The Best Date Ideas in Washington DC

If you’re looking to sweep a special someone off their feet, keep reading. We’ve compiled a diverse mix of romantic, fun, and completely unforgettable date night ideas. More than just a must-visit spot for history buffs, Washington DC is a city that’s sure to have your significant other swooning. And, after the date night’s over, why not check out some other exciting things to do in Washington DC? Ready? Let’s dive in.

Romantic date night ideas

When you think “romantic,” Washington DC may not be the first destination that comes to mind. But couples will be amazed to find out that this city is for lovers. From evening activities to date night dinners, there are plenty of romantic things to do. From dining to fun things to enjoy together, we’ve got the perfect date ideas.

Dine at a romantic restaurant

From first dates to anniversary celebrations, restaurants are always a romantic option. Washington DC is home to a diverse culinary scene. You’ll find spots serving gourmet meals, impressive bottles of wine, and inventive cocktails. Booking a table for two at one of the city’s restaurants is never a bad idea!

💡Fun fact: Washington DC’s food scene is renowned! The city is home to many acclaimed eateries of international provenance, including Michelin-starred Maydan for Middle Eastern and North African delights, Supra for Georgian cuisine, or Ambar for Balkan eats.

Stroll through the Georgetown Waterfront

If you’re looking for a little help digesting your meal, head to the Georgetown Waterfront and take a scenic stroll along the Potomac River.

The atmosphere is utterly charming, with cobblestone streets lined with all sorts of businesses. The Georgetown Waterfront offers picturesque views and is an ideal spot for a romantic walk or dining by the water. How sweet it is.

• Location: Potomac River waterfront, near Key Bridge
• Type of experience: Romantic riverside dining
• Budget: Varies (mid to high)
• Food/drinks options: Diverse menus; wines & cocktails
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Potomac River

There are many ways to take in views of the Potomac River. But one of the more enchanting opportunities available to you is by booking a cruise along the river. Set sail and take in breathtaking views of the Jefferson Memorial from the calm waters. Hungry? Grab dinner aboard one of these vessels. No need to make it an evening affair, either. Some tours offer the option to brunch n’ boat, too.

• Location: Potomac River, departing near the Wharf
• Type of experience: Romantic boat cruise at sunset
• Budget: Moderate (check deals)
• Food/drinks options: Snacks & drinks on board (on some boats)
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Unique experiences for couples

Are you the type who prefers your outings to be a little more unconventional? Are you hungering for something different? Step outside of your comfort one and give some of these out-there activities.

Explore art at ARTECHOUSE

ARTECHOUSE calls itself a space where “creative innovation has no limits.” This is an interdisciplinary museum featuring exhibits of art and technology to create immersive experiences that engage the senses. As far as dates go, visiting its numerous lightshows, digital exhibits would be the perfect way to open you and your date’s minds.

• Location: Downtown D.C. (immersive art space)
• Type of experience: Interactive digital art show
• Budget: Moderate (discounts for students & seniors)
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; cafés nearby
• Reservation needed?: Recommended

Visit the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

The Hirshorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is a favorite destination for contemporary arts. Located in the National Mall, the museum’s free entrance makes it a popular destination for those looking to explore its many exhibits—the wildly eclectic art collection belonging to philanthropist Joseph H. Hirshorn.

• Location: National Mall (Smithsonian)
• Type of experience: Modern art & outdoor sculptures
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; restaurants nearby
• Reservation needed?: No

Discover history at the National Portrait Gallery

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, The National Portrait Gallery features halls and halls of portraits belonging to influential figures who have helped write the tale of America. If you and your date are lovers of history and all things cultural, then be sure to secure tickets to this must-visit Washington DC venue.

• Location: Penn Quarter
• Type of experience: Portraits & U.S. history
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; cafés nearby
• Reservation needed?: No

Outdoor adventures

With numerous hiking trails and bike paths in and around the city, Washington DC is a great place for couples who prefer their time spent together exploring the outdoors—be it a picnic, a leisurely walk, or other kinds of adventures in nature.

Hike in Rock Creek Park

Located in the District of Columbia, Rock Creek Park is 1,754 acres in size, welcoming nearly 2 million people each year to explore its various facilities, including a nature center as well as hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.

If you and your significant other are looking for a nature-filled escape, Rock Creek Park’s over 32 miles of trails are just waiting to be explored.

• Location: Northwest/Northeast D.C.
• Type of experience: Nature hikes (easy–moderate)
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: Bring a picnic; nearby cafés after
• Reservation needed?: No

Picnic at the National Mall

Few things feel as quintessentially Washington DC as visiting the National Mall. Nicknamed “America’s front yard,” this open-area national park located in downtown Washington DC is the most-visited in the country. Because of its spaciousness, it’s a great place to roam or have a picnic on any given day.

