DC is a city that is full of surprises. No matter how long you live here, you can always discover something that you might not have noticed before. One of these hidden gems is right next to one of the most well-known buildings in the world. But not many people know it exists. The Summerhouse on the grounds of the Capitol might be the best hidden gem in DC.

The Summerhouse was built in the 1880s by Frederick Law Olmsted. He built it to try to meet the many complaints that visitors to the Capitol wanted a place to rest and have some water after their long trip to the Capitol.
Wikimedia
It sits on the West Front lawn of the U.S. Capitol and it just a small brick structure that many people just walk right past.
Flickr/Photo Phiend
The Summerhouse is often called "the grotto." It’s a hexagonal shape with three entrances and wrought iron gates and small windows so you can peek inside.
Flickr/Johanna Madjedi
When you walk through one of the three arched doorways, you are greeted with a beautiful oasis.
Flickr/majunznk

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Inside there are stone benches around the small hexagon where people can rest. In the middle there is a water fountain centerpiece with two working water fountains.
Flickr/majunznk
On the western wall of the summerhouse there is gorgeous grotto with rocks, plants and a small trickling water feature.
Flickr/Drama Queen
The roof is open in the middle to allow sunshine and cool breezes to drift into the Summerhouse. The Summerhouse is big enough to comfortably fit 22 people.
Flickr/USCapitol
Today, over 100 years after the Summerhouse was completed, it still offers a cool respite on hot days and quiet space.
Flickr/majunznk
The Summerhouse was designed to be unobtrusive and out of the way so you will have to keep an eye out for it, if you do go searching for it. It is open during the spring and summer during daylight.
Flickr/USCapitol

Have you enjoyed a quiet moment at the Capitol Grotto?

DC is full of unique hidden gems that are perfect for exploring! Check out these great attractions hidden around DC!

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