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🌸 Washington, D.C.

Todd & Partner's Cherry Blossom Adventure

✈️ SLC → DCA  |  March 29 – April 5, 2026
All Plans Confirmed & Locked — This itinerary is finalized. Chat is available below for questions and coordination.
Cherry blossoms Tidal Basin
Trip at a Glance ✅ CONFIRMED
8 days, 7 nights — work hard, play harder
🛫
SLC → Washington, D.C.
Sunday, March 29 — Departs 9:55 AM MT | Arrive ~3:30–4:00 PM ET
🛫
Washington, D.C. → SLC
Sunday, April 5 — Departs 5:12 PM ET | Leave for airport by ~2:30 PM
HotelConfirmed

🏠 The Darcy Hotel

Elegant boutique hotel in Downtown DC. 226 refined guest rooms with residential-style comfort. Just a 15-minute stroll from the White House and one mile from the National Mall.

📍 1515 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005

📞 (202) 232-7000

🍴 On-site: Gerrard Street Kitchen (elegant dining) & Bluestone Lane (coffee & casual bites)

🍸 Daily "Darcy Double" cocktail tasting in lobby — 5:00–5:30 PM (don't miss it!)

🚲 Free loaner bikes & strollers from The Darcy Gear Shop | 🐶 Pet-friendly (under 75 lbs, no fee)

💰 Valet parking: $60/night (incl. tax) | Day parking: $25

Hotel website →
Work

IAPP Global Privacy Summit

March 30–31 (Mon–Tue) at the Convention Center / Marriott Marquis. 300+ speakers, 60+ sessions on AI governance, privacy, cybersecurity law.

April 1 (Wed) — Breakfast/lunch with coworkers before they leave.

Vacation

Free Days to Explore

April 1 (afternoon) through April 5 — National Mall, museums, cherry blossoms at peak bloom, Chinatown, Michelin dining, spa days.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Outlook — Perfect Timing!

NPS Official: Peak bloom March 29 – April 1

NBC Storm Team4: March 30 – April 5

Consensus: March 30 – April 7 (blossoms last 7–10 days after peak)

🌸 You'll be there for the entire peak bloom. Every free day should have stunning blossoms.
Crowd Strategy: The Tidal Basin is magical at sunrise (~6:30–7:30 AM). By 10 AM on weekends it's shoulder-to-shoulder. Your weekday mornings (Wed–Fri) will be much less crowded.
Reservations & Booking Checklist
Everything you need to reserve — sorted by urgency. This is your one-stop action list.

🔥 Book Immediately (These Sell Out)

URGENT
Jônt — 2 Michelin stars, 17-seat counter. Book for Wed Apr 1 dinner. $375/pp + 22% svc.
Book on Tock → | If sold out: info@jontdc.com or (202) 773-9989
URGENT
Eddie Izzard's Hamlet — Klein Theatre, pick Tue Mar 31 or Fri Apr 3. From $90.
Shakespeare Theatre → | TodayTix (discounts) →
URGENT
Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes — Capital One Arena, Apr 2 & 3 at 7 PM. From $71.
Apr 2 Tickets → | Apr 3 Tickets →
URGENT
NMAAHC — Free timed-entry passes required (released 30 days ahead). Book for Thu Apr 2.
Reserve free passes →

📅 Book 2 Weeks Before

TEAM
La Grande Boucherie — Team dinner Sun Mar 29 at 7:15 PM. French brasserie, 699 14th St NW. Call (771) 208-4804 for group reservation.
Reserve on OpenTable/Website →
BOOK
Seven Reasons — Mon Mar 30 at 7:00 PM. Award-winning Latin American. 931 H St NW.
Book on OpenTable → | (202) 417-8563
TEAM
Olio e Più — Team dinner Tue Mar 31 at 6:00 PM. Italian, 699 14th St NW.
Reserve → | (771) 208-4815
TEAM
Ingle Korean Steakhouse — Team dinner Wed Apr 1 at 6:30 PM. Upscale Korean BBQ, 1926 14th St NW.
Website → | (202) 977-7404
RESY
The Dabney — Michelin ⭐. Opens 2 weeks ahead at noon on Resy. Great for any free evening.
Book on Resy → | ~$80–120/pp
RESY
Rose's Luxury — Michelin ⭐. April opened Mar 1 on Resy. Bar walk-ins same menu.
Book on Resy → | Wed–Thu 6–9 PM, Fri–Sat 5:30–9:30 PM
RESY
Tail Up Goat — Michelin ⭐. Credit card required. 2.5 hr limit. 20% svc included.
Book on Resy → | ~$70–100/pp | $50/pp cancel fee if after 5 PM day prior
DATE
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace — Great date-night spot. Oysters, seafood, upstairs bar + bocce court. 1612 14th St NW.
Book on OpenTable → | (202) 319-1612
DATE
Moon Rabbit — Chef Kevin Tien's acclaimed Vietnamese. Innovative coursed menu. 927 F St NW.
Book on OpenTable → | (202) 525-1446 | Mon–Thu 5–9:30 PM, Fri–Sat 5–10 PM
TEAM
Old Ebbitt Grill — Team lunch Thu Apr 2 at 11:00 AM. DC's oldest bar & restaurant. 675 15th St NW.
Website & reservations → | (202) 347-4800
DATE
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace — Fri Apr 3 lunch at 12:30 PM (bike tour finish!). 1612 14th St NW.
Book on OpenTable → | (202) 319-1612
BOOKED
Rooster & Owl ⭐ — Fri Apr 3 at 6:00 PM. Michelin-starred, 4-course tasting. 2 guests, Dining Room. 2436 14th St NW.
Website →
DATE
Doi Moi — Sat Apr 4 lunch/brunch. Vietnamese-French fusion, 1800 14th St NW. Bottomless brunch Sat 11 AM–4 PM.
Book on Resy → | (202) 733-5131

