Washington, D.C.   Travel Guide

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best time to visit washington dc

Best Times To Visit Washington, D.C.

The best times to visit Washington, D.C., are from September to November and March to May. In the autumn, the sweltering summer is gone, taking with it most of the high season tourists. All that's left are crisp breezes and changing leaves, which, by the way, look great against all those marble monuments. Second to fall is spring, which is also a mini high season thanks to the National Cherry Blossom Festival in late March and early April. Summer in D.C. is hot and sticky, making less than ideal conditions for exploring the great outdoors. That said, many museums blast air conditioning, so if you can stand the heat, you'll find plenty of free attractions to keep you entertained. Winter is definitely low season. Although the chance to find lower hotel rates is high and the weather is mild compared to other destinations along the East Coast, the city is prone to freezing cold temperatures and snowstorms. For this reason, travel insurance is recommended for anyone planning a winter visit to D.C.

Weather in Washington, D.C.

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Washington, D.C.

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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The best times to visit DC might surprise you: a year-round guide to Washington, DC

Sep 10, 2021 • 4 min read

The Lincoln statue at the Lincoln Memorial.

There's no shortage of things to do in Washington, DC, all throughout the year © Sergio Torres Baus / 500px

Whether you want to catch the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom or snap photos on the National Mall, deciding the best time to visit Washington, DC, can feel like a challenge. From a perfect spring day to a quiet winter stroll, there’s always something to do year-round in the US’s capital.  

Here’s our guide to help you decide the best time to visit Washington, DC.  

Editor's note: During COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice. Events may be subject to change.

High Season: March to June

Best time for visiting the National Mall 

Sunrise at the National Mall, Washington D.C.

Mild, albeit unpredictable weather, makes this the perfect time to visit Washington, DC. There will be lots of crowds at the National Mall, but the mild temperatures mean you won’t mind. Cherry Blossom season kicks off in late March and attracts people from all over the world.   

Shoulder Season: July to September 

Best time for visiting museums

Exterior shot of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC.

Summer's steamy conditions thin out the crowds a bit. Avoid the heat and humidity by visiting any number of DC’s fantastic museums like the National Museum of African American History , The Holocaust Museum or the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum . If you’re in town for Independence Day, the city puts on an amazing fireworks display.  

22 free things to do in Washington, DC

Low Season: October to February  

Best time for avoiding the crowds 

People skate on an ice rink in National Gallery of Art Sculpture garden in Washington, DC.

Though milder than its northern neighbors, temperatures can (and do) dip in DC. But there are still plenty of things to do. Go ice skating at the National Gallery of the Art’s Sculpture Garden or, when the holiday season kicks off, visit the many Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. Keep in mind: although it’s low season, business travelers to the city keep hotel rates high. 

12 things to do in Washington, DC

January is quiet – unless it’s an inauguration year. Then it’s madness. Crisp, clear days alternate with gray, frigid days. Every once in a while it will snow, shutting the city down. Key events: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday, Inauguration Day. 

The weekend around President’s Day (the third Monday) brings crowds, but otherwise it’s time for low-season bargains. Several events brighten up the gloomy days. Key events: Chinese New Year, DC Fashion Week. 

A Japanese woman wearing a kimono's stands behind cherry blossom flowers in the 2018 National Cherry Blossom Parade.

Cherry-blossom season – DC’s tourism apex – ramps up around the 20th, culminating in the famed festival. The trees are gorgeous, but you will pay for it with higher-rates at hotels and restaurants at capacity. Key events: St. Patrick’s Day, National Cherry Blossom Festival, Blossom Kite Festival. 

A guide to the National Cherry Blossom Festival  

Cherry-blossom season continues to bring mega crowds (and prices). The park service determines that April 2 is the average “peak bloom,” so if you want to see the trees at their shimmery pink best, this is it. Key events: White House Easter Egg Roll, FilmFest DC.

It rains more in May than other months, but the temperature is comfy. It’s a busy time for conventions, school groups and university graduations, so prices bump up and hotels are often full. Key events: Passport DC, Broccoli City, Washington DC Dragon Boat Festival, DC Black Pride. 

