Video:5 Tips to Make the Most of a Night Out in DC

Transcript:5 Tips to Make the Most of a Night Out in DC

Whether you are a tourist, new in town, or even a long-time resident, you may not realize just how much there is to see and do in Washington, DC at night. Here are five tips to make the most of a night out in our nation’s capitol.

Tip One for Making the Most of a Night Out in DC

Do a Night Tour. If you’ve never seen the architecture and famous sites that DC has to offer or you have only ever visited them in the daytime, consider a night tour of the city and have a shuttle guide you from famous spot to famous spot. They’ll even let you off at each spot to take pictures and enjoy the grandeur of these buildings in a new light. The tours include places like the U.S. Capitol Building, World War II Memorial, Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials and, of course, the White House. A local tour guide even gives you great tips on each locale. This is something that kids and adults alike can enjoy.

Tip Two for Making the Most of a Night Out in DC

The second tip is to devise your own tour. You might consider creating a walking tour that include some of these sites or others that you are interested in. It’s best to do any kind of evening walking in the summer or spring time when it is not too chilly in the evening.

Tip Three for Making the Most of a Night Out in DC

Imbibe. Consider a pub crawl to try many of the local watering holes and brews on tap. Sites like PubCrawls.com put together lists of local and seasonal events. You can buy tickets in advance, which offer special Happy Hour pricing all night long at all the pubs, bars, and clubs that participate. To keep it safe and fun for everyone, it’s a good idea to drink responsibly and consider hiring a party bus or limo from one of the DC area’s numerous limo and party bus services. If you are not into the pub scene and are looking more for a party of two, be sure to make the most of DC’s romantic side whether it is an evening walk among the cherry blossoms or a full night of activities.

Tip Four for Making the Most of a Night Out in DC

Make it Romantic. If you are culturally inclined, pick up tickets to see a show at the Kennedy Center or for those who like jazz, try Blues Alley. Follow that up with a late night dinner at the Tabard Inn, DC Coast, 1789 Restaurant or any other one of the city’s most romantic restaurants. Then, cap it off with a drink at the rooftop POV Lounge at the W Hotel as you enjoy each other’s company and a magnificent view of the city. If you are more outdoors-inclined, be sure to throw in a spin on the ice rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, which is open from November to March.

Tip Five for Making the Most of a Night Out in DC

And for tip five, be creative. You might consider something like Brush N Blush in the heart of Georgetown where you can take evening art classes and bring along food and drinks to make it social and a fun evening out. Be sure to check for other creative, local fun activities online at dc.about.com, on social networking pages, and in the local area circulars.

And have a great night! I'm Jonathon Stewart, with About.com.