Keeping cool from the hot and humid DC weather can be difficult during the summer. Here are some activities and locations to visit to try to beat the summer sun.

Pleasant Pops

Pleasant Pops | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez
Pleasant Pops | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez

Grab an icy popsicle at one of two Pleasant Pops locations, Adams Morgan or Downtown. Their popsicles are made with fresh, local ingredients and are handmade at the Adams Morgan location. Flavors at each location rotate constantly as they sell out. Popsicle flavors include Mexican chocolate, Strawberry Ginger Lemonade, Honey Lavender and Hibiscus Pomegranate. Roasted coffee and pastries are also available for purchase.

 

Picnic on the National Mall

National Mall | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez
National Mall | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez

Nothing says summer more than a picnic. Have a picnic on the National Mall or underneath the Washington Monument. With food trucks serving a variety of cuisine and even ice cream trucks playing the songs of summer, the National Mall has many shady, quiet spots to enjoy your afternoon or evening. Smithsonian museums are easily accessible from the Mall too, if you need a break from the heat.

 

Georgetown Boat Tours

Georgetown Waterfront | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez
Georgetown Waterfront | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez

Georgetown’s waterfront offers many options for boat rides along the Potomac River. From sightseeing boat tours, dinner+lunch cruises and party yacht cruises, feeling the breeze as you float down the river is a refreshing relief. The views of Washington’s monuments, nature and Arlington are breathtaking, especially during sunset.

 

Nationals Baseball Games

Nationals Baseball Game | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez
Nationals Baseball Game | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez

Slide to home plate and watch Washington Nationals play ball at National Park. Transportation is stress-free; take the metro, Metrobus or even a water taxi to the stadium. Buy a hot dog and some Crackerjacks and catch one of their games until the end of September.

 

Jazz in the Garden

Jazz in the Garden | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez
Jazz in the Garden | Photo Credit: Chad Jimenez

Every Friday from May 19 through August 25, Jazz in the Garden is the perfect way to end the week and start the weekend. From 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Washington artists play an array of jazz music in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. The Pavilion Cafe provides a menu of American cuisine, beer and wine to enjoy as you relax amongst the art sculptures.