June sees the end of peak season, as school-group visits start to dwindle. Hotel prices are still fairly high. The temperature steams up as the weeks go on. Key events: Capital Pride, National Capital Barbecue Battle, Smithsonian Folklife Festival, DC Carnival, DC Jazz Fest. 

How to get around Washington, DC

Celebratory fireworks of Independence Day above the Capitol building in Washington DC

The days are exceptionally hot and humid, but that doesn’t stop lots of vacationers from touring the DC sights. Temperatures regularly crack 90°F (32°C). Key events: Independence Day, Capital Fringe Festival. 

The heat keeps coming, but the city picks up with the return of college students. Might be the best time to snag some hotel deals before Congress comes back to town.    Key events: Washington DC Water Lantern Festival, Around the World Cultural Food Festival. 

Top 7 day trips from Washington, DC

The heat breaks. Kids go back to school. Everyone is refreshed after August's congressional break. Hotel rates start to creep up again. Key events: National Book Festival, H Street Festival, DC International Beer Wine & Food Festival. 

A person dressed in drag runs to the finish line during the annual High Heel Drag Race near Dupont Circle in Washington, DC.

October is another banner month with lovely weather and fewer tourists, but business travelers keep hotel rates propped up. Daytime temperatures hover near 70°F (21°C). Key events: Marine Corps Marathon, High Heel Drag Race, Taste of DC, Howard University Homecoming.

Washington, DC with kids: what to eat, see & do

Pretty quiet time of the year as the city (and everyone else) gears up for the holiday season.  Key events: Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Trot for Hunger 5K.  

'Tis the holiday season, and the city twinkles with good cheer from Zoo Lights to candlelight tours of historic homes to free holiday concerts. As your holiday gift, rates remain reasonable. Key events: National Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting. 

You might also like:  Celebrating women's history in Washington, DC   The best rooftop bars in Washington, DC   Undercover DC: secret spots in the nation's capital 

First published in February 2021, updated in September 2021.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated September 2021

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The Best Times to Visit Washington DC

Josh Laskin

As our nation's capital, Washington DC is a global political powerhouse and educational center, perfect for those looking for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how our country is run. But the city is home to much more than the state Senate, White House and politically-fueled arguments.

In Washington's sundry neighborhoods, it is not difficult to find award-winning international cuisine, global and local culture, history, night life and art. While some choose to explore the city's wide variety of museums and take part in enlightening tours, others paddle the Potomac River, wander among the Georgetown neighborhood's colonial architecture and participate in festivals and events.

Regardless of your political views, Washington DC is always teeming with things to do.

The Best Weather in Washington DC

Like most cities in the mid-Atlantic region, summer in Washington DC can bring uncomfortably hot days, perfect for soaking up the air conditioning inside the Smithsonian Museum or another indoor attraction. July is the hottest and rainiest month, with average daily temperatures reaching the upper 80s and the city receiving over two inches of rain.

Winter occurs from December through February. Highs are often in the 40s, but freezing temperatures are not uncommon. During spring and fall, the summer crowds are no longer in full-swing and the days are warm and sunshine plentiful.

The Washington Monument in Spring. (Photo by JGI / Daniel Grill / Getty Images)

Each March and April, the National Cherry Blossom Festival — one of the city's largest festivals — draws over 1.5 million visitors who come to see the blooming cherry blossom trees and to honor the American and Japanese cultures. The 4-week festival is comprised of over 50 events — most of which are free to the public. There is a wide variety of events and activities to take part in, like a blossom kite festival, live music and giveaways, parades and a street festival.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival. (Photo by Tim Brown / Getty Images)

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which celebrates different cultures through art, music, food and dance, is another popular event that takes place for two weeks surrounding the Fourth of July. The goal of the festival is to honor cultural traditions through daily performances and activities on the National Mall. On Independence Day, things really kick off. The city celebrates with a fireworks show, free concert, a parade and other events. Since this can be one of the most crowded days of the year, it is recommended using the metro to get around the city.

The H Street Festival in Washington DC. (Photo by Stephanie Kenner / Shutterstock)

Every September, the H Street Festival takes over 11 blocks on H street. This single-day 12-year-old bloc party has grown from 500 to 150,000 participants, and uses art as a vessel for economic growth in this historic neighborhood. During the party, there are 14 staging areas over 11 blocks featuring music of different genres, dance performances, fashion, poetry and more.