🎫 Entertainment — Book When Ready

FLEX
Chicago the Musical — Kennedy Center, Mar 31–Apr 5. From $49.
TodayTix → | Kennedy Center →
FLEX
Sasha Velour's TRAVESTY — Woolly Mammoth, Mar 24–Apr 12. World premiere drag operetta. From $25.
Woolly Mammoth →
FLEX
Jacqueline Novak — Howard Theatre, Thu Apr 2, 8 PM. Brilliant comedy. From $39.
TicketWeb →
FLEX
Bassem Youssef: Belly of the Beast — Warner Theatre, Fri Apr 3, 7:30 PM. From $77.
Ticketmaster →
FLEX
Spy Museum — Book ahead for up to 30% off. Sat 9AM–8PM, Sun–Fri 9AM–7PM.
Book timed tickets →
FLEX
Salamander Spa — Couples Massage — Call (202) 787-6100. 60 min $570 ($285/pp), 90 min $720 ($360/pp).
View treatments →
Reservation Hack: Set up alerts at ReservationFinder.io — it monitors Resy for cancellations at The Dabney, Rose's, Tail Up Goat and sends you a direct booking link when a table opens.

🎭 Evening Shows Comparison — Pick Your Nights

ShowDates During TripTimePrice FromVibeBook
Eddie Izzard's HamletMar 31, Apr 1–5
(pick Tue or Fri)
Evening$90Intense, brilliant solo ShakespeareTickets
Nate BargatzeApr 2 & Apr 37:00 PM$71Hilarious, clean, crowd-pleaserTickets
Jacqueline NovakApr 2 only8:00 PM$39Boundary-pushing, sharp comedyTickets
Bassem YoussefApr 3 only7:30 PM$77Political satire, "Jon Stewart of Egypt"Tickets
Chicago the MusicalMar 31 – Apr 5Various$49Classic Broadway, razzle dazzleTickets
Sasha Velour's TRAVESTYMar 29 – Apr 12Various$25Drag operetta, world premiereTickets
NSO: Strauss & SibeliusApr 2–4EveningVariesClassical orchestral, Kennedy CenterTickets

🍴 Michelin Dining Comparison — Plan Your Splurges

RestaurantStarsPrice/ppCuisineBest ForHow to Book
Jônt⭐⭐~$500Japanese tasting, 30 coursesTHE splurge night (Wed Apr 1)Tock
La Grande Boucherie$60–120French brasserie, raw bar, steaksTeam dinner (Sun Mar 29) ✅Website
Seven Reasons$60–90Latin American, VenezuelanMon Mar 30 dinner ✅OpenTable
Olio e Più$30–60Italian, pizza, handmade pastaTeam dinner (Tue Mar 31) ✅Website
Ingle Korean Steakhouse$50–80Upscale Korean BBQTeam dinner (Wed Apr 1) ✅Website
The Dabney$80–120Mid-Atlantic hearth-cookedAny free eveningResy
Rose's Luxury$60–100Creative New AmericanCoworker lunch (Wed Apr 1)Resy
Tail Up Goat$70–100Mediterranean / CaribbeanFinal lunch (Sun Apr 5)Resy
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace$40–70Oysters, seafood, SouthernDate night — just the two of you ❤️OpenTable
Moon Rabbit$60–90Innovative VietnameseDate night — just the two of you ❤️OpenTable
Old Ebbitt Grill$30–60Classic American, oyster barTeam lunch (Thu Apr 2) ✅Website
Rooster & Owl$80–120New American tasting menuFri Apr 3 dinner ✅ BOOKEDWebsite
Doi Moi$30–50Vietnamese-French fusionSat Apr 4 brunch ✅Resy
Xiquet$80–130Modern Spanish, paellaGeorgetown dinner optionResy
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Tap any "More details" to expand. Every event has times, prices, and booking links inline.
1

Sunday, March 29 — Arrival

Travel + settle in + first cherry blossoms
9:55 AM MT
Depart Salt Lake City
~3:30–4:00 PM ET
Arrive DC. Check in at The Darcy Hotel — 1515 Rhode Island Ave NW. Freshen up. Don't miss the "Darcy Double" lobby cocktail tasting at 5:00–5:30 PM!
5:00 PM
Tidal Basin golden hour walk — Cherry blossoms at or near peak! Walk the Jefferson Memorial side for the iconic framed-by-blossoms photos. ~2 mile loop. Free.
7:15 PM
🍴 Team Dinner: La Grande Boucherie — Stunning Art Nouveau French brasserie, one block from the White House. Classic and modern French cuisine with an acclaimed raw bar, large-format meats perfect for group celebrations, and an extravagant wine list.
📍 699 14th St NW (corner of 14th & G St) | 📞 (771) 208-4804
Make reservation → View menu →
Signature: Black pepper crusted Wagyu, prime dry-aged NY strip, entrecôte — ideal for sharing. Elegant Art Nouveau décor evokes turn-of-the-century grandeur. Great for the whole team!
The Dabney is still an excellent option another night — Michelin ⭐, hearth-cooked Mid-Atlantic. 122 Blagden Aly NW. ~$80–120/pp. Book on Resy → (opens 2 wks ahead at noon).
2

Monday, March 30 — IAPP Summit Day 1

Conference + dinner at Seven Reasons
8 AM – 5 PM
IAPP Global Privacy Summit — Convention Center. Full day of sessions.
7:00 PM
🍴 Dinner: Seven Reasons — Award-winning Latin American restaurant by Chef Enrique Limardo. Named DC's Best Restaurant (Washington Post) and Best New Restaurant in the Americas (Esquire). Creative, boundary-pushing menu with Venezuelan and Latin influences.
📍 931 H St NW, Washington DC 20001 | 📞 (202) 417-8563
Book on OpenTable → Website →
Signature: Gourmet arepas, Wagyu tartare, crispy pork belly, fresh ceviche, guava cheesecake. Sun–Wed dinner 5–10 PM, Thu–Sat 5–10:30 PM. Lunch Mon–Fri 12–2 PM.
9:00 PM
Optional: The Dollop Podcast Live — Lincoln Theatre, 7:30 PM. Ticketmaster
Chinatown is nearby — Walk under the Friendship Archway (7th & H St NW) after dinner. For another night: Pho 88 (608 H St NW, ~$15–20/pp) or Reren Lamen for hand-pulled noodles.
3

