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100+ Ideas for a Winter Weekend in Washington, DC, with Your Partner

After the holiday rush, you might feel down, deflated or exhausted. A refreshing weekend escape to Washington, DC, with your significant other could be just what you need. Located about two and a half hours away, DC is an ideal destination for a minivacation in mid-January. Whether you’re a newly declared couple, recently married or parents escaping for the weekend, DC has plenty of ideas to suit your style.

For your first trip away as a couple

So you started dating in the fall and made it through the family-filled holidays. Now you’re ready for a weekend away, just the two of you.

Start the day in Georgetown’s design district on M Street. Window-shop as you walk through Cady’s Alley, with stylish stores such as BoConcept, Contemporaria and Intermix.

Then visit J. Paul’s for a drinking and dining experience. The restaurant is located in a building that’s more than 100 years old. Share some happy hour specials and oysters from the raw bar or order from the list of “Georgetown Classics,” which includes crab cakes, filet mignon and baby back ribs. If you’re in need of brunch later in the weekend, J. Paul’s has a midmorning menu filled with mimosas and egg scrambles.

After dinner, swing by Mr. Smith’s of Georgetown. The place’s motto is “The Friendliest Saloon in Town.” Have a nightcap or a piece of hot apple pie and sing along as the piano plays. Spend a romantic night at The Melrose Georgetown Hotel. The boutique hotel has sophisticated rooms with original artwork and city views.

For the newlyweds

Whether you tied the knot over the holidays or are coming up on your one-year anniversary, celebrate your first wedded New Year with a budget-friendly getaway.

Stick to 17th Street and the surrounding area for all your weekend needs. Start with a visit to Dupont Circle, known as one of the first centers for DC’s gay and lesbian community. Spend the afternoon exploring the neighborhood’s bistros and boutiques.

Stop in for a bite at Hank’s Oyster Bar. Chef Jamie Leeds named the place after her father, who inspired her to become a chef. Peel-and-eat shrimp and oysters on the half shell are stars on the bar menu.

The neighborhood is ideal for barhopping. Check out JR’s Bar for a gay sports-bar atmosphere. Then head to Cobalt, which has been a popular dance spot for DC’s gay community for years. End the evening at The Beacon Hotel. The boutique spot is located just around the corner.

For the parents’ weekend away

If you’ve got kids, you know how important it is to escape once in a while and spend time as a couple.

Check in at the Mandarin Oriental Washington D.C., which has waterfront views and rooms that overlook the Thomas Jefferson Memorial or Washington Monument. Schedule a visit to the hotel spa to eliminate any stress and set the mood for the weekend.

After a relaxing afternoon, watch the sunset over the Potomac from Washington Harbour. Indulge in an elegant meal at Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel. No need for kids’ menus tonight. The contemporary American restaurant specializes in seasonal fare and top-quality beef and seafood. Cap off the night with a performance at The National Theatre.

To learn more about these date nights and plan your Washington, DC, weekend, click here for 100+ date ideas.