, ranging from bustling cafés to quiet libraries. Each location provides unique amenities that cater to your working style, ensuring you stay productive and inspired. So pack your laptop and head out to one of these fantastic venues!