Tuesday, March 31 — IAPP Summit Day 2

Conference + team dinner at Olio e Più
8 AM – 5 PM
IAPP Summit Day 2 — Catch the keynotes!
6:00 PM
🍴 Team Dinner: Olio e Più — Popular Italian spot from the NYC original. Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, antipasti, and a lively atmosphere perfect for a group dinner. Right on 14th Street.
📍 699 14th St NW, Washington DC 20005 | 📞 (771) 208-4815
Make reservation → Menu & info →
Mon–Thu 11 AM–12 AM, Fri 11 AM–1 AM, Sat 10 AM–1 AM, Sun 10 AM–12 AM. Great for groups — Italian crowd-pleasers, killer cocktails.
Evening — pick one:
🎭 Eddie Izzard's Hamlet — Klein Theatre, 450 7th St NW. One performer, 23 characters. 2 hrs 5 min. From $90.
Shakespeare Theatre
🎵 Zara Larsson: Midnight Sun Tour — The Anthem, 8 PM. Swedish pop powerhouse + Amelia Moore. ~$173.
Ticketmaster
🎵 Patrick Watson: Uh Oh Tour — 9:30 Club, 7 PM. Beautiful indie art-rock. From $57.
Ticketmaster
🎭 Chicago — Kennedy Center. Classic Broadway. From $49.
TodayTix
4

Wednesday, April 1 — Vacation Begins!

Coworker goodbye meals + cherry blossoms + team dinner at Ingle
8:30 AM
Breakfast with coworkers
11:30 AM
Lunch: Rose's Luxury ⭐ — 717 8th St SE (Capitol Hill). Creative sharing plates in a converted townhouse. The pork lychee salad is legendary.
Book on Resy ~$60–100/pp
Walk-ins at bar (same menu). Upstairs bar + famous rooftop table. Signature: blue catfish w/ crispy bread, Peruvian chicken w/ fried yucca.
2:00 PM
🌸 Cherry Blossom Walk — Tidal Basin — Just the two of you! Walk the full 2-mile loop at PEAK BLOOM. Jefferson Memorial, MLK Memorial, FDR Memorial all framed by blossoms. Free.
4:30 PM
U.S. Botanic Garden — Free. Orchids, tropical plants, spring displays. 100 Maryland Ave SW. Open until 5 PM (outdoor gardens until 7 PM from Apr 1).
Plan visit
6:30 PM
🍴 Team Dinner: Ingle Korean Steakhouse — DC's uber-upscale Korean BBQ experience on 14th Street. Premium cuts, tableside grilling, and refined Korean flavors in a sleek, modern setting. A fantastic group dinner spot.
📍 1926 14th St NW, Washington DC | 📞 (202) 977-7404
Website → Book on Resy →
Upscale Korean steakhouse with premium meats, interactive tabletop grilling. Perfect for a group celebration to close out the work trip!
Jônt ⭐⭐ (2 Michelin stars) is still highly recommended for a couples-only splurge night later in the trip! 17-seat counter, ~30 courses, $375/pp + 22% svc. Book on Tock → — available Wed–Sun.
5

Thursday, April 2 — Last Day with the Team

Team lunch + team activity + part ways → date night + night tour

👥 Team Day → ❤️ Just the Two of You

Lunch and afternoon with the team, then you part ways and the rest of the trip is all yours!

11:00 AM
🍴 Team Lunch: Old Ebbitt Grill — DC's oldest bar & restaurant (est. 1856), steps from the White House. A beloved institution with classic American fare and one of the city's best raw bars. Oysters, burgers, Chesapeake crab cakes — great for a group.
📍 675 15th St NW (between F & G St) | 📞 (202) 347-4800
Website & reservations →
Open daily 8 AM–2 AM. Signature: oysters on the half shell, trout Parmesan, jumbo lump crab cake, classic burgers. Mahogany & velvet Beaux-Arts interior — a DC power dining landmark.
1:30 – 4:00 PM
🎯 Team Activity — TBD
Placeholder — still deciding on the activity. Update this once confirmed!
~4:00 PM
👋 Part ways with the team. The rest of the trip is just the two of you!
4:30 PM
Couples Massage: Salamander Spa — "Time for Two" in private couples suite. 1330 Maryland Ave SW. Book the 60-min session to leave time for dinner before the tour.
Call (202) 787-6100
View treatments
60 min: $570 ($285/pp) | 90 min: $720 ($360/pp). 14 treatment rooms, 2 couples suites.
5:45 PM — dinner before the tour (pick one):
🍴 Option 1: Moon Rabbit — Chef Kevin Tien's acclaimed Vietnamese. Innovative coursed menu with dishes like squid-stuffed boudin and barbecued monkfish. Named one of North America's 50 Best Restaurants. An early seating gives you plenty of time before 7 PM.
📍 927 F St NW (10-min walk to tour meeting point) | 📞 (202) 525-1446 | Thu 5–9:30 PM
Book on OpenTable

🍴 Option 2: Old Ebbitt Grill — You had lunch here earlier — but it's also a great pre-tour dinner option since it's literally steps from the tour meeting point. Quick, reliable, famous raw bar.
📍 675 15th St NW (2-min walk to 515 15th St tour start) | Open all day
Website

🍴 Option 3: Founding Farmers — Farm-to-table American comfort food. Massive menu, great cocktails, lively vibe. Very close to the tour start.
📍 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW (~10-min walk to tour) | 📞 (202) 822-8783 | Open daily until 10 PM
Website

🍴 Option 4: Officina — Upscale Italian at The Wharf. Beautiful waterfront setting with a rooftop. Handmade pasta, wood-fired dishes.
📍 1120 Maine Ave SW (~15 min Uber to tour) | Thu 5–10 PM
Website
7:00 – 9:00 PM
🌙 DC Monuments Vintage Car Night Tour BOOKED ✅
Cruise through illuminated DC in a vintage car! 2-hour guided tour of all the iconic monuments lit up at night.
📍 Meeting Point: 515 15th St NW (on 15th St between Pennsylvania Ave & F St, by Hotel Washington)
🕐 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 2 hours
💰 $143.32 paid | Booking ID: 8749NRaSWc
2 adults. To make changes, reply to confirmation email from DC Monuments Tour (no-reply@www.admin.dcmonumentstour.com).
~9:00 PM
Back from the tour! Optional nightcap: Off the Record — iconic underground bar at The Hay-Adams hotel, 800 16th St NW. Political caricatures line the walls. Steps from the tour end point.
6

Friday, April 3 — Bike Day!

