Things to Do in Washington DC at Night

After a full day of touring monuments and exploring museums, you’re probably looking for some fun things to do in Washington DC at night. D.C. is actually a great nightlife city, with tons of bars, top-of-the-line restaurants, and even a few nightclubs to enjoy. Not everyone has the same taste in nightlife, so we’ve provided a few things to do that will appeal to a variety of demographics. From good pizza to grand vistas, everyone can find something to enjoy on this list.

Cocktails at the POV Bar (W Hotel)

This rooftop bar is one of D.C.’s hottest nightspots, so be prepared to wait in line. While it does have great cocktails and bottle service, the reason people love it so much is because of the stunning night views of the White House and the monuments you get from the terrace. Be sure to bring a camera with you, and try to arrive early to get at the front of the line. FYI, there is a dress code, so show up looking classy. This is a place to see and be seen in D.C.!

Dinner in Georgetown

This trendy neighborhood is actually adjacent to the university that shares its name. It’s a little inconveniently off the Metro, but is within easy walking distance from Foggy Bottom and is served by several buses. The commercial shopping and dining district is all clustered around M street, a several-block-long expanse including everything from Gap to Gucci. As far as restaurants go, you’ve also got a wide variety of options. If you’re looking for an impressive date-night spot, head to Filomena’s. Looking for some fun fare and good beer? Pizzeria Paradiso should be your top choice (one of my personal longtime favorites). For the younger crowd, Old Glory is the perfect rooftop bar in the summertime.

Drinks in Adams Morgan

The Adams Morgan neighborhood has long been a hot spot for things to do at night, featuring a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s popular with college kids and 20-somethings, so it might appeal to that demographic the best. It’s also an easy walk from the Metro, so it’s ideal for those of you looking to do it up. You’ll also find some of the most unique bars in the city in this neighborhood, including the bizarrely-decorated Madam’s Organ (get it?), the funky Heaven and Hell nightclub, and Julia’s Empanadas, serving some of the best empanadas in town until the wee hours of the morning.

Dessert at Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café

Located in the historic and happening neighborhood of Dupont Circle, this iconic establishment is among the best indie bookstores in the entire city. Located in the back of the store is the late night Afterwords Café, featuring a full menu and drink list, plus some delicious coffee. In addition, the booksellers are really knowledgable and incredibly nice, and they have a fantastic selection of everything from philosophy to graphic novels. Where else can you pop in for a glass of wine and the latest bestseller at 11 pm?

Fun & Games at H Street Country Club

H Street Country Club is one of our favorite places to explore in this newly gentrified area of the city. They serve delicious Mexican fare, killer margaritas, and have an awesome selection of indoor games like Skee-ball, shuffleboard, and even an indoor mini-golf course. (Confession, I was absolutely terrible the last time I tried mini-golf there, but it is tons of fun!) If you’re not staying nearby, you’ll likely want to get to this area via cab, as the train system doesn’t really head in this direction.

Save on Admission

Don’t leave DC without checking out at least one or two of these neighborhoods on your vacation! Dupont Circle and Georgetown are also both very family-friendly neighborhoods and all of these locations offer great dining opportunities during the day, too! Remember, if you want to see a few D.C. attractions while you’re in town, pick up a Washington DC Explorer Pass® to save up to 40% on combined admission prices to top museums, tours, cruises, and more.