February is here, which means many are scrambling to make plans for Valentine’s Day. If you are looking for some romantic things to do in the DC area, we have a few suggestions. While we recognize some people have a strong distaste for Valentine’s Day and choose not to acknowledge it, others enjoy the opportunity to spend some time with their loved one, or at the very least view the day as a good excuse to eat chocolate.
If you’re one of those people who enjoys celebrating Valentine’s Day, we’ve compiled a list of romantic things to do in the DC area. If you fall into the first category and wish that February 14th were just a normal day, then feel free to stop reading here (but consider treating yourself to some Valentine’s candy–that’s harmless!)
Visit the Glenstone Museum
If you are looking for romantic things to do in the DC area, you should check out the Glenstone Museum. This new museum in Potomac combines an impressive collection of contemporary art with nearly 300 acres of scenic landscape. After you explore the museum’s indoor collection, take time to explore its outdoor sculptures located in meadows and near ponds. Explore the museum’s environmental conservation efforts at its Environmental Center. The buildings are as beautiful as the grounds! The Pavilion building was designed by Thomas Phifer and Partners around a pond full of lily pads and tall grasses. The Pavillion is a romantic and peaceful place to sit and take in the view.
The museum is open Thursday-Sunday, and you’re only guaranteed entry if you book tickets in advance. While tickets go quickly, admission is free, so it’s worth keeping your eye on the Glenstone website for availability. If you’re married to an art or nature lover, this museum is a perfect activity for Valentine’s Day.
Tour Washington by Boat
Looking for more romantic things to do in the DC area? What’s more romantic than taking in the city from the water? The Potomac Riverboat Company offers boat cruises on the Potomac River that take riders past DC’s most iconic sights. You will glide past the Jefferson Memorial, the Kennedy Center, the Arlington Memorial Bridge and the Washington Monument. Even for longtime DC residents who’ve been there done that when it comes to the monuments, this is a more special and romantic way to take in the city.
The monument tours leave from Alexandria and National Harbor. Depending on your departure point, you will pay $16-18 for a one way ride ($28-31 for round trip.) You should bring some chocolates along to eat with the coffee from the snack bar! The company also offers dinner cruises on the Potomac with live music if you really want to go all out–although that’ll run you a little more than $16!
Take in a Show at the Kennedy Center
Still looking for some romantic things to do in the DC area? Why not plan a visit to one of the theaters around Washington like the Kennedy Center. If you visit the website, Goldstar, to buy discounted tickets you will save money and have a great evening! Tickets for performances at the Kennedy Center, Olney Theater and Arena Stage are there with lots of other venues. An evening at the theater can be romantic and is likely something outside of your normal routine. The Kennedy Center offers a variety of genres of performance art and live music. There is even a special Valentine’s Day residency for Grammy winning vocalist Bilal. End the evening with a romantic dinner and be sure to take in the spectacular views from the Kennedy Center’s roof terrace. You can see the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument to the south.
If none of these lovely outings impress your significant other, maybe buying him or her a new house will do the trick! Perhaps a historic home in Alexandria with lots of fireplaces is just your idea of romance! If you are looking to buy or sell a home in 2020 or beyond, don’t hesitate to give Lise a call at 240-401-5577 for insights and advice based on her 30 years of experience as a Realtor in the DC area!