• Location: Heart of D.C.
• Type of experience: Monuments & Smithsonian museums
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: Food trucks & nearby cafés
• Reservation needed?: No (some museums use timed passes)

Paddleboat on the Tidal Basin

Tidal Basin is a man-made reservoir between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel. Its calm, still waters and views of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Monument and Washington Monument make it the ideal Washington DC date-night destination.

During the warmer months, one of the most romantic things to do in the city is to rent a paddleboat and cruise across the water for a different perspective of Washington’s most famous landmarks.

• Location: Tidal Basin, by the Jefferson Memorial
• Type of experience: Leisure paddleboat ride with views
• Budget: Small rental fee
• Food/drinks options: Vendors nearby
• Reservation needed?: Recommended

Free and budget-friendly date options

Do you think dating in Washington DC has to break the bank? Of course not, when you’ve got these budget-friendly options by your side. Here, you’ll find tons of fun and wallet-friendly ideas that’ll impress your date.

Visit the Smithsonian Museums

For a date filled with art, history, and culture, look no further than the Smithsonian museums—admission is free, and there’s always something to see.

Wander through exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to space exploration and explore something new together. Sounds pretty sweet, doesn’t it?

• Location: Along the National Mall
• Type of experience: Art, history & science exhibits
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: Museum cafés
• Reservation needed?: No (some timed entries)

Explore Eastern Market

Washington DC’s oldest fresh food public market is the Eastern Market. Head here, and you’ll be met with farm-fresh produce, handmade crafts, and tasty eats served by local vendors.

There is live music and street performers ready to entertain. On weekends, a bustling flea market is just waiting to be explored. Though you can, you don’t have to spend tons of time to soak up the good vibes.

• Location: Capitol Hill
• Type of experience: Food & arts market
• Budget: Low–mid (snacks to gourmet)
• Food/drinks options: Fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods
• Reservation needed?: No

Attend a free concert at the Kennedy Center

Catch a free performance on the Kennedy Center’s Millenium Stage if you can. From jazz, classical, to more contemporary sounds, you and your date can enjoy a free performance—musical and magical.

• Location: Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center
• Type of experience: Live music & performances
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: Center cafés & restaurants
• Reservation needed?: Tickets recommended (first-come basis)

Where Foodies can go in Washington DC

Part of the fun of exploring a new city—or perhaps rediscovering the place you live in—is visiting its food scene. If you’re heading to Washington DC, make sure you carve out some time in your schedule to wine, dine, and sip on tasty cocktails. There are many delicious types of international cuisine just waiting to be savored, whether you’re eyeing a bustling food market or a Michelin-level meal.

Savor cuisines at Union Market

Head over to Union Market on those days you’re craving a little bit of everything. There are over 40 food vendors here, serving cuisines of all types. From classic All-American bites to Japanese cuisine, Mexican food that’ll spice up your life and ice cream for dessert—you’ll really find no shortage of options here. Perfect for dates with discerning palates.

• Location: NoMa neighborhood
• Type of experience: Food hall & community events
• Budget: Low–mid
• Food/drinks options: Artisanal stalls; bars & cafés
• Reservation needed?: No (check for special events)

Discover DC's breweries and wineries

Date night calls for a few drinks, wouldn’t you say? In addition to its many swank cocktail bars, Washington DC is home to a growing craft brewery DC, with popular spots like DC Brau and Bluejacket topping the list.

• Location: Ivy City, Capitol Riverfront, etc.
• Type of experience: Tours & tastings
• Budget: $10–$30 per person
• Food/drinks options: Craft beers, wines; some food trucks
• Reservation needed?: Recommended for groups/events

Join a hands-on cooking class

Want a world-class meal, but want to whip it up yourself? Then discover one of Washington DC’s many cooking classes. For couples, you can take part together to try out new recipes and discover skills you never knew you had.

Places like DC Cooking School or Chestnut Underground host private events, but also couple’s nights. Learning how to roll your own fresh pasta or proper knifing skills is a fun, hands-on experience the two of you can enjoy as a duo.

• Type of experience: Interactive cooking lesson
• Budget: $50–$150 per person
• Food/drinks options: Dishes you make; often wine pairing
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Daytime activities for couples

You heard it here first. Day dates are the new nighttime dates, and these under-the-sun options are worth experiencing together.

Tour the U.S. Botanic Garden

Located on Maryland Avenue, the U.S. Botanic Garden brings visitors closer to the beauty and magic of the plant world. If you and your plus one are looking for a budget-friendly way to spend an afternoon, this plant-packed spot is ideal: it’s free to the public and open daily.

