In recent years 14th Street Northwest-one of the city's most transformed corridors-has evolved into a definite D.C. "it" zone. Just three blocks from Hotel Rouge, bustling bars, boutiques, galleries and restaurants now pervade this corridor marked by a rich history and stunning architecture.

This is great news for Rouge guests, who explore the nearby excitement on foot, checking out the vibrant north-south trajectory along 14th that runs from Thomas Circle to U Street (and beyond). Residents and visitors alike enjoy daytime shopping and gallery-gazing as well as anytime eats and people-watching; after the sun sets, they relish creative cocktails, theater productions and live concerts-in venues where jazz greats like Duke Ellington once reigned.

No doubt about it, the buzz along 14th is palpable, and you'll want to get in on the action. While in town, be sure to check out the following hot spots:

(Tip: Consider making dinner reservations ahead of time, especially on Friday and Saturday nights!)

• Peregrine Espresso: Get caffeinated in this locally-owned cafe where coffee is an art-and a serious affair.
• Pearl Dive Oyster Palace: Enjoy scrumptious, sustainable seafood at this Gulf-style bar and restaurant (or grab a cocktail and tasty snack at Black Jack upstairs).
• Doi Moi: Savor modern Vietnamese fare in a hip space with bursts of color; afterward, enjoy a carefully-crafted cocktail at downstairs speakeasy 2 Birds 1 Stone.
• Studio Theater: Catch cotemporary, thought-provoking plays in this four-theater complex.
• ChurchKey: Sate your thirst at this popular beer mecca that features 555 brews.
• Le Diplomate: Get transported to the "City of Light" at this high-energy gem-part brasserie, part café, part bistro-where French fare delights.
• Black Cat: Hear talented acts-from already-made-its to on-the-rise hopefuls-in a casual venue that's been a D.C. music institution for 20-plus years.