Annapolis - BHLEN

Light up the Night with Drive-Through and Walk-Through Light Shows (DC Area)

Marissa Perrone — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 22:37:00 +0000

Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA)
This ticketed, drive-through event is a Northern Virginia classic and the best part of all? You can experience it all from the comfort of your heated car. The multi-colored holiday light displays feature an array of exciting characters and almost give the vibes of Mario Kart’s Rainbow Road. Add the song “Jingle Bell Rock” and a to-go mug of hot cocoa, and you’ve created a core memory. If you’d like to stretch your legs or buy a tasty treat (funnel cake, anyone?) be sure to check out the carnival at the end of the light show. Buy tickets online for $10 off.

Meadowlark Walk of Lights (Vienna, VA)
If you’d prefer seeing lights up close, bundle up and check out Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Walk of Lights. This timed, ticketed event features a dressed-up version of the lovely gardens with a fun, colorful holiday twist that kids will surely enjoy. This is a dog-friendly event, so don’t feel like Fido has to miss out on the fun–just be sure to account for him with a dog ticket!

Lights on the Bay (Annapolis, MD)
This two-mile drive along the bay in Sandy Point State Park features over 70 animated and stationary light displays. Enjoy the Chesapeake Bay breeze and a view of the Bay Bridge in the background. The proceeds benefit the SPCA of Maryland, and there are even a few exciting Lights & Leashes events, where you can enjoy the lights while walking with your pet. There are kiosks where you can buy snacks for the ride like popcorn, and when it’s going to a good cause–why not treat yourself, too?

ZooLights (Washington, DC)
The 16th annual Zoo Lights is sure to be a hit for all members of the family. Check out illuminated lantern animals, walk down rainbow light displays, and jam out to musical performances. The kids will love a ride on the Conservation Carousel or train, and don’t forget to check out a mouth-watering array of seasonal treats! Please note: no actual animals will be featured during ZooLights, as they are required to get a full night’s rest. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $6 for all guests over 2.

Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Regional Park (Woodbridge, VA)
The third annual iteration of this magnificent event is astonishingly free for all patrons! Revel in quiet nature as you see this .625-mile boardwalk lit up with holiday figures. To make parking a cinch, take the shuttle from Rippon Middle School. Some nights have an adjacent holiday market, carolers, or even holiday characters that children will enjoy meeting in person. The walk is stroller, wheelchair, and pet-friendly, so bring the whole family.

While you’re enjoying the Yuletide traditions and rocking around the light-up Christmas tree, be sure to check out the holiday markets in the area as well!

The post Light up the Night with Drive-Through and Walk-Through Light Shows (DC Area) first appeared on BHLEN.

Support Local: Shop Small Business Saturday in the DMV Area for Unique Finds!

Marissa Perrone — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 20:54:44 +0000

There’s something heartwarming about buying locally made products from hardworking entrepreneurs in your community. Melody Warnick, author of This Is Where You Belong: Finding Home Wherever You Are articulated it perfectly in a blog post on why she loves Small Business Saturday: “I’m trying to prioritize locally made purchases, even when they’re slightly more expensive, because they make me happier.” Indeed, there is a shared goal for people on both ends of the transaction: they want their community to have variety, flavor, and its own vibrant culture.

Small businesses give a place its look and feel, acting as an antithesis of the sameness of boring chain stores that can be found in every town. Since local businesses keep 38% of their revenue within the community, shopping at a local shop is a way of giving back to the place you call home. Small Business Saturday–a breath of fresh air after the rabid consumerism of its predecessor, Black Friday–is centered around doing just that. In DC, Maryland, and Virginia, shopkeepers on every Main Street are just waiting for loyal customers to treat them with that extra attention to detail that they won’t find in big-box stores.

SHELTER– (Union Market, DC)

SHELTER is a Union Market modern jewelry shop that specializes in independently made jewelry. The store prides itself in offering work from underrepresented designers and showcasing unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. They also offer custom pieces and wedding/engagement bands. If you’ve seen #WeldedBracelets come up on your TikTok For You Page, then SHELTER might be the first place to check them out in the area. These bracelets are custom-fitted, offered in various thicknesses, and available in white, yellow, and rose gold. Appointments are required.

REWILD – Shaw, Capitol Hill, Ballston, Cabin John

How well do the folks at Rewild know plants? So much so that the US Botanical Garden has partnered with them to create a unique museum store where patrons can bring an inspired little piece of the garden home with them. Perfect for every #plantparent in your life, REWILD’s website encourages customers to “spread joy, naturally.” The staff is made up of houseplant lovers who offer tons of free advice to aspiring plant parents. Even if your thumb isn’t already green, REWILD is on a mission to help you get there.

