“There's something very inspiring and romantic about D.C., and it’s easy to find fun date ideas that don't cost a lot of money or require a lot of planning,” says Rebecca Pawlowski, director of communications for Destination D.C., the official marketing organization for the District with members including hundreds of area museums, restaurants and hotels.
In time for Valentine’s Day, Destination D.C. has established a “Department of Love & Relationships” led by honorary secretary Dr. Ruth Westheimer. Courtesy of Destination D.C., here’s a list of Valentine’s offers that the GW community can take advantage of:
A Newsworthy V-Day
At the Newseum, couples receive two-for-one admission through a special “Will You Be My Co-Anchor?” promotion, available through Feb. 14. Couples can also record a message of love at the “Be a TV Reporter” interactive and receive a shareable copy of the e-video for free.
For Art Lovers
The National Gallery of Art is offering “Images of Love,” a series of 50-minute gallery talks featuring romantic stories given by lecturer Eric Denker during strolls through the museum. Upcoming lectures are Feb. 17, 19 and 22 at noon.
Partners in Crime
Through a special National Museum of Crime and Punishment offer, “wardens” bind couples together and lead them on their way to tour the three floors of the museum, including special exhibit boards placed throughout examining various crimes of passion, many of which took place in the D.C. area. Feb. 12-14, from 4 to 8 p.m.
Botanic Bliss
The United States Botanic Garden is offering a guided walk through the conservatory that includes tales of courtship, deception and mating rituals. A special gift awaits participants at the end of the tour. Feb. 14 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Love and Espionage
The International Spy Museum’s Love a Spy package combines entrance to the museum and dinner at its acclaimed Zola restaurant on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the month of February. In addition, on Feb. 19 museum goers can have their love note analyzed by the museum’s handwriting analyst and on Feb. 26 a real spy will be on hand to talk about being a spy in love.
Waxing Poetic
Spend a romantic afternoon with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds, which has created a “28 Stimulating Days of February” promotion, inviting couples to enjoy a 20 percent discount on admission throughout the month of February.
Warm Up with Hot Passion
Sip a “hot passion”—coffee, Irish cream and Frangelico—at the Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe while watching skaters glide across the National Gallery of Art ice rink.
For more ideas, including hotels and restaurant offers, visit www.datenightsdc.org. The site includes date ideas and an on-call “date concierge.”
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