As many of our soccer-fan followers will be aware, there’s only five days left until the freshly crowned Barclay’s Women’s Super League Champions, Chelsea FC Women, take on Arsenal Women in a hotly anticipated pre-season match at Audi Field on August 25.
With so many great bars, restaurants and activities dotted around this iconic soccer stadium, it’s the perfect opportunity to seize the day and factor in some fun pregaming in the build up before (and hopefully plenty of celebrating after!). So we’ve rounded up some of the best places in DC to visit on game day, to help you get pumped up to see your team play.
1. The Yards Park
For those who love playing soccer just as much as watching it, a kick about in Yards Park is the perfect warm up act for the game. This scenic waterfront spot is just a 15 minute walk from Audi Field, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a picnic with your friends and soak up some rays beforehand. And if you get there super early, you could even squeeze in a pregame cruise on the Potomac River…
2. Sea Suite Cruises
Just two minutes from the park, you can hop aboard one of Sea Suite Cruises’ party-boats and enjoy fantastic views of DC from the water. From mini tiki boats and retro boats to big barges, there are plenty of vessels to choose from – with many giving you the option to bring your own food and drinks with you. What better way to manifest a day of celebrations than sipping and sailing on a mini nautical adventure?
3. The Salt Line
If you’d rather enjoy your pregame grub on dry land, it doesn’t mean you have to forfeit those lovely water views. Take a seat at The Salt Line’s riverside patio and enjoy fresh oysters and New England classics, such as clam chowder and grilled gulf shrimp and grits. They also serve an array of mouthwatering cocktails, if you’re swinging by after the match for a celebratory toast!
4. Ireland’s Four Courts
Now this one is ever so slightly less local to the stadium, but definitely worth it if you’re a Blues fan and are keen to be among your kind. Beltway Blues, The Official Supporters Group of Chelsea FC, invite fellow supporters to join them at Ireland’s Four Courts for the Chelsea FC Vs Wolves men’s game that morning, before making their way to Audi Field for Chelsea FC Women Vs Arsenal Women in the afternoon. There’ll be drink specials, plus plenty of Beltway Blues merch for sale!
5. Dacha Navy Yard
Delicious seasonal food menus and an excellent selection of German, Belgian, and American craft beers are what bring the crowds to Dacha Navy Yard. And if the weather is good, their spacious, suntrap of a beer garden is a top spot to gather with friends before ambling over to Audi Field, less than ten minutes walk away.