There’s nothing worse than a heat wave that dampens (literally) your will to hit the town. In a swamp like this, it’s all too possible to spend a night sweating more than you can drink — unless you choose the right venue. Behold: a collection of Drink DC-tested, certifiably cool locales to enjoy libations when the temperature rises.

Dickson Wine Bar: It’s tempting not to give away the name of one of our favorite, under-the-radar cool-down watering holes, but consider this a public service announcement: this U Street spot has been a warm weather destination summer after summer thanks to its three-story layout that manages to feel intimate without ever being body-to-body hot. Grab a seat (the entire joint is seat-yourself) and revel in the A/C with a glass of biodynamic white.

Boqueria: On a recent scorcher, this new-ish Dupont destination provided just the chilly respite our sun-beaten bodies needed. With wall-to-wall windows, you can still enjoy views of the summer sun but from a breezy barstool with the sangria du jour (1837 M Street NW; 202-558-9545).

Napoleon: The Adams Morgan bar scene can feel like one giant sweat fest, but you can cool your heels at this Chamapagne bar just off the strip. Mix and mingle with a bubbly cocktail in the upstairs bar, or grace the downstairs dance floor if you dare (1847 Columbia Rd NW; 202-299-9630).

Churchkey: When the summer sun is just to much, this dark and chilled beer bar is the ideal locale. Spend an afternoon working your way through the joint’s 555 beers and gourmet bar food menu — there’s no reason to ever go outside (1337 14th St. NW; 202-567-2576).

Local 16: It might get packed on weekend nights, but Local’s roomy downstairs bar stays cool enough to still look good (increasingly difficult to do in D.C. as the summer goes on) and enjoy several rounds — look for limited-edition Blue Moon brews coming soon. Can’t stay away from the famous roofdeck? Fear not: a jumbo-sized fan and overhead misters keep things breezy outdoors (1602 U St. NW; 202-265-2828).

Photo: sangria at Boqueria by Lauren Sloat