July might be ending, but there are still plenty of summer weekends to come! If you’re looking for fun ways to celebrate the final weekend of the month, then Secret D.C. has some great suggestions:
1. Experience the sensation that is Jazz in the Garden
D.C.’s favorite concert series Jazz in the Garden has returned! Every Friday night from through July 22, the National Gallery of Art hosts an outdoor concert in its Sculpture Garden. Featuring a range of jazz, bluegrass, and Afro-Cuban music, attendees can enjoy the weather, tunes, and gorgeous views. You can register to attend at noon exactly one week prior to each concert.
2. Catch a concert at your favorite local venue
- Blue Man Group’s final weekend at The Kennedy Center from Friday, July 29 through Sunday, July 31.
- Old Crow Medicine at The Anthem on Friday, July 29.
- The Weeknd at FedEx Field on Saturday, July 30.
3. See gorgeous lotuses and water lilies at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
The Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens has been deemed a “hidden gem” by the National Park Service (NPS), and now is the best time to visit. The gorgeous garden nestled within Anacostia Park is always serene, but it’s currently a true sight to behold in the city with its beautiful lotuses and water lilies at peak bloom. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., residents and visitors alike will wonder at a beauty not usually accessible from most major U.S. cities. But get there early — parking both in lots and on the streets outside the gardens fill up fast!
4. Go for a walk and see make some new animal friends at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a great way to spend the day! Visitors can make new animal friends, enjoy a scenic walk, and even grab food and drinks at zoo establishments! Entry is free, but timed entry passes must be reserved online in advance.
5. Watch a movie outdoors
What’s better than a free outdoor movie?! Just outside of D.C. at National Harbor, the Movies on the Potomac series is in full-swing. Fun for all ages, every 6 p.m. on Sunday features a family-friendly film. Even better — each month has an overall theme! If you love food movies, then catch this final July theme-showing with “James and the Giant Peach.” Find a full calendar listing of upcoming films here!
6. Enjoy a drink and warm weather at one of these rooftop bars
Warm weather and drinks while taking in a view of D.C. is virtually unbeatable! The District has a number of rooftop bars with gorgeous city views just waiting for you!