Off-Beat Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day in the D.C. Area

For Valentine's Day, the Washington, D.C., area offers a plethora of historic locations, acclaimed restaurants, and theatrical events to woo your significant other. However, for lovers who wish to step away from the usual cookie-cutter styles and need some novel ideas, here are some off-the-beaten-path ways to celebrate Valentine's Day in the nation's capital.

Woo at the Zoo

3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.
February 11 at 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.
Members: $11; non-members: $22
Parking: $5 members; $10 non-members

For Valentine's Day, explore your wild side in a humorous way at the Smithsonian's National Zoo's fourth annual Woo at the Zoo event. Indulge in an interactive and fun session and learn all about animal mating, dating, and reproductive habits. Partake in decorating brownies and enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres and specialty drinks. Furthermore, treat your sweetheart with the National Zoo's Adopt a Specie package, which includes two plush animals with a fact sheet, personalized certificate, letter of appreciation, and two rose lollipops. Preorder by February 11 and receive a personalized adoption certificate.

Crimes of Passion

575 Seventh Street NW, Washington, D.C.
February 11 to February 14
4 p.m. to closing
$45

This February, the acclaimed Crime Museum transforms into a jealous lover's abode where nothing is pleasant. While lovers treat their partner with sweet nothings, you break away from the norm and discuss its gory side. Get handcuffed and indulge in over 600 regular exhibits and a few special ones to commemorate the holiday. Hold your sweetheart's hands as you explore true stories of love, crime, and passion. The price includes a complete tour of the museum, handcuffs, temporary love tattoos, and a special treat. Lovers must be 18 years or older to visit.

Cupid's Undie Run

U.S. Capitol Building
February 11
12 p.m.

Strip and run for a cause! Cupid's Undie Run raises money for The Children's Tumor Foundation, the world's largest non-government organization. Organized in six cities across the nation - D.C., New York City, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, and Cincinnati - the run is a perfect way to spend your Valentine's Day weekend.

Join hundreds of Washingtonians and participate in a 1.1 mile jog past the U.S. Capitol Building. Get in the spirit by donning your favorite underwear or bathrobe. Complete your celebrations with post-run festivities at the historic Pour House Bar & Grill and the Capitol Lounge.

You must be 21 years or older to participate. The event prohibits nudity and does not allow thongs or pasties. If sold out, make avail of their "Big Heart" charity slots and raise $500 or more.

Reena Das lives in the Washington, D.C., area and writes for Yahoo! Contributor Network. She follows local, family-friendly events with passion. Originally from India, Reena traveled across the Atlantic 16 years ago to make a home in this new country. Today, she is proud to call herself a stay-at-home mom of two and an honorable citizen of the United States