The most romantic day of the year is swiftly approaching! Everywhere you go there’s romance in the air, but what are the best places to go to in Washington, D.C. if you want to truly embrace the holiday and the season?
Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day alone, with friends, or with a significant other, Secret D.C. wants to help you make the most of this day of love! So we asked our Instagram followers to share their favorite romantic spots around D.C. for a bit of inspiration.
Regardless of your relationship status, these spots are perfect for going on unique dates, daydreaming of chance encounters with your star-crossed lover, or drinking some nice wine and reading a book by yourself. Check them out:
Follower submissions:
1. The National Mall
Bond and enjoy admiring D.C.’s famous memorials, monuments, and history along the National Mall! You can never go wrong with this one!
2. Hains Point
Great for anyone looking to get outdoors for a romantic stroll, Hains Point’s loop trail is totally romantic year-round!
3. The Reflecting Pool
The history, the water, the steps—a great excuse to hold hands and take it all in!
4. Residents Bar
This charming Dupont Circle locale is perfect for cuddling up with your date and enjoying deliciously-crafted cocktails. It has a totally chic yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a low-key date!
5. Bar Charley
Whatever your vibe— a patio covered in dim, twinkling lights or indoor candlelight and brick walls—Bar Charley never fails to stir up romance!
6. Holy Rood Cemetery
Perhaps not the most orthodox date site…but it’s unique, quiet, and does have some pretty amazing views!
8. Any rooftop (with a bottle of champagne and pizza)
An IG user after our own hearts! City views, a glass of bubbly, and some pizza?! Yes, please!
We’ve also got some favorite rooftops, you can check them out here.
8. The Cardozo Education Campus parking lot overlook
Another unique location for the books, boasting some pretty impressive views of the city!
Secret D.C. Recommendations
9. More romantic restaurants!
Let’s face it…food is always the way to our heart. Here are some of our favorite romantic restaurants in D.C.!
10. The Tidal Basin
We already have the National Mall and the Reflecting Pool on the list, so of course we couldn’t forget the beloved Tidal Basin! Check out the nearby memorials or sit down on the steps to admire the landscape for some quality time with your S.O. Plus, the Basin is looking extra pretty in the cold this winter!
11. Rock Creek Park
One for the nature lovers! Rock Creek Park’s stunning trails, streams, and historic sites are perfect for going on a romantic walk and getting to know your date better!
12. Georgetown
Gorgeous views of the Potomac and the D.C. skyline, buildings steeped in history, and killer rooftop bars with igloos—what else could you want?!
13. Tregaron Conservancy
The Tregaron Conservancy is one of the District’s best-kept secrets, so it’s bound to be quieter than other parks in the area!
14. The U.S. National Arboretum
Another great option for nature lovers! Wander the Arboretum’s 446-acres brimming with gardens, cherry blossoms, and, of course, the original columns of the U.S. Capitol!
15. Any D.C. museum
Every history and art lover’s dream, D.C. is home to over 70 museums, including 19 free Smithsonian museums and galleries, and each is a great chance to explore with your cutie for a fun date. Just pick one and dive in!
Article written by Mª Del Rosario Castro Diaz and Jenna Romaine