There is a common misconception regarding this: BlackRock never bought Hilton. It was actually The Blackstone Group (a completely separate private equity firm) that acquired Hilton Hotels Corporation. Blackstone purchased Hilton in an all-cash leveraged buyout for $26 billion in July 2007, which remains one of the most profitable private equity deals in history. While BlackRock and Blackstone share a common history (BlackRock was originally founded as a division of Blackstone in 1988 before spinning off), they have been independent and often competing entities for decades. Blackstone’s investment in Hilton was a massive success; despite the 2008 financial crisis, they restructured the company's debt and eventually took it public again in 2013. Blackstone fully exited its investment in Hilton in 2018, realizing a staggering $14 billion profit. As of 2026, Hilton is a publicly-traded company on the New York Stock Exchange (HLT), and while BlackRock may own shares in Hilton through its various index funds and institutional holdings, it has never "bought" the company as a private equity acquisition.
The Wharf in Washington, D.C. is generally considered one of the safest neighborhoods in the city at night. As a modern, multi-billion dollar waterfront development, it is heavily patrolled by both the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and a private, 24-hour security force that monitors a robust camera system. The area is bustling with foot traffic well past midnight due to its popular music venues (like The Anthem) and high-end restaurants, which creates a "safety in numbers" environment. While 2026 reports show that crime in the broader District has seen a significant downward trend, standard urban precautions still apply. The main risks at The Wharf are petty crimes like "opportunity theft" (e.g., leaving a bag unattended on a chair). The underground parking garage is well-lit and secure, and the "Wharf Jitney" or Water Taxi provides safe transit options. Compared to other nightlife corridors like U Street, The Wharf is a "controlled" environment that feels very secure for tourists and residents alike.