DC has finally landed in that part of the year where everything wakes up a little — and it’s warming up. I'm not complaining (yet). The cherry blossoms feel like a distant memory, and we're now in the stretch where rooftops fill up, patios stay busy, and the city just hums a little differently.
The last month was full. I closed on several properties — always a meaningful milestone, both for my clients and for me — and squeezed in time to celebrate with friends at baby showers, birthday parties, and engagement parties along the way. There's something about this time of year that pulls people together, and I've been soaking it up. I also finally made it back to the National Gallery for an afternoon, a good reminder that some of the best things about living here are sitting right in front of us.
This month I am changing up my newsletter format. Now you will see two, shorter emails from me each month. At the beginning of the month I will share updates on life and happenings in Washington, DC to help you make the most of the city. Mid-month I will share an update on the DC metro area housing market and real estate trends. I would love to hear what you think about the new approach!
As always, if you or someone you know are looking to buy or sell in Washington, DC, Maryland, or Virginia, please feel free to send them my way. I’m always grateful for your trust and referrals, and I’m happy to be a resource however I can.
Taking place right outside the museum on Constitution Avenue, the National Archives is hosting a multi-day festival to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Daytime programming is free and built for families—historical reenactors, face painting, a patriotic selfie station, and free entry to the National Archives Museum
June 8 - August 28 Summer Hours at the National Arboretum The national Arboretum starts its extended summer hours, staying open from 8AM to 8PM every weekday through August 28, allowing visitors to enjoy visits later in the day!
Four days of visionary documentaries and conversations with the filmmakers behind them, screening at some of DC's most iconic venues—the National Portrait Gallery, the National Archives, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, MLK Library, and Eaton Cinema. A perfect way to spend a summer evening if you love a good story and a great venue.
The Warped Tour returns to Washington, DC. Experience unforgettable live performances and cultural moments in the heart of DC during this music festival at the festival grounds at RFK.
The Smithsonian marks the longest days of the year by keeping every museum on the National Mall open until 11 pm on both Friday and Saturday. Expect telescopes set up for stargazing, live performances, hands-on activities, and special evening programming across the Castle, the Arts and Industries Building, Natural History, Air and Space, and the African Art and Asian Art museums. A rare chance to wander the Mall after dark. Some museums require free timed passes—worth reserving in advance.
A rare chance to step inside the Smithsonian Castle, which has been closed for its first major renovation in over 50 years. It temporarily reopens through the summer as a Smithsonian Visitor Center, paired with "American Aspirations"—a curated exhibit pulling iconic objects from across the Smithsonian's collections. A perfect first stop before heading out to explore the Mall.
1. Become a morning person (just for a few months). A 7 am walk along the Tidal Basin or a sunrise jog on the C&O Canal feels like a different city — cooler, quiet, and golden. Save the AC-heavy activities (Smithsonians, Planet Word, the National Gallery) for the 2 pm heat dome hours.
2. Find your patio for the summer. Every neighborhood has one: a Georgetown waterfront bar, a Navy Yard rooftop, a Capitol Hill back garden strung with lights. Half of DC summer is just knowing where the breeze is and which spots have a great happy hour.
3. Chase the water. Kayak the Potomac from the Key Bridge Boathouse, post up at The Wharf with frozen rosé, or escape to Great Falls when the city feels too small. Locals quietly disappear to the Eastern Shore on weekends — you should, too.
4. Hit a free outdoor concert or movies. Jazz in the Garden at the Sculpture Garden, Outdoor Movies at parks around town, military band concerts at the Capitol. DC summer's secret weapon is how much of it costs zero dollars.
5. Lean into Independence Day. The 4th of July in DC is not to be missed. From watching fireworks over the National Mall to neighborhood celebrations and barbecues (or escaping the city altogether for a peaceful getaway), residents and visitors alike enjoy the holiday. This year also marks the country's 250th birthday, and DC is the epicenter, with special events throughout the summer.
Download my Washington DC Summer Guide to help you make the most of this summer! And if you have any questions about life or summer in DC, I would love to chat!
Relationships are more important than transactions, so thank you for trusting me with your real estate needs. I would be honored to extend the same dedicated service I provide to my clients to your friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Thanks for connecting us via email or by sharing my website.
