30 Romantic Things To Do In Washington, DC (Food, Museums, & Hotels)

Washington, D.C. is the ultimate destination for a sophisticated yet romantic rendezvous. From museums to eateries and even some world-class hotels, there is something for everyone in the District of Columbia. Still, with so much to do, it can be hard to narrow down the best of the best.

We have cultivated a list of 30 romantic and highly rated things to do in D.C., including where to stay, where to eat, and above all, where to spend your quality time together. All you need to do is find one that piques your interest and head out on a fantastic date! Feel free to combine a few of these ideas for the ultimate romantic rendezvous.

1. John F. Kennedy Center Performing Arts Center

Credit: Kennedy Center / Facebook

The John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center has thousands of shows each year, making it a great place to go time and again for a date. No two shows are alike, and some of them are classics while others are brand new.

If you’re just in town for the weekend, check the listings and see if you’re interested. If you live in D.C., consider getting a membership or checking in monthly to see what is planned. You’re sure to find something you like!

Even better, some shows are free, and many come with audience participation for discussions. You’ll find theater, dance, comedy, and more. With that said, some of the more popular options book quickly, so don’t delay in checking them out.

Address: 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566

Phone Number: (202) 416-8000

Website: https://www.kennedy-center.org

Things to Know: Student discount available

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

2. Iron Gate Restaurant

Credit: Iron Gate / Facebook

The Iron Gate is a courtyard restaurant serving delicious Greek and Italian tasting plates. They also offer a delightful meal for two, making it the perfect date destination for a romantic night out.

The softly lit atmosphere with intimate seating will surely have you coming back time and again whenever you’re in D.C.

You’ll find entrees like Caramelized Ricotta Gnocchi and Crispy Blue Catfish, as well as Bittersweet Chocolate Torte and Greek Donuts with Orange Blossom Syrup for dessert. They also offer many mouth-watering appetizers!

Address: 1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Phone Number: (202) 524-5202

Website: https://www.irongaterestaurantdc.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Washington D.C.

3. Siroc Restaurant

Credit: Siroc / Facebook

If you’re looking for traditional Italian in a relaxed yet gorgeous atmosphere, the Siroc Restaurant should be at the top of your list. It’s located near McPherson Square, so you’ll have ample opportunities to walk around before and after your meal.

It also has a lovely outdoor seating area if the weather is fantastic. Both the Black Pepper Spaghetti and Fettuccine Bolognese come highly recommended, as do the Squid Ink Tagliatelle and Whole Wheat Pappardelle.

For dessert, they have classic Tiramisu, Warm Almond Cake, and Bunet. Ask the waiter which wines pair best, and you’ll have the perfect meal.

Address: 915 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005

Phone Number: (202) 628-2220

Website: https://sirocrestaurant.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended for outdoor seating

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4. The Jefferson Hotel

Credit: Jefferson Hotel DC / Facebook

The Jefferson is a five-star hotel just waiting for your romantic rendezvous. Far above average, this luxury hotel has 99 elegant and modern rooms.

The hotel also has a Book Room, breakfast eatery named Greenhouse, and a fantastic restaurant for lunch and dinner, the Quill. Each room feels stately, with plush bedding, antique tables, seating areas, and Italian marble bathrooms.

You’ll find yourself in the heart of D.C., less than a mile from the White House, across the street from the National Geographic Museum, and a block away from 1500 Market.

There are also many restaurants and bars within walking distance and 24-hour butler service within the hotel.

Address: 1200 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Phone Number: (202) 448-2300

Website: https://www.jeffersondc.com

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 9.2

5. National Mall and Memorial Parks

Credit: National Mall and Memorial Parks / Facebook

If a picnic date is more your speed, consider taking your loved one to the National Mall. It’s a large expanse of history, with beautiful grounds, iconic monuments, and ample space to stroll.

While this is always high on the list for tourists, it’s a beautiful place to have a late-night picnic or early morning walk for the locals. Just be sure to check the events, so you aren’t walking into a crowd if you want some privacy.

