For year-round romance on the 364 days around February 14, it’s tough to beat a classic winter date in Georgetown. Its cobblestone streets, historic townhomes and dreamy riverfront have been the site of many an amorous encounter, and have lit the spark for longtime and new couples alike. We’ve navigated our way around to create the picture-perfect night for Valentine’s Day and beyond, so you, too, can get in on the fun.
For cinematic romance, start at the Washington Harbor Ice Rink off K Street. Through March, the fountain along the Potomac River is transformed into D.C.’s largest ice rink with ample flirting opportunity for all levels: hand-holding and impromptu embraces for amateurs, show-offy twirls and spins for pros. The rink, while larger than New York City’s Rockefeller Center, is in its inaugural season, so avoid the crowds by renting the entire place out: two hours for $2,000 (private skate instruction are available for an extra fee). Hands down the best new D.C. site for a surprise engagement proposal.
Warm up with a quick walk two blocks up 31st Street to Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown for its s’mores special from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The sweet treats, best served by the grand fireplace at the hotel’s Degrees Bistro, are made with spice-soaked bread and housemade roasted marshmallow fluff. If you’re feeling extra frisky, enjoy them with a Heat of the Moment cocktail, made with liaison-inducing tequila and passion fruit puree.
You’ve worked up an appetite by now, so trek a few more blocks to Five-Star Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C. to Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. One of our favorite meals doesn’t even involve the butter-poached steaks. Instead, start with the famed Osetra caviar service or oysters, then launch into the decadent lobster pot pie, a puffy, crunchy, flavorful dish served tableside. Pair them with a glass from the impressive champagne list stockpiled for President Obama’s swearing-in, including five vintages of Krug and four types of Dom Perignon. General Manager and D.C. hospitality mastermind Mark Politzer recommends table 105, a corner booth, for maximum romance.
After dinner, head downstairs to the Four Seasons Spa for its Night Spa experience (starts at $1,400). Begin with 80-minute massages for the two of you. Then from 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., get exclusive use of the pool, suits. Finish up the magical evening with a midnight snack and a bottle of champagne delivered from Bourbon Steak. The rest is up to you.
Photos Courtesy of FPO
