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Capital One Arena Guide

NBA · Washington · 20,674 capacity

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Last updated: 3/4/2026

Capital One Arena's location directly above the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro station makes it one of North America's most accessible venues. Book a hotel in the surrounding Penn Quarter neighborhood, and you can walk to the arena and numerous restaurants and bars. Be aware of the strict no-bag policy, which only allows small clutches no larger than 5” x 7” or specific medical and parenting bags.

At a glance

Bag policy
No bags allowed
Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
Re-entry allowed
Outside food
No outside food
Getting here
Capital One Arena is accessible via Metro at the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro stop on the Red, Green, and Yellow lines, and is within walking distance of the Judiciary Square, Metro Center, and Archives-Navy Memorial Penn Quarter stations.
Family friendly
Children under age 3 typically do not require a ticket for hockey and basketball games.
Capacity
20,674
Home teams:Washington WizardsWashington Capitals

No upcoming multi-sport weekend featuring Capital One Arena on the calendar. See Washington home weekends on the city hub →

Where to stay for Capital One Arena

The Penn Quarter/Chinatown neighborhood is considered ideal for hotels due to its proximity to the arena and numerous dining options.

Penn Quarter / Chinatown

Located directly where Capital One Arena stands, this central neighborhood is perfect for basketball and hockey fans. It offers a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions, including the National Portrait Gallery and Ford's Theatre.

The Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro Station (Red, Green, Yellow Lines) is directly connected to Capital One Arena, providing excellent access. Metro Center (Red, Orange, Silver, Blue Lines) is also within walking distance.

Downtown Washington

As a central hub, Downtown offers unparalleled accessibility to various parts of the city, making it a convenient base for exploring all sports venues. It's close to major attractions like the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, and features a diverse culinary scene.

Boasts a perfect Transit Score and is considered a 'rider's paradise' with easy access to multiple Metrorail lines (Blue, Orange, Green, Yellow, and Red) and numerous bus routes. Metro Center station is a major transfer point, providing connections across the city.

Capitol Hill

While primarily known for its political significance and historic beauty, Capitol Hill offers a charming atmosphere with historic row houses, markets, and proximity to iconic landmarks. It can be a good option for those who appreciate history and a more traditional DC experience.

Capitol Hill has an excellent Transit Score and is well-connected with numerous bus and subway lines passing through the area. The Capitol South station (Orange, Blue, Silver Lines) is a 15-minute walk to Nationals Park. Union Station, a major transportation hub, is also located here.

Logan Circle

Logan Circle is a vibrant and historic neighborhood known for its beautiful Victorian homes, diverse dining scene, and strong community feel. It's a great option for those seeking a lively atmosphere with good access to other parts of the city.

Highly transit-friendly with an excellent Transit Score. It is served by multiple bus routes and subway lines, including the Green and Yellow Lines, providing good connectivity to sports venues.

See full Washington stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

Capital One Arena is accessible via Metro at the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro stop on the Red, Green, and Yellow lines, and is within walking distance of the Judiciary Square, Metro Center, and Archives-Navy Memorial Penn Quarter stations. Several Metrobus routes, including 70, P6, X2, 74, and D6, also stop near the arena.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Designated rideshare pickup and drop-off zones are located along 6th Street NW and F Street NW, and near 7th Street NW. Specific areas include 7th and H Street, 7th and F Street, 6th and F Street, 6th and G Street, and 6th and H Street.

Parking: Pre-booking parking online via apps like SpotHero is recommended. Metro parking lots are free on weekends.

After the event

The vibrant Penn Quarter/Chinatown neighborhood surrounding the arena offers numerous restaurants and bars for post-game meals or drinks.

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Capital One Arena is located in the Chinatown section of the larger Penn Quarter neighborhood, directly above the Gallery Place rapid transit station.
  • Signature food: The 'Mumbo Lumbo Jumbo crab' developed by Chef Spike Mendelsohn is described as a signature item for the arena, available at his 'Arena Bar & Eats' which debuted in the 2025-26 season.
  • Fan tradition: Washington Capitals fans are known to bang on the glass during games.
  • Pregame institution: Clyde's Gallery Place (707 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001)

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • Clyde's of Gallery Place
    707 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 · Gallery Place/Chinatown

    A staple of DC since its Georgetown location opened in 1963, this two-level spot adjacent to Capital One Arena features a strong sports theme, including a portrait of Babe Ruth, and three bars, making it ideal for pre- and post-game gatherings.

    What to order: Chili, Buffalo wings, burgers, full raw bar.

  • The Dubliner Restaurant & Pub
    4 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001 · Capitol Hill

    Open since 1974, this Irish-style pub offers Guinness, Harp, a long list of whiskeys, and comfort-chow Gaelic menu, with live music nightly in cozy, wood-paneled digs.

    What to order: Guinness, Harp, whiskey, pot pies, corned beef sandwiches.

  • District ChopHouse and Brewery
    509 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 · Penn Quarter

    Located half a block from Capital One Arena, it offers a winning combination of delicious food and handcrafted brews in a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for pre-game gatherings.

    What to order: Signature steaks, burgers, fresh seafood, and a wide selection of flavorful beers brewed on-site.

  • Penn Quarter Sports Tavern
    639 Indiana Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 · Penn Quarter

    This is a go-to spot for catching the big game, featuring numerous flat-screen TVs, an extensive beer menu, a lively atmosphere, and tasty pub fare.

    What to order: Beer, pub fare.

  • Yard House
    812 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001 · Penn Quarter/Chinatown

    A popular gathering place with over 100 choices on tap and numerous TVs tuned to the big game, drawing plenty of sports fans.

    What to order: Half yard of brew.

Postgame spots

  • Old Ebbitt Grill
    675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 · Downtown

    As Washington D.C.'s oldest bar and restaurant, and a historic landmark, it's a popular gathering spot that has hosted many politicians and celebrity bashes.

    What to order: Oysters and raw bar, especially during happy hour.