Beat The Heat: Your Downtown DC Summer Cool Down Guide

Summer is one of the best times to visit Washington, DC. From Fourth of July celebrations and outdoor festivals to iconic landmarks and monuments, the nation’s capital is buzzing with activity.

But after hours of sightseeing under the summer sun, you’ll probably be ready for a cool break! Check out this itinerary below for cool places and things that beat the heat but never miss the fun in Downtown DC.

Start with a Refreshing Treat at Fruitive

• Location: 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW
• $$

Hot summer day + a cold treat in hand = a combination you can never go wrong with. While wandering DC’s museums, stop by Fruitive, where fresh, organic ingredients and house-made recipes come together to fuel your day with healthy, flavorful bites and refreshing drinks.

Visiting this July? Don’t miss the fruit-infused soft-serve style dessert made fresh for every guest. Choose a vanilla or chocolate soft-serve base, pile on your favorite fresh fruits, and voilà! You’re ready to take on a summer day in Downtown DC.

Stop by the National Portrait Gallery for some Air Conditioning

• Location: 8th St NW & G St NW
• Distance from Fruitive: 0.2 miles | 🚶‍♂️5 mins | 🚘 2 mins

Nothing beats that first blast of air conditioning after spending hours in the summer sun. Cool off inside the National Portrait Gallery, where you can escape the heat while discovering fascinating exhibitions and one of Downtown DC’s most beautiful indoor spaces. Wander through world-class exhibitions, admire iconic portraits, and enjoy a refreshing break before heading back outside.

Lunch at Grazie Nonna

• Location: 1100 15th St NW
• Distance from National Portrait Gallery: 1.2 miles | 🚘 9 mins
• $$

Take a pause from the heat and recharge over lunch at Grazie Nonna, tucked inside the shaded Midtown Center plaza. Serving classic Italian plates with beautiful indoor and outdoor seating, just pull up a chair, grab your fork and knife, and let Nonna feed ya!

Pause at Franklin Park for a Downtown Green Escape

• Location: 1332 I St NW
• Distance from Grazie Nonna: 0.4 miles | 🚶‍♂️10 mins | 🚘 2 mins

Just a couple of blocks from Grazie Nonna, Franklin Park is a perfect next stop to slow down and enjoy Downtown DC’s very own lush green space. Stretch your legs, cool off by the fountain, or grab a drink from Compass Coffee across the street and enjoy some laid-back people-watching.

Summer Events at Franklin Park

• We Sing America at Franklin Park | July 4 | 1PM – 2:30PM
• Lunchtime in the Park | Wednesdays in July | 12PM – 2PM
• Fitness at Franklin | Saturdays in July | 9AM – 11AM

Unwind at Figleaf Bar & Lounge

• Location: 1155 14th St NW
• Distance from Franklin Park: 0.4 miles | 🚶‍♂️6 mins | 🚘 3 mins
• $$

You’ve made it through the heat—now it’s time to unwind at Figleaf Bar & Lounge with something cold in hand. Savor global Mediterranean cuisine with a twist of Latin influence, sip something refreshing, and take in rooftop pool views that make it the ultimate wrap ups for your Downtown DC summer day.

Visiting Downtown from the DMV and thinking about staying overnight?

Check out this special offer from Arlo Washington DC: Book the DMV Deal and enjoy 15% off room stays, complimentary self-parking, 1PM late checkout, and a complimentary room upgrade (based on availability). Visit HERE to learn more and book your stay.