Did you know that coffee is a natural performance enhancer for cycling? Caffeine provides a great boost for energy and endurance! For coffee aficionados and cycling enthusiasts, we’ve created the ultimate biking route through Washington, DC. This tour not only takes you to four Compass Coffee locations but also immerses you in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Here’s your guide to a caffeinated and adventurous day in DC.
This 5 mile route full of DC views can be completed in as quickly as 40 minutes. You can start this route at any point, but we’re going to start at our 1023 7th St NW location in Shaw. This location is right outside the Mt Vernon Sq 7th St-Convention Center Metro stop, accessible from both the green line and yellow line.
1. Start at 1023 7th St NW in Shaw
If you’re looking to kick off your ride with a caffeine boost, this is the perfect place to start. Before you ride, explore the vibrant Shaw neighborhood. Don’t miss the historic Howard Theatre and the artistic Blagden Alley, known for its colorful murals and hip eateries.
2. Head Downtown to 435 11th St NW
Route: Head southeast on 7th St NW, turn left onto E St NW, and then right onto 11th St NW.
From Shaw, bike southeast to Downtown DC. Along the way, you’ll pass by Ford’s Theatre, a significant historical site, and the National Portrait Gallery, where you can view portraits of prominent Americans.
3. Ride to Farragut Square to cafe 849 18th St NW
Route: Head west on E St NW, which becomes Pennsylvania Ave NW. Turn right onto 15th St NW, then left back onto Pennsylvania Ave NW. Continue west to G St NW, turn right, and then make another right onto 18th St NW.
This area offers lush green sites of Farragut Square surrounded by historic statues and buildings. A short detour on Pennsylvania Ave NW will also give you a great view of the White House!
4. Tour the National Mall
Route: From Farragut Square, head west on I St NW and then turn left onto 19th St NW, heading south. Take a left onto E St NW and then turn right onto 18th St NW. Continue straight until you reach Constitution Ave NW. Follow Constitution Ave NW to arrive at the National Mall.
Here’s where the adventure really begins. The Washington Monument is the first of many major attractions on this portion of your bike ride. A short distance from here you will find yourself at the Lincoln Memorial. Stop here for a great photo op in front of the Reflecting Pool followed by background views of the Washington Monument and the US Capitol. Continuing forward, at the end of the Reflecting Pool you will find the World War II Memorial. This memorial honors the veterans that fought in WWII. If you decide to continue along the Mall you will find a collection of Smithsonian Museums. If you’re looking for a fun walking break, hop off your bike and head into one of these museums-- they’re free to enter!
5. Conclude at Compass Coffee Navy Yard 1201 Half Street SE
Route: To exit the National Mall, head south on Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW. Continue southeast until you reach Maine Ave SW. Take a quick left onto 7th St SW, then make a quick right onto I St SW. Finally, turn right onto Half St SE.
If you do not want to view the Smithsonian Museums then this ride along the Wharf is the perfect finishing leg to your final destination. Ride along the Wharf and enter the heart of Navy Yard via I St NW. Finish your tour at Compass Coffee Navy Yard, grab your victory coffee while taking in the scenic views of Yards Park and the Anacostia River. There are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore in this area. This final stop is just steps away from the Green Line at the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro station.
Integrating coffee into your cycling route around DC offers more than just a caffeine kick—it’s a boost for both energy and performance. Enjoy the perfect blend of caffeine and sightseeing as you explore the city on two wheels!