Shop Made in DC (Various locations, DC)

With four locations including Georgetown, The Wharf, Union Market, and Canpoy Embassy Row, Shop Made in DC’s mission is to showcase the DC artisan scene. Each location offers a variety of products, from candles to home decor to stationery, all made right in the District. Their gallery in Georgetown is home to a group of rotating artists, and they offer art classes, too. Shop Made in DC is the perfect place to pick out a holiday gift with the right amount of local flavor.

Capitol Hill Books (Capitol Hill, DC)

A decades-old handwritten sign hangs next to the cash register at the entrance to Capitol Hill Books: “Words Not Spoken Here: OMG. Totally. Amazon. Kindle…” This sets the tone for the old-school experience that is Capitol Hill Books, a used bookstore and bibliophile’s paradise. Patrons will feel as if they’re on an adventure (or in a mystery novel, if that’s their genre of choice) as they navigate the narrow staircases of an old row house, every nook and cranny–even the kitchen sink–covered in books. In 2018, a group of employees purchased the store from the second owner, and they’ve dedicated themselves to keeping Capitol Hill Books a gem of the district.

Fair Trade Roots (Arlington, VA)

Located in a walking stretch of the cozy neighborhood of Westover, Fair Trade Roots is part adorable cafe, part destination to other cultures via lovely handmade goods. Upon entering the shop, one’s senses are first hit with the wonderful aroma of espresso and pastries, then with a harmonious rainbow of decorations, from lovely Ugandan raffia baskets to twinkling Turkish lamps. The owner takes pride in offering fair wages for ethically sourced products and offering unique pieces that are sure to brighten any home.

Here. a pop-up shop (Annapolis, MD)

Here. is a pop-up boutique originally founded by longtime Annapolis buds El Lunay and Amy Altenburg. Since its inception in 2013, there have been 50 popups in various vacant locations around Annapolis. The location rotates, but for the current holiday season, Here. calls 14 Church Circle in downtown Annapolis home. The pop-up stays open for 10-20 days at a time and showcases work from local artists and designers, from photography to apparel to furniture. During the holiday season, they’re open from 10 am to 6 pm daily, and on Small Business Saturday, they are offering free gifts with a minimum purchase as well as free bubbly and sweets to everyone who walks through the door.

And while you’re out shopping, be sure to check out other Sweets and Treats offered by local businesses in the region!

The post Support Local: Shop Small Business Saturday in the DMV Area for Unique Finds! first appeared on BHLEN.

Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DC Area

bhlenblogadmin — Sat, 11 May 2024 12:13:02 +0000

Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DMV Area

There’s something magical about sipping cocktails while taking in panoramic views in and around our nation’s capital from a rooftop bar. From breathtaking monuments to vibrant cityscapes, the Washington DC area offers an array of rooftop destinations. Whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout spot or a visitor seeking the perfect Instagram-worthy experience, here are some of Bhlen’s best rooftop bars throughout the Washington DC area. Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

Washington DC:

VUE Rooftop – Hotel Washington DC: Perched atop the iconic W Hotel, POV offers unparalleled views of the White House and the National Mall. Sip on craft cocktails crafted by expert mixologists while soaking in the historic landmarks that surround you.
Top of the Gate: Located at The Watergate Hotel, Top of the Gate boasts sweeping views of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and small plates in a chic and sophisticated setting as you watch the sunset over the city.
Officina Rooftop: Situated in the vibrant Wharf district, Officina Rooftop Terrace offers stunning views of the waterfront along with delicious Italian-inspired cuisine and refreshing drinks.
12 Stories: Nestled atop the InterContinental Washington DC – The Wharf, 12 Stories offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the Washington Monument. Indulge in creative cocktails and small plates while taking in the vibrant energy of the waterfront below.
The Rooftop at the Graham: Tucked away in Georgetown, The Graham Rooftop offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with picturesque views of the historic neighborhood. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and seasonal bites while admiring the charming cobblestone streets below.
Whiskey Charlie – The Wharf: Situated in the heart of the SW Wharf, Whiskey Charlie offers craft cocktails and light bites. Residents, hotel guests, and visitors alike will enjoy the most spectacular views of the water and beyond with stunning sunsets sitting atop DC’s Canopy by Hilton Hotel.
Crimson View: Situated atop the Motto Hotel, Crimson View offers sweeping views of the city skyline and the bustling Chinatown neighborhood. Relax in a stylish and modern setting while enjoying creative cocktails and Asian-inspired small plates.

