People always gush about the fall and the spring in DC, and while both of these seasons have their charm, we think that one of the single best times to enjoy DC is the winter.
That’s right! When it’s cold outside, DC changes – for the better! And there’s plenty to do, despite the chilly weather. So grab some friends or your significant other, bundle up, and head out to one of the four best places in The Capitol Riverfront where you can enjoy the winter – instead of hiding from it.
The Canal Park Skating Rink
Nothing says “winter” like ice skating. So don’t hide from the elements! When it’s cold outside, head out to the Canal Park Skating Rink. Skate rentals are available with admission, so you don’t need to BYO-skates – you can just walk up, strap in, and get to skating!
The park operates the skating rink from November through February dependent upon the weather, so you’ve got plenty of chances to get your skate on. The rink also features a number of special seasonal promotions – Valentine’s Skate Night was quite popular with residents this year, complete with live acapella music and a prix-fixe dinner menu and bubbly from il Parco.
Other events include Two for Tuesday, which also includes buy-one-get-one admission from 4-6 pm, Rock & Skate night on Fridays featuring a live DJ, and college night on Thursdays – students with a valid ID will get 2 bucks off entry.
Due to warmer-than-usual temperatures, the skating rink is now closed for the season, but we can’t wait to see what fun events Canal Park has planned for next year!
Ice Yards at Yards Park
Ice Yards at Yards Park is an icy festival held annually in the waterfront Yards Park within the Capitol Riverfront. You’ll need to be 21 or older, and admission is $10 per person. Inside the festival you’ll find:
- Ice bars and craft cocktails
- Boozed-up snow cones
- A beer garden by neighborhood favorite Due South
- Live music by DJs and local entertainment
- Après Ski Lounge
- Photo booths
- Outdoor firepits
- Ice carving wall and sculpture gallery
- Ice games – shuffleboard and cornhole
- Local food vendors
Embrace the cold, head out to Ice Yards, and enjoy live entertainment, a festive atmosphere, and a totally awesome way to spend a winter day.
Morini Mondays at Osteria Morini
Osteria Morini is one of the finest Italian eateries in The Capitol Riverfront – but it can be pricey. Never feat! Morini Mondays are the solution.
Every Monday during slower winter months, Osteria Morini features a rotating selection of delicious pasta dishes for just $10 each, making this authentic Italian restaurant a cheap date indeed. So spend what you saved on pasta on a bottle of wine, and turn your Monday from just another day into a fun, authentic night out at one of DC’s best Italian restaurants.
Trivia Night at Justin’s Cafe
Justin’s Cafe is a local favorite watering hole with a cozy atmosphere, great drink specials, and the best trivia night in The Capitol Riverfront. On Tuesdays at 8 pm, head on down to Justin’s (or get there early for happy hour house wine, draft, and rail drink specials) and enjoy a fun night of trivia with your friends.
The winner gets bragging rights and a $50 Justin’s Cafe gift card. So get out here and test your knowledge – win or lose, you’re sure to have a great time. Bonus tip: be sure to sample the amazing pizza or one of their awesome sandwiches while you’re there! Come back for brunch to sample the breakfast pizzas and you won’t be sorry.
Get Out There, And Enjoy The Winter In DC
There are plenty of things to do in the Capitol Riverfront during the winter – if you know where to look. And these four ideas are a great place to start. Grab your scarf and mittens and a friend, and head out tonight for some fun.
