The 90 Metrobus route connects Southeast Washington to Northwest Washington — specifically, the Anacostia and Adams Morgan neighborhoods. The 90 is technically referred to as the "U Street-Garfield Line," which references its earlier streetcar history, as many bus routes throughout the District mirror earlier streetcar lines. Therefore, the U Street-Garfield Line was operated by the Capital Traction Company as a streetcar line long before it was a WMATA Metrobus route.

The 90 starts its journey in the Anacostia Historic District, which was one of DC's first historic districts, dating back to 1973. The historic district famously includes Frederick Douglass's home, Cedar Hill, which includes expansive views of the city and is now a National Historic Site. After crossing the Anacostia River, the bus moves north past the historic Washington Navy Yard complex and along Barracks Row (8th Street SE), a popular commercial district with restaurants, bars, and stores. The area gets its name from the Marine Barracks, which are found along the east side of 8th Street. Established in 1801 on a site selected by President Thomas Jefferson, the Marine Barracks retain much of the feel of a 19th century military post.

The route continues north into the Capitol Hill Historic District, DC's largest historic district, and across East Capitol Street into Northeast Washington. After passing through the H Street NE commercial corridor, the 90 veers left onto Florida Avenue NE past Gallaudet University, which was founded in 1864 and is one of the world’s premier collegiate institutions for Deaf and hard of hearing students. Next door to the campus is the extremely popular Union Market Historic District, with its mix of old and new construction, restaurants, shops, and wholesale items.

The 90 continues on, under Metro's Red Line, past the Eckington neighborhood and Bloomingdale and LeDroit Park historic districts, into the early streetcar suburbs. As Florida Avenue turns into U Street NW, the route continues past important landmarks connected to "Black Broadway," the name given to U Street when it was the heart of Washington's Black culture and entertainment. These landmarks include the Howard and Lincoln theaters, amongst many others. Native Washingtonian Duke Ellington is just one artist who performed at venues in this neighborhood. Shortly thereafter, the 90 ends its journey just past Adams Morgan at Calvert Street NW's Duke Ellington Bridge, which crosses Rock Creek Park, a popular place for Washingtonians to exercise and explore nature.

This tour hopes to draw your attention to the historic and architecturally-significant gems along the 90 Metrobus route. Start at the historic site that’s closest to you! If you’re traveling northwest on the 90, click “Next” to follow along. If you're traveling southeast, click “Previous.”