If you prefer to attend events, there are many to choose from at any time of year. Check the National Park Website to see what they have planned.

There are performances every Wednesday and planned Memorials throughout the year, as well as specialty shows, like the Fourth of July.

Address: 900 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024

Phone Number: (202) 426-6841

Website: https://www.nps.gov/nama/index.htm

Things to Know: Takes about an hour to tour without pedestrian traffic

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

6. Fiola Mare

Credit: Fiola Mare / Facebook

Fiola Mare is a sophisticated seafood restaurant with Italian fare located on the riverfront of Washington Harbour. With pristine white decor and pops of sea blue, this dining experience is opulent and divine.

They serve crudos alongside seafood towers and have a signature Carrello del Pesce- a seafood cart that serves the day’s best catch straight from Italy. According to their website, they are the “see and be seen” place to go in D.C.

You'll find their wine list to be phenomenal, as it’s been touted as one of the best, winning the Wine Spectator’s Best Award of Excellence. Enjoy a waterside lunch or dinner at this restaurant in Georgetown, then take a walk along the harbor to finish out your date.

Address: 3050 K St NW, Unit 101, Washington, DC 20007

Phone Number: (202) 350-4982

Website: https://www.fiolamaredc.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended for optimal seating

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

7. Centrolina

Credit: Centrolina / Facebook

Yet another fine dining Italian experience, Centrolina comes with a twist. It has an on-site market for patrons to peruse before and after meals. One of the best restaurants in D.C.‘s Central Center, it offers simple small dish fare that tastes phenomenal.

If you go, try their Spaghetti, Scallops, or Carpaccio. They also offer a Flourless Chocolate Cake for dessert and are well known for an exceptional wine pairing.

As a popular dining spot, it’s hit or miss whether reservations are needed, though it’s always best to have them unless you arrive early.

Address: 974 Palmer Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001

Phone Number: (202) 898-2426

Website: https://www.centrolinadc.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

8. Ritz Carlton Georgetown

Credit: Georgetown Ritz Carlton / Facebook

The Ritz-Carlton is a luxury hotel just a short walk from historic Georgetown. This five-star hotel has spacious rooms and marble bathrooms, offering a wonderful getaway experience for you to tour D.C. at your leisure.

The Metro is a short walk away, providing unfettered access to everywhere you’d like to go. However, no need to travel too far for food as there are three dining establishments on the premises.

The Degrees Bistro serves lunch and dinner with an American flair, while The Living Room offers light appetizers and drinks in an open brick establishment with a fireplace.

During the warmer months, there is an urban outdoor restaurant, The Yard, that offers handmade cocktails and seasonal dishes.

Address: 3100 South St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Phone Number: (202) 912-4100

Website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/washington-dc/georgetown

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free

Booking.com Rating: 8.8

9. Bluebell Spa

Credit: Bluebell Spa DC / Facebook

Nothing says romance like relaxing together with a couple's massage. While a spa experience might seem like an odd choice with so much to do around D.C., Bluebell Spa makes it entirely worth it.

They’re open until 9 pm, so schedule a couple’s massage after a long day of touring museums and walking the city streets. You’ll be able to choose from several different massage treatments, as well as facials.

They have a traditional Swedish massage, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Aromatherapy, and more. Be sure to book well in advance, so you don’t miss out on this gem of an adventure!

Address: 3705 14th St NW, Unit 2, Washington, DC 20010

Phone Number: (202) 882-2355

Website: https://bluebellspadc.com

Things to Know: Appointment required

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

10. The Dabney

Credit: The Dabney / Facebook

Located in a former row house in Mt. Vernon Square, The Dabney is a mid-Atlantic restaurant run by chef Jeremiah Langhorne. They’re known for their beer, wine, dessert, and hearty fare.

You’ll find East Coast classics like Cornbread, Catfish Sliders, Baked Virginia, and Scallops. While everything is plated beautifully, the restaurant really shines when it comes to cocktails.