Capital Bikeshare ride through DC's best sights + show night

🚲 Capital Bikeshare — How It Works

Download the Capital Bikeshare app (or use the Lyft app). Bikes are docked at stations all over the city — unlock with the app, ride, dock at any station when you're done.

Best deal: $10/day pass — unlimited 45-min classic bike rides. Rides over 45 min cost $0.05/min extra. E-bikes: $0.15/min. Just dock and re-dock at each stop to reset the clock!

📱 Pricing info  |  App Store  |  Google Play

💡 Tip: Dock your bike at each stop to keep rides under 45 min (free with day pass). There are 700+ stations — you'll always find one nearby.
Route Overview: ~10 miles, mostly flat & bike-friendly. Start near The Darcy, ride south through the National Mall, loop the Tidal Basin (cherry blossoms!), cruise along the waterfront to Georgetown for snacks, then ride back up through Dupont to 14th St for lunch at Pearl Dive. ~3 hours riding + stops, back by 12:30 for lunch.
Open full route in Google Maps →

🚲 The Route — Stop by Stop

9:00 AM — Start
☕ Coffee & Fuel Up — Grab coffee at Bluestone Lane right in The Darcy lobby before heading out. Walk to the nearest Capital Bikeshare station (15th & P St NW, 3-min walk from the hotel).
Buy your $10 day pass in the app. Unlock your bikes and you're off!
Stop 1 — 1.2 mi
🏠 The White House & Lafayette Square — Ride south on 15th St to Pennsylvania Ave. Quick photo stop at the north fence of the White House and Lafayette Square. Dock bikes at 15th & H St NW.
📷 Classic photo op. Tulips and spring flowers should be in full bloom in Lafayette Square.
Stop 2 — 0.8 mi
📌 Washington Monument — Continue south on 15th St to the Monument grounds. Dock at 15th St & Madison Dr. Walk the grounds, take in the scale up close.
📷 Stand southwest of the monument for the reflection-in-the-pool shot with Lincoln Memorial behind.
Stop 3 — 1.5 mi
🌸 Tidal Basin Loop — THE highlight. Ride the full loop through peak cherry blossoms. Pass the Jefferson Memorial, MLK Memorial, and FDR Memorial all framed by pink and white blossoms. Dock near the MLK Memorial.
📷 Best photos at the Jefferson Memorial with blossoms in foreground. Take your time — this is the magic.
Stop 4 — 1.0 mi
🏙 Lincoln Memorial & Reflecting Pool — Ride west to the Lincoln Memorial. Lock up and walk up the steps. Look back east down the Reflecting Pool — one of the most iconic views in America.
📷 Sit on the steps where MLK gave the "I Have a Dream" speech. The exact spot is marked.
Stop 5 — 2.5 mi
🌊 Rock Creek Trail to Georgetown Waterfront — Pick up the Rock Creek Trail heading north along the Potomac. Pass the Kennedy Center and Watergate on your left, Rosslyn skyline across the river. Trail drops you right at Georgetown Waterfront Park.
Beautiful, mostly car-free path along the river. One of the best stretches of cycling in DC.
🍦 Snack Stop
Georgetown Waterfront — Dock bikes and grab a mid-ride treat!
Baked & Wired — Legendary cupcakes & coffee. 1052 Thomas Jefferson St NW (2-min walk). The "Strawberry" cupcake is famous.
Paul Bakery — French pastries, croissants. On M Street.
Sit by the water, people-watch, enjoy the harbor. Quick stop — save your appetite for Pearl Dive!
Stop 6 — 2.0 mi
🌻 Dupont Circle — Ride east on P Street through the lovely Dupont neighborhood. Dock at Dupont Circle. Quick stroll, browse Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café (iconic bookstore-restaurant since 1976, 1517 Connecticut Ave).
😊 Optional: Dolcezza Gelato — DC's best Argentine-style gelato. 1560 Connecticut Ave NW.
Stop 7 — 0.8 mi
🚲 Ride to 14th Street — Short ride south from Dupont to 14th St NW. Dock bikes at a station near 14th & Q St. You're steps from lunch!
12:30 PM — Lunch!
🦖 Pearl Dive Oyster Palace — You made it! Dock the bikes and settle in for a well-earned lunch. Fresh oysters, Gulf shrimp, po'boys, and Southern-inspired seafood. Upstairs bar & bocce court.
📍 1612 14th St NW | 📞 (202) 319-1612 | Fri: 11 AM–11 PM
Book on OpenTable → Menu & info →
Total ride: ~10 miles. Reward yourselves with oysters and a cold drink!
2:30 PM
National Gallery of Art — Free. East Building: modern (Rothko, Calder). West Building: masterpieces (da Vinci, Vermeer, Monet). Underground light tunnel is incredible. Constitution Ave at 6th St. 10 AM–5 PM.
6:00 PM
⭐ Dinner: Rooster & Owl BOOKED ✅
Michelin-starred contemporary American by Chef Yuan Tang. Customizable 4-course shared plates tasting menu — pick your favorite option for each course, with at least one vegetarian choice per course. Market-driven flavors that meander from the Mediterranean to Asia.
📍 2436 14th St NW (just up 14th from Pearl Dive!) | 2 guests, Dining Room
Website → View menu →
Signature: Ricotta gnudi w/ sour cream soubise, baby carrots w/ labneh & cashew pesto, pistachio olive oil cake. A perfect date-night splurge after a day of biking!
~8:30 PM — After dinner:
😂 Bassem Youssef — Warner Theatre, 7:30 PM. From $77 (if you want to skip dessert and catch the show!). Ticketmaster
🎭 Sasha Velour's TRAVESTY — Woolly Mammoth. From $25. Woolly Mammoth
🎭 Eddie Izzard's Hamlet — Klein Theatre. From $90. Shakespeare Theatre
Or simply stroll 14th Street — you're right in the heart of U Street/14th St nightlife.
10:00 PM
Late-night drinks: U Street (music bars, cocktails) or Adams Morgan (bohemian nightlife, 18th St).
7

Saturday, April 4 — Bike Day 2 + Petalpalooza!

