Things to do in DC this summer
May
13

Things to Do in DC this Summer

Lifestyle

You can practically feel it in the air: the days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter, and vaccinations are on the rise. What does all this add up to? A summer to remember. Last year, we were forced to miss out on so many (aka all) of our favorite DC summertime diversions, so this year, the only thing to do is make up for lost time. Luckily, an impressive variety of warm-weather activities are slated to return to the DC scene over the next few months, which means you’ll get to rediscover them at your leisure. Read on for all the things to do in DC this summer — from classic mainstays to the hottest newcomers on the scene.

#1: Outdoor concerts:

Summer in DC just isn’t the same without an outdoor concert in the mix. This year, it looks like you’ll be able to celebrate Wolf Trap’s 50th anniversary in July with a full lineup of concerts on the lawn, see Luke Bryant or the Dave Matthews Band at Merriweather Post Pavilion, or take advantage of the Kennedy Center’s free outdoor programming every weekend starting May 27.

#2: Enjoy a gourmet picnic on the go:

This summer, picnics are made easy by the folks at the Fainting Goat on U Street. The restaurant launched a “Picnics at Logan Circle” pop-up that means all you have to do is find a good spot on the grass and pull out your phones to order. Couples can order a picnic basket for two with a bottle of rose, a fried chicken dinner with all the fixings, and chocolate ganache cheesecake for dessert, and larger groups can take advantage of the party pack for 6.

#3: Cool off at a local swimming hole:

Even though mild weather seems to last for approximately one week in the District before it begins to swelter, we know the best way to beat the impending heat. Find your closest friend with a car and entice them with a short trip outside of the city to hike to one of the area’s many swimming holes, such as Overall Run in Shenandoah National Park or Cunningham Falls State Park. Not up for a hike? No problem. Instead, head over to the Beaver Dam Swimming Club instead, a large quarry just north of Baltimore.

#4: Catch a show at DC Improv:

This is not a drill: The time has finally come when you can actually see a DC Improv show in person. The city’s most notable comedy club reopened in mid-April, so grab a friend and get ready for some laughs. Make sure to snag your tickets early, though, as only 50 are available for each performance.

#5: Sip wine at Victura Park:

After a wildly successful first season, Victura Park is back for the summer with even more drink and food options to enjoy. Grab a seat or bring your own blanket to lay on the grass at this winery-inspired outdoor venue, part of the Kennedy Center’s new expansion. Named after John F. Kennedy’s beloved sailboat, Victura Park is a laid-back wine bar with some pretty epic views of the Potomac River and Roosevelt Island. It’s open on weekends, free to visit, and family-friendly, though a food and drink menu is available to order from as well.