Their most popular, the Benne and the Bees, is a dry gin and sherry concoction with honey and nectarine vinegar. You might also find yourself enjoying A Shore Thing, a mixologist's dream with cognac, spicebush, Leopold, lime, and ginger.

Address: 122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001

Phone Number: (202) 450-1015

Website: https://thedabney.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

11. Bistro Cacao

Credit: Bistro Cacao / Facebook

Located on Capitol Hill, Bistro Cacao is a small French establishment with curtained booths and antique decor. It’s considered the most romantic spot for brunch in all of D.C., and with good reason.

They go above and beyond to make you and your date feel special. They have both indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar, and French delicacies that will have you coming back for more.

They offer a three-course brunch for only $35, which makes them a trendy option, so be sure to make reservations. If you want a private booth, specify that when you call.

When you’re done with your meal, head to Stanton Park for a nice walk. You can also order your meal to go and have a picnic nearby.

Address: 316 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Phone Number: (202) 546-4737

Website: https://bistrocacao.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Related Read: 20 Best Boozy, Bottomless Brunches in Washington, DC

12. Hotel Washington

Credit: Hotel Washington / Facebook

Hotel Washington is a recently renovated accommodation that blends the past and present in a way that feels luxurious and modern.

It had a rooftop lounge and a lobby bar with views of the White House, the Washington Monument, and the National Mall. Each room is the perfect combination of class and sophistication, with lounge-style couches and spacious beds.

The hotel has been in business at the same location for over 100 years, perfecting the Washington experience. VUE, their rooftop bar, offers a low-lighting atmosphere on the 11th floor, providing the perfect views of our nation’s Capital while serving classic and new-age cocktails.

Address: 515 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Phone Number: (202) 661-2400

Website: https://www.thehotelwashington.com

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 8.6

13. Rose’s Luxury

Credit: Rose’s Luxury / Instagram

Open Monday through Saturday evenings, Rose’s Luxury is a small Michelin star eclectic restaurant in a redesigned townhome.

There is a bar upstairs that serves hand-crafted cocktails and seating down below for tasting plates. The atmosphere is lively and intimate, with string lighting, potted plants, and wooden tables.

The food is as beautiful as it is delicious, and many patrons recommend the Malpeque Oysters, Pork Sausage Habanero, Strawberry Spaghetti, Smoked Brisket, and the Japanese Fried Chicken. For dessert, try the Coconut Ice Cream with Caviar or the Chocolate Soufflé.

Address: 717 Eighth St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Phone Number: (202) 742-3570

Website: https://www.rosesluxury.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

14. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Credit: Thamiris Barbosa / Facebook

If you’ve already chosen your place to stay and your restaurants, you’ll still need romantic experiences. Walking hand in hand through the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art is the perfect date idea.

This outdoor sculpture garden has over fifteen unique sculptures donated over the years. This is also a great place to bring a picnic lunch.

Be sure to pose in front of the AMOR sculpture with your loved one for the perfect photo to commemorate your adventurous trip.

Keep in mind that this is a walking tour, so wear sensible shoes and prepare for rain if need be. In the winter, ice skating is available for a small fee, but entry is free year-round.

Address: Seventh St NW & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004

Phone Number: (202) 737-4215

Website: https://www.nga.gov/visit/tours-and-guides/sculpture-garden.html

Things to Know: Free entry

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

15. Floriana

Credit: Floriana / Facebook

Floriana is a beautiful bistro-style Italian restaurant in a townhome near Stead Park. They serve comfort foods, such as Lasagna, with white tablecloth settings and an intimate atmosphere.

Their pasta is homemade, their food is locally sourced, and they have weekly specials that patrons can’t get enough of. While everyone raves about the lasagna, you might like to try the tortellini, ravioli, tiramisu, or lamb gnocchi as well.

Portions are perfect for a dinner out with enough room left for dessert. Ask your waiter for wine pairing recommendations for a truly magical experience, and when you’re done, find a bench in Stead Park to sit and chat with your date.

