As the days grow longer and the weather warms, there's nothing quite like unwinding with a refreshing drink and delicious bites on a lively patio. The DMV area, with its vibrant culinary scene, offers an abundance of fantastic outdoor happy hour spots. From bustling rooftops to charming garden oases, here are our top 5 picks for enjoying the best of happy hour al fresco:
1. Colada Shop (Multiple Locations: DC, MD, VA)
Transport yourself to Havana with Colada Shop's daily "Hora Feliz." With multiple locations across DC, Maryland, and Virginia, these Cuban cafes offer a vibrant atmosphere and unbeatable deals. Think $8.50 piña coladas and daiquiris, $6 tropical spritzes, and delicious small plates like goat-cheese croquetas and yucca fries for the same price. It's the perfect spot for a lively and flavorful happy hour, available daily from 4 to 8 PM.
2. Dirty Habit (Penn Quarter, Washington D.C.)
Tucked away in the Hotel Monaco, Dirty Habit boasts one of the most stunning courtyards in the city. This Penn Quarter gem offers an elegant yet inviting setting for happy hour. Enjoy $9 glasses of wine, $13 margaritas, and seasonal cocktails, along with tempting bites. Their expansive outdoor space is perfect for a sophisticated evening out, with happy hour running Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 PM.
3. District Winery (Navy Yard, Washington D.C.)
For wine lovers and waterfront views, District Winery in Navy Yard is a must-visit. This breezy winery offers a delightful happy hour experience with select glasses of wine for $7 (beers are $5 and cocktails $10), complemented by a $13 charcuterie-and-cheese board. It's an ideal spot to pre-game dinner or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the water. Happy hour is available Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 6 PM.
4. Dacha Beer Garden (Shaw & Navy Yard, Washington D.C.)
When you're craving a lively beer garden experience, Dacha is the place to be. With locations in Shaw and Navy Yard, Dacha offers a fantastic outdoor setting with a wide selection of German, Belgian, and American craft beers, along with local meads, ciders, and draft cocktails. Their Shaw location is particularly popular for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food truck options. It's the perfect spot for a casual yet energetic happy hour with friends.
5. The Salt Line (Capitol Riverfront, Washington D.C. & Bethesda, MD)
Bringing a taste of New England to the DMV, The Salt Line offers a fantastic seafood-focused happy hour with impressive outdoor patios. Their Capitol Riverfront location provides idyllic waterfront views, while the Bethesda spot also offers great al fresco dining. Expect deals on local oysters (often half-priced!), along with discounted cocktails, beers, and wines. It's a prime destination for enjoying fresh seafood and drinks in a relaxed outdoor setting. Happy hour typically runs Monday through Friday, with slight variations by location, so it's always good to double-check!
Whether you're looking for a chic rooftop, a laid-back beer garden, or a charming patio, the DMV area has an outdoor happy hour for every taste. So grab your friends, soak up the sun, and enjoy the best of what our vibrant region has to offer!