We tried a Throne bathroom (not half bad for the record) for the first time and it got us thinking – what are D.C.’s best (or at least not horrible) public bathrooms you can use for free? As someone with Hot Girl Tummy Trouble™, I do feel like somewhat of an expert in this regard.
Library of Congress (Capitol Hill)
Starting off strong, the entire bathroom is made of rose marble, and it’s always empty. It’s the most luxurious public sh*t you will ever take, plus it has a great selfie mirror for after, so everyone knows what you’ve been up to.
Planet Word (Downtown)
Planet Word’s bathrooms are literally award-winning. Stalls feature extremely highbrow quotes like, "If at first you don't succeed, flush, flush again." and "I stink, therefore I am."
DC Metro (Everywhere)
After 14 years, Metro finally finished renovating its 169 bathrooms. They might not be luxurious, but they are clean and extremely necessary for when you’ve had a few too many coffees before heading to work. Heads up you might need the station manager to unlock it for you!
The Line Hotel Lobby (Adams Morgan)
Completely marble stalls, glowy lighting, and those extra thick disposable towels make this one of my favorite bathrooms in the city (yes, I’ve thought about this a lot).
Anacostia Arts Center (Anacostia)
This bathroom comes with the added bonus of being able to check out one of Anacostia’s coolest third spaces. You can also stop by Fresh Food Factory, the health food store right next door, to stock up on probiotics after.
Take our map of D.C.’s best public restrooms on the go. (Google Maps)
Botanic Garden (Capitol Hill)
Ok, I’m not going to lie, this one is a little sweaty and humid. But it’s worth it because on your way to the bathroom, you get to experience the entire world's ecosystem.
Kramers Books (Dupont)
Everyone knows about the classic Starbucks + Barnes & Noble magical laxative combo. But what about the specialty latte + Kramer’s combo? It has a similar effect, not that I would know 👀
Malcolm X Park (Columbia Heights)
This one comes in clutch when you’ve had a little too much bag wine in the park and simply can’t fathom braving the 16th Street NW hill. They are surprisingly stylish but, fair warning, crowded days can leave them a bit worse for wear.
REI (NoMa)
This one is risky because, if you’re like me, this could be the most expensive bathroom trip of your life. But if you can walk past the many granola delights, this is a great option in a restroom desert.
La Cosecha (Union Market)
A surprisingly clean and serene bathroom for a busy food hall. Being lactose intolerant, this came in very handy after our pupusa-tasting tour.
Honorable Mentions:
- Eastern Market (Capitol Hill)
- Wawa (everywhere)
- Rose Avenue Park (Georgetown)
- The Ritz Carlton (Foggy Bottom)
- Union Station (NoMa) *but only if you absolutely must*.
