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From outdoor events to rooftop views, we’ve put together a dreamy DC bucket list for your next adventure.
Many of DC's most beloved museums are free to enjoy and make for great summertime attractions: the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Gallery of Art, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Museum of American History and Smithsonian's National Zoo (featuring new giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao) should all be on your to-do list.
The Phillips Collection is considered America’s first museum of modern art. The ticketed attraction offers new perspectives on the works of modern artists, from Renoir to Rothko, as well as rotating exhibits that highlight masters from all over the world.
Arlo DC
It's always the right time to head out on the town, find the nearest rooftop bar and order up your favorite cocktail or draft beer. During happy hour or any hour, feel the breeze and ease back at District locales that have set up shop up top for your warm-weather pleasure.
East Potomac Park’s scenic mini-golf
Putt some history into your summer fun by playing at East Potomac Park’s scenic mini-golf course, which sits on a peninsula between the Potomac River and The Wharf. Expect views galore as you enjoy a round on a historic course that first opened in 1931, making it the oldest continuously operating space of its kind in the U.S. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the course features quirky obstacles, including mini replicas of the White House, the U.S. Capitol Building and George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
Fish Shop provides an ideal summer experience: fresh seafood by the water. The rich traditions of Chesapeake Bay fishing communities are reflected in the vibrant restaurant’s menu, which highlights local shellfish and dayboat fish along with select meats and vegetables from nearby farms. The house-made Hardy Negroni pays homage to Fish Shop’s sister restaurant in Scotland. We also recommend the signature crumpets and checking out the global wine list.
DC’s booming food and drink scene has propelled forth a buzzworthy beer community. Expect an ambiance that rivals the selection of craft brews at the many beer gardens in and around Washington, DC. Each one puts its own spin on the Bavarian beer-drinking tradition, offering up a variety of suds, snacks, games and convivial settings for downing a cold one alfresco.
One of DC’s longest-standing sports traditions, the Mubadala Citi DC Open will take place at the Rock Creek Park Tennis Center from July 19-27. You can enjoy world-class talent compete for valuable tour points and a prestigious trophy from seats that are all close to the action. Grab tickets ASAP!
Pierre L’Enfant, DC’s first urban planner, designed “The Federal City” to be beautified by public parks and gardens, and so it is today. You’ll find scenic landscaping around the National Mall, a bonsai museum at the U.S. National Arboretum, hiking trails in Rock Creek Park and meticulously manicured gardens open to the public throughout DC.
Summer in the District would not be complete without Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week. Throughout the promotion, dozens of restaurants across the DC area offer three-course, prix-fixe meals for brunch, lunch and dinner, making it one of the best ways to get out into the neighborhoods of DC.
The nation’s capital is flanked by two rivers, the Potomac and the Anacostia, which double as perfect recreational playgrounds for kids and adults. Hop on a boat, kayak or paddleboard from any one of numerous boathouses. Anacostia Riverkeeper offers tours that double as educational journeys through the river’s detailed history, while the 21-and-over crowd can sip their way down the river on a Tiki Boat Booze Cruise.
Make the most of summer’s last big weekend with free events, outdoor activities and cultural experiences in the nation's capital. Get your share of on-the-water revelry in Georgetown or at The Wharf, check out cool museums, experience all two miles of the National Mall and dine outdoors before it’s too late.
U.S. National Arboretum
For the first time, you can explore the stunning U.S. National Arboretum after hours. Through Aug. 30, the Arboretum remains open until 8 p.m., granting exclusive seasonal access that allows you to stroll the grounds during the golden hour, an ideal time to cool off, connect with nature and catch magical sunset vistas. Additional highlights include the National Capitol Columns, the world-renowned Bonsai & Penjing Museum and the Gotelli Conifer Collection.
DC’s beloved and historic U.S. Botanic Garden stays open until 8 p.m. on June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15. The extended summer hours mean you can check out plant collections from around the world, relax in peaceful green spaces and ignite your inner plant lover in lush surroundings as day turns to night. You can also indulge in a seasonal treat from Jarabe Gourmet on June 20 and return to try sorbet or ice cream (or both) from Here’s the Scoop on July 18 and Aug. 15.
The largest music festival in the nation’s capital, the DCJazzFest honors one of America’s greatest artforms with an annual summer showcase. Its signature event, DC JazzFest at The Wharf, attracts headliners and up-and-coming talents. Across the city, you can groove to 20-plus other shows, many of which are free to attend, making this an ideal way to jazz up your summer.
© Jason Dixon Photography
Summertime and movies go hand-in-hand. Yes, the biggest blockbusters are in theaters, but step your movie-going experience out to make your next movie more memorable. DC’s outdoor movie screenings are filled with beautiful scenes, local vibes and are often free to attend.
DC’s color palette is not confined to museums or its bounty of natural beauty. The city’s neighborhood walls are covered with vibrant and unique murals, celebrating everything from hometown heroes to Founding Fathers and even fruit! Aniekan Udofia, one of the most prominent mural artists in the city, explains how he perceives the artform and how it serves as “the pulse of the city."
