CULTURE | FEB. 28, 2024
5 things to do in Washington, D.C. to bring in the springtime
By Micah Watkins
Spring time is almost here! As the weather warms up, it’s time to do all of the things you’ve been meaning to do in Washington, D.C.
If there’s one thing the nation’s capitol never fails to offer, it’s fun activities catered to your interests, hobbies, and lifestyle.
From five-star dining experiences to connecting with your history and culture, there is something for everyone to do.
Here’s Cover2Cover’s top 5 places to visit to spice up your spring semester:
Pictured is Doyle, the cocktail bar located inside of the Dupont Circle Hotel. Source
1. Live jazz and cocktails at the Dupont Circle Hotel
Looking for a sophisticated way to spend your Tuesday evening? Head to Doyle Restaurant & Bar at the Dupont Circle Hotel to embrace the rhythm of jazz and enjoy cocktails at an Irish family-owned hotel located in the heart of Washington, D.C. Doyle is a glamourous, lounge-like bar with a cozy mid-century feel. The drink menu is inspired by the cocktail innovations of the 1950s and 1960s. A delicious selection of small plates is also available throughout the day. Head over to Doyle for “rich auntie” vibes, affordable drinks, and live jazz music every Tuesday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Experience spring on the inside of the “Butterfly Pavilion” at the National Museum of Natural History Source
2. The National Museum of Natural History’s “Butterfly Pavilion”
Fully embrace the beauty of springtime at the Butterfly Pavilion located in the National Museum of Natural History. Here you will find many different species of butterflies among lush flowers, making for the perfect photo-op. In addition to the live butterflies, rotating sessions are held to learn more about the metamorphosis of these colorful insects. The Butterfly Pavilion is open Tuesday through Saturday with two timed entry slots, one starting at 10:15 a.m. and the other at 4:45 p.m. Adult tickets are $8 each and tickets for senior citizens and children are sold for $7 each. You can find more information about this activity on the museum website.
A daytime look at the Anacostia Arts Center Source
3. Support Black-owned businesses at the Anacostia Arts Center
So you want to support more small, Black-owned businesses? Stop by the Anacostia Arts Center to experience “a home for arts, culture, and small businesses.” From the best Black reads featured at Mahogany Books to the wholesome foods of The Fresh Food Factory, there’s a plethora of options to keep the Black dollar flowing into Black businesses. Storefronts are not the only features of the Anacostia Arts Center. Their facilities also showcase a rotating exhibit of Black local visual artists while also hosting events that range from family-friendly to adults only. Stay tuned to all there is to come at the Anacostia Arts Center.
Enjoy the beauty of Malcolm X Park while trying out swing dancing. Source
4. Swing classes in Malcolm X Park
If you need a new hobby, why not try swing dancing? Weekly swing dance lessons are held every Tuesday night by the New Columbia Swing at Malcolm X Park. With plenty of street parking available on 16th Street after 6:30 p.m., the New Columbia Swing holds weekly classes for all levels (beginner to advanced) from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. and a social dance from 9 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. Sign up online for free with the voucher code FIRSTTIME.
An inside look into Ching Ching Cha Tea House Source
5. Tea tastings at Ching Ching Cha Tea House
Enjoy an intimate and serene experience of tea tastings with your friends or family at Ching Ching Cha Tea House for only $20 per person. Established in 1998 in Georgetown, this business prides itself on creating comfort through the art of tea for over 25 years now. At their new location in Dupont Circle, tea lovers can partake in the tea shop and an art gallery. Although they are no longer serving food, you will not be disappointed with the various flavors of tea, ranging from smooth and earthy to light and floral. Check out their website for more information, reservations, and private event bookings.
