Fred Licht Photography

Lorien Hotel & Spa, Alexandria, Va.

6 Ideas to Cure End-of-Summer Blues

Perfect Escape. You’ll find acres of greenery at neoclassical Tudor Place (1644 31st St., NW; 202/965-0400), the former abode of Martha Washington’s granddaughter. Take a seat in the Japanese teahouse, next to the lush rose arbor. Original furniture, paintings and intricate jewelry give glimpses into the past lifestyle in the historic home.

Perfect Diversion. Make reservations for you and a friend (or several) for monthly alternating cheese and wine classes at Cheesetique (2411 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, Va.; 703/706-5300). Stop by in July for wine and in August for cheese. Knowledgeable staff offer their IQ on stashing and serving unusual cheeses—plus, you’ll love washing down samples with tasty proffered wine.

Perfect Buy. Need a pick-me-up after a tough day? Check out M29 Lifestyle (2800 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202/295-2829) for local contemporary and vintage jewelry, classy silk and satin-blend scarves and hand-woven clothes for ladies and gents. Our pick: the doggy and baby sections, so all members of the family are properly outfitted.

Perfect Stay. Sometimes travelers just need extra overnight perks, which you’ll find at Lorien Hotel & Spa (1600 King St., Alexandria, Va.; 877/956-7436). The 107 eco-friendly rooms and the spa packages at the nationally ranked hot spot make this a weekend pick all summer long.

Perfect Sip. Foodies and oenophiles agree: The three-story Dickson Wine Bar has them hooked (903 U St., NW; 202/332-1779). Head here for a casual atmosphere and eco-conscious wines and dishes. Try the banh mi and ask the bartender for suggestions—you won’t be disappointed.

Perfect Bites. For Turkish (and Greek) cuisine, head to the just-opened Agora (1527 17th St., NW; 202/332-6767; agoradc.net) for small plates with a Mediterranean twist.  Think fresh seafood, hearty flatbreads and lots of lamb at this two-story charmer near Dupont Circle. We believe everything is right in the world when food is paired with ouzo.