Called a “living plant museum,” the U.S. Botanic Garden features thousands of species of found around the world. From desert plants to tropical vegetation, there’s something everyone from the budding botanist to the plantficiando can appreciate.

• Location: National Mall, near U.S. Capitol
• Type of experience: Plant exhibits & conservatory
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; cafés nearby
• Reservation needed?: No

Visit the National Zoo

The National Zoo was founded in 1889 and sits on over 163 acres of land. Within its borders, you’ll find nearly 2,000 different animals from 400 species. Some notable (and adorable) mentions include giant pandas. What’s more, the zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts. It’s a dreamy date spot for the animal lover you adore.

• Location: Woodley Park
• Type of experience: Animal exhibits (family-friendly)
• Budget: Free (donations welcome)
• Food/drinks options: Cafés & snack stands
• Reservation needed?: Timed entry passes required

Explore the National Gallery of Art

Washington DC’s National Gallery of Art first opened back in 1941. It features an impressive collection with world-renowned artists like Georgia O’ Keefe, Jackson Pollack, Pablo Picasso, and many more.

Outside the museum walls, an art oasis of another kind awaits. Beside the museum lies a Sculpture Garden, featuring enormous artworks and monuments you call stroll beside (or under, or through). After you’ve seen the likes of works like Louise Bourgeois’ Spider or Robert Indiana’s AMOR, you and your date can grab a bite at the adjacent Pavilion Café, which offers a panoramic view of the garden. 

• Location: National Mall
• Type of experience: Fine art galleries
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: Café & restaurant onsite
• Reservation needed?: No

Nightlife and entertainment

After dark, Washington DC transforms into an almost entirely different city—moody, sultry, and incandescent. Whether you’re looking for laughter, live music, or a smidge of history, you and your date will surely find so much to do once the sun sets.

Catch a comedy show at DC Improv

Go on, get your laugh on! Catch a comedy show at DC Improv, the city’s number one spot for stand-up comedy and improv acts. Who knows, you might even see someone famous in their nightly line-up! If you’re hungry, you can also grab a bite to eat and drink here.

• Location: Downtown D.C.
• Type of experience: Comedy club show
• Budget: $20–$50 per ticket
• Food/drinks options: Snacks, meals & drinks onsite
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Dance at a live music venue

Ready to hit the floor? Washington DC’s nightlife is brimming with action. From nostalgic jazz clubs to packed bars and nightclubs, there’s no doubt a spot here just waiting for you to let loose.

• Location: U Street, Dupont Circle, etc.
• Type of experience: Jazz, blues, rock & more
• Budget: Free–$100+ (varies by show)
• Food/drinks options: Bar food & drinks
• Reservation needed?: Yes for popular acts

Attend a play at Ford's Theatre

On April 14th, 1965, President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated while catching a performance of Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theatre. Today, the venue still stands and continues to host performances on a near-nightly basis.

Though it regularly hosts plays, there is also a museum inside the building where visitors can learn about the assassination for themselves.

• Location: 10th St NW (NW D.C.)
• Type of experience: Historic site & live theatre
• Budget: $30–$70 per show
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; restaurants nearby
• Reservation needed?: Yes (timed tickets)

Cultural and historic explorations

Taking a trip to Washington DC is a bit like experiencing a history lesson up close and personal. Whether you’re strolling its storied streets or visiting its many monuments and museums, you’ll no doubt learn a thing or two while here.

Walk through historic neighborhoods

Explore Washington DC’s historic neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and witness its elegant row houses up close. The historic Eastern Market can also be found here, which we’ll tell you a little more about below.

Otherwise, Dupont Circle is a mix of embassies, historic mansions, and vibrant street life—so no matter whereabouts you wander, you’re sure to stumble upon a piece of American history in the flesh.

• Location: Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle
• Type of experience: Self-guided or guided walking tours
• Budget: Free–small fee for guided tours
• Food/drinks options: Plenty of cafés & restaurants
• Reservation needed?: No for self-tour; guided tours may require booking

Visit the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress boasts the title of being the largest library in the world. This stately landmark’s intricate ceilings, marble columns, and reading room will inspire awe. But beyond this, the library offers free tours, a vast selection of books (including some historical books), and tons of documents. History lovers ought to head here.

• Location: Capitol Hill
• Type of experience: Tours & exhibits in world’s largest library
• Budget: Free
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; nearby cafés
• Reservation needed?: Recommended for guided tours

Tour the monuments at night

Experience D.C.'s iconic monuments in a whole new light—literally—by taking a nighttime tour. When illuminated, landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and World War II Memorial become even more striking, creating a breathtaking and serene atmosphere.