Maryland may be known for its picturesque coastline and charming cities, but it’s also home to some of the most stunning rooftop bars in the region. From waterfront vistas to city skyline panoramas, these rooftop destinations offer the perfect combination of ambiance, views, and libations. Here are some of Bhlen’s best rooftop bars throughout Maryland to visit this summer. Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

Maryland:

The Bygone: Located in Baltimore’s Harbor East, The Bygone offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Inner Harbor from its rooftop perch. Step back in time to the golden age of aviation while sipping on handcrafted cocktails and savoring upscale American cuisine.
Replay at Pose Rooftop Lounge: This rooftop lounge with its rap around terrace offers spectacular views of the Potomac River during the day and the National Harbor lights at night. After 9pm this rooftop transforms into 21+ only atmosphere with a trendy 80’s themed pop-up bar offering 80’s-themed cocktails, retro arcade games and the best of 80’s music.
Hip Flask Rooftop Bar: Situated in Bethesda with an elegant bar and floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, Hip Flask offers an upscale bar with scenic views. Enjoy American fare & crafted cocktails while soaking in the skyline.
Skye Bar and Grille: Located in Ocean City, Skye Bar and Grille offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling boardwalk below. Sip creative cocktails, dine on fresh seafood, and take in the views of the ocean, bay, and everything in between. This is a lively hangout destination with a complete raw bar, happy hour specials and live music.
Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge: Nestled in Annapolis, The Rooftop Bar offers a cozy, airy space perfect for hanging out with friends or simply a place to unwind and soak up the sun. This rooftop is first come, first serve, and offers a unique craft beer menu featuring over 40 craft beers, as well as a one-of-a-kind Custom Cocktail menu featuring seven exciting options.
Monte Carlo Rooftop Bar: Located steps from the beach and boardwalk, this rooftop bar will wow you with breathtaking views of the bay and the Ocean City skyline. Opened Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, Hotel Monte Carlo rooftop features a refreshing rooftop pool, as well as a rooftop bar, with fun with games like Connect-4 and foosball.

When it comes to enjoying a drink with a view, Northern Virginia offers an array of rooftop bars that elevate the drinking experience to new heights. With gorgeous views of Washington DC within range, Northern VA offers stunning vistas of the nation’s capital from most of its rooftops. Here are some of Bhlen’s best rooftop bars within the state of Virginia and to explore. Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

Northern VA and beyond:

The View of DC/The Observation Deck at CEB Tower: Located in Arlington, the Observation Deck offers unparalleled views of the Washington, D.C. skyline and beyond. Situated atop the CEB Tower, this rooftop destination boasts 360-degree panoramas, making it the perfect spot for sunset cocktails and Instagram-worthy snapshots.
The Perch @ Capital One Center: Perched above the bustling streets of Tysons Corner and deemed “a park in the sky”, this rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the area’s skyline. On top of Capital One Hall and connected to the Watermark Hotel, this rooftop offers experiences like no other in the DMV area. Soak up the skyline and toast fellow patrons at Starr Hill Biergarten, play a round of golf at Perch Putt, an 18-hole miniature golf featuring food trucks and a Tiki Bar or enjoy an outdoor concert, either way you will never forget this experience.
Skydome Restaurant: Located in Arlington, the Skydome Restaurant offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the DC skyline and the Potomac River. Located atop of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC Crystal City, enjoy stunning cocktails, local beers, and perfectly paired wines. Whether you’re enjoying tapas or a specialty cocktail, this rotating rooftop destination provides a memorable setting for any occasion.
Wilson Hardware: Conveniently located in the heart of Clarendon, this rooftop oasis offers a retractable awning for a year-round rooftop experience. Wilson Hardware Kitchen & Bar offers a contemporary selection of bar fare and burgers, signature, and summer cocktails, as well as tap and bottled beers.
Q Rooftop Bar at Quirk Hotel: Tucked away in downtown Richmond, Q Rooftop Bar is a favorite spot for an evening cocktail. This open-air rooftop bar has over 2,800 sq ft of space, offering inspiring views of the downtown skyline. With a cocktail, wine, and beer list different than the lobby restaurant’s menu, this laid-back atmosphere is the ideal spot to unwind after a long day or kick off a night out on the town.
Amuse – Hotel Le Meridian: Overlooking the Potomac River, this French bistro in Arlington, VA, is perfect for a sit-down business lunch or an elegant dinner while admiring breathtaking views. Relax with a cocktail in hand and soak up the ambiance of this vibrant neighborhood.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic date night spot, a lively hangout with friends, or simply a place to unwind and take in the scenery, these rooftop bars throughout the DMV offer an unforgettable- experience with breathtaking views, delicious drinks, and vibrant ambiance. So why not elevate your evening and toast to the beauty of the area from above? Cheers! Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

The post Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DC Area first appeared on BHLEN.