Holidays to Washington D.C.
As the capital of the United States and the seat of its government, you might think D.C. is all work and no play. But beyond its domed Capitol and famous White House, you’ll find free museums, sprawling green spaces and a food scene as diverse as the city itself. Grab your walking shoes and get set for a whirlwind of history and culture on a holiday to Washington, DC.
Washington D.C. holiday highlights
Washington DC
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Political Pulse
No trip to D.C. is complete without visiting its famous federal buildings. After the essential White House photo op, visit the Library of Congress, and book a tour of the US Capitol, a 19th-century Neoclassical masterpiece. Book your flights and hotels to Washington D.C. between October and April, when the US Supreme Court is open to the public.
National Mall
The best holidays in Washington D.C. are a walk through history. Visit the National Mall, which stretches from the US Capitol to the Potomac River. Known as ‘America’s Front Yard’, it’s home to the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, as well as The Smithsonian Institution, art galleries and dozens of statues.
Outdoor adventures
It’s easy to spend a lot of time indoors in D.C.’s museums, galleries and federal buildings. But the capital offers just as many outdoor activities. Hike Rock Creek Park’s trails, cycle along the C&O Canal Towpath, and visit Theodore Roosevelt Island. With the US National Arboretum and day trips to Great Falls Park, there’s a world of nature to explore.
Washington D.C.: Know before you go
Language
English
Currency
United States dollar ($)
Time zone
UTC-5 (EST) and UTC-4 (EDT)
High season
June – August
Low season
January – February
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Caption
Photographer name
Find the best time to go to Washington D.C.
Weather in Washington D.C.
March – May: A brisk start to the season sees temperatures climb into the 20s°C by May. It’s a great time to enjoy Washington D.C.’s outdoor attractions, including seeing the cherry blossoms bloom.
June – August: It gets hot and sticky during the summer, and the heat can climb upwards of 31°C. Take your pick of air-conditioned museums to cool down.
September – November: You’ll want to pack layers for autumn’s changeable weather. Take advantage of the brisk days and go see the golden leaves at the National Arboretum.
December – February: Temperatures drop below freezing during the winter, so warm clothes are a top priority. Be aware that snow and ice may cause travel disruptions.
Events in Washington D.C.
National Cherry Blossom Festival (March to April): Along with seeing 3,000 cherry trees — a gift from Japan in 1912 — in full bloom, the festival features events celebrating Japanese art and culture.
Smithsonian Folklife Festival (June to July): Head to the National Mall for this family-friendly festival. The event celebrates different cultures through performances, workshops, games and educational activities.
DC JazzFest (August to September): A celebration of all things jazz music, this annual festival showcases locally, nationally and internationally renowned musicians at venues across the city.
H Street Festival (September): This yearly street festival along the eastern blocks of H Street features live bands, international food stands and local artists selling their works.
The best neighbourhoods in Washington D.C.
Things to do in Washington D.C.
Washington DC
Getty Images
Take in the culture
Learn about everything from the origins of humanity to the technology of tomorrow at the museums in Washington D.C. One of the city’s biggest draws is The Smithsonian Institution — 21 museums, including the National Museum of Natural History, the National Postal Museum and the National Air & Space Museum. The best part? Admission is free for all Smithsonian museums.
Places to eat
Whether you’re here for power lunches or cheap eats, the restaurants in Washington D.C. don’t disappoint. Choose from Georgetown’s riverside cafes, or head to Chinatown for dim sum. Looking to try D.C.’s landmark eateries? Try traditional ‘half-smoke’ hotdogs at Ben’s Chili Bowl, and treat yourself to oysters at the Old Ebbitt Grill, open since 1856.
Nightlife
Join the city’s movers and shakers at U Street’s cocktail bars, nightclubs and live music venues. Or head to the Adams Morgan neighbourhood for its watering holes and taverns. If you like your happy hour with a side of history, sip a signature mint julep at the Round Robin Bar, a former hangout of President Lincoln, Mark Twain and Martin Luther King Jr.
Shopping
Shoppers have options in the capital. Browse Georgetown’s one-of-a-kind boutiques, and bag a rare find at Book Hill’s antique shops. If you’re on the hunt for luxury brands, make your way downtown to CityCenterDC, or spruce up your wardrobe with the fashion retailers around Dupont Circle, U Street and 14th Street.
Beaches
There are no beaches to speak of in D.C., but you’ll find some in Maryland, about an hour away. Sandy Point State Park, North Beach and Brownie’s Beach are popular spots for families and water sports. Or head to Gunpowder Falls State Park in summer for swimming, canoeing and fishing.
Family-friendly things to do
Swap politics for play at the National Children’s Museum, or crack codes at the International Spy Museum. With the National Zoo and the Smithsonian museums to explore, there’s no end to the fun things to do with family in Washington D.C. When you need a breath of fresh air, head to Rock Creek Park for walking trails and horseback riding.
Plan your holiday to Washington D.C.
FAQs about Washington D.C. holidays
January brings the coolest weather. Plan your Washington DC holiday then and you can expect lows of -6ºC (21ºF).
With an average rainfall of 13 cm, July is the rainiest month to go on a Washington DC holiday. When the skies turn grey, head indoors and enjoy the city's art exhibits, cafes, shopping centres and more.
Whether it's your first trip or you're back again, this city always has something new to offer. If exploring top sights is on your list of things to do in Washington DC, make sure you include White House Historical Association and The White House.
English is the language you'll hear most while on your city break in Washington DC.
With temperatures peaking at 33ºC (91ºF), July is the warmest month in Washington DC.
Holidays in Washington D.C. are safe, but as with all major cities, exercise common sense. Watch out for pickpockets in busy areas like metro stations, and stay aware of your surroundings when walking through the city after dark.
The time of year you visit, how you choose to travel, and where you stay will help determine what you spend on your city break in Washington DC. If you're looking to cut costs, search for special offers or last-minute deals on Washington DC flights and hotels. Travelling midweek and using frequent flyer miles can also help you save.
The United States dollar (USD) is the official currency. From tipping to buying souvenirs, having a small amount of cash during your trip to Washington DC can be useful.
There’s a lot to see and do on a holiday to Washington D.C. Aim to spend at least three days exploring the city’s sights, and consider extending your stay to four or five days if you plan on taking day trips to the coast.
Book your flights and hotels to Washington D.C. for between March and April to coincide with the city’s famous cherry blossom season. Just be aware that this attracts large crowds. For the perfect combination of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, visit between September and November.
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Plan your holiday to Washington D.C.
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