Ice rink skating in National Gallery. (Photo by krblokhin / Getty Images)

The Downtown Holiday Market, which is open daily for a month in November and December each year, celebrates the holiday season at 8th and F Streets NW. The Market boasts over 180 vendors selling food, crafts and souvenirs. There are also music performances and of course, Christmas songs.

When to Visit Washington DC to Avoid the Crowds

Washington DC — specifically, the National Mall area — tends to be crowded throughout the year. In the fall, winter and spring, large school groups wander the streets, learning about our political system. Rallies and protests can take place at any time, and governmental events often draw hoards of people and result in road closures.

Before visiting, make sure your dates don't coincide with any events (unless that is your intention). And if avoiding the crowds truly is your main priority, avoid the National Mall entirely. November through February tend to be slightly less crowded than peak season, which occurs during the summer.

When to Visit Washington DC For Events

Between the festivals, rallies and political events, there is always something happening in Washington DC. To avoid spending the day looking for parking, we highly recommend taking the metro downtown.

The Best Time to Visit Washington DC For Outdoor Adventure

While Washington DC outsiders might rarely think of the capital as an outdoor-oriented city, there is actually no shortage of outdoor adventure. Rock Creek Park, the C and O Canal Towpath and Great Falls Park all offer great walking and hiking trails in the region. Many choose to paddle the Potomac River on kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards, which allows them to experience the city from a unique perspective.

Rock Creek Park, Washington DC. (Photo by WLDavies / Getty Images)

Spring and fall are the best times to be outside, especially if you're hoping to avoid the area's extreme high and low temperatures. It can be busy in the spring, especially during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, but the weather makes it worthwhile.

The Cheapest Time to Visit Washington DC

Affordable airfare.

While the cheapest month to travel to Washington DC ultimately depends on where you're traveling from, it is pretty safe to assume vacation weeks and holiday weekends will be pricier across the board, regardless of point of origin.

According to travel booking platform Skyscanner.com , the cheapest flights from New York City and Los Angeles can usually be found during mid to late summer. If traveling from Chicago, San Francisco or Dallas, you may have better luck waiting until September. By then, crowds will have dissipated and the summer heat will be on the decline. Flights from Seattle tend to be at their low in October.

Affordable Lodging

According to average daily rates collected by Priceline.com of hotels 2.5 stars and above, prices usually begin to rise in January and hit a high point of around $200 in April, before starting a decrease through the summer. They spike again in September and October before hitting a low of around $137 in December.

Bottom Line

Washington DC is the epicenter of our nation, home to plenty of politically-fueled events and attractions, cultural festivals and renowned museums, making it the perfect place to visit any time of year.

Metropolitan Girl

Best Time to Visit Washington DC Month by Month: A Complete Guide

Get an insider's look at when the best time to visit washington d.c. is each month and season.

best time to visit washington dc

Best Time to Visit Washington DC Month by Month & Season

When is the best time to visit Washington, DC? The nation’s capital is one of the most popular cities in America with good reason. If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC , there’s truly no better time than now! In the springtime, popular sites like the National Mall and memorials are in full bloom with flowers decorating every corner. Then in summer, Pops on the Potomac provides free outdoor concerts while fireworks light up the sky on Independence Day.

With autumn comes cozy cafe visits, crisp days for biking and exploring new neighborhoods through guided tours of monuments that make history come alive. And winter brings some surprise snowfall that’ll remind you of your childhood spent playing outdoors – it’s all part of experiencing the best time to visit Washington DC!

Understanding Washington DC’s Climate

Washington DC has a subtropical humid weather, characterized by hot and humid summers and cool to cold winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures and precipitation varying throughout the year.

During the summer months of June, July, and August, temperatures can soar to an average high of 87°F (31°C), with high humidity making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during this time, and occasionally, the city can experience heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C) for several consecutive days.

The winter months of December, January, and February are generally cold, with average temperatures ranging from 26°F (-3°C) to 44°F (7°C). Snowfall is common during this time, and the city can experience occasional blizzards.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Washington DC. During these months, temperatures are mild, with average highs ranging from 60°F (16°C) to 73°F (23°C). The humidity is lower, and there is less rainfall than in the summer months.

