Need to jump-start the sweetness? Head to ACKC Cocoa Bar, which also has truffle-makng classes.

32 Ideas for Love in Washington

In a city where affection can sometimes be seen as a sign of weakness, how do we celebrate love? Well, with a creative touch. From chocolate classes to full-moon hikes, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite things. The only problem is that Valentine’s Day isn’t nearly long enough to do all that we love. So this year, extend the holiday for a month—or three. And whether you’re giving one of the following to yourself, your friend, your lover or your dog, we bet you won’t get any complaints, even in April.

Downtown Portland, where you can check out everything from Harvest on the Harbor (Oct 21-23) to Maine Foodie Tours.

Fall Weekend Getaways

Portland, Maine

Yes, we know: Nothing beats summer in Maine. But we’d argue that fall is just as sweet, with appealing festivals, fewer crowds, and, of course, trees stained with burnt orange and crimson hues. Foodies, this is your time to visit, especially for intimate food-prep classes at Browne Trading Company, the renowned seafood supplier to some of the finest restaurants along the Eastern seaboard. Long weekend? Show up on Thursday nights, when Browne’s staff schools visitors on wine tasting and selection.

The National Portrait Gallery

Washington's Summer Museum & Gallery Guide

There’s a reason Washingtonians are smug about museums and galleries. Not only do we hold claim to the world’s largest museum complex and research organization, but we also have a fantastic variety of non-Smithsonian hot spots—displaying everything from spy artifacts to innovative media.