Capitol Hill & waterfront bike ride + Indonesian lunch + art museum + festival & fireworks
Saturday Bike Route: A completely different loop from Friday! This one heads east through Capitol Hill, down to the Navy Yard waterfront and Anacostia Riverwalk, then up to the Arboretum area before heading to Kensington for lunch. ~8 miles of riding + a short Uber to Artha Rini. You'll end up right near Petalpalooza!

🚲 Saturday Morning Bike Tour

8:00 AM
☕ Coffee at The Darcy — Fuel up at Bluestone Lane. Grab your bikes at 15th & P St NW.
Stop 1 — 1.5 mi
🏛 U.S. Capitol & Capitol Grounds — Ride east down P St to Massachusetts Ave, then south to the Capitol. The building is stunning from the west lawn. Dock at a station near 1st St & Independence Ave SE.
📷 The Capitol dome against a spring sky is spectacular. Walk the west terrace for the best angle back toward the Mall.
Stop 2 — 0.5 mi
📚 Library of Congress — Exterior & Neptune Fountain — Just across from the Capitol. The Jefferson Building is the most ornate building in DC. The stunning Neptune Fountain out front makes a great photo.
If you want to pop inside (free, open Sat 8:30 AM–5 PM), the Main Reading Room is jaw-dropping. Even 15 min is worth it.
Stop 3 — 1.0 mi
🏠 Eastern Market — DC's beloved public market since 1873. Saturday is THE day — the outdoor flea market is buzzing with local artists, vintage finds, fresh produce, and food stalls. 225 7th St SE.
🌯 Grab a fresh blueberry buckwheat pancake from the market hall, or a crepe from one of the outdoor vendors. Great people-watching.
Stop 4 — 1.5 mi
🌊 Anacostia Riverwalk Trail & Yards Park — Ride south through the Navy Yard neighborhood along the Anacostia Riverwalk. Beautiful waterfront path, modern architecture, and public art. Stop at Yards Park — swinging benches over the water, a canal basin to wade in, and great Anacostia River views.
This is also where Petalpalooza is tonight — scope it out early!
🍦 Snack Stop
Navy Yard Waterfront — Dock bikes and grab a quick treat.
Ice Cream Jubilee — DC-made artisan ice cream. Try the "Banana Caramel Crunch." 301 Water St SE.
All-Purpose Navy Yard — Excellent Italian, great for a quick espresso or pastry. 79 Potomac Ave SE.
Stop 5 — 1.5 mi
🌸 Congressional Cemetery & Cherry Trees — A hidden gem! One of the oldest cemeteries in America (1807), with beautiful cherry trees of its own — far fewer tourists than the Tidal Basin. Some famous graves: J. Edgar Hoover, John Philip Sousa, Civil War veterans. Peaceful and beautiful.
📍 1801 E St SE | Free, open dawn to dusk
A surprisingly lovely cycling detour. The cherry trees here are often overlooked.
~10:30 AM — Dock bikes
🚲 Dock bikes near Capitol Hill / Navy Yard — Total Saturday ride: ~6–7 miles. Dock at any nearby station and head to lunch.

🍴 Saturday Lunch + Afternoon

11:30 AM — lunch (pick one):
🍚 Option 1: Doi Moi — Vietnamese-French fusion on 14th Street. Small plates and shared dishes inspired by the vibrant street markets of Vietnam. Saturday bottomless brunch 11 AM–4 PM is legendary. Lively, fun atmosphere.
📍 1800 14th St NW | 📞 (202) 733-5131 | Sat 11 AM–2 AM
Book on Resy Website
Great banh mi sliders, pho, Vietnamese crepes, crispy spring rolls. ~$30–50/pp. Uber from Navy Yard ~12 min.

🍚 Option 2: Banana Leaves — Malaysian, Thai, Vietnamese, Singaporean and more. DC's go-to for Southeast Asian variety. Cozy Dupont Circle neighborhood spot with a huge menu.
📍 2020 Florida Ave NW | 📞 (202) 986-1333 | Sat 2–9 PM (opens late on weekends)
Website
Malaysian laksa, roti canai, pad thai, pho, sushi. ~$15–25/pp. Note: Opens at 2 PM on Saturdays — better as a late lunch/early dinner if you choose this one.

🍚 Option 3: Moon Rabbit — If you didn't go Thursday night! Chef Kevin Tien's acclaimed Vietnamese. One of North America's 50 Best Restaurants.
📍 927 F St NW | 📞 (202) 525-1446 | Sat 5–10 PM (dinner only — won't work for lunch)
Dinner only on Saturday, so save this for evening if you go. Otherwise Doi Moi is your best bet!
Recommendation: Doi Moi is the best Saturday lunch pick — it's close (14th St), open for brunch starting at 11 AM, and the Vietnamese-French fusion is fantastic. The bottomless brunch is a great way to kick off Petalpalooza day!
1:30 PM
Head to the National Mall — Metro or short Uber (~10 min from 14th St).
2:00 PM
🎨 National Gallery of Art — Free! Two incredible buildings connected by an underground tunnel with a stunning light installation.
East Building: Modern & contemporary — Rothko, Calder mobiles, Lichtenstein, a massive Picasso.
West Building: Old masters — the only da Vinci in the Americas, Vermeer, Monet's water lilies, Renoir.
📍 Constitution Ave at 6th St NW | Open 10 AM–5 PM | Free, no tickets
Don't miss: The underground Multiverse light tunnel connecting the buildings, and the rooftop terrace of the East Building for a view of the Capitol dome.
4:30 PM
Head to Petalpalooza — Metro (Green Line to Navy Yard) or Uber. ~15 min.

