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Be Part of History: Inauguration 2025 in DC

Marissa Perrone — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 18:47:53 +0000

Witness history in the making by visiting Washington, DC for the 60th presidential inauguration as Donald Trump and JD Vance are sworn in on the West Front of the United States Capitol on January 20, 2025. This will mark the second ever non-consecutive re-inauguration of a U.S. President (the first being Grover Cleveland in 1893). The festivities include a parade beforehand, the swearing in ceremony (hospitality upgrades available), and the swanky Inaugural Ball in the evening. Stick with Bhlen to experience the action without all the guesswork of figuring out where to go—we’ve got you covered with specialized lists that update based on your location!

Remember History with Museums and Monuments
Museums are one of the biggest selling points of a trip to DC. Many of the Smithsonian museums are free to the public, and the wealth of collections they offer are unparalleled. Don’t miss the Natural History Museum or the National Museum of American History (which has Wegmans Wonderplace on the first floor—a huge hit with the kiddos!) A lesser known museum in DC is the Museum of the Bible which offers patrons a powerful, uplifting trip through the history of the Christian faith (a paid, ticketed experience). In addition to museums, DC touts breathtaking monuments, each of which holds space for important historical figures and events. Be sure to check out the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. For more options, including museums and monuments near you, be sure to check out all of your options here.

Dine Like a Local at New DC Establishments
DC certainly has a few long standing institutions, like Ben’s Chili Bowl and Founding Farmers DC. But what about the brand new, future classic restaurants you won’t find in any guide (yet)? That’s where Bhlen’s What’s New Near You comes in. Use it to find nearby, one-of-a-kind dining experiences that might not appear in any dated guide. For example, you might use it to find recently opened Mallard in Logan Circle, where Chef Hamilton Johnson (originally from Charleston, SC) pays tribute to the American South and his father’s tradition of carving ducks.

Feel Like a Boss in a Luxury Hotel Bar
In DC, hotel bars are a matter of history. Take, for example, The Next Whiskey Bar, nestled inside Watergate, one of the most pivotal hotels in US history. Once you’re sipping whiskey in the light of the amber glow, you’ll be able to step back in time with the staff members, who are outfitted in vintage uniforms designed by Mad Men costume designer Janie Bryant. Or if you’re looking for more modern touches, check out Silver Lyan, which offers a truly unique experience of drinking in the former bank vault of the Riggs building. The dark, intimate bar’s namesake, Mr. Lyan, devises cocktails you won’t find anywhere else, using experimental ingredients in fresh new ways. Rub elbows with senators and feel like you’re a part of a new historical chapter in some of the most upscale luxury hotel bars in the area. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date list of luxury hotel bars near you, check out Bhlen’s dynamic list.

Fall in Love in One of the Most Romantic Cities in the Nation
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, who isn’t looking for a little romance? From romantic streets in Georgetown to stroll and observe the architecture to the docks of Alexandria offering winter views of the Potomac, there are plenty of unforgettable date night options. Use our Bhlen Link to find the perfect breathtaking spot near you.

Indulge with Sweets and Treats
After a long day of exploring the nation’s capital, who doesn’t love a little sweet treat? Georgetown Cupcake was known for creating the cupcake craze in the area—and lines around the block for their irresistible treats. The lines have calmed down a bit, but the cupcake love hasn’t dwindled at all, and a trip through the lovely cobblestone streets near the C and O Canal isn’t complete without a Georgetown Cupcake in hand. If you’re looking for a sweet, delectable treat during your stay, from a morning croissant to a late night cookie, Bhlen has you covered with a list of sweets and treats tailored just for you based on your location.

The post Be Part of History: Inauguration 2025 in DC 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.

Want More Than a Cherry Blossom Themed Experience in DC?

bhlenblogadmin — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 23:43:41 +0000

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a cherished annual event which is celebrated every spring in Washington DC along the Tidal Basin. This annual event celebrates the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan while showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the iconic cherry blossoms. Amidst the blossoms and festivities, food enthusiasts also have the opportunity to indulge in the culinary delights offered by the capital’s diverse dining scene. Join Bhlen as we explore some of the must-do’s in Washington DC during the 2024 National Cherry Blossom Festival, along with unrelated events within the surrounding area.

A Spectacle of Pink Petals:

As the cherry blossoms paint Washington DC in hues of pink and white, the city comes alive with the vibrant energy, transforming into a picturesque wonderland of pink petals and fragrant blooms. Visitors from around the world flock to the nation’s capital to witness this natural spectacle and immerse themselves in the beauty of the cherry blossoms. Whether strolling along the waterfront, picnicking under the trees, or snapping photos against the backdrop of the Jefferson Memorial, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Parades, Performances, and Pageantry:

One of the highlights of the National Cherry Blossom Festival is the spectacular parade that winds its way through the streets of downtown DC. There you can witness colorful floats, marching bands, and traditional Japanese performances as the parade continues along Constitution Avenue. In addition to the parade, the festival also features live music, dance performances, and cultural demonstrations at venues across the city, providing endless entertainment for visitors of all ages.

An Unforgettable Dining Experience:

Every year when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom, locals and travelers commence to DC and embrace the spirit of the season. With Cherry Blossom-Inspired Pop-Up Restaurants, International Cuisine and Upscale Dining all within a short distance of the Tidal Basin. For some, the dining experience has become an essential part of the festival experience with expectations growing year after year. From sakura-infused cocktails to seasonal menus that highlight the flavors of the season, food enthusiasts can embark on a culinary journey through DC’s melting pot of culture.

What If You Want More Than Just Cherry Blossoms?

What if you’re not interested in “Fine Dining”? What if you’re visiting Washington DC during the National Cherry Blossom Festival but you would like to enjoy March Madness at a local sports bar? What if you heard about some of DC’s soul food staples and wanted to experience a local Black-Owned restaurants. What if you just missed the St. Patrick’s Day celebration but would like to consume pints of Guinness at the closet pub? Or what if you’re unable to visit in June for Pride Festival 2024 but you wanted to support a local LGBTQ Friendly bar in the DC area? No matter what you’re looking for, Bhlen has you covered so just click on any of the categories mentioned and let us guide you into the city.

Note: Our links are location based so it works best if you’re within 125 miles of the Washington DC area with your smartphone location feature turned on.

As the National Cherry Blossom Festival unfolds in Washington DC, the city’s unique landscape offers unforgettable experiences across the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia area (DMV). From the breathtaking beauty of the cherry blossoms to the vibrant cultural celebrations and community engagement initiatives, the festival reminds us of the power that nature has to inspire and unite us. Whether you’re indulging in cherry blossom-themed delicacies or exploring unrelated events across the DMV, let Bhlen be your guide into the city and beyond for the 2024 National Cherry Blossom Festival.

The post Want More Than a Cherry Blossom Themed Experience in DC? first appeared on BHLEN.