An alluring mix of history, culture, and indulgence, Washington, D.C., offers lovebirds enchantment in an unsuspecting urban environment.
Blending cosmopolitan energy with neoclassical grandeur, Washington, D.C., shouldn’t be thought of just as a place for politics—it’s also a dynamic honeymoon destination with world-class dining, luxe accommodations, and vibrant LGBTQ+ culture. From Dupont Circle’s history to Logan Circle, Adams Morgan, Barracks Row, and everywhere in between, Washington, D.C., shines as one of the most inclusive cities in the world. In fact, according to a 2023 analysis by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the city even has the highest percentage of residents who identify as LGBTQ+ in the United States.
The District’s stately architecture and handsome parks have long been a draw for residents and travelers and can serve as the backdrop for your own romantic escape. And those planning a trip in 2025 can catch many of the city’s WorldPride festivities, which also coincide with the 50th anniversary of Pride in the city as well as 10 years of marriage equality in the United States. Pride kickoff events include the WorldPride Parade (June 7), a vibrant street festival (June 7–8), and so much more.
For newlyweds looking to celebrate in style any other time of the year, the city offers elevated experiences: Michelin-starred restaurants, a plethora of fine museums, and dreamy spots for enjoying rooftop cocktails. Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand along the National Mall at sunset, feeling the romance in the air, or toasting your love over craft beers, D.C. will deliver a honeymoon full of unforgettable moments.
DAY 1
4 p.m.: Check into the Riggs Washington DC, an opulent, design-forward hotel in Penn Quarter. The former bank building exudes character with jewel-toned rooms, plush furnishings, and romantic city views. Upgrade to a First Lady Suite for a honeymoon-worthy stay complete with freestanding soaking tubs.
6 p.m.: Slip into the sultry ambiance of Silver Lyan, the underground cocktail bar nestled in the hotel’s former vault. Crafted by award-winning mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr. Lyan, the menu features artful libations inspired by international flavors. Order a playful round of cocktails, then take a moonlit walk along the National Mall—a must at night—on your way to dinner.
8 p.m.: Dine at the Michelin-starred minibar by José Andrés, where the intimate tasting menu is a sensory journey of avant-garde dishes that surprise and delight with every bite. Be sure to reserve well in advance because this is one of D.C.’s most coveted tables. Or, look into two of the District’s more recent Michelin-star recipients: Mita, a vegetarian spot with Latin American flavors, and Omakase at Barracks Row, a Japanese tasting counter.
DAY 2
9:30 a.m.: If it’s the weekend, begin your day with breakfast at Le Diplomate, a Parisian-style café in Logan Circle beloved for its buttery croissants and decadent quiches. By the time you finish your last bite, the surrounding LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood and its trendy stores will be primed for exploration. Or, if you’re visiting during the week, opt for a stop at Bistro Du Jour, part of LGBTQ+-owned Knead Hospitality + Design, for breakfast any day. The popular restaurant with a killer pain perdu has locations in both Capitol Hill and The Wharf.
10:30 a.m.: Take a private tour of the National Gallery of Art, bookable on GetYourGuide.com. Glide past the crowds as an expert docent leads you through iconic collections, from Renaissance masterpieces to modern works, tailoring the experience to your tastes.
1:30 p.m.: Hop in an Uber or, better yet, go the way of micro-mobility to your next stop. For just $8 per day, you can rent a Capital Bikeshare and ride all around the city. Make your way to the Smithsonian National Zoo because they say the best things in life are free—and now that the pandas have returned, you can witness them with your very own eyes without ever needing to open your wallet.
4 p.m.: Recharge at the Waldorf Astoria’s spa, a serene retreat set in the iconic Old Post Office. Indulge in a couple’s massage and add on the Peppermint Hand or Foot Tension Relief, followed by a session in the Himalayan Salt Therapy Room to reduce stress and respiratory issues.
7:30 p.m.: As the sun sets, ascend to the rooftop of Officina at The Wharf. The Italian-inspired terrace offers sweeping Potomac River views, handcrafted spritzes, and house-made pastas—perfect for a leisurely honeymoon dinner.
9 p.m.: Take a short 10-minute walk to one of D.C.’s most sophisticated new rooftop bars, Moonraker (located in the Pendry hotel), for either a nightcap or a pre-game drink. The Japanese-style whisky highballs reign supreme, but you’ll also find signature and nonalcoholic cocktails. Plus, the revamped neighborhood has an exciting collection of other dining, shops, outdoor parks, live events, and nighttime entertainment.
10 p.m.: Experience D.C.’s thriving LGBTQ+ nightlife with a visit to As You Are, a queer-inclusive lounge on Capitol Hill. Whether you’re in the mood to sip cocktails, embrace on the dance floor, or groove to live DJ sets, this space celebrates love in all its forms.
DAY 3
8:45 a.m.: Start the day at Bread Alley, a “bread speakeasy” near Union Market. Make it a priority to get in line before they swing open the doors at 9 a.m. for all the sourdough and baguettes of your dreams. Or, stay in bed and order a pain au chocolat, croissant, or kouign-amann pastry directly to your room at The Riggs.
10 a.m. (weekends only): Hop in an Uber or mosey over to LGBTQ+-owned bookstores like Little District Books and Loyalty Books to pick up your next great read. Open at 11 a.m. on weekdays
11 a.m: Visit the Rubell Museum, open every day except Mondays and Tuesdays, which is housed in a 1906 building of a historically Black public school in southwest D.C. Peep the outstanding collection of contemporary art with a social conscience from artists that range in background and perspectives. Or, discover The Phillips Collection, America’s first modern art museum, nestled in a charming historic mansion. Wander through rooms adorned with works by Rothko, O’Keeffe, and Renoir for a cultural fix.
12:30 p.m.: If you’re visiting on a Sunday, head to the Dupont Circle farmers market to savor local treats. Sample artisanal cheeses, fresh pastries, and small-batch coffee while mingling with locals in one of the city’s most diverse LGBTQ+-friendly enclaves. Market hours: Sundays 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
2 p.m.: Ideal for post-market digestion, take a walk, literally. Two that will pique your interests: A Tour of Her Own, a women’s history walking tour, and DC Pride Walks, which chronicles the District’s queer history, are both highlights in our nation’s capital.
5 p.m.: End your honeymoon with a toast at the VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington, a stylish bar with panoramic views of the Washington Monument.
This feature originally appeared in Love Inc. V10 print issue, now on retail shelves.
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Written by Dan Koday I Cover photo courtesy of Washington.org
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