A Guide to Watching Washington Wizards Games at Capital One Arena
Washington Wizards games are a key attraction for basketball fans in Washington, D.C. Whether you are a local fan or visiting the city, Capital One Arena is the ideal venue. This guide will help you navigate your way to the Arena, manage parking, and utilize public transportation with ease.
Driving to Capital One Arena
Capital One Arena is located at 601 F Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20004. It is easily reachable by car from various directions.
- From Maryland, Virginia, and nearby areas, take Interstate 495 to connect to the necessary routes into the city.
- Interstate 295 is a good option for accessing Downtown D.C.
- Depending on your starting point, routes may include I-66, I-395, or other major roads.
As you approach downtown, follow signs for the Arena or city center. Keep in mind that D.C. has unique traffic patterns, including one-way streets and peak-hour restrictions. It's wise to check for road closures or events affecting your route on game day.
Look for the Capital One Arena signage to guide you in the final stretches.
Parking Conditions at Capital One Arena
Parking at Capital One Arena can be tricky. There is no official Arena parking lot, but various private garages and lots are available within walking distance.
- Prices vary significantly based on distance from the Arena. Direct access to the Arena entrance comes at a higher cost.
- For more affordable options, park a few blocks away.
Consider reserving your parking in advance through services like SpotHero or ParkWhiz. These platforms let you search for the best parking rates and secure a spot ahead of the game.
Taking Public Transportation to Capital One Arena
Public transportation is a convenient option for getting to Wizards games. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) provides extensive Metro and bus services that take you close to the Arena.
By Metro: The Gallery Place-Chinatown station on the Red, Yellow, and Green lines is directly beneath the Arena. Follow signs toward the Verizon Center/Capital One Arena exits. This is particularly handy post-game when crowds are exiting.
By Bus: Multiple bus routes serve the area around Capital One Arena. The WMATA trip planner can help you find the best route and schedule for your visit.
Final Tips
Game days can become crowded, so whether you are driving or using public transport, aim to arrive early. This gives you time to enjoy pre-game food and drinks at nearby eateries or check out in-Arena options. Arriving early ensures you don’t miss any of the action.
Here are some useful links to help plan your trip:
- Capital One Arena Official Website: https://www.capitalonearena.com/
- SpotHero Parking Reservations: https://spothero.com/
- ParkWhiz Parking Reservations: https://www.parkwhiz.com/
- WMATA Trip Planner: https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/
Enjoy your experience at the Wizards game at Capital One Arena, and cheer on your team!