20-something female, Capital One Arena to HighRoad hostel

Question

What is the best (safest) way for a lone 20-something female to get from the Capital One Arena to the HighRoad hostel after an evening concert?

I've seen posts that suggest "good luck getting an Uber after a concert." Would this be doable and safe?

Take the Metro somewhere safe (where?) and call an Uber from there?

Other suggestions?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

Answer

After an evening concert at Capital One Arena, getting safely to the HighRoad Hostel as a solo 20-something female requires a bit of planning. Late-night crowds and the high demand for rideshares can make direct Uber or Lyft pickups from the arena challenging. However, with some preparation, it’s manageable and safe.

Here are your options:

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) Direct: After concerts, the arena usually has designated rideshare pickup areas. It can be busy, but if you’re patient, it’s feasible. Consider ordering your ride a bit before the concert ends or immediately after leaving your seat. Check the official Capital One Arena website for the exact pickup location—it’s well-marked and monitored by staff.
Metro Option: The nearest Metro station is Gallery Place-Chinatown (Red, Green, Yellow lines), which is about a 5-minute walk from the arena. The Metro runs late on concert nights, but it’s safest to check the last train times. From Gallery Place, you could ride a train to a station closer to HighRoad Hostel, then call a short Uber/Lyft for the final leg. Using the Metro allows you to avoid waiting in crowded streets and positions you in a well-lit, secure station area.
Combination Approach: Another strategy is to take the Metro a couple of stops to a more active neighborhood or transit hub and then request a rideshare. This can reduce surge pricing and ensure the driver is picking up in a well-lit, less congested location. Stations like L’Enfant Plaza or Metro Center are well-lit and busy, making them safer for late-night pickups.

Additional Safety Tips:

Always check the rideshare app and confirm the license plate, car make, and driver before entering the vehicle.
Stay in well-lit areas with other people while waiting for your ride.
If possible, travel with a friend or in a small group; it makes both Metro and rideshare safer and more comfortable.
Keep your phone charged and accessible, and share your ETA with a friend or family member.

In summary, it is doable and generally safe if you plan ahead. The combination of a short Metro ride to a safe hub followed by an Uber or Lyft is often the most reliable and secure approach late at night in DC. Direct Uber pickup is also possible, but may involve waiting in a busy, crowded area right after the concert.

20-something female, Capital One Arena to HighRoad hostel

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