Washington, DC is home to a vibrant higher education scene with numerous colleges and universities that call the city home. College commencement in DC can often occur at the same time creating challenges finding hotels and restaurant reservations. Every year, thousands of graduates walk across commencement stages, while family and friends flock to the capital region to celebrate their graduates’ achievements.
Navigating DC commencements can be hectic, from finding parking to dealing with street closures. Here are tips to help make your experience as smooth as possible.
College Commencement in DC at Georgetown University
One of DC’s most well-known institutions is Georgetown University, founded in 1789. Georgetown typically holds commencement ceremonies in Mid-May on its main campus just north of the Potomac River.
Driving and Parking: Georgetown’s campus is located in a residential area with limited parking. Street parking will likely be restricted on nearby streets during commencement, so plan to use the campus parking garage. Be prepared for delays and traffic as guests arrive for the ceremonies.
Alternatives: Consider taking Metro to Foggy Bottom station and using the Georgetown University shuttle, which runs frequently during commencement. Capital Bikeshare and rideshares like Uber/Lyft also drop off near campus.
Street Closures: Expect closures of campus access roads including Reservoir Road and parts of 37th and 38th Streets on commencement days. Leave extra time to get through security checkpoints.
College Commencement in DC at Howard University
Howard University, founded in 1867, is one of the nation’s most prestigious historically Black colleges. Howard holds its commencement ceremonies in Mid-May at its main campus just north of Shaw neighborhood.
Driving: There is extremely limited parking available at Howard on commencement days. Expect major delays and traffic as guests drive onto campus.
Alternatives: Take Metro to Shaw-Howard University station, just steps from campus. Rideshares can also drop off on 6th Street NW near Howard’s gates.
Street Closures: Expect closures of 6th Street NW directly in front of campus, Georgia Avenue and parts of 4th and 5th Streets NW. Leave extra padding in your schedule to walk from shuttle drop-off locations.
College Commencement in DC at George Washington University
George Washington University typically holds undergraduate commencement ceremonies the first week of May on its Foggy Bottom campus close to the White House. Graduate degrees are conferred at individual school ceremonies after the main event.
Driving and Parking: GW has limited parking available on campus, and nearby street parking will likely be restricted. Plan to use GW’s Langston parking garage on I Street NW.
Alternatives: Take Metro to Foggy Bottom-GWU station and use the campus shuttle. Rideshares drop off near 21st and H Streets NW. Capital Bikeshare stations are also nearby.
Street Closures: Expect closures of campus access roads including 23rd Street and parts of H, I and 21st Streets. Leave extra time to walk from shuttle drop-offs.
College Commencement in DC at American University
American University in Northwest DC typically holds its main commencement ceremony in early May on its main campus. Graduate programs have individual ceremonies afterward.
Driving and Parking: AU has limited parking lots on campus and neighboring street parking will likely be restricted. Plan to pay to park in AU’s garage on Nebraska Avenue NW.
Alternatives: Take Metro to Tenleytown-AU station and ride the campus shuttle. Rideshares can drop off on Nebraska Avenue. Bikeshare stations are also near campus.
Street Closures: Expect closures of campus roads including Nebraska and Massachusetts Avenues and parts of 43rd and 44th Streets. Leave extra time to walk from shuttles.
College Commencement in DC at University of the District of Columbia
The University of the District of Columbia holds its commencement ceremony in early June at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium in Northeast DC.
Driving: There is ample parking available at RFK Stadium for $20 on commencement day. Allow extra time to navigate the parking lots after the ceremony lets out.
Alternatives: Take Metro to Stadium-Armory station, a short walk from the stadium. Rideshares can drop off along Zoe Avenue NE.
Street Closures: No street closures for UDC’s commencement, but traffic in the area increases significantly after the ceremony.
Summary
I hope these tips help make your graduate’s big day and your experience as a proud guest more enjoyable! DC’s colleges and universities contribute greatly to the capital region, and commencement ceremonies are a chance to celebrate the achievements of all those who strive for higher learning. Oh and one great way to recognize your grad would be to give them a gift from our shop! We have great DC themed items that your graduate is sure to love. Happy graduation season!
