Name

Location

Description

Politics and Prose

5015 Connecticut Ave NW

This venue has been a staple in NW DC for over 30 years. With regular author appearances and other literary events Politics and Prose draws crowds from all over. While some events come with a cover charge, others are free. Consider signing up for the monthly trivia night, when the in-store café offers a happy hour with cheap libations for those who decide to duke it out for bragging rights.

National Portrait Gallery

8^th St NW & F St NW

As a part of the Smithsonian Institution, this historic museum boasts artistic portraits of prominent individuals throughout history – and ranks among the best date night ideas in Washington DC. Offering a glimpse into the character of said figures, there’s something romantic about the captured moments of ages past. The National Portrait Gallery is the only museum to host a full collection of every U.S. president. Admission is free, making this a cheap but unforgettable date. You can also find occasional one-of-a-kind events hosted here as well.

The National Mall

Multiple Locations

The 146 acres which house the National Mall include such iconic monuments as the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and many more. Traversing the grounds in the evening under the moonlit sky along a beautifully manicured landscape provides an economical, yet romantic way to woo a date.

Rowboat Ride

4940 Canal Rd NW

When in doubt, fall back on an age-old staple of dating locales — the rowboat. Pack a small picnic and set out from Fletcher’s Boathouse. It’ll only cost you $16 an hour, but $30 will get you the boat for the entire day.    

Buttercream Bakeshop

1250 9^th St NW

If you’re looking to add some sweetness to your date, then you can’t go wrong with cute pastries. This shop creates some of the city’s tastiest confections. Down the line, if things work out, you can always commission Buttercream to design your wedding cake. But let’s get not get ahead of ourselves…

National Harbor

165 Waterfront St National Harbor, MD

Located on the Virginia/Maryland border, National Harbor has become a happening spot in the last few years, so much so that it offers many diverse offerings for those looking for a variety of date-night activities. With events nearly every week, you’re all but guaranteed to find something to do here. Movies are shown regularly on the waterfront, free of charge. Or for a truly romantic occasional, take a stroll along the pier, ride the Ferris wheel, and share your hopes and dreams.

Natural History Museum

10^th St and Constitution Ave NW

Try something different from the usual “dinner and a movie” date and check out a museum. One of the country’s finest offers awe-inspiring exhibits like the Last American Dinosaurs, and is home to the Hope Diamond. Tip: If you’re planning to propose, maybe don’t offer up a ring next to this intimidating piece of jewelry. 

National Museum of African American History

1400 Constitution Ave NW

The newest of the Smithsonian’s museums, the Museum of African American History is also the most impressive. Highlighting the beauty of the African American culture, we promise you a trip through the doors will never leave you the same. Admission is free, just make sure to get a timed entry pass ahead of time.

Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage

2700 F St NW

The Kennedy Center not only hosts some of the most brilliant performers in the world, but this top-notch performing arts center is home to the always-free Millennium Stage. Every night sees a new performance that won’t cost you a dime. From music to poetry readings, check the schedule to find great date night options. 

Zoo Lights

3001 Connecticut Ave NW

During the holiday seasons the National Zoo sets up an awesome light display for free. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a healthy distance on a slight incline. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, offer snow-less tubing as well.