Need a boost after climbing all those steps? Find the best specialty coffee near the Washington Monument and central National Mall. Our guide features top-rated spots, their unique brews, websites, and social media.
- Dolcezza Gelato and Coffee – Hirshhorn Museum The Closest Contender:
Right on the National Mall Dolcezza, primarily known for its incredible artisan gelato, operates a full espresso bar in one of the most convenient locations for Monument tourists: the lower level of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. It’s just a short walk across the National Mall from the Washington Monument grounds.
- Why Choose It: It’s arguably the closest source of specialty-grade coffee and has a lovely indoor/outdoor seating area near the sculpture garden. Perfect for a quick, quality stop without leaving the Mall area.
- Specialty: Pair a classic espresso drink (they’re serious about their coffee) with a scoop of their famed, daily-made gelato.
- Website: Dolcezza Gelato (Check their site for specific Hirshhorn hours/info)
- Social: @dolcezzagelato (Instagram & Facebook)
- Swing’s Coffee Roasters – Downtown The Historic Local:
A Short Walk to the Northwest Swing’s is a D.C. institution, having been roasting coffee for over a century! Their location near the White House and the Treasury is a very manageable 10-15 minute walk north of the Washington Monument grounds. They focus on ethically sourced and expertly roasted beans.
- Why Choose It: You’re drinking a piece of D.C. coffee history. They offer classic, perfectly balanced brews and a warm, inviting atmosphere away from the immediate tourist crowds.
- Specialty: Try their signature Swing’s Blend or a seasonal pour-over to appreciate their long-standing roasting craft. Grab a bag of beans for a great souvenir.
- Website: swingscoffee.com
- Social: @swingscoffeeroasters (Instagram)
- Compass Coffee – Various Downtown Locations The Reliable Local Chain:
Consistent and Accessible Compass Coffee is a hugely popular local D.C. roaster with a strong local following. They have numerous locations downtown (including near McPherson Square and Farragut Square) that are all within a 15-20 minute walk of the Monument, offering a dependable, high-quality experience.
- Why Choose It: Their motto is “Real Good Coffee, Made in DC.” They are known for consistent quality, robust blends, and a clean, modern aesthetic. Great for a quick, guaranteed excellent cup.
- Specialty: Order the Cardinal Blend for a balanced, signature taste, or grab one of their bottled nitro cold brews to enjoy on your walk.
- Website: compasscoffee.com
- Social: @compasscoffeeco (Instagram & Facebook)
- Dua DC Coffee – Downtown The Unique Experience:
Indonesian Specialty Coffee Located slightly further north (about a 20-minute walk) in the Downtown/Metro Center area, Dua DC is a gem for those seeking something truly unique. It is the first Indonesian specialty coffee shop in D.C., focusing on single-origin beans from the various islands of Indonesia.
- Why Choose It: To experience a different side of specialty coffee and support a woman-owned, local business. The ambiance is beautiful, with comfortable seating for a real break.
- Specialty: Try their Brown Latte (often featuring palm sugar) for a unique sweet and creamy experience, or ask about their rotating single-origin Indonesian pour-overs.
- Website: Dua DC Coffee
- Social: @duadc.coffee (Instagram)
☕ Tourist Pro-Tip for Washington Monument
The immediate vicinity of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial is mostly open parkland and museums. Your best option right on the Mall is Dolcezza at the Hirshhorn. For the highest concentration of high-quality, local specialty coffee shops, you will need to walk 15-20 minutes north into the Downtown/Penn Quarter area. Tag roastcoffee.ai in your coffee photos!
