5 Ways to Soak Up Summer in Washington, DC

1. Become a morning person (just for a few months). A 7 am walk along the Tidal Basin or a sunrise jog on the C&O Canal feels like a different city — cooler, quiet, and golden. Save the AC-heavy activities (Smithsonians, Planet Word, the National Gallery) for the 2 pm heat dome hours.

2. Find your patio for the summer. Every neighborhood has one: a Georgetown waterfront bar, a Navy Yard rooftop, a Capitol Hill back garden strung with lights. Half of DC summer is just knowing where the breeze is and which spots have a great happy hour.

3. Chase the water. Kayak the Potomac from the Key Bridge Boathouse, post up at The Wharf with frozen rosé, or escape to Great Falls when the city feels too small. Locals quietly disappear to the Eastern Shore on weekends — you should, too.

4. Hit a free outdoor concert or movies. Jazz in the Garden at the Sculpture Garden, Outdoor Movies at parks around town, military band concerts at the Capitol. DC summer's secret weapon is how much of it costs zero dollars.

5. Lean into Independence Day. The 4th of July in DC is not to be missed. From watching fireworks over the National Mall to neighborhood celebrations and barbecues (or escaping the city altogether for a peaceful getaway), residents and visitors alike enjoy the holiday. This year also marks the country's 250th birthday, and DC is the epicenter, with special events throughout the summer.

Download my Washington DC Summer Guide to help you make the most of this summer!