Some have called Washington “a fun place to fall in love.” And yet others see DC as a city of politics—not romance.
But if you look beyond the White House, you’ll find all the makings for a very happy Valentines Day. There are the enchanting backdrops and cobblestone streets, the stunning city views and unforgettable experiences.
Valentine’s Day was made for this city. So whether you’re creating magic in your very own apartment, walking the streets of Georgetown, or attending CAPITOL STANDARD’s QLIKD Valentine’s Day party, you can make the day one to remember. Here’s how:
Start with Breakfast in Bed
Who can say no to being pampered? There’s no purer way to show your love for someone than helping them wake up to coffee, eggs, bacon, and avocado toast. Want to kick it up a notch? Make a frittata and breakfast potatoes from scratch. We like this how-to recipe from Epicurious.
Peruse Independent Boutiques
After the caffeine hits, head to one of the more aesthetically pleasing corners of the district- Georgetown. Known for being both charming and historical, this is an ideal place to walk on cobblestone streets, bask in the sun, window shop, or buy the perfect gift. Here’s where to go:
For the Man in Your Life
A Mano
According to the Washingtonian, this shop is “filled with treasures from around the world,” as well as male accessories and home goods.
1677 Wisconsin Ave, NW Washington, DC 20007 | amano.bz
Everards Clothing
Painted a bright green and yellow so you won’t miss it, this full-service boutique can style your man head to toe for your dinner reservations.
1802 Wisconsin Ave, NW Washington, DC 20007 | everardsclothing.com
For the Woman in Your Life
Lou Lou
With Valentine’s day themed gifts this shop if for the girl who loves to accessorize. You’ll leave with new jewelry, bags, and clothes.
1304 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007| loulouboutiques.com
American/Holiday
Purchase gifts for the trendy hostess at this rustic Americana themed store, or pick up a fashionable wool blanket for an evening fireside glass of wine.
1319 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20007 | iloveah.com/
Nibble on Gourmet Sweets
In recent years bakeries have continued to pop up across the city. Whether you are a sweet or salty fan, make sure you try a few of our favorites this holiday.
Seylou Bakery
A minimalist bakery that makes pastries and bread. This year, Seylou baked up gourmet, gluten-free brownies for CAPITOL STANDARD’s Valentine’s Day event QLIKD.
926 N St NW Suite A, Washington, DC 20001 | www.seylou.com
Dean and Deluca
A food boutique that specializes in gourmet prepared foods and also has a range of fine chocolates and truffles that make a great gift.
3276 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007 | www.deandeluca.com
Baci Chocolate-Making Class
Baci in Italian means kisses. It is a hazelnut ganache candy topped with more hazelnut and covered in chocolate. Learn how to make this delectable treat with Via Umbria on February 11th.
1525 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 | viaumbria.com
Sprinkles
Take a couple photo in front of the famous Cupcake ATM where you can pick your favorite flavor of cupcake and leave with a tasty souvenir.
3015 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20007 | sprinkles.com
Take A Walk Along The C&O Canal Bridge
According to Curbed, the C&O Canal Bridge in historical Georgetown is one of the top 20 Places to Make Out in Washington, D.C. Walk hand in hand along this tucked away nook of Georgetown that will feel like a private escape for you and your sweetheart. Portions of the canal are covered in graffiti. Head for the graffiti cliffs and catch a glimpse of this vibrant art.
Enjoy A Whiskey Tasting
Feel like celebrating? Head to CAPITOL STANDARD’s third annual Valentine’s Day Event and dance to a curated track list by DJ Lee Tanner, nibble on gourmet treats, and enjoy a special tasting of Knob Creek Single Barrel 25th Anniversary Bourbon.
Grab A Low-key Dinner
Iron Gate was described as dreamy by locals and romantic by the Washington Post’s food critic Tom Sietsema– this is the premier restaurant to celebrate Valentine’s. Enjoy the restaurant’s Mediterranean inspired menu with craft cocktails and 400 bottle wine list. Plus, February 1st through the 15th Iron Gate will be decorating its Carriageway Bar with heart shapes, candles, and love songs for Valentine’s Day.
Order from their tongue in cheek cocktail menu with drinks from the “Full-Hearts” side of the menu including “You Complete Me” and “DC Tinder Negroni,” or from the “Heartbreaks” side with drinks like “Mysterious Death By Chocolate” and “Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fungus.”
1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036 | irongaterestaurantdc.com
Feature photo by Aldo Delara
