Looking on the bright side: It’s always sunny in DC!
The title of this article is false. Completely fake news. It’s not always “sunny” in Washington, D.C., but the district does have its bright moments. If you’re lucky, weeks of muggy clouds, humidity and weird five-minute thunderstorms will make way for some pretty lovely summer days in D.C. Yes, it’s hot, but there’s something special about the district when the sun is out. So don’t hide in a Smithsonian museum — put on your walking shoes and get out there!
Have a photoshoot in front of the Capitol Building
A lot can be said about Congress, but setting politics aside, it does have a pretty snazzy white building that’s the perfect backdrop for some sick photos. Whether you need a new LinkedIn headshot or something to post on the ‘gram, the U.S. Capitol looks its best with a few rays of sun to light it up. While you’re at it, escape the heat with a little tour or grab passes from your Congress member’s office to see the Senate and House chambers.
Visit Mount Vernon
As George Washington said in the hit musical “Hamilton” and quoting the Bible in a letter, “Everyone shall sit under their own vine and fig tree, and no one shall make them afraid.” This saying is often used in reference to Mount Vernon, and I certainly discovered this on a recent trip to Washington’s old crib. The day just happened to be ridiculously luminous, and the entire place shined. The gardens were full of flowers blooming, and after wandering the green grounds, you can seek refuge on the porch, which looks out over the Potomac River. With a clear blue sky above it and the plants blooming in it, Mount Vernon really doesn’t get more beautiful.
Go to Jazz in the Garden
Each Friday of the summer, the National Gallery of Art hosts a different jazz band to perform for free in the museum’s Sculpture Garden. It gets a little crowded, but if you get there early enough, you can snag a nice little spot for a picnic or you can dip your feet in the fountain. You can groove to the music, laugh with your friends and enjoy the sculpture and garden landscaping. It’s an extremely Parisian outing, with a trendy, D.C. flair.
Kayak on the Potomac River
There aren’t any beaches close to D.C., so if you don’t have a way to get to one, try the Potomac instead! Places such as Georgetown and The Wharf have it set up so you can rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards by the hour for some good old-fashioned river fun. There are some interesting sights when you paddle down the river, with some cool islands you can park at and explore, such as Theodore Roosevelt Island.
Check out Old Town Alexandria
Alexandria isn’t too far away by from D.C. Metro, so it’s totally worth checking out for its old, 1700s charm. The cobblestone streets, red brick buildings, cute shops and marina are perfect to wander through and soak up some rays. There’s also an incredible gelato place called Dolci Gelati, and right outside you can meet a guide for a ghost tour, which is a great way to spend a warm Virginia evening.
Make sure to bring some sunscreen and a bottle of water and you’re good to go on a sunny adventure in the capital of the USA!
Contact Sunny Sichi at ssichi@dailycal.org.