Whether on foot or by guided tour, an evening visit to these historic sites is an unforgettable experience.

• Location: National Mall (Lincoln, Jefferson, etc.)
• Type of experience: Illuminated monument tour
• Budget: Free (self) or $40–$80 (guided)
• Food/drinks options: None onsite; restaurants nearby
• Reservation needed?: No (self); yes for guided tours

Seasonal date ideas

From the spring season to wintertime these seasonal experiences make for the perfect romantic outing in Washington DC.

Enjoy the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring

Come spring, Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival is something everyone looks forward to. You and your plus one will love strolling together through parks covered in delicate pink blossoms, a gift from Japan that signals warmer days are on the way.

Peak cherry blossom bloom usually happens in the last week of March. To celebrate spring’s arrival, the festival features performances, fireworks, and more.

• Location: Tidal Basin & Jefferson Memorial
• Type of experience: Spring flower festival & events
• Budget: Free entry (events may cost)
• Food/drinks options: Food vendors on site
• Reservation needed?: No (some events require booking)

Ice skate at the National Gallery’s Sculpture Garden in winter

Winter dates don’t get much more wonderful than the possibility of ice skating at the National Gallery’s Sculpture Garden, which transforms into an outdoor rink.

Impress your date with your skating skills or embrace the beautiful, snow-coated outdoors—heading here is a great way to experience the magic of the winter months. Afterwards, you can keep the warmth going by sipping on a hot chocolate at the Pavilion Café.

• Location: National Gallery’s Sculpture Garden
• Type of experience: Outdoor ice skating among sculptures
• Budget: Rental & admission fee
• Food/drinks options: Pavilion Café nearby
• Reservation needed?: No (peak times book early)

Attend outdoor movies under the stars in summer

Summer in Washington, D.C. is a dream for date nights, with endless activities to choose from. One of the best? Watching movies under the stars—a classic (and often free!) way to enjoy warm evenings.

Across the city, weekly outdoor screenings bring film lovers together in scenic spots. Some of our top picks include Sunset Cinema on the Wharf, the summer movie series on the lawn of the Jefferson Building, and screenings on the plaza along the Potomac River.

Just grab a blanket, bring some snacks, and let the magic of the city handle the rest.

• Location: Parks (National Mall, community parks)
• Type of experience: Communal movie-night outdoors
• Budget: Free or small donation
• Food/drinks options: Food trucks; bring your own picnic
• Reservation needed?: No

Adventurous activities

Feeling a little bold? These adventurous activities are for thrill-seeking couples exclusively. If you’re ready to break free from the ordinary, embarking on these adventures is a great way to do it.

Try ax throwing at Bad Axe Throwing

Bad Axe Throwing is Washington DC’s favorite spot for letting off some steam. The company started in Canada and has since expanded to the US, opening its doors all over the country. Its Washington DC location first opened in 2017 and has been welcoming ax throwers through its doors ever since.

As far as dates go, it’s a little unexpected. But maybe that’s just the way to your crush’s heart.

• Location: Bad Axe Throwing D.C.
• Type of experience: Recreational axe-throwing lanes
• Budget: $20–$40 per person
• Food/drinks options: Some venues serve food & drinks
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Go on a ghost tour in Georgetown

Explore Georgetown’s spooky past with a ghost tour that serves up history with a side of haunting. Once night falls, you’ll love exploring the city’s darker sides, like its haunted mansions and the lingering spirits that walk alongside you on the streets, in the Victorian rowhouses, churches, and alleyways.

• Location: Historic Georgetown streets
• Type of experience: Haunted walking tour
• Budget: $15–$25 per person
• Food/drinks options: Dine before/after nearby
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Experience a hot air balloon ride over the city

How romantic! Imagine seeing Washington DC from up above? You can view the city in ways few have done before, holding (sweaty) hands with your significant other. See the White House, the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and more from high in the sky. So dreamy, so unique, you may never want to come back down.

• Location: Scenic areas outside D.C.
• Type of experience: Aerial balloon flight & views
• Budget: $200–$400 per person
• Food/drinks options: Post-flight champagne (sometimes)
• Reservation needed?: Yes

Crafting unforgettable memories in DC

You see? Washington DC is more than just the national capital; it’s a city of love. Romantic experiences await you here.

After you’ve created unforgettable memories together, be sure to end your evening on a high note—we’re talking tight rope levels of height—by attending one of our shows in Washington DC.

Our performers will put on a spectacularly dazzling show, one that’s sure to amaze and inspire you. What a way to enjoy the city together!