Louis & Lucy
Things to Do
Lake Artemesia
Louis took Lucy here for their first date! A nice trail with beautiful scenery!
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
The largest Roman Catholic Church in North America and one of the ten largest churches in the world. Designated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as a National Sanctuary of Prayer and Pilgrimage, this great Basilica is our nation’s preeminent Marian shrine, dedicated to the patroness of the United States, the Blessed Virgin Mary under her title of the Immaculate Conception. This patronal church is home to more than 80 chapels and oratories that honor the Mother of God and represent the peoples, cultures, and traditions that are the fabric of the Catholic faith and mosaic of our nation. It is no wonder why it is affectionately referred to as America’s Catholic Church. The National Shrine, also known as Mary’s Shrine, receives nearly one million visitors annually and has been visited by Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, Saint Pope John Paul II, and Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta, among others.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Spend a day in Georgetown, paddling on the Potomac or strolling along the store- and waterfronts! Two months into dating, Louis brought Lucy here for a date, where they walked and talked along the waterfront, purchased some Georgetown cupcakes, ubered to the DC Jefferson Memorial, and had their ~first kiss~!
Sugarloaf Mountain
A popular hike, known for its rich history and natural beauty. It is also where Louis and Lucy celebrated their one-year of dating!
National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
A beautiful place of prayer devoted to the Blessed Mother. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to this place of worship, pilgrimage, evangelization, and reconciliation.
Annapolis Rock
A moderately easy hike with beautiful views. Lucy and friends brought Louis here to celebrate his 21st birthday.
The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Home of the first American-born Saint! Mother Seton’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy come to life through rarely-seen artifacts, personal writings, digital interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages. Louis planned another surprise date and brought Lucy here for her 22nd birthday. They went to Mass at the Basilica together, ate a picnic lunch on the grounds, explored the museum, and took a guided tour to learn more about the beloved Saint.
The Wharf DC
Visit The Wharf in DC for outdoor dining, local shopping and fun events and activities along the waterfront! Metro to any of the DC museums and monuments for some rich history too. Louis and Lucy have enjoyed a concert or two and some delicious meals with friends here.
Rio Lakefront
This is where the reception is! Check out this lakefront for food, drinks, and fun. The provided link will take you to a list of all the restaurants and shops this area provides!
Billy Goat Trail Section C
A beautiful, ~easy~ 1.6 mile hike with river views and a small waterfall (Lucy's kind of trail!). Check out the Billy Goat Trail Section A for a 1.75 more technical, strenuous hike or Section B for a 1.4 mile challenging hike if you're down for those as Louis would be. Lucy planned a surprise hike with friends to celebrate Louis' 22nd birthday here!
The Franciscan Monastery
"[T]ake in the beauty of [the] gardens, find peace in the Monastery church and among the replicas of Holy Land shrines, attend a concert or event, or learn about the Franciscans’ work in the Holy Land. This is a free attraction that is easily seen by foot, and it’s one of the best natural views in the district!"
Norby's Cafe
Only 5min from the church & reception! Stop by for coffee or brunch here! Lucy recommends the Paul Revere on a sesame bagel :)
The Big Greek Cafe
Only 5min from the church & reception! A Young Family favorite! Be sure to try their famous gyros, only $6 on Wednesdays!
Full On Craft Eats & Drinks
Only 5min from the church and reception! Another Young Family favorite! Lucy recommends the crab cake sandwich & chips :)
Villa Maya Restaurant
Only 5min from the church & reception! Lucy's absolute FAVORITE restaurant!! Being just five minutes away from where she grew up, it holds a lot of sentimental value and serves the most delicious Mexican food. She recommends getting their tableside-made guacamole and steak burrito bowl or tamales, and Louis loves their fajitas! Highly recommend the fried ice cream for dessert too :)
Carmen's Italian Ice
Lucy describes this place to people as such: "It's like Rita's, but BETTER." Regardless of whether it's the Rockville or Olney location, this is a go-to place for her to meet up with family and friends. Louis enjoys it too. Lucy recommends getting a gelati with watermelon Italian ice and vanilla custard, and Louis is a big fan of their gelati with orange Italian ice and vanilla custard :)
University of Maryland
Louis and Lucy's alma mater! GO TERPS!! Stroll the grounds, take a tour, and be sure to stop by the Catholic Student Center, where the two spent a lot of their time and made some of their very best friends while at UMD, and where Louis proposed! Parking is free on the weekends.