It is officially peak summer in DC — humid, loud, and alive in that very specific way only this city pulls off. I've been leaning all the way in. Long dinners, late sunsets, and just enough humid walks home.
The last few weeks have been a good mix of work and play. I've been out with buyer clients who are deep into their searches, that stretch where we've moved past the wishlist and are getting honest about what actually matters. Always one of my favorite parts of this work. I made it to the Smithsonian Solstice Celebration (still one of the most underrated nights of the DC summer), tried a few new restaurants worth talking about, and celebrated with friends through a string of graduations and birthdays. I've also been testing out my new green District Roots sunglasses. If you don't already have a pair but would like one — let me know!
As a reminder, I’m changing up the newsletter format. Going forward, you'll see two shorter emails from me each month instead of one. Early in the month I'll share life updates and what's happening around DC to help you make the most of the city. Mid-month I'll send a focused update on the DC metro housing market and real estate trends. I'd genuinely love to hear what you think — hit reply and let me know.
As always, if you, or someone you know, is thinking about buying or selling in DC, Maryland, or Virginia, please send them my way. I'm always grateful for your trust and your referrals, and I'm happy to be a resource however I can.
Warmly,
Hannah
July 11, 18, and 25, films start at dusk REACH Free Outdoor Films at the Kennedy Center One of the best-kept summer secrets in DC: free outdoor movies on the REACH Video Wall, with the Potomac as your backdrop. The July lineup is Superman (July 11), The Princess Diaries (July 18), and Clue (July 25). Bring a picnic blanket, grab dinner from one of the food trucks, and settle in. No reservations required, no tickets, no fuss.
Get your creative juices flowing with printmaking, dance and sing along to the King Street Bluegrass band, then explore the exhibits and enjoy hands-on activities in celebration of the new Bluegrass Forever stamp. Cash bar available. Registration is recommended but not required. If the event reaches capacity, preference will be given to those who registered in advance.
Each summer, the Lotus and Water Lily Festival invites visitors to experience the stunning blooms of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens while celebrating the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Anacostia River. This year, the festival embraces a special America 250th theme, highlighting stories that connect our shared national history with the beauty of this treasured landscape.
July 25 – August 2 Mubadala DC Open at Rock Creek Park Tennis Center DC's signature professional tennis tournament brings ATP and WTA top-tier talent to Rock Creek Park for nine days of matches. Even if you're not a die-hard tennis fan, it's a great excuse to spend an afternoon in the trees off 16th Street—and ground passes are very reasonable for the early rounds. A reminder that summer in DC isn't just the Mall.
Open Now
The Lincoln Memorial Undercroft A century-old secret is finally open: 15,000 square feet of newly built exhibits beneath the Lincoln Memorial, opened just in time for the 250th. Original signed copies of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment are on display together for the first time, literally underneath the president who made them law. Free, but reserve timed tickets ahead—this is going to be the hottest new museum experience in DC this summer.
Open Now
National Geographic Museum of Exploration The reimagined National Geographic Museum reopens this summer with a completely new identity. Expect immersive, cutting-edge tech, an outdoor courtyard, and exhibits on wildlife, communities, and cultures from all over the world. Brand new, walkable from Dupont Circle, and the perfect indoor escape on a hot July afternoon. 1600 M Street NW.
Now Through Sept. 6 Curious George: Let's Get Curious! at the National Children's Museum A new immersive exhibit that drops kids straight into Curious George's world—a pulley-operated apartment building, a construction site, mini-golf, and the rocket George flew to space. Built for ages 2-8, but honestly fun at any age.
July is coming, and DC does not ease you into it. One day it's pleasant, the next you're sprinting for cover under a Whole Foods awning because the sky just opened up on you. If you're new to the city, or you've just never sat down and named the patterns, here's what July actually looks like — and how to get the most out of it.
1. The storms are not polite. They show up fast, hit hard, and don't care what's on your calendar. We're talking drenched-in-seconds, full-force summer storms that roll in with almost no warning. If you're inside when it happens, enjoy the show. If you're not — run.
2. Keep your camera app ready. This is the part nobody tells you. July skies in DC are dramatic — big clouds rolling over the monuments, rainbows after the storms clear, golden light in the early morning and again right before sunset. It's some of the best light all year. Don't miss it because your phone was in your bag.
3. Dress for the humidity, not the heat. The temperature is one thing. The humidity is another animal entirely. Some mornings it feels less like Washington and more like a sauna with a Metro card. Light, breathable fabrics only. Leave the denim home. (And I still don't know how the men in full suits downtown survive this — if you do, tell me your secret.)
4. Eat outside while you can. Yes, it's hot. But evenings cool down just enough to make a patio dinner genuinely worth it, and golden hour on a rooftop in July hits differently than any other month. Book that reservation before everyone else has the same idea — and they will.
5. The best stuff is free. Outdoor concerts, free museum nights, monuments lit up after dark — DC hands you a lot this time of year and asks for nothing back. If you're new here, this is the month to take full advantage of it.
July asks a lot of you. But it also gives you some of the best reasons to love living in this city. 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.