Address: 1602 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Phone Number: (202) 667-5937

Website: https://www.florianarestaurant.com/?dc

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

16. Yards Park

Credit: The Yards Park / Facebook

Yards Park is lunch, entertainment, and romance all rolled into one. As a premier grassy knoll along the Anacostia River, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

You’ll find a waterfall, riverfront boardwalk, entertainment platforms, and ample dining opportunities. You can eat at Due South, CIRCA, Ambar Capitol Hill, Cava Mezze, or Matchbox.

Depending on the time of day, you can enjoy a riverside sunset or watch the boats light up along the water. During the summer, they offer Friday night concerts in the open air, too. It’s a delightful way to relax and unwind in D.C.

Address: 355 Waters St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Phone Number: (202) 465-7080

Website: https://www.capitolriverfront.org/yards-park

Things to Know: Subject to weather

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Related Read: 25 Best Washington DC Hikes

17. National Geographic Museum

Credit: National Geographic Museum / Facebook

The National Geographic Museum is an immersive experience with fun and exciting exhibits you won’t want to miss. They display breathtaking photographs from around the world and have rotating exhibits detailing the history and scientific explorations.

The multilevel garden along the side of the building is also a sight to behold. This is the perfect date idea for a hot summer day or cold winter afternoon, as you can walk hand in hand through the halls, see an iMax movie, and learn all about some of the most fascinating parts of human history.

Address: 1145 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Phone Number: (202) 857-7700

Website: https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/visit-our-museum/

Things to Know: Pre-purchase tickets on the website

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

18. Georgetown Waterfront Park

Credit: Georgetown Waterfront Park / Caleb-Michael Files / Facebook

Georgetown is a charming sector in D.C. with outstanding restaurants, high-class hotels, waterfront entertainment, and more. It follows the Federalist style, giving you a glimpse into the past of our nation’s Capital.

You’ll find dining experiences like Clyde’s, Guapo’s, El Centro, The Tombs, and Filomena. The waterfront park also has a centerpiece fountain right along the riverside, and you can stroll the bridge across the water.

There is also a labyrinth on-site if you’d like to give it a try. Consider taking a picnic lunch and sitting along the River Steps for the perfect romantic date idea in Georgetown.

Address: Wisconsin and K St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Phone Number: (202) 944-4545

Website: https://www.nps.gov/places/georgetown-waterfront-park.htm

Things to Know: Subject to weather

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

19. The Darcy Hotel

Credit: Darcy Hotel / Facebook

The Darcy is a four-star hotel near DuPont Circle that brings the sophisticated feel of D.C. and meets it with luxurious class. The rooms are artistic with a presidential flair, and the lobby is gorgeous.

It’s only ten minutes from the White House on foot, and another mile to the National Mall, leaving you in the perfect location to enjoy all D.C. has to offer.

You can rent bikes on site, join gin tastings, eat at The Gerrard Street Kitchen, or rent stylish clothing from Haberdashery before heading out to tour the town.

You’ll find many restaurants nearby, as well, and have easy access to some of the most impressive museums in America.

Address: 1515 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005

Phone Number: (844) 489-9661

Website: https://www.thedarcyhotel.com

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 8.5

20. Tail Up Goat

Credit: Tail Up Goat / Hangry District / Facebook

Tail Up Goat is a Caribbean and a Mediterranean fusion bistro with a Michelin star. They offer three different sizes of each plate, and while their menu is somewhat limited, the diversity is astounding.

They offer predetermined courses if you’d prefer, so you needn’t worry about ordering. Just show up, sit back, relax, and enjoy.

You’ll dine on Crispy Salt Cod, Yellowfin Tuna, Lamb Ribs, and Roasted Virginia Beef Tenderloin, depending on your interests, and their Chocolate and Coffee Mousse is the perfect way to finish your meal.

This is one of the top five restaurants in D.C., so be sure to make reservations and plan accordingly.

