This summer, jump into the deep end and make the most of those sun-drenched days by heading with friends to one (or all) of these very different pool scenes, which all have one thing in common. Wet fun!
By Olivia Clark
Sunday Rehab at the Donovan House
For those of us who enjoy a more exclusive scene (think Soho House NYC), venture over to ADC (Above DC), the brand new rooftop lounge of the Donovan House, located on 14th street. Sunday Rehab will be hosted each and every Sunday from noon until 10pm. Not only are you sure to be seen, you’ll catch the best rays from the rooftop pool’s sky-high spot perched above the bustling streets of the District. Enjoy outstanding Asian-inspired eats from the hotel’s Zentan Restaurant and delicious cocktails.
Who You’ll See: A more international crowd of sorts; fashionistas, power-players, and D.C. playboys take up the space of the pool deck. There’s a reason for the tight door.
Guest-list and Hotel Guests only. Contact John Pucciano to inquire about a reservation (202-379-3773).
Adult Swim Sundays at the Liaison Hotel
Happy Liaison Sundays everyone! Enjoy the Adult Swim event at the Liaison Hotel rooftop pool every Sunday from 1pm to 10pm, which anyone with a reservation over the age of 21 can enjoy. The day and night pool party features drinks, music, and eats.
Who You’ll See: Super-tan divas and men in cut-offs showing off their extremely muscular arms – think similar population to the Shore Club in Miami Beach.
$10 cover Charge. Reserve your spot at rsvpdcpoolparty.com or call 202-487-6874.
The Capitol Skyline Pool
The Capitol Skyline Pool at the Captiol Skyline Hotel offers a gigantic & spacious area for lounging, socializing, and soaking in the sun. This once bland Best Western Hotel underwent severe renovation, creating somewhat of a Miami Beach artsy retro experience in the middle of D.C. Ammenities include plush bright-orange seating and a poolside bar. Best of all? BrightestYoungThings will be hosting a party on several Saturdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day at the pool, where all ages are welcome.
Who You’ll See: Twenty-something year-old hipsters floating on inflatable animals, throwing rubber duckies, and squirting each other with water guns.
$10 cover charge. The next pool party will take place on July 3rd.
On Sundays, the Refresh Sunday pool party is held for adults 18+, where attendees can enjoy free yoga classes, free skincare consultations, complimentary FUZE beverages, and much much more. Enjoy food, drinks, and hotel room specials as well as a DJ spinning beats.
Who You’ll See: Late twenties to mid thirty-year-olds enjoying everything from poolside hookah service to Dance Dance Revolution and Wii games on 100 inch screens.
$20 cover charge. What could be better on a sunny summer weekend?
Volta Park
Volta Park public pool is located right in the heart of Georgetown, convenient to our foody and shopaholic personalities. Volta Park has diminished the lack of public pools in Georgetown, providing residents with a secluded area to play tennis and lounge by the pool. Now, residents can relax and enjoy the sun prior to shopping around in Georgetown or before grabbing a bite to eat. Enter the pool free of charge with proof of your D.C. residency.
Who You’ll See: West End Residents as well as GW & Georgetown students (who don’t have access to a rooftop pool)chatting, meeting and greeting, and enjoying some R&R off school grounds.
Open at 11:30 on weekdays and noon on weekends.
Francis D.C.
Located in the West End adjacent to Rock Creek Park, Francis is a public pool of D.C. that offers free admission to anyone who lives in the District. Enjoy time with friends and family of all ages with three different pools; including deep, medium, and shallow-depth pools. A large unshaded deck allows for great sun-bathing after a long bike ride on one of Rock Creek’s trails. Francis pool offers a great atmosphere for families with children of all ages to enjoy the summer heat and frolic about with other D.C. residents.
Who You’ll See: Cyclists taking a break from Rock Creek Park’s trails and families enjoying each other’s company on a warm summer’s day.
Swim Meet at the Embassy Row Hilton
DJ Chris Burns, DURKL, and Stranger than Paradise will host “The Swim Meet,” at the rooftop pool at the Embassy Row Hilton, which offers incredible views of Dupont Circle and is fully stocked with a bar and great food options. Attendees will bask in the sun while they enjoy a complimentary towel service, jam to summer tunes, and watch World Cup games.
Who You’ll See: DJs and friends eating grill menu items, sipping on cool beverages, listening to music, and celebrating summer.
June 12, 1-9pm. Free admission and lunch from 1-2pm. $10 cover charge includes towel service. Ages 18 and up.