Union Market
A bustling warehouse food market in DC, featuring diverse culinary stalls, artisan shops, and a vibrant rooftop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Union Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling warehouse food market in DC, featuring diverse culinary stalls, artisan shops, and a vibrant rooftop.
"A must-visit if you're in DC, offering something for everyone with great food and culture."
🎯 Go Early for Peak Flavors
Arrive before the lunch rush to snag the best bites and avoid long lines.
🎟️ Book Vintage Market Tickets
For popular pop-ups like That's So Vintage, buy tickets online in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Culinary Delights
Main Market Hall
Indulge in a global feast, from Southern comfort food to Japanese ramen and French pastries.
+1
Vintage & Artisan Markets
Dock 5 & Outdoor Areas
Discover unique fashion, home goods, and crafts at weekend pop-up markets.
+1
Rooftop Views & Vibes
Union Market Rooftop
Enjoy drinks, lawn games, and city views in a relaxed outdoor setting.
A. Litteri Italian Store
NoMa/Union Market Area
A local gem known for its authentic Italian provisions and delicious hoagies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Find Your Feast
Explore Beyond the Stalls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Peak Flavors
Arrive before the lunch rush to snag the best bites and avoid long lines.
🎟️ Book Vintage Market Tickets
For popular pop-ups like That's So Vintage, buy tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Explore the District
Don't just stick to the market; check out the surrounding shops and rooftop.
💰 Budget-Friendly Bites
While some spots are pricey, many vendors offer affordable and delicious options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Peak Flavors
Arrive before the lunch rush to snag the best bites and avoid long lines.
🎟️ Book Vintage Market Tickets
For popular pop-ups like That's So Vintage, buy tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Explore the District
Don't just stick to the market; check out the surrounding shops and rooftop.
💰 Budget-Friendly Bites
While some spots are pricey, many vendors offer affordable and delicious options.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends to enjoy the outdoor seating and rooftop lawn.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Union Market is celebrated as a top DC food destination, offering an incredible variety of cuisines and a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors praise its diverse food stalls, unique artisan shops, and the lively rooftop area. While generally well-received, some find prices a bit high and crowds can be significant on weekends.
"Something for everyone can be found here. Great food and culture combine for this large indoor market. A large variety of different entrees, prepared food, market fresh items or sundries. A must visit if you're in DC. Kids friendly. Prices are reasonable. I'll stop by anytime I'm in the area."
Matthew Krunglevich
"Union market stands as one of the best food markets DC has to offer. Only competition I believe is Eastern market.
Union offers a vibrant array of food and drinks and events. The video is from an Asian festival they held on the roof where local DC restaurants popped up stalls to offer their cuisine.
Plethora of outdoor and indoor seating. Great for grabbing a bite for lunch, grabbing some fresh meat or fish, or an evening out with friends. It's an area I find myself coming back to again and again."
Connor Gan
"It was an interesting market. Outside in the weekend morning and early afternoon they have local vendors set up booths. Lots of fusion restaurants. It was small overall with the prices are but high, but interesting. There is another market closeby that is a bit more upscale. It was also quite crowded."
Leonard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Union Market is accessible via the NoMa-Gallaudet U Metro station (Red Line), about a 15-minute walk away. Several bus lines also serve the area. Ride-sharing services are a convenient option, especially for groups.
Yes, there is a parking lot directly adjacent to the market, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Street parking is also available in the surrounding neighborhood, though it can be competitive.
Absolutely! Union Market is bike-friendly with plenty of bike racks available. It's a great way to arrive and explore the surrounding DC area.
For a true foodie experience, consider using ride-sharing or public transport to avoid parking hassles and allow for more indulgence. This lets you focus on tasting all the amazing food!
Union Market is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available. The main market hall is spacious, and outdoor seating areas are also accommodating.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to Union Market itself is free. However, special ticketed events, like the 'That's So Vintage' pop-up market, require advance purchase.
Union Market's hours can vary slightly by vendor and day, but generally, the market is open from 11 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and until 8 PM or later on weekends. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
The rooftop at Union Market is typically free to access during its operating hours, though there may be minimum purchase requirements or cover charges for specific events.
For ticketed events like vintage markets, it's highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid long queues.