🌸 Saturday Evening — Petalpalooza!

5:00 PM
🌸 PETALPALOOZA! — Capitol Riverfront (Navy Yard). FREE! Live music on multiple stages, art installations, beverage garden, food vendors, roaming entertainers. 1 PM–9 PM.
📍 1st St SE & Tingey St SE. Metro: Navy Yard (Green Line).
Festival details
6:00 PM
Dinner — Festival food vendors (great variety!) or duck out to nearby Navy Yard restaurants.
8:30 PM
🎆 FIREWORKS! — Cherry Blossom Festival fireworks over the Anacostia River. Best views from the Capitol Riverfront.
Alt evening:
🎵 Old 97's + Lizzie No — 9:30 Club, 6 PM. Alt-country legends. From $57. Ticketmaster
8

Sunday, April 5 — Departure

Last morning + fly home at 5:12 PM
9:00 AM
Sleep in & leisurely breakfast.
10:30 AM
Last exploration: One more walk through the blossoms, Dumbarton Oaks gardens in Georgetown, or souvenirs.
12:30 PM
Final Lunch: Tail Up Goat ⭐ — Mediterranean in Adams Morgan. 1827 Adams Mill Rd NW. ~$70–100/pp.
Book on Resy
Signature: goat lasagna w/ kale & anchovy, lamb ribs w/ pistachio dukkah, lion's mane mushroom w/ burnt bread sauce. 20% svc included. $50/pp late cancel fee.
2:30 PM
Head to airport.
5:12 PM ET
🛫 Fly home to SLC.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Guide
Gallery, forecast, best spots, and festival details

2026 Peak Bloom Forecast

NPS Official: March 29 – April 1

NBC Storm Team4: March 30 – April 5

Consensus: March 30 – April 7

A colder-than-normal winter (chilliest in 20+ years) pushed bloom later. The Yoshino trees were at "Florets Visible" stage (2nd of 6) as of mid-March. Blossoms last 7–10 days after peak.

🌸 You'll be there for the entire peak. Every free day should have stunning blossoms.
Must-See

Tidal Basin

~3,000 cherry trees ringing the basin. 2-mile loop. Best photos: Jefferson Memorial framed by blossoms at sunrise or golden hour. Free, open 24/7.

📷 Best times: Sunrise (6:30–7:30 AM) or golden hour (5–6 PM). Weekday mornings much less crowded.

FREE

Cherry Blossom Festival Events During Your Trip

🌸 Petalpalooza — Sat Apr 4, 1–9 PM, Capitol Riverfront. Music, art, food, fireworks at 8:30 PM. Free.
Details →

🎨 Blossom Kite Festival — Sat Mar 28 (day before you arrive).

🎶 Full festival calendar: nationalcherryblossomfestival.org →

Less Crowded

East Potomac Park

Mix of early and late-blooming varieties. Peaceful walk along the Potomac. Free.

Garden

Dumbarton Oaks

Georgetown. 10 acres of terraced gardens, breathtaking in spring. Small admission. doaks.org →

Worth the Trip

U.S. National Arboretum

446 acres, Capitol Columns, bonsai collection, azaleas blooming in early April. Free, need car/Uber (~20 min). usna.usda.gov →

Dining Guide
Browse the flipbook below, then see the full comparison. Everything you need to decide — no clicking away.

⭐ Michelin Starred — Flip Through

⭐⭐ Two Stars

Jônt

17-seat chef's counter. ~30 courses of seasonal Japanese-inspired brilliance. Chef Ryan Ratino (2023 Michelin Young Chef Award). Located above Bresca.

Signature: Hokkaido uni w/ bluefin tuna, wagyu tartare w/ kaluga caviar, king crab rice in donabe clay pot

Price: $375/pp + 22% service (~$500/pp total)

When: Wed–Sun dinner only | 1904 14th St NW

Vibe: Intimate, high-energy, sharp-suited servers

Book on Tock →
⭐ One Star

The Dabney

Mid-Atlantic cuisine over a wood-burning hearth. James Beard Best Chef winner 2018. 90% local ingredients. Rustic farmhouse charm with exposed brick.

Signature: Hearth-roasted veg w/ whipped ricotta, American wagyu cap over coals, pie crust tart w/ pickled blueberries

Price: ~$80–120/pp

When: 122 Blagden Aly NW | Book 2 wks ahead at noon

Vibe: Cozy, romantic, rustic elegance

Book on Resy →
⭐ One Star

Rose's Luxury

Creative New American in a converted Capitol Hill townhouse. Walk-in bar seats with full menu. Famous rooftop table. Chef Aaron Silverman.

Signature: Pork lychee salad (legendary), blue catfish w/ crispy bread, Peruvian chicken w/ fried yucca

Price: ~$60–100/pp

When: 717 8th St SE | Wed–Thu 6–9, Fri–Sat 5:30–9:30

Vibe: Warm, eclectic, neighborhood gem

Book on Resy →
⭐ One Star

Tail Up Goat

Mediterranean-inspired, Caribbean-inflected. Incredible bread program. Jill Tyler won 2024 Michelin Service Award. Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Signature: Goat lasagna w/ kale & anchovy, lamb ribs w/ pistachio dukkah, lion's mane mushroom w/ burnt bread sauce

Price: ~$70–100/pp (20% svc included)

