Washington DC, the capital city of the United States of America, has a distinct reputation based on its storied political history. Onlookers may see a city laden with stoicism, stuffed shirts, and long-gone heroes. However, those who live there and those who visit can experience another side to DC—one that blossoms and comes alive as the sun sets. Here are five activities that stand out from the other nightlife in Washington, DC.

1. See the famed memorials at night 

The city has a bevy of monuments that are dear to the hearts of many that can be found a short distance from the National Mall. When night engulfs Washington, DC, these monuments are cast in soft and somber light. This includes such attractions as the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. monument, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. Visitors can stroll around evening approaches and seeing each one. This is even more entertaining when the cherry blossoms come out in the spring.

2. Go to Georgetown’s Waterfront Park

This park was completed in 2011 and is part of the National Park registry. It is also part of the Georgetown Historic District. The park covers about 10 acres and links parklands across the Potomac River. Many people jog here in the evening. Or, they may get in a kayak and paddle along the water’s edge. The river steps are a key point of interest. They are preserved from the days when the area was a commercial shipping center.

3. Attend a show at The Hamilton

The Hamilton is tucked into downtown Washington, DC, not far from the White House. This venue first gained popularity as a swanky restaurant. However, it is now an elite concert hall for top-notch performers. The stage on the lower level is quite packed with concertgoers, at times. Still, there is plenty of leeway to try out the sumptuous menu items and cocktails from the restaurant.

4. Go to a kitschy bar

Washington, DC’s kitschy dive bars are a go-to activity when you explore the city. One of these, Little Miss Whiskey’s Golden Dollar, boasts a unique twist. It employs a bit of New Orleans ambiance, even showing New Orleans Saints football games during the NFL season. It is located on the revived H Street corridor, in northeastern DC. This and other bars, lounges, and restaurants become nighttime meetup places for the fun and quirky, with many hosting live bands on specific nights.

5. The Howard Theater

The Howard Theater is a vital part of the Washington, DC entertainment landscape. It has a long history, having been built and opened in 1910. At the time, it was the only major venue to see and hear these performers. Some of these legendary artists were Billie Holliday and DC native Duke Ellington. After many years, it fell into disrepair until government and community efforts helped it reopen in 2012. The Howard is a glittering jewel of the city’s nightlife. The venue has a restored façade that is visually striking. It hosts a variety of shows by world-famous performers of all genres.