Whether it’s the first date or you and your significant other want to have a romantic night out, DC is a great city to find something to do between the free museums, new events, and endless restaurants. The list goes on and on, which is why #FrayLife is bringing you this date night guide so you and your dates will never get bored. Of course, December in DC presents lots of opportunities for festive activities and cozy spots perfect for you and whoever your next date is with. Here are our #DCFray approved picks:

The Wharf

There is no shortage of holiday festivities at The Wharf including the Christmas Tree and ice skating rink. Hit the rink to impress your date (or possibly embarrass yourself) on the ice, then warm up at one of the many bars and restaurants on the waterfront. It’s about $16 per person for admission and rentals, so you won’t have to break the bank either.

#FrayLife Tip: Make sure you or your date bring a credit card, they don’t accept cash at the rink.

The Watergate Hotel

Choose one of the bars or restaurants at The Watergate to enjoy a cocktail and a meal. I recommend going to Top of the Gate, where the rooftop bar has plenty of heated spaces to keep you warm at the lounge and you can step onto the synthetic ice rink (you don’t need a reservation to skate) while enjoying a spectacular view of the city. The menu is on the pricier side and ice skating is $20 per person, but if you’re looking for a luxurious wintertime date, this is the spot for you.

ZooLights

What’s better than a date at the zoo? A date at the zoo covered in twinkle lights. Feel what it’s like to be a kid again, stroll the pathways, enjoy the lights, eat s’mores, listen to live music performances, and see some of the nocturnal animals that aren’t very active during regular hours. If you want to feel a little more grown up, you can enjoy an adult beverage in the form of spiked hot chocolate, beer, or wine. Admission is free and it is open every night until the new year with the exception of Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

#FrayLife Tip: Parking can be hard to find, so if you can, we recommend taking the metro, a taxi, or ride share.

Miracle on 7th Street Pop Up Bar

The Drink Company’s Pop Up Bar in Shaw becomes one of the most talked about places in DC every time they change the theme. This holiday season they transformed again for the 4th annual Miracle on 7th Street. The PUB is legitimately covered in holiday decorations that you could spend all night looking at while enjoying themed drinks and festive snacks. Expect to wait in line and plan to go on a weeknight to reduce wait time. It’s popular but so worth it!

Barcelona Wine Bar

Barcelona is a great place for a date any time of the year with its extensive wine list, spacious atmosphere, and bustling energy. The fire pits and seasonal menus make it a great place for a cozy winter date. If you’re into trying new things and tasting more than one menu item, share a meal with your date off the tapas menu. It’s no surprise that between the prime location on 14th and the atmosphere, there is almost never a “slow night” there.

The Gibson

Top off the night with a night cap at this speakeasy-style cocktail bar. The Gibson DC offers more than “just a drink” with its seasonal menus and crafty cocktails, but you do need a reservation so get on that stat! Mix it up literally and figuratively by trying some of their unique drinks. My favorite menu item is the Benny’s Rebel Room.

Do you have any favorite date spots? Let us know in the comments or tag us using #DCFray or #FrayLife.

Spice things up even more with these local Latin dance groups. With weekly meetings, there’s no better way to get your groove on and spend some quality time with your dance partner!