Scared there are no treats to look forward to now that spooky season 2023 has officially met its chilling end? Whether you’re mourning the absence of citywide frights or just looking for something to tide you over until the holidays, we’ve got news: In DC, the magic of autumn doesn’t fade away with the last days of October — that is, not if you do it right! Stay tuned to learn how to fill your time this month in our nation’s capital.

Want to soak up the last few moments of Fall in style? Click here for our blog on how to best celebrate fall in DC.

#1 Catch A Game:

The temperatures might be dropping, but football season is just heating up. Here are some of our favorite reliable, sports-loving establishments that keep spectators properly fed and satisfied, with a particular emphasis on those whose kitchens bring their A-game, too.

The Game Sports Pub: The replacement to subterranean Ventnor Sports Cafe has quickly drawn notice for a menu that mixes pub classics with Filipino dishes from its DC bar vet owner Jo-Jo Valenzuela.

Ivy and Coney: This unpretentious bar is a diehard Chicago fan, from its sports teams to the food. Fill up on sausages and beef sandwiches alongside cheap Midwestern beer and well drinks. Stay refreshed with $5 nitro cold brews (or $11 with Jameson).

Penn Social: The 86-inch TV screens lining the cavernous basement of Penn Social aren’t the only place to find entertainment here. The bar also boasts Skee-Ball, cornhole, and many other games. Upcoming NCAA football and NFL specials include a new Detroit-style pizza menu and all-day drink specials on Saturday and Sunday: $4 and 16 Narragansett pints and pitchers, $5 or $20 Shock Top, and $2 off pretzels with queso. Tin Shop’s sports bar portfolio also includes Georgetown’s Clubhouse, Franklin Hall, and Astro Beer Hall.

Really want to make the most of this Fall season in DC? Read these blog posts next!

• Where to Get the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte in DC
• Fall Getaways Close to DC
• Embrace the Fall Season with these Spirited Cocktails

#2 Cozy Up To A Fire:

What could be more festive than curling up next to a fire, warm drink in hand?

1789: This upscale restaurant set in a Federalist home exudes cozy elegance. Request a table in the John Carroll Room, which comes equipped with a roaring fireplace and an all-American ambiance that’s perfectly suited for an important date or dinner. Revel in seasonal fare like pheasant ballotine and keep the cocktail menu close at hand for creations such as the Brown Butter Old Fashioned touched with chocolate bitters.

Iron Gate: The historic confines were once the home of General Nelson Miles, a former secretary of the Army. Today, the restaurant’s decadent courtyard is adorned with wisteria, Edison bulbs and, of course, firepits that allow for nearly year-round dining, giving the eatery another cozy lounge area.

The Red Hen: This neighborhood restaurant delights visitors with an in-view wood-burning stove, decor reminiscent of a rustic farmhouse, and an Italian-influenced menu featuring delectable plates of pasta, like the mezze rigatoni with fennel sausage ragu. In true local bar fashion, the Red Hen accepts walk-ins, but we also recommend cozying up to the open bar and sipping from the exceptional wine list of this Bib Gourmand honoree.

District Winery: Set in the buzzworthy Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, District Winery will warm you up with housemade wines and an array of comfort dishes ideal for the season. Can you say crispy soy-glazed chicken bites? Pair your vino selection with fire pits and riverfront views on the restaurant’s 80-plus-person patio for the coziest of evenings.

#3 Sip Wine & Sample Vineyard Views:

These breathtaking vineyards are just a short drive from DC.

Old Westminster Winery: Started by three siblings, Maryland’s first winery and outdoor restaurant is the best weekend bet for wine flights, brunch, and live music. Reserve a seat on the porch, patio, or under its solar pavilion with beautiful views of the vineyard and tasting room (tables have a three-hour time limit). The brunch menu features scones, baked doughnuts, cocktails, and a wood-fired pizza program that showcases meats, cheeses, and produce from a dozen local farms.

Big Cork Vineyards: Roughly 60 miles outside of DC, find Big Cork Vineyards at the end of a winding drive through the hills of Rohrersville, Maryland. Its sleek tasting room features a grab-and-go market with a variety of cheeses, fresh bread, crackers and charcuterie available for purchase (check their Instagram ahead of time for specials like pre-selected cheese boards). Children and dogs are both welcome, and wine tastings are available by appointment only ($16).

Rocklands Farm Winery: Located a 40-minute drive from DC, this peaceful paradise in Montgomery County focuses on “low-intervention” — or naturally fermented — wines produced in small batches. There’s a rotating food vendor every Friday night beginning at 5:30 PM, and local cheeses, meats, and snacks always available for purchase. Outside food is allowed, too. Walk-in wine tastings are $25 per person.

Planning a move? Buying or selling real estate in DC isn’t scary when you work with the right team. Get in touch with our team directly by calling us at 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com.