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Couple ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden on the National Mall in Washington, DC

Things to Do for Valentine’s Day 2026 in Washington, DC

Celebrate the romantic holiday in the nation's capital

Washington, DC shines as a romantic destination at any time of the year, but Valentine's Day offers plenty of opportunity for dream dates. Here’s how to make the most of the most romantic time of the year. And if you're looking for more inspiration, check out our guide to the romantic side of DC.
 

Enjoy a meal at an award-winning restaurant
For roving gastronomes and travelers who revel in experiences centered on food, it’s time to reserve a table in the nation’s capital. Acclaimed eateries like minibarMasseria and more are all waiting–many with special menus–to host you for an unforgettable date night. Top your dinner off with a visit to candle-lit cocktail bar like L'Annexe.
 

Street mural in Shaw's Blagden Alley - Historic, trendy neighborhood in Washington, DC

Discover DC's incredible murals
Canvases are everywhere you look in the District, which teems with vibrant street art in all quadrants. Spot everything from renditions of silver screen stars Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor to abstract, museum-commissioned works, restaurant-themed facades and lots more. Don’t miss Lisa Marie Thalhammer's aptly-named LOVE mural in Shaw and the mural at Ben’s Chili Bowl, which features the Obamas, Prince and Harriet Tubman, among others.
 

Hot Drink

Grab a warm, cozy drink with a special someone
Whether you’re in the throes of winter or the weather is warm, a delicious, hot drink is a perfect treat for date night. Fortunately, DC is filled to the brim with great options, including offerings from Le Diplomate, Dirty Habit, Old Ebbitt Grill and more.
 

Take to an ice rink in the District
One easy thing to do in the nation’s capital is rent a pair of ice skates. That’s because the city hosts an array of ice rinks that each present their own special experience. Whether it’s underneath the stars at The Wharf, on the banks of the Potomac River in Georgetown or at the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden, each presents a romantic setting and plenty of opportunities for on-ice fun.
 

Visitors study and explore the grand marble reading room at the Library of Congress surrounded by arched alcoves and bookshelves.


Turn DC into your own literary paradise
Take your special someone to an array of spots in our book lover's guide to the nation's capital, from places with historic ties to legendary authors to great spots to read to bookstores and cozy places to stay.
 

A photo of the DC War Memorial glowing against a purple night sky with icons of each zodiac sign incorporated into the background.


Build a neighborhood itinerary based on your zodiac signs
Every personality finds something different to love about Washington, DC, especially when it comes to the city's distinct neighborhoods. Let your zodiac chart your next adventure and discover the neighborhood that best suits your travel style, complete with a mini itinerary for inspiration on things to do, where to dine and where to stay.
 

Woo your boo with the perfect DC-themed date night
Putting together a special evening for Valentine’s Day (or any day, for that matter) is priority number one – and the nation’s capital shines as a date night destination with its scenic monuments, award-winning dining scene and outstanding attractions. Plan a wonderful DC date night using sweet deals for a romantic night out.

For more ideas on how to do Valentine’s Day right, check out our ultimate guide to romance in Washington, DC.

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