When: 1827 Adams Mill Rd NW | 2.5 hr limit | $50/pp late cancel

Vibe: Lively, warm, neighborhood celebration

Book on Resy →

🍚 Asian Food — Full Comparison

RestaurantTypePrice/ppLocationWhy Go
Pho 88Vietnamese$15–20608 H St NW (Chinatown)Steps from Convention Center. Authentic, cozy, brick walls.
Pho VietVietnamese$12–183513 14th St NW"Best pho in DC." Botanical patio. Pet-friendly.
PhoXoticVietnamese$15–25DCMichelin-recommended. Creative reinvention of classics.
Eden CenterVietnamese Mall$8–15Falls Church, VA (20 min)Most authentic. Sprawling mall with dozens of shops.
Firepan KBBQKorean BBQ$40–60Silver Spring / Falls ChurchHighest rated KBBQ. AYCE from $24.99. Table grills.
Manna KBBQKorean BBQ$35–50Capitol Hill4.8 stars. Excellent banchan. More central.
KPOTKBBQ + Hot Pot$30–40DC areaAYCE combo of KBBQ + hot pot. Fun for couples.
Happy LambHot Pot$30–45DC / Falls ChurchMongolian-Taiwanese. Dual broth. Great lamb.
Dumpling Hot PotHot Pot$25–40H Street NEHandmade dumplings + hot pot. Shanghai/Szechuan.
Chinatown Reality Check: DC's Chinatown is small and commercialized (H St NW at 6th–8th). The Friendship Archway is worth a photo. For serious Asian food density, drive 20 min to Eden Center in Falls Church, VA — sprawling Vietnamese mall with incredible pho, banh mi, and more.
Events & Entertainment
Every confirmed show during your trip with dates, times, prices, and booking links

🌸 Festival

FREEApril 4

Petalpalooza

Saturday, April 4 | 1:00–9:00 PM | Capitol Riverfront (Navy Yard). Live music on multiple stages, art installations, beverage garden, food vendors. Fireworks at 8:30 PM.

📍 1st St SE & Tingey St SE. Metro: Navy Yard (Green Line). No tickets needed.

Festival details →

😂 Comedy

Apr 2 & 3

Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes

Capital One Arena | 7:00 PM (Doors 6 PM) | From $71, avg $136

Clean, hilarious, crowd-pleaser. One of the biggest comics touring.

601 F St NW

Apr 2Apr 3
Apr 2

Jacqueline Novak

Howard Theatre | 8:00 PM (Doors 6:30) | From $39

Brilliant, boundary-pushing. Her "Get On Your Knees" was a hit.

620 T St NW

TicketWeb →
Apr 3

Bassem Youssef

Warner Theatre | 7:30 PM | From $77

"The Jon Stewart of Egypt." Sharp political satire and storytelling.

513 13th St NW

Ticketmaster →
Nightly

DC Improv Comedy Club

Shows nightly. Check calendar for specific lineups.

1140 Connecticut Ave NW

View schedule →

🎭 Theater

Must-SeeMar 27–Apr 11

Eddie Izzard's The Tragedy of Hamlet

One performer, 23 characters, all of Shakespeare's Hamlet. Broke box office records in NYC, Chicago, London. 2 hrs 5 min with intermission.

Klein Theatre, 450 7th St NW | Shakespeare Theatre Co. | From $90

Shakespeare Theatre →TodayTix (discounts) →
Mar 24–Apr 12

Sasha Velour's TRAVESTY

World premiere drag operetta. "Part performance art, part history, part call to action."

Woolly Mammoth, 641 D St NW | From $25

Tickets →
Mar 31–Apr 5

Chicago the Musical

Tony-winning classic. Kennedy Center Opera House. 2 hrs 30 min.

From $49 on TodayTix

TodayTix →

🎵 Live Music

Mar 31

Zara Larsson: Midnight Sun Tour

The Anthem (901 Wharf St SW) | 8 PM | Swedish pop + Amelia Moore | Avg ~$173

Ticketmaster →
Mar 31

Patrick Watson

9:30 Club | 7 PM | Beautiful indie art-rock. From $57.

Ticketmaster →
Apr 4

Old 97's + Lizzie No

9:30 Club | 6 PM | Alt-country legends. From $57.

Ticketmaster →
Apr 2–4

NSO: Strauss & Sibelius

Kennedy Center Concert Hall. Simone Young conducts. Sergey Khachatryan on violin.

Kennedy Center →
Nightly

Blues Alley Jazz

Georgetown jazz supper club since 1965. Intimate shows + food. 1073 Wisconsin Ave NW.

Schedule →
Last-Minute Deals: TodayTix for same-day/next-day discounts. TheatreWashington.org for everything playing in DC.
Wellness & Relaxation
Spa treatments, gardens, and self-care with pricing and booking

💆 Spa & Massage

PremiumCouples Suite

Salamander Spa — "Time for Two"

Luxurious two-level spa near the National Mall. 14 treatment rooms including 2 dedicated couples suites. Customized massage tailored to each partner.

📍 1330 Maryland Ave SW (Salamander DC hotel)

💰 60 min: $570 ($285/pp) | 90 min: $720 ($360/pp)

📞 Call (202) 787-6100 to book

View treatments →

Spa Pendry

Pendry hotel on The Wharf. Sleek, modern. Waterfront vibes. Great couples packages.

735 Wharf St SW

ETALON Day Spa

Highly rated for customized couples experiences. Tailored to each person.

Foot Massage

After-Museum Foot Care

Z.Y Meridian Massage Spa — Thorough, intense foot treatments. Walk-in or call.
Capital Blossom Day Spa — Signature foot massage, mixed techniques.
Star Collection Head Spa — Japanese-inspired foot, hand, head massage for couples.

🌱 Gardens & Green Spaces

FREE

U.S. Botanic Garden

Oldest continuously operating public garden in the U.S. (since 1820). Orchids, tropicals, desert landscapes, spring displays. Spring is the BEST time.

📍 100 Maryland Ave SW (foot of Capitol) | 10 AM–5 PM, outdoor gardens until 7 PM from Apr 1 | Free, no reservation

Plan visit →

Dumbarton Oaks

Georgetown. 10 acres terraced gardens. Cherry trees + spring bulbs. Small admission.

1703 32nd St NW

Visit info →
FREE

National Arboretum

446 acres. Capitol Columns, bonsai, azaleas. Need car/Uber (~20 min). 8 AM–5 PM.

