We’re hunting for secrets on this date and beware – the chemistry can be potent. Open hidden doors in ornate rooms and you may discover a path to romance.
The Background
Nestled within the vibrant Dupont Circle, this hidden gem is a must-see. The Smithsonian agrees, rating this unmatched experience as one of the “Top 5 places to explore in the world!” Shakira’s hips don’t lie, and neither do the over 2,400 ecstatic reviews.
The O Museum in the Mansion is a living, interactive art exhibit and hotel. Which rooms and secret doors are accessible changes daily, guaranteeing no visit is ever the same. Stuffed to the brim with historical relics and an astounding 112 mysterious chambers, it’s a sight to behold. Adding to the intrigue, everything in the museum is for sale. Spot something special on this self-guided tour and it’s yours.
The Standout Features
Here’s why this date is a-door-able:
- Smooth Talker – With so many quirky knick knacks to comment on, conversation topics are cake.
- Be Different – Your plus one will never forget the secret doors, the exotic rooms, or you.
- Collaborative – Navigating the twists and turns can bring you closer together and highlight how well you work as a team.
- Get close in the Halloween Room – If your date gets spooked, it may present an opportunity to (respectfully) break the touch barrier and explore your connection.
- Future Gift Ideas – If something catches your date’s eye, take note. Now you have a gift idea they’ll love that reminds them of your time together. Plus, the proceeds support local artists, which is a win for everyone.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Preparing the Search
My date and I ascend the stone steps to the entrance. If I didn’t know better, I’d mistake the gorgeous red brick façade for another charming DC residence and never realize the treasures hidden within. Soon after ringing the doorbell, the dark antique wooden door swings open. With a quick “Come in, come in” we’re ushered inside. With that, we cross the threshold of the five interconnected townhouses that encompass the museum.
Immediately, I’m struck by the sheer grandeur of the main hall, punctuated by the largest, most dazzling chandelier I’ve ever seen. Once I can tear my eyes away from its sparkle, I notice a woman smiling at a podium. Unsurprised by our reaction, she checks us in and escorts us to another room. Here, we watch a brief video on the fascinating history of this place. By the time it’s over, I can’t wait to explore. Now, we’re let loose to wander the building’s enticing labyrinth.
Date Main Event - On the Hunt
Next, we investigate the first suite. Fascinating items cover every single inch of the space. After counting at least 8 chandeliers, my gaze turns to a dozen guitars signed by music legends like Prince. The staff tell me they have over 100 of these six-stringed instruments in total. As we explore the halls, the collection grows more extraordinary: pinball machines, a Miss America crown, an Audrey Hepburn outfit from My Fair Lady – the list goes on.
Eventually, we stumble into themed suites like the iconic Log Cabin room. Upon entering, we’re transported to a mountain chalet, fireplace and all. Cowhide pillows complement large Native American carvings, while a vast embedded fish tank adds a quirky touch. The creativity of the themes is endless, from African safari to golf, while others honor their earlier inhabitants. For instance, you can find the John Lennon Suite or Mrs. Rosa Parks’ room where she frequented over the course of 10 years.
While the chambers are awe-inspiring, my favorite part is hunting for hidden doors. With over 80 sprinkled throughout the museum, I’m not disappointed. The portal could be a mirror, an unsuspecting bookshelf, a household appliance perhaps (wink, wink). Now, don’t forget they can be small as well, and hold mystery artifacts. Through one such door, we stumble upon a Halloween-themed room packed with ghosts, ghouls, and other spooky surprises. When I jump at an unexpected sound, my date grabs my hand in reassurance, and it never leaves.
During our journey through all four floors, I keep my eyes open for passage to the wine cellar. The staff highly recommend it but warn of its challenging location. Intrigued, I’m determined to uncover its whereabouts. Thinking outside the box, we finally unveil the most delightful secret door. Standing in the cool wine cellar, we bask in the triumph of achieving this significant feat.
Date Wrap Up - Emerging Victorious
After marveling at every wondrous artifact, we return to the lobby and bid our farewells. Thanking the hostess once again, I grab the worn golden doorknob and reenter normal life. Though the mysterious portals are behind us, new journeys lie ahead. Eager to continue ours, we walk along the next passage together.
The Planning
No need to do all the planning yourself. Here are the highlights, though always double check!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Hours | Sun-Mon: 9am - 6pm, Tues-Sat: 9am - 9pm |
| Duration | 1-1.5 hours |
| Cost | $40/person |
| Website | |
| Address | 2020 O St. NW, Washington, DC 20036 |
| Transportation | Street parking is limited. Recommend metro or Rideshare. The nearest metro is the Dupont Circle station. |
| Contact Info | Call (202) 496-2070 or use their Contact Form |
| Special Features | Sign up here for a Sign Language Tour. |
| Add-ons | If you want to be even fancier, select a special tour option using this form. Highlights include a Campaign Tour, Breakfast Tour, After Hours Tour, Bluegrass Jam & Tour - the list goes on! |
| Accessibility | ADA compliant |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
If you want to keep the date going, we have a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can visit these places before or after your date. Make this list your own. The map shows the museum (purple), as well as bonus date options (green) in one place. Before you go, though, always check times in case something’s changed.
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- Grab a drink or snack at the museum’s first floor bar.
- Emissary (3 min walk): This bright coffee shop seamlessly transitions to a sultry cocktail spot with leather couches and dim lighting. Whatever time of day, it offers the right atmosphere for romance. Open Mon-Wed: 8am – 10pm, Thurs-Sat: 8am – 11pm, Sun: 8am – 6pm.
- Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe (6 min walk): Since 1976, this DC institution has been an iconic bookstore, event space for comedy, music, and more, and an award-winning restaurant. Explore your date’s cerebral side before savoring some of the neighborhood’s most delectable flavors. Vegan options are available. Open Mon-Sat: 8pm – 10pm, Sun: 8am – 9pm.
- Un Je Ne Sais Quoi (7 min walk): Let these married French owners transport you to their hometown of Lille. The baked goods and coffee are to die for, crafted in splendid Merveilleux fashion. Open Mon-Fri: 8am – 6pm, Sat: 8:30am – 6pm, Sun: 9am – 5pm.
- Boqueria (8 min walk): This spunky tapas restaurant is the real deal. Spain certified it for its authentic Spanish cuisine and produce so you know it’s quality. Try their Mescal margarita for a special treat. Open Mon-Thurs: 11am – 1opm, Fri-Sat: 11am – 11pm, Sun: 11am – 9pm.
- Iron Gate (10 min walk): Built in 1875, this DC favorite has a fascinating story. The long carriageway and intricate iron work honor the building’s origin as a horse stable. Today, enjoy its blended history and award-winning cuisine from their internal garden adorned with grape vines and wisteria. The menu is a smart mix of Greek, Italian, and Mid-Atlantic inspirations you won’t want to miss. Vegan options available. Reservation recommended. Open Mon: 5:30 – 10pm, Tues-Thurs: 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30 – 10pm, Fri: 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30 – 11pm, Sat: 11am – 2pm, 5:30 – 11pm, Sun: 11am – 2pm, 5:30 – 9pm.
- DC Improve Comedy Show (11 min walk): If it’s going really well and you want to glide into date #2, see if you can get last-minute tickets to a show. Now this is a lot for one date, but if you two are up for it, don’t hold back!