Month by Month, the weather in Washington DC can be summarized as follows:

  • January : Cold, with average temperatures ranging from 26°F (-3°C) to 43°F (6°C). Snowfall is common.
  • February : Cold, with average temperatures ranging from 29°F (-2°C) to 47°F (8°C). Snowfall is common.
  • March : Cool, with temperatures range from 37°F (3°C) to 56°F (13°C). Spring begins to sprout across the capital, making March a great time to visit Washington DC.
  • April : Mild, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F (8°C) to 67°F (19°C). Cherry blossoms bloom in April, making it a popular month for tourists.
  • May : Mild, with average temperatures ranging from 55°F (13°C) to 75°F (24°C). The weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
  • June : Hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 64°F (18°C) to 87°F (31°C). Thunderstorms are common.
  • July : Hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 90°F (32°C). Thunderstorms are common.
  • August: Hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 67°F (19°C) to 88°F (31°C). Thunderstorms are common.
  • September : Mild, with average temperatures ranging from 59°F (15°C) to 79°F (26°C). The weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
  • October : Cool, with average temperatures ranging from 47°F (8°C) to 68°F (20°C). The fall foliage is at its peak, making it a great time to visit Washington DC.
  • November: Cool temperatures ranging from 37°F (3°C) to 56°F (13°C). The fall foliage is still present, making it a great time to visit Washington DC.
  • December: Cold, with temperatures ranging from 29°F (-2°C) to 47°F (8°C). Snowfall is common.

Visiting Washington DC in Winter (December to February)

Winter in Washington, D.C. is a magical time of year, with festive lights, holiday markets, and the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. However, visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and the possibility of snow.

December is one of the busiest months in the city due to the holiday season. The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony takes place early in the month, and crowds gather to see the tree and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Downtown Holiday Market is also a popular attraction, featuring over 150 exhibitors selling unique gifts and crafts.

January and February are typically the coldest months of the year in Washington, D.C., with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Visitors should dress warmly and be prepared for the possibility of snow and ice. Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of things to see and do in the city. The Smithsonian museums and other indoor attractions offer respite from the cold, and the city’s many restaurants and bars provide cozy places to warm up.

Visiting Washington DC in Spring in the Capital (March to May)

Spring is a pleasant time to visit Washington DC, with the weather warming up and the cherry blossoms in bloom. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, which usually takes place from late March to early April, is one of the most popular events in the city. During this time, visitors can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms and participate in various events and activities.

In March , the weather can still be chilly, with average temperatures ranging from 40°F to 57°F (4°C to 14°C). However, as the month progresses, the weather begins to warm up, making it a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. Visitors can take a stroll along the Tidal Basin to see the cherry blossoms, or visit the National Mall to see the various monuments and memorials.

April is when the cherry blossom season is in full swing, with the trees reaching peak bloom. The festival usually takes place during this time, with events such as the Blossom Kite Festival, the National Cherry Blossom Parade, and the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival. It’s a great time to visit the city, but visitors should expect large crowds and higher prices.

May is an ideal time to visit Washington DC, as the weather starts to warm up and the crowds begin to disperse. The average temperature range from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C), making it a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. Visitors can take a stroll through the various parks and gardens, or participate in Passport DC, a month-long event that celebrates the city’s international culture.

Visiting Washington DC in the Summer (June to August)

Summer weather in Washington, D.C. can be hot and humid, with average temperature ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The city is less crowded during this time of year, making it a great time to visit if you don’t mind the heat.

July is the hottest and rainiest month, with average daily temperatures reaching the upper 80s and the city receiving over two inches of rain. There are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including picnics in the parks, outdoor concerts, and festivals.

One of the most popular events during the summer is Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July. Visitors can watch the National Independence Day Parade, enjoy live music and entertainment, and watch the fireworks display on the National Mall. It is important to note that the city can get very crowded during this time, so plan accordingly.

Another event to look out for is the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which takes place in late June and early July. This festival celebrates cultural heritage and features live music, dance performances, and traditional crafts from around the world.

Sports fans can also enjoy the Citi Open, a professional tennis tournament held in August . This event attracts top players from around the world and offers a great opportunity to watch pro tennis in a beautiful setting. If you don’t mind the massive crowds and summer heat, summer would be a great time to visit.

