Summer City Guide: Washington, DC

Complex's Summer 2013 essentials in the District.

Photo Removed
Complex Original

Blank pixel used during image takedowns

When it comes to summer activities, the warm weather always brings out the best in us. So for 15 straight days, we're going to be dropping City Guides telling you the best concerts to see, outdoor activities to do, and places to eat, shop and stay with a summer focus. Next up, Washington, DC. With that, here's our Summer 2013 essentials in the District.

Download Summer City Guide: Washington, DC As A PDF

Beyoncé

Mrs. Carter takes her talents to DC for back-to-back sold out performances at the Verizon Center (July 29-30). If you still need tickets, we suggest you do whatever it takes.

Website: beyonce.com

DC Jazz Festival

When it comes to jazz in the nation’s capital, don’t miss the DC Jazz Festival (June 5-16). The annual summer festival features 100 live performances across 60 venues in 10 nights.

Website: dcjazzfest.org

Ben’s Chili Bowl

A DC staple known for chili dogs and milkshakes, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been flippin’ half smokes since 1958. If you don’t get out much, you may remember seeing it on Man v. Food.

Website: benschilibowl.com

Georgetown Cupcake

Founded in 2008 by two sisters, Georgetown Cupcake now sells 10,000 cupcakes daily across all six of their locations. You’ll get to choose from one of the 18 flavors that rotate daily.

Website: georgetowncupcake.com

The Tombs

Housed in a converted 19th-century Federal-style home, the Tombs is a favorite hangout for students and faculty of nearby Georgetown University.

Website: tombs.com

National Capital Barbecue Battle

The National Capital Barbecue Battle (June 22-23) is an annual competition between top barbecue restaurants from DC and nationwide. And with $40,000 on the line, they’re cooking for more than just bragging rights.

Website: bbqdc.com

Screen on the Green

An annual summer favorite, Screen on the Green shows classic movies for free on a giant screen on the National Mall. Clear some time on your Monday nights starting this July.

Website: friendsofscreenonthegreen.org

MAJOR

After their building collapsed, DC’s favorite sneaker boutique worked tirelessly to reopen their doors. And since reopening, MAJOR is back and better than ever.

Website: majordc.com

Hugh & Crye

With a showroom that doubles as an office, online menswear retailer Hugh & Crye would love for you to stop by their Georgetown office and see what life as a startup is like. We’d also understand if you decide to pickup some dress shirts while you’re there.

Website: hughandcrye.com

The Ritz-Carlton

For those looking to spend loot and get style, class and elegance in return, The Ritz-Carlton is your choice. There’s also an on-site full-length basketball court that Michael Jordan used to play on when in residence.

Website: ritzcarlton.com

Donovan House

Looking to spend some time in a rooftop pool, while also taking in views of the White House? The Donovan House has you covered. Oh yeah, you can bring your dog too.

Website: donovanhousehotel.com

Stay ahead on Exclusives

Download the Complex App