Address: 1827 Adams Mill Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009

Phone Number: (202) 986-9600

Website: https://www.tailupgoat.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

21. City Center DC

Credit: CityCenterDC / Facebook

City Center in D.C. is a multipurpose, 2 million square foot district that combines rentals, hotels, living accommodations, restaurants, and more. It’s a great place to explore and has some epic Instagram-worthy backdrops for the perfect date.

The walkways are adorned with beautiful lights and fixtures overhead, including umbrellas and sculptures. While you’re there, shop to your heart’s content and head to DGBG for a five-course tasting menu by world-renowned chef Anthony DiGregorio.

On certain days, you’ll also find Lily’s Flower Truck, where you can build your own bouquet and donate to a local adoption shelter at the same time. As far as grand gestures of romance go, that’s pretty high up there.

Address: 825 Tenth St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Phone Number: (202) 289-9000

Website: https://www.citycenterdc.com

Things to Know: For a full list of restaurants, shops, and events, please see the website

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

22. Fly A Kite from The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Credit: Aaron Burden / Unsplash

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a wonderful place to explore. From the history of aeronautics all the way to drone technology, you’re sure to learn amazing facts about humanity’s never-ending endeavor to fly the skies and beyond.

While this makes for a great date, you can do one better. Stop by the gift shop and buy a kite or two! You might not have flown a kite since you were a kid, but it’s fun and unbelievably romantic with a picnic lunch at the National Mall.

Be sure to let your date pick out the kite. They have everything from palm-sized butterflies to bi-planes and even some amazing gravity-defying box kites!

Address: 655 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560

Phone Number: (202) 633-2214

Website: https://airandspace.si.edu/visit/museum-dc

Things to Know: Optimal wind speed is between 9-14 mph

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

23. Eaton DC

Credit: Eaton DC / Facebook

The Eaton is a gorgeous boutique hotel in an excellent location. It’s only a short walk from the Metro and the Smithsonian.

Each room has floor-to-ceiling windows, and the spaces are large and colorful. Even better, there is a radio station within the hotel that hosts live talks and music.

There are also three dining options on-site and a wellness center. American Son is a vegetable-centric taste explosion by exalted chef Tim Mia, while Kintsugi Cafe offers a wide variety of tea and coffee.

Eaton Rooftop, the on-site bar, offers live music and hand-crafted cocktails with a beautiful indoor/outdoor view of the city. This is the perfect destination if you want to see D.C. and be pleasantly surprised by the accommodations.

Address: 1201 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005

Phone Number: (202) 289-7600

Website: https://www.eatonworkshop.com/hotel/dc

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 8.9

24. The Plaza

Credit: CityCenterDC / Facebook

The Plaza is located within City Center D.C., and it’s a must-see attraction for tourists and locals alike. You’ll be blown away by the atmosphere and vibe.

It frequently changes enough to make the trip time and again, and the aesthetics are outstanding. If you’re fortunate to go in winter, you’ll find yourself in a Winter Wonderland with ample lighting and that romantic holiday feel.

In the summer, it’s adorned with all sorts of neat themes carefully cultivated for maximum impact. Stop by one of the many coffee shops nearby and stroll underneath this iconic American landmark.

Address: 934 Palmer Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001

Phone Number: (202) 289-9000

Website: https://www.citycenterdc.com

Things to Know: Subject to weather

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

25. 9:30 Club

Credit: 9:30 Club / Facebook

With four bars, live music, and a dark atmosphere, the 9:30 Club is the nightclub to spend your evenings at while you’re in D.C.

It’s very unassuming outside, with a brick facade and three-step stoop for an entrance, but the inside has an entire vibe for rock lovers. The architectural design ensures the acoustics are fantastic, too.

Some big-name bands adorn the stage, and many have even gotten their start there, so it’s a bit of music history nestled in D.C. They also serve pub-like food that’s pretty decent, all things considered.

Check their website for upcoming shows and find a cozy corner to dance with your date to one of your favorite bands or a theme night.

Address: 815 V St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Phone Number: (202) 265-0930

Website: https://www.930.com

Things to Know: Tickets through Ticketmaster

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

26. Rock Creek Park

Credit: Rock Creek Park / Facebook

This nearly 1,800-acre park is quite the surprise in such a bustling metropolis. Rock Creek was founded in 1980 and has thrived under the National Park designation.