Visiting Washington DC in the Fall (September to November)

Fall season is considered the best time to visit Washington, D.C. due to its pleasant weather and the changing leaves. The season starts in September and ends in November, making it a perfect time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.

During September , the H Street Festival is a must-attend event for foodies and music lovers. This festival features over 100 restaurants and food vendors, along with live music, art exhibits, and more. Visitors can also enjoy the Taste of DC festival, which takes place in October and offers a wide variety of food and drinks from local restaurants.

The Marine Corps Marathon is another popular event that takes place in October. This marathon attracts runners from all over the world and offers a scenic route through the city’s most iconic landmarks.

In November , visitors can witness the city’s Veterans Day celebrations, which honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The National Veterans Day Parade is a highlight of the event, featuring marching bands, military units, and veterans from all branches of the military.

Major DC Attractions and Events month by month

Washington DC is a city that is always bustling with activity, no matter what time of year you visit. From historic monuments to amazing museums, there is always something to see and do. Here are some of the major attractions and numerous events that visitors can look forward to experiencing in Washington DC month by month.

January is a great time to visit Washington DC if you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. While the weather can be chilly, visitors can enjoy the annual Zoolights event at the National Zoo. This is a popular event where visitors can see the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with more than 500,000 LED lights.

February is the month of love and visitors can take a romantic stroll through the National Mall. The National Mall is home to many of the city’s most iconic monuments, including the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. Visitors can also take a tour of the White House, which is open for tours on a limited basis during this month.

March is a great time to visit Washington DC if you’re interested in history. Visitors can explore the Library of Congress National Book Festival, which is held annually in March. This festival celebrates the love of books and literature and features a variety of authors, speakers, and book signings.

April is one of the most popular months to visit Washington DC, thanks to the famous Cherry Blossom Festival. Visitors can see the city come alive with beautiful pink and white cherry blossoms. The festival features a variety of events, including a parade, fireworks, and cultural performances.

May is a busy month in Washington DC, with many graduation celebrations and events throughout the city. Visitors can also enjoy the Passport DC festival, a month-long celebration of the cultural and historical features of the region. This festival includes embassy open houses, street festivals, and cultural performances.

June is the start of summer in Washington DC, and visitors can enjoy the warm weather and many festivals and events. The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is a popular event that celebrates the city’s diverse culture through events, art, and food.

If you have an interest in history and a sense of patriotism, July is an ideal time to explore Washington DC. Visitors can celebrate Independence Day with a variety of events, including a parade, fireworks, and concerts on the National Mall.

August is a quieter month in Washington DC, with fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. Visitors can take advantage of this and explore the city’s many museums, including the Smithsonian museums, which are free to the public.

September is a great time to visit Washington DC, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Visitors can explore the city’s many monuments and attractions, including the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

Fall foliage enthusiasts should consider visiting Washington DC in October; it’s the perfect time to witness the vibrant colors of the season. Visitors can take a stroll through Rock Creek Park, which features beautiful fall colors. The city also hosts the National Book Festival, which is a great event for book lovers.

If you have an interest in history and politics, November presents an ideal opportunity to explore Washington DC. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and monuments, including the Smithsonian museums and the National Archives. The city also hosts the White House Fall Garden Tour, which is a great way to see the White House gardens and grounds.

December is a festive month in Washington DC, with many holiday events and activities. Visitors can enjoy the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on the National Mall, which features live music and a visit from Santa Claus. The city also hosts the Downtown Holiday Market, which is a great place to shop for unique gifts and crafts.

Accommodation and Dining in Washington DC

Washington, D.C. is a bustling city with plenty of accommodation and dining options to choose from. Depending on the time of year, visitors can find great deals on hotels and restaurants.

When it comes to accommodations, visitors will find that there are a variety of options available, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury accommodations. During the peak season, which runs from March to June, hotel prices can be high. However, visitors can find good deals on hotels by booking in advance or by staying outside of the city center.

For those looking for a great deal on accommodations, it’s worth checking out hotel deal websites or booking directly with the hotel. Visitors can also consider staying in nearby cities, such as Arlington, Virginia , or Bethesda, Maryland, which offer easy access to Washington, D.C . via public transportation.