Visit info →
Explore & Shop
Museums, neighborhoods, and retail therapy

🏛 Must-See Museums

FREEPass Required

African American History

Most impactful Smithsonian. Start from bottom (history) up (culture). 2-3 hrs.

1400 Constitution Ave. Tue–Sun 10–5:30, Mon 12–5:30.

Reserve passes →
FREE

Air & Space Museum

Recently renovated. Wright Flyer, Apollo 11, touchable moon rock.

655 Jefferson Dr SW. 10–5:30. No tickets.

FREE

National Gallery of Art

Da Vinci, Vermeer, Monet, Rothko. Underground light tunnel. Two buildings.

Constitution Ave at 6th. 10–5.

FREE

Natural History Museum

Hope Diamond, dinosaur hall, ocean hall, butterfly pavilion.

10th & Constitution. 10–5:30.

Ticketed

International Spy Museum

Take on a cover identity, crack codes, learn real espionage. Super fun for couples. Book ahead for up to 30% off. Sat 9AM–8PM, Sun–Fri 9AM–7PM.

700 L'Enfant Plaza SW

Book tickets (save 30%) →

🛍 Shopping

Top Pick

Georgetown — M Street & Wisconsin Ave

Cady's Alley — 20+ design boutiques (Dries Van Noten, Marni, Marc Jacobs)
Book Hill — North on Wisconsin for indie shops, galleries, antiques
Glossier — Aviation-themed flagship, Instagrammable
Lili The First — One-of-a-kind pieces from independent designers
Everard's — Family-owned since 1999, on-site tailoring

Dupont Circle

Kramerbooks, unique boutiques, galleries. Sunday farmers market.

The Wharf

Waterfront district. Shops, restaurants, harbor walks. Home to The Anthem + Spa Pendry.

🏙 Neighborhoods

Adams Morgan

Bohemian, eclectic. Great nightlife + international restaurants on 18th St. Home to Tail Up Goat.

U Street Corridor

Historic "Black Broadway." 9:30 Club, Ben's Chili Bowl, live music, trendy bars.

After Dark
Options for when the mood strikes

🔒 Adults Only Content

Lifestyle events, adult clubs, and nightlife for open/adventurous couples.

🔥 Lifestyle Events & Clubs
Apply for memberships 2–3 weeks BEFORE your trip
Timing: Saturday nights are most active. Apply early — most groups require photo verification. Also check Kasidie, SDC, and SLS for DC-area events and house parties not listed on public websites.
LifestyleApply Now

Sinn-Ergy

Members-only events since 2008 for "select, classy, sexy, fun couples." Themed parties, meet & greets (Sip & Sinn), sensual fantasy events. Screened membership.

Events via Eventbrite invitation with one-time purchase links.

📧 party@sinn-ergy.com for April events

Party info →Events →
Lifestyle

Swing Social Events

DC-area organizers, upscale themed parties at private venues. Typically Saturday nights.

Check calendar →
CommunityFree

Black Ring Swing

Premiere DMV community. Meet & greets, house parties, hotel takeovers, pool parties. "No pressure, fun, sexy play at your comfort level." Free to join.

Events →Join →
Club

The Crucible

DC's dedicated BDSM/swingers club. Private, members-only, themed nights. Research guest access before trip.

Platforms:
Kasidiekasidie.com — Popular for DC/VA/MD events, house parties
SDCsdc.com — Global platform, active DC community
SLSswinglifestyle.com — Long-running, DC event calendar
Create profiles and browse events for your dates. Many private parties only listed here.
💃 Gentleman's Clubs
All couple-friendly
Top RatedCouple-Friendly

Cloakroom

Multi-level venue, extensively renovated. "Best of DC Adult Entertainment." Nationally nominated Best Overall Gentleman's Club (2019, 2022, 2023). Explicitly welcomes couples.

📍 476 K St NW | Mon–Thu 8 PM–2 AM, Fri–Sat 8 PM–3 AM, Sun 8 PM–2 AM

💰 $20 entertainment fee (fully nude) | 7 days/week

Website →FAQ →
Classic

Camelot Showbar

Legendary since 1979. Two-story, classic elegance + modern luxury. Rated #1 DC night club.

1823 M St NW

Website →
No Cover

Platinum DC Club

Near Dupont Circle. No cover, full-nude, two stages, VIP rooms. Intimate vibe.

Website →

The House Nightclub

DC staple since 1979. Multiple entertainment areas.

Website →
Best for Couples: Cloakroom is most couple-friendly and upscale. Consider Fri Apr 3 for after-dark activities since you won't need to be up early Saturday. Sat Apr 4 is Petalpalooza — plan accordingly!

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📊 Polls & Votes

Which dinner should we book first?

Jônt (Tasting Menu, $$$) 0
The Dabney (Farm-to-table, $$) 0
Rose's Luxury (No-Res, $$) 0
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Preferred day for Monuments at Night?

Monday Mar 30 0
Wednesday Apr 1 0
Friday Apr 3 0
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Packing & DC Tips

Late March / Early April Weather

Highs: 55–68°F
Lows: 38–48°F
Rain: Likely (pack umbrella!)
Cherry Blossoms: Peak bloom Mar 28 – Apr 4
Daylight: ~7 AM – 7:30 PM
Humidity: Moderate
Best photo light: Golden hour ~6:30 PM

Packing Checklist

DC Pro Tips

Metro: Fastest way around — avoid rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM)
Smithsonians: All free! But NMAAHC needs timed passes
Cherry Blossoms: Sunrise (6:30 AM) = best photos, no crowds
Monuments at night: Stunning and less crowded — highly recommend
Restaurant reservations: Book Jônt and Dabney ASAP — weeks out
Tidal Basin: Walk counterclockwise from MLK Memorial for best views
Uber/Lyft: Works great in DC, cheaper than taxis
Georgetown: Not on Metro — walk, bus, or rideshare
Tipping: 20% meals, $2-3/drink, $1-2/coffee