(credit: http://www.jacksboathouse.com)
(credit: http://www.jacksboathouse.com)
National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 633-4800
www.nationalzoo.si.edu
Usually thought of as a family-oriented activity, the National Zoo is a fun alternative for a first date because it brings out each person’s inner child. Being active on a date automatically relaxes you, so walking from exhibit to exhibit will ease any nervous jitters and provide you with much to discuss as you stop and visit the different animals. After opining on which lion is cuter, walk a few blocks up Connecticut Avenue to Cleveland Park and grab some grub at any of the decadent restaurants such as Ardeo, Dino, Ripple or Indique.
The National Mall/Smithsonian
National Mall
Washington, D.C. 20597
(202) 426-6841
www.nps.gov/nama
Need a cheap date idea? The National Mall and Smithsonian Museums are an excellent option, no matter the weather. While museums tend to get crowded, here there are so many of them that you’ll be sure to find at least one or two that are easy to navigate, such as the National Gallery of Art, the Museum of Natural History, the American History Museum, or the ever popular Air and Space Museum. Plus, admission is free! Treat your date to a snack or souvenir at one of the many in-museum restaurants and gift shops, and snap a photo of the two of you in front of one of the majestic memorials.
Gravelly Point
George Washington Pkwy
Arlington, Va. 22202
www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-locations/gravelly-point-park,1028013.html
Just off the George Washington Memorial Parkway lies a tiny strip of land on the Potomac River called Gravelly Point. All you need is a blanket, a picnic basket and that special someone, and you’ve got one of the best first date spots around Washington, D.C. Lie back and watch the planes take off from Reagan National Airport, and watch the boats and jet skis race and float down the Potomac. The giant grassy patch of land is also a great place to toss a Frisbee or football under the setting sun.
Jack’s Boathouse
3500 K Street N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20007
(202) 337-9642
www.jacksboathouse.com
Take in the stunning views up and down the Potomac River by renting a kayak or canoe for two with your date. Bring your own food to cook on the grill at the boathouse, then take off onto the river for two or more hours. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
