Your DC End Of Summer Bucket List

July 29, 2025 | Lifestyle

The countdown is on: With July almost officially in the rearview mirror, the end of summer is fast approaching. Looking to fill your last balmy days with the sunniest activities around?

Keep reading for the August bucket list inspiration you didn’t even know you needed — and start planning today before the sun sets on summer!

#1 Dive Into A Swimming Hole: Channel summer camp nostalgia at Beaver Dam Swimming Club, a freshwater quarry with a rope swing, diving board, and rolling log. The swimming hole is about 50 feet deep, and there are also two shallower pools for more fun in the water. Once you’ve splashed around, hang in the sand with a cold treat from the snack bar or bring provisions for a cookout on the grill. Admission starts at $20 for adults and is $16 for ages two to 11.

#2 Crack Some Crabs: Don’t bid farewell to summer without enjoying at least one crab feast, first! In fact, this later point in the season is when crustaceans really shine. For a classic crab-house experience worth the drive, Cantler’s Riverside Inn (458 Forest Beach Rd., Annapolis) has picnic tables on its waterfront deck. Steamed blue crabs are rubbed with J.O. Spice, a seasoning similar to Old Bay. Other summer-sendoff options include Nick’s Fish House in Baltimore and, closer to home, DC’s Tavern at Ivy City Smokehouse in North East.

#3 Hit The Beach: Have your lofty vacation plans been put on pause? When a trip to the coast is not in the cards, consider a shorter jaunt to Terrapin Nature Park and Beach, instead. Just across the Bay Bridge, about an hour from DC, the Queen Anne’s County park is home to a long, narrow beach at the end of a walking and biking path. Coolers, shade structures, and swimming are prohibited, but beachgoers can relax on a blanket or stroll the shoreline for sea glass, shells, and other sandy treasures. Leashed dogs are welcome.

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#4 Go River Tubing: Rather than languishing inside during sticky summer days, consider a lazy tube ride down a cool waterway. To float along a flat section of the Shenandoah River, drive about an hour and 15 minutes from DC to the adventure company River Riders. The outfitter drops passengers off at the river, then shuttles them back after the two-to-three-hour journey. You can even rent a tube for your cooler to pack snacks and refreshments.

#5 Dig Into Restaurant Week: Don’t forget to reserve your table for Summer Restaurant Week, which is slated to run from August 18th to 24th. Savor every last bite of summer while taking advantage of specially priced meals, including to-go options and cocktail kits, courtesy of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and 200+ participating eateries. In addition to specially priced menus, select restaurants are offering up the option to add on cocktail or wine pairings. Level up your dining experience with libations from affordable hot spots such as José Andrés’ China Chilcano, Jaleo and Oyamel, as well as Unconventional Diner and Dauphine’s.

#6 Escape To Annapolis: Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is a maritime town that’s home to the US Naval Academy, several marinas replete with sailboats, and lots of cobblestoned sidewalks that make for a charming stroll around town. At less than an hour from Washington, DC, you could visit Annapolis for lunch or spend and entire day there exploring. During your day trip, we recommend a visit to the Maryland Capitol Building, sampling some of Maryland’s most delicious seafood, getting out on the water, or ambling along some of the city’s colorful back alleys.

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#7 Attend Broccoli Festival: This cherished festival celebrating music, culture, and community returns this year on August 8th-10th with a fresh twist: a full weekend of collaborations at Nationals Park and throughout the Southwest neighborhood, featuring Trap Karaoke, a huge Block Party, and Breezy Bowl XX headlined by Chris Brown.

#8 Jam Out at JazzFest: Returning to the stage this year from August 27th-31st, DC JazzFest showcases an incredible mix of national and local artists set to perform across the city’s vibrant venues, including The Wharf. While many shows require tickets, several concerts are free to attend. With a stellar lineup and plenty of no-cost performances, it’s a festival you won’t want to miss. Headliners for 2025 feature jazz legends like Branford Marsalis, Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter, Lalah Hathaway, the String Queens, the John Scofield Trio, Sun Ra Arkestra, and Matthew Whitaker.

Thinking about adding a move to your summer bucket list? For all your DC real estate needs, we have you covered! Contact us directly by calling 202.280.2060 or emailing jsmira@jennsmira.com today!