It’s February, and love is in the air, or is that the faint stench of booze? Either way, Valentine’s Day is approaching. D.C. offers unique opportunities for Valentine’s Day dates or “Galentines” dates, so take advantage of all that the city has to offer this holiday. But don’t worry guys, there are even some manly dates for some quality man time.
Date Idea #1: Sculpture Garden
Spend the day walking around the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden and then enjoy a night full of ice skating surrounded by amazing artwork done by renowned artists.
Where: 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW Washington, DC
Metro: Judiciary Square, Red Line
Date Idea #2: Monumenting
This might seem cliche or overdone, but there is nothing more romantic than spending the night walking under the stars and taking in all of D.C. Plus, what a better way to end the night than with a kiss by the fountain located within the World War II Memorial?
Where: National Mall
Metro: Smithsonian, Orange/Blue/Silver
Date Idea #3: Hiking
For the more adventurous folk, the surrounding area of D.C. hosts some spectacular trails with amazing views. Two close-by choices are Great Falls Park along the Potomac in Maryland and Rock Creek Park, which offers more of an urban vibe. If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you and your significant other can also hit the Mount Vernon trail, which weaves its way to the Ronald Reagan National Airport where you can watch the plane fly over your head underneath the stars.
Where: 11710 MacArthur Blvd Potomac, MD
Metro: Take a car (or walk!)
“Galentines” Date #1: Whine Night/No Cocks Cocktail Party
“Whine” about stupid boys or girls over wine with your gals, or enjoy Cosmos and Martinis while dishing about a cute guy from World Politics, discussing a killer job opportunity or gossiping about dumb drama. Need some fun cocktail ideas? How about a Raspberry Rose Cocktail or even just a classic Cosmopolitan?
“Galentines” Date #2: Netflix and Chill(ed Drinks)
Grab all the gals and hook up the HDMI cable to watch some favorite romantic comedies while sipping on some nice cold drinks or snacking on some favorite junk food. After all, any calories gained on Valentine’s Day don’t count, right?
If you’re looking for some classic chick flicks to enjoy this holiday, The Scene recommends “Notting Hill” or “Along Came Polly”, and if you’re more into lesser-known movies, check out “Stuck in Love” or “Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List,” all of which can be found on Netflix.
“Galentines” Date #3: Spa Day
Some days call for pampering, and Feb. 14 is one of those days. Hit up a local beauty store, like Lush Cosmetics and Sephora and stock up on face masks, mani/pedi supplies and some killer tunes for an at home spa day. For a low-budget option, look up recipes for homemade face masks and body scrubs on Pinterest!
Bro Date #1: Netflix and Chill(ed Drinks) Pt. 2
Grab the bros, some chilled beers and spend the night watching movies like “I Love You Man”, “Ted” or “The Hangover.” Snack on hot dogs or chili fries for a true bros night.
Bro Date #2: Bar Crawl
Spend the evening on February 13 at D.C.’s second annual Crawl in Love Bar Crawl to take a shot at love (or a shot of love).
Where: U Street (Multiple Venues)
Metro: U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/Cardozo, Green/Yellow
Bro Date #3: Beer Flight at RFD
Round up the boys, and hit up Regional Food and Drink to enjoy Valentine’s Weekend Beer Flight at RFD. For just $10, enjoy five ounce samples of a pilsner, lager, ale and a kriek (style of Belgian beer) along with some loaded tots and wings.
Where: 810 7th St NW
Metro: Gallery Pl-Chinatown, Red
No matter what you end up doing, enjoy a fun and safe Valentine’s Day with your significant other, gals or bros.
scene@theeagleonline.com
