All good things must come to an end—as well as some not-so-good ones. If you're ready to bring your relationship to a close (and would rather do it in public to avoid any unwanted drama), we've got your back. Here are five spots in D.C. that are quiet and (relatively) private, allowing some space for tough conversations.
Crispus Attucks Park
Bloomingdale/Edgewood
This little alleyway park, tucked between U Street rowhouses, meaning it isn't as well-trafficked as other spots. That provides plenty of privacy for a deep conversation on one of the benches—or if your now-ex storms out, some contemplation among the flowers. Once the storm has blown over, head a few blocks south to Boundary Stone to drown your sorrows in whiskey.
2 Birds 1 Stone
Logan Circle
Tucked beneath Doi Moi, this subterranean bar has a cave-like feel, with four hidden alcoves to hash out a happy-hour breakup over a few rounds of "frappé hour" blender drinks (they're $9 from 6-8pm). The main bar tends to draw big crowds as the evening wears on, so once you've said farewell to your ex, you might even be able to get to know someone new.
With its giant ring of benches, Dupont Circle offers no end of opportunities for semi-private seating to have the big talk. But its best asset is that you won't have to have the awkward "oh, we're heading in the same direction" departure—just take the opposite path out, hop on the Metro, and get out of dodge. Though if do you want to stick around, there are tons of great nearby watering holes to spill your guts to a bartender over a few post-breakup rounds.
Quill at The Jefferson
Dupont/Logan Circle/Downtown
For the kind of classy breakup that shows you care, treat your no-longer-significant other to a pricey round of drinks at Quill, whose cushy and classy tables for two provide the perfect venue for a dignified farewell. If you're in need of a quick escape after breaking it off, do the deed on a weekend, when sessions with a live jazz pianist will provide you with the perfect means to jump ship.
Rock and Roll Hotel
H Street Corridor
This dive bar and music venue's primary asset as a breakup spot is its three different levels: you can do your breaking up in one of the booths at the rooftop bar, then once the tears have dried, head down to the second floor to dance away the pain to live DJs, or to the ground floor to headbang at a punk show. And where there's live music, there's plenty of cheap beer and whiskey to ease the pain.
