6 Cold-Weather Date Ideas That'll Heat Up Your Love Life
UPDATE: Now that it actually feels like winter, it's time to snuggle up with your sweetie and plan some quality cold-weather dates. This story was originally published on December 13, 2012.
We'll admit it: After 100+ repeat listens of "Winter Wonderland," we've discovered that the lyrics lay out the pretty perfect cold-weather date — frolicking in the snow, building snowmen, conspiring by the fire. Idyllic, right? But this is D.C., and we don't exactly have an abundance of freshly fallen powder and open meadows (or even a working fireplace) at our fingertips.
Still, we do have some inspired ideas for a wintry rendezvous. Exactly how frightful (or delightful) it gets outside may be beyond our control, but whether you're a tried-and-true romantic, an adventurous type, or a low-key lover, your ideal winter date is just a click away. Go on, get cozy!
"Exquisitely Evil: 50 Years of Bond Villains" at the International Spy Museum
Unless you've been hanging out under the proverbial rock lately, you know someone who's at least heard of Skyfall and its epicness. The latest Bond film marks the 50th anniversary of slick spies in tailored suits sneaking their way into our hearts, and D.C. just happens to be home to the country's coolest tribute to espionage. The current exhibition at the International Spy Museum commemorates half a century of cinematic Bond magic (focusing on the villains), with movie memorabilia and historical artifacts galore. Who wouldn't find that exhilarating?
Where: 800 F Street NW; 202-393-7798.
Take an interactive, self-guided tour with Stray Boots
If you're looking for a date that's on the adventurous, active side, how 'bout a secret text-message-guided tour through D.C.? Stray Boots interactive cell phone tours are a quirky way to check out parts of the city you may not know very well, while bonding with your partner as a investigative team. The company sends clues via text, which players use to traverse their designated "game zone" — Penn Quarter, Georgetown, or a series of Smithsonian museums — at their own pace. Through the clues, you'll learn fascinating facts about tourist sites and famous Washingtonians, and you'll have to solve riddles, find treasures, and answer trivia questions. Definitely an out-of-the-box date that'll get the endorphins flowing.
Skip the rom-com and see a play
Heading to the movie theater is a sort of de facto rendezvous, especially when it's frigid out. Why not enjoy the same type of experience — cozying up in a theater with refreshments and two hours of dramatic entertainment — but go with the live version? The DMV boasts plenty of amazing venues (Arena Stage, Studio Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre, The Kennedy Center, and Round House Theatre's two locations, for starters), and it always feels good to support local talent. Plus, it's a bit more cultured to see a live performance over a blockbuster flick, if we do say so ourselves. The hilarious and touching My Fair Lady runs through January 6 at Arena Stage, or check out The Aliens, an acclaimed story about two Vermont slackers who own a coffee shop and the teenager that comes into their lives, at Studio Theatre.
Photos: Courtesy of Torpedo Factory Art Center, International Spy Museum, and Arena Stage
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