Union Market is generally open on most holidays, but hours may be adjusted. It's advisable to check their website or social media for specific holiday operating schedules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Union Market boasts an incredible variety of food, including Southern comfort food, Japanese ramen, empanadas, gelato, charcuterie, French pastries, and much more.
Popular vendors include @dcpuddin for soulful Southern dishes, @uzu9dc for Japanese cuisine, @bund_up for empanadas, and @dcdoughnut for sweet treats.
Yes, many vendors offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to inquire directly with the stall you're interested in, as menus can change.
Absolutely! Union Market is perfect for groups because of its wide array of vendors, ensuring everyone can find something they'll enjoy.
Some vendors within Union Market may offer online ordering or delivery services through third-party apps. Check individual vendor websites or Union Market's official site for details.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture vibrant shots of the food stalls, the industrial-chic market interior, the colorful murals, and the city views from the rooftop.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, professional photography or videography may require prior permission.
Late afternoon offers beautiful natural light, especially for outdoor shots on the rooftop. Weekday mornings can provide emptier backgrounds for cleaner shots.
Special events like vintage markets or festivals often have unique backdrops and lively scenes perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Definitely! Union Market is a foodie paradise, and photographing your delicious finds is encouraged. Just be mindful of other diners.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The rooftop area features a grassy lawn perfect for kids to run around and play, making it a great spot for a relaxed afternoon. Many vendors are welcoming to children, and the overall atmosphere is lively and engaging for all ages. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds.💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring the free-to-enter market and enjoying the atmosphere is an experience in itself, even if you're just window shopping or grabbing a single treat. Weekday visits might also offer fewer temptations to overspend.couples
+1 The rooftop bar provides a romantic setting for evening drinks with city views. Consider visiting during a weekend pop-up market for a unique shopping and browsing experience together. day-trippers
Easily accessible via public transport, you can spend hours exploring the food stalls, browsing artisan shops, and enjoying the rooftop. Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding NoMa neighborhood or a visit to nearby attractions.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
+2 The market's layout encourages exploration, with stalls offering a visual feast as much as a culinary one. Many vendors pride themselves on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, making each bite a delightful experience. It's the perfect spot for groups with varied tastes, as everyone is sure to find something to satisfy their cravings. Beyond the prepared foods, Union Market also features stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and seafood, allowing visitors to take a piece of the market home with them. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially during peak hours, making it a dynamic place to grab lunch or enjoy an evening out with friends.
The indoor and outdoor seating options provide flexibility, whether you prefer a bustling indoor setting or a more relaxed al fresco dining experience. For those seeking unique culinary experiences, keep an eye out for special events and pop-ups. These often feature guest chefs and restaurants, offering limited-time menus and a chance to discover new flavors.
The market's commitment to showcasing local talent makes it a cornerstone of DC's food scene. Shopping & Unique Finds
These markets, often held on weekends, are treasure troves for fashion enthusiasts, home decor lovers, and anyone seeking one-of-a-kind items. You can find everything from vintage clothing and accessories to handmade jewelry, artisanal crafts, and unique home goods. +1These pop-up markets, such as 'That's So Vintage,' are ticketed events with timed entry, so booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid waiting in line.
The variety of vendors ensures there's always something new to discover, making each visit a potential shopping adventure. Beyond the pop-ups, the permanent market also features a selection of artisan shops offering specialty goods. When exploring the market, take time to browse the smaller boutiques and stalls that offer handcrafted items, local art, and specialty food products. These hidden gems often provide a more intimate shopping experience and a chance to connect with the creators.
The Union Market District Experience
One of the most popular features is the rooftop, which transforms into a lively lounge and bar, especially during warmer months. It's a fantastic spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and take in panoramic views of the city. The rooftop also features a grassy lawn area, making it a family-friendly space where kids and pets can play. Cozy lawn chairs are available for those who want to unwind, read a book, or simply soak up the sun.
This makes the Union Market District a versatile destination, suitable for a casual lunch, a fun evening out, or a relaxed weekend afternoon. The combination of diverse food options, unique shopping, and recreational spaces creates a dynamic and engaging environment for everyone. Keep an eye on the Union Market District's event calendar for special happenings, such as outdoor movie nights, concerts, or themed festivals. These events add another layer of excitement and offer unique opportunities to experience the district.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit