Annual is only two weeks away, and I am sure everyone is figuring out where you have to be and when. ‘ Is your schedule packed, but you still want to get out and explore Washington D.C.? ‘ Here are some “after-hours” options for you to consider!
Most of the monuments and memorials are open 24 hours a day (although they are not staffed with park employees around the clock).’ Some are actually much more stunning when lit up in the darkness. ‘ The National Mall is patrolled all hours, so it is a relatively safe area to visit, although you should always be cautious. ‘ Visiting at night also allows you to avoid the tourists and the D.C. heat and humidity.’ “Solemn Dignity” by Jonathan Berohn can give you an idea of what is worth seeing. ‘ Additionally, the Jefferson Memorial is pretty at night, and the Washington Monument will be open until 10 pm for the summer.
Some of the museums offer evening options. ‘ The National Gallery Sculpture Garden has a special “Jazz in the Park” program every Friday evening. ‘ Some Smithsonian museums have later summer hours (this includes the zoo). ‘ The International Spy Museum is open until 7 pm. ‘ The Phillips Collection is open until 8 pm on Thursdays.
If you are interested in venturing outside of the city, two cities in Virginia can be fun. ‘ Arlington has a lot of nightlife options that cater to the young professional crowd; Yelp lists some under Restaurants and Nightlife. ‘ Old Towne Alexandria offers a lot of history, great restaurants, and fun places to shop. ‘ The Torpedo Factory is a great place for various types of art.
Looking for nightlife in D.C.?’ Adams Morgan and Georgetown are two very popular places within D.C. city limits.’ If you want to stick closer to the Convention Center, Yelp can be a resource to browse for restaurants and other nightlife near by.