While you can, of course, take a picnic lunch and stroll through the park for a sweet date, you can also ride horseback, attend a concert, play tennis, go golfing, or tour some fascinating Civil War fortifications.

There are 32 miles of hiking trails with suggested pathways and a Nature Center and Planetarium on-site. Just be sure to bring sunscreen and bug spray for the summer months and plenty of warm clothes for winter!

Address: 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015

Phone Number: (202) 895-6000

Website: https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm

Things to Know: Check website for upcoming events

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

27. Marcel’s by Robert Wiedmaier

Credit: Marcel’s By Robert Wiedmaier / Facebook

Marcel’s by Robert Wiedmaier is a fixed-price restaurant right on Pennsylvania Avenue. The menu has been carefully selected for perfection, and the atmosphere is conservative and fancy.

The experience is just as important as the food, and you’ll find the servers are top-notch. When you go, you’ll have three menus to choose from, encompassing either a four, five, or six-course meal, ranging from $110-$160.

The menus change, but you’ll find delicacies such as Scallops, Duck Confit, Roasted Veal, Whipped Sweet Potatoes, Kaluga Caviar, and Chocolate Mousse.

Address: 2401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW,  Washington, DC 20037

Phone Number: (202) 296-1166

Website: http://www.marcelsdc.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Related Read: 24 Best Black Owned Restaurants Washington DC

28. National Gallery of Art

Credit: National Gallery of Art / Van Gogh/ Facebook

The National Gallery of Art is the perfect start to a date night. They close at 5 pm, but you can easily spend the afternoon there before going to dinner and seeing a show.

You can also do lunch on the premises at the Cascade, Pavilion, or Garden Cafe, or stop by the Espresso and Gelato Bar for a pick-me-up. They have rotating exhibits, so you can traverse the halls time and again, seeing history from many different eras.

From Degas to Monet, Da Vinci, Vermeer, and Manet, as well as many other influential artists, each painting and sculpture is masterfully crafted. It’s a must-see museum while you’re in D.C.

Address: Constitution Ave NW & 6th St, Washington, DC 20565

Phone Number: (202) 737-4215

Website: https://www.nga.gov

Things to Know: Tickets available on website

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

29. Royal Sonesta

Credit: Royal Sonestra / Facebook

The Royal Sonesta is a four-star hotel located in DuPont Circle. It’s less than a mile away from the White House and has a heated pool and sun deck.

The on-site restaurant, Certo, serves seasonal Italian with an impressive wine and cocktail list. Due to its central location, you’ll find many restaurants within a short walk, making it perfect for a fun and sexy weekend in D.C.

While the outside of the hotel seems classic and timeless, the inside is very modern. The rooms are large and clean, and the staff is phenomenal. Many guests have mentioned that they received free upgrades to larger rooms when available, making it an instant favorite.

Address: 2121 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037

Phone Number: (202) 448-1800

Website: https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/dc/washington/royal-sonesta-washington-dc-dupont-circle/

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 7.8

30. Dumbarton Oaks

Credit: Dumbarton Oaks / Facebook

Dumbarton Oaks is a museum in the historic district of Georgetown. It was donated in 1940 after being an estate for Robert Woods Bliss, a wealthy diplomat. This is where the idea for the United Nations was bandied about, and it's steeped in history.

The 20-acre grounds have gorgeous gardens you can traverse, while the inside of the house is home to many interesting artifacts from early America, Byzantine culture, and Pre-Columbian studies. The original owners were art collectors, and they donated their collections along with the property.

If you or your date are interested, you’ll find many lectures and presentations available throughout the year, ranging from indigenous visuals to women’s rights. It’s a truly exceptional place to spend the afternoon on a romantic date.

Address: 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Phone Number: (202) 339-6401

Website: https://www.doaks.org/visit/garden

Things to Know: Timed tickets required for the museum, but the gardens are free entry

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️