Downtown DC Date Spots
We’ve all been there. You found someone awesome to hang out with, but you’re clueless as to where to go and what to do. First thing’s first: calm the f down. We’ve got you covered. This list of daytime and nighttime date ideas will give you all you need for a great time. At the very least, it’ll give you a jumping off point. So forget the old “dinner and a movie” and get ready, slugger: time to hit this first date outta the park.
Day Dates
Smithsonian Museums
Why: It’s such an obvious option, but it really is one of the best. Not only are all the museums free, but there are so many options that you’re bound to find some common ground and similar interests between any of them. And that includes the zoo. Who doesn’t want to go to the zoo?
Where: All over DC, but our favorites (besides the Zoo) are centralized around the National Mall. Side note: we suggest double checking the Smithsonian website to make sure you’re top choices are open as some museums’ hours change with the seasons.
How much: Free!
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Paddle Boats
Why: Yes, we are aware of how lame this sounds, but have you ever tried it? So much fun. And you get to wear matching embarrassing life-jackets! Plus you can not beat the view – the dock is located smack dab in the middle of the cherry blossoms and you can paddle around the Jefferson Memorial.
Where: 1501 Maine Ave, SW
How much: $15 per hour for 2 people, $24 per hour for 4.
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Grab a Weekend Brunch
Why: It’s the perfect idea for people who prefer day dates, but want to drink alcohol without judgement.
Where: Do you have a favorite restaurant or bar? Odds are they’ll offer some great brunch specials. Check out ones in an area you like where there’s potential for a second activity afterwards so you can make a whole day of it. Our favorites include Barcode around the K Street area, anything in Adams Morgan, and H Street.
How much: Depends where you go and how hard you go: bottomless pitchers of Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas are gonna cost ya.
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Go to a Park
Why: They’re free and they’re just about everywhere. Find one close to you and pack some lunch or just go for a walk.
Where: Like we said: just about everywhere. The one pictured above, though, is the Georgetown Waterfront, and we like it the best. The bonus with this park is if you get bored there’s a ton of stuff nearby to walk to. Feeling hungry? Hit up the famous Georgetown Cupcake shop. Wanna be creepy? Go see the Exorcist House.
How much: Zero dollars. Plus the cost of cupcakes.
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Date Night
Barcelona Wine Bar – 14th Street
Why: Some of the best tapas and wines in one of the coolest downtown areas to hang out. And you can sound like a connoisseur when they ask about a wine pairing you’d like to try. There’s a few Barcelona locations, but the 14th Street one has so much to offer when it comes to a date night. Head here for stop number 1 and see where the night takes you.
Where: 1622 14th Street NW
How much: Most dinners will run you around $25-$30 per person. Photo courtesy of yelp.com
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Wine + Paint
Why: It’s so different than the normal date night crap you’re used to. Bring and drink your own bottle of wine (or purchase some there) and take home a personal work of art to commemorate the night. Hang it and show it off in your living room – regardless of how the night goes, it’ll be a great story.
Where: 1512 U Street NW
How much: $35-40 per person. The price is dependent on if you plan on bringing your own bottle or not, but the art supplies are included either way. Photo courtesy of yelp.com
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Kennedy Center
Why: You’ll look impressive and cultured. Also, it’s fun. Get dressed up and catch a show (which range from dance performances to comedy shows, music to art) after you hit the rooftop bar for some serious, hand-crafted cocktails and an amazing view.
Where: 2700 F Street NW
How much: Depends on the show.
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Oya
Why: It’s beautiful and swanky. This Asian-fusion restaurant/bar/lounge comes complete with delicious good, fancy chandeliers, great sushi, a full bar, and a fireplace that’s somehow both contemporary and cozy.
Where: 777 9th Street NW
How much: Dinners can cost upwards of $30 per plate and their a la carte sushi starts at $8, but they often have specials for happy hour during the week. Photo courtesy of yelp.com
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Coco Sala
Why: Five words: Chocolate and Bubbles Happy Hour. It’s alcohol and chocolate expertly matched for maximum drinking satisfaction. BONUS: If this date goes well, it’s the PERFECT Valentine’s Day “Back to our first date spot” date.
Where: 929 F St NW
How much: Their Happy Hour is just one reason to go and it’s only $8 per dessert-y drink. We didn’t even mention the bacon mac ‘n’ cheese or strawberry flatbreads in their appetizer section on their amazing dinner menu (starting around $10-20 per person).
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Now go get ’em, tiger.
