1. KIDS DAY
Rose Park (26th and O sts., NW) has two playgrounds, a basketball court, and plenty of open space for pickup soccer games. When the kids get hungry, stop for lunch at neighborhood favorite Peacock Cafe (3251 Prospect St., NW; 202-625-2740), where the paper children’s menus are accompanied by crayons. Then head to Tugooh Toys (1319 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-338-9476), a boutique where you can find good educational toys, many imported from Europe. Finally, stop at Thomas Sweet Ice Cream (3214 P St., NW; 202-337-0616) for an afternoon treat of house-made ice cream, yogurt, or fudge.
2. A CASUAL DATE
Start out at Jack’s Boathouse (3500 K St., NW; 202-337-9642), where you can rent a two-person kayak or canoe for $12 per person per hour. If the Potomac is too chilly, bundle up for a walk or bike-ride along the C&O Canal. After you’ve worked up an appetite, stop in at the charming Kafe Leopold & Konditorei (3315 M St., NW; 202-965-6005), tucked into Cady’s Alley, where the outdoor patio makes a nice setting for a cup of coffee or a croque madame. Wrap up the day at cozy Bistrot Lepic (1736 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-333-0111), which has 11 French wines by the glass and half glass.
3. GIRLS' DAY OUT
Kick off the fun by indulging in a spa treatment at Aveda Georgetown (1325 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-965-1325). The Rainforest package ($135) includes a 60-minute body massage and a manicure. Paris-inspired Café Bonaparte (1522 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-333-8830) is a good place to refuel with crepes, light salads, and mimosas. Then do a little shopping at the many boutiques along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, such as Annie Creamcheese (3279 M St., NW; 202-298-5555), Wink (3109 M St., NW; 202-338-9465), and Hu’s Shoes (3005 M St., NW; 202-342-0202).
This article first appeared in the March 2011 issue of The Washingtonian.
