Get Wet this Summer in DC
DC Summer Pool and Pool Party Guide
One may imagine a DC pool party to be a sea of pale coeds mixed in with politicians in American flag draped Speedos donning their white socks, dress shoes and bow ties. Ladies would be showing off their giant hats and cowering under the poolside umbrellas.
Contrary to DC’s conservative reputation, DC boasts several summer pool parties that look more like the left overs still hanging on for dear life from last’s night revelry in the DC nightclubs and bars. This guide will offer the best in poolsides in DC, even if it’s just a hole with water in it so you can cool off!
The Capitol Skyline Hotel
Where: 10 I St SW, Washington DC
What: Voted DC’s #1 Pool three years running by The Washingtonian.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, it’s not hard for guests to feel as if they have left the city for a more exotic destination. Visit the poolside bar. Enjoy some food from the grill. Mingle or just relax.
Renowned for lively parties Saturdays and Sundays
Mother Trucker, seven Saturdays this summer starting May 19, 11am-7pm, $15 to enter pool area
- 10 bars will be slinging mixed drinks and beer
- 20 food trucks decamped in the parking lot
- Four local DJs spinning all day
- Fire-breathers, aerial artists, multiple moon bounces and a giant Slip ’N Slide on the parking deck
Adult Swim, hosted by, Liquid Lifestyle Sundays this summer starting May 27, noon-6pm (private soft-launch May 20, 2-5pm), $20. Tables are $500, including 2 bottles.
- Six bars
- Bottle service (champagne and liquor)
- A giant grill turning out burgers and dogs all day
- Local DJs, along with live musicians like bongo drummers and saxophonists
- Blow-up pool toys and costumed dancers throughout the day
Two summers ago, the Capitol Skyline’s 17,000 square feet pool party event was featured on MTV’s the Real World when the cast made a cameo appearance. The pool also received coverage from the Washington Post, and DC Magazine.
Adult Swimmers can stay the night at the Capitol Skyline Hotel for the special room rate of $99 by visiting http://www.CapitolSkyl… and entering promo code “ADULT”.
To RSVP, patrons must text their full names to 202-RESERVE. After 1 p.m. or without a text RSVP, cover charge is $20 at the door. For additional information, visit www.DCPOOLPARTY.com.
Fees: Single: $325 (Summer all access pass)
Donovan Hotel
Where: 1155 14th St. NW
What:
Situated on the rooftop of Donovan House, this Thompson hotel is home to a smaller pool, which is more of a trendy place to see and be seen rather than swim. The pool’s bar menu features fare from the hotel’s signature restaurant ZENTAN, specialty cocktails, and an extensive wine list, making it ideal for an early cocktail or a late-night rendezvous in a beautiful setting.
The swimming pool is reserved for hotel guests only during the day.
When:
Pool Hours:
- Monday-Friday 7 am – 6 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 7 am – 7 pm
Bar Hours:
- Monday-Friday 5 pm – 1 am
- Saturday & Sunday 7 pm – 1 am
- Last call 12:45 am
Liaison Capitol Hill
Where: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW DC
What:
Sit by the pool after a long day bumping elbows with the politicians on the Hill then come relax at the rooftop pool. The Hill’s one-and-only rooftop pool and bar offers drinks and food and yoga to the public and hotel guests.
No room booked? No problem! The open-air rooftop bar offers free admission daily after 5PM. If you want to soak up the rays and work on that skin cancer, buy a day pass for $20.
When:
The pool is open May 14- Labor Day:
- Swimming: 10am-10pm
- Bar Open: 11am-11pm
- Relax and unwind until midnight
Hilton Embassy Row
Where: 2015 Massachussetts between 20th and 21st
What:
Get a bird eye view of the embassies that line embassies that line Massachusetts Avenue while sitting by the heated outdoor pool and sprawling deck from May until October! Just walk up to the front desk, ask for a day pass to the pool, and pay $15 for a day in the sun and enjoy some nice views of Dupont Circle from its rooftop.
When:
- The pool is open May 1-Oct 31
- Monday – Sunday: 6am – 10pm
Washington Plaza Hotel
Where: 10 Thomas Circle NW DC
What:
Located on Thomas Circle, this hotel is more like a DC resort steps from iconic nation’s capital attractions and nightlife. Probably DC’s most beautifully landscaped swimming pool, it’s ideal for relaxing, with al fresco dining.
When:
- The pool is open May 19- Sept 9
- A day pass $50
- A season pass $800/single or $1400/couple.
Or check out the DC Department of Parks and Recreation local pools with free access for DC residents.
Francis Outdoor Pool: Francis Pool is listed as an “aquatic gem” with three pool areas of varying depths. Francis is a great place to cool off and is free to DC residents.
- Where: 2435 N Street, NW
- When: Mon-Fri 1:00pm – 8:00pm; Sat & Sun 12:00pm – 6:00pm (Closed Tues)
Wilson Aquatic Center: Wilson Aquatic Center is a great place to swim, especially if you prefer the shade to the sun. The facility offers a large 50-meter lap pool, a leisure pool, and a whirlpool.
- Where: 4551 Fort Drive, NW
- When: Mon-Fri 6:00am – 9:00pm; Sat, Sun 9:00am – 5:00pm
Volta Park Outdoor Pool: This popular pool spot is located in the heart of Georgetown. The Volta Park Pool is surrounded by a “green oasis” and includes other facilities for summer fun such as tennis & basketball courts and a playground for children.
- Where: 1555 34th Street, NW
- When: Mon-Fri 1:00pm – 8:00pm, Lap Swim 8:00am – 9:30am; Sat & Sun 12:00pm – 6:00pm (Closed Mon)
Not a DC resident? No problem DPR charges $7 for daily passes.