Crowds and Tourist Flow

Washington, DC is a popular tourist destination throughout the year, but the number of visitors varies depending on the season. The city experiences peak tourist season during the summer months of June, July, and August. During these months, the city is crowded with tourists, school groups, and business travelers. Hotel rates and flight prices are also higher during this time.

On the other hand, the winter months of December, January, February, and early march are considered the low season in Washington, DC. The city experiences fewer tourists during this time, and hotel rates and flight prices are lower. However, the weather can be cold and unpredictable.

The shoulder season in Washington, DC is from early September to November and March to May. During these months, the crowds are smaller, and the weather is comfortable. This is the best time to visit Washington, DC if you want to avoid crowds but still experience pleasant weather.

If you want to avoid crowds altogether, it is best to visit Washington, DC during the weekdays rather than the weekends. The city is less crowded during the weekdays, and you can enjoy the attractions without long lines.

In conclusion, planning a visit to Washington DC can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can have a memorable vacation. Choose the best time to visit, plan your itinerary, and book your accommodation and flights in advance to make the most of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit washington, dc for the cherry blossoms.

The cherry blossoms in Washington, DC usually bloom between late March and early April. The exact dates depend on weather conditions and can vary from year to year. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held during this time and attracts many visitors. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and book accommodations early if you plan to visit during this time.

What is the least busy time to visit Washington, DC?

The least busy time to visit Washington, DC is during the winter months of December, January, and February. The weather during this time can be cold and sometimes snowy, but there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as visiting museums and art galleries.

What is the cheapest month to visit Washington, DC?

The cheapest time to visit the nation’s capital is typically January, as it is the off-season for tourism. However, it is important to keep in mind that the weather during this time can be cold and sometimes snowy.

What is the best time to visit Washington, DC in the fall?

The best time to visit Washington, DC in the fall is from September to November. The weather during this time is mild, and the fall foliage is beautiful. There are also many festivals and events during this time, such as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and the National Book Festival.

Is October a good time to visit DC?

Yes, October is a good time to visit DC. The weather during this time is mild, and the fall foliage is beautiful. There are also many festivals and events during this time, such as the Marine Corps Marathon and the Taste of DC.

How many days do you need to see all of Washington, DC?

It is recommended to spend at least three to four days in Washington, DC to see all of the major attractions and museums. However, there are many other sites to see and things to do in the area, so visitors may want to plan for a longer stay.

best time to visit washington dc

Grace Ashi is the founder and Editor of Metropolitan Girl.

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  1. Best Time To Visit Washington DC: Monthly Breakdown

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  2. The best time to visit Washington D.C. is typically in the fall

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  3. Best Time To Visit Washington DC: Monthly Breakdown

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  4. 4 of the Best Things to Do in Washington DC

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  5. 30+ Best Places to Take Pictures in Washington DC (2022 Photo Guide)

    best time to visit washington dc

  6. Best Time to Visit Washington, D.C.

    best time to visit washington dc

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  1. Best Times to Visit Washington, D.C.

    The best times to visit Washington, D.C., are from September to November and March to May. In the autumn, the sweltering summer is gone, taking with it most of the high season tourists. All...

  2. When is the best time to visit Washington, DC

    Mild, albeit unpredictable weather, makes this the perfect time to visit Washington, DC. There will be lots of crowds at the National Mall, but the mild temperatures mean you won’t mind. Cherry Blossom season kicks off in late March and attracts people from all over the world. Shoulder Season: July to September Best time for visiting museums

  3. The Best Times to Visit Washington DC

    Spring and fall are the best times to be outside, especially if you're hoping to avoid the area's extreme high and low temperatures. It can be busy in the spring, especially during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, but the weather makes it worthwhile. The Cheapest Time to Visit Washington DC Affordable Airfare

  4. The Best Time to Visit Washington DC (A Local’s Guide)

    Late spring and early fall tend to be the best times to visit Washington DC. The weather in Washington DC is best between March through May and September through October. Fewer people visit during the late spring and fall months, so there are less crowds around popular attractions.

  5. Best Time to Visit Washington DC Month by Month: A Complete Guide

    Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Washington DC. During these months, temperatures are mild, with average highs ranging from 60°F (16°C) to 73°F (23°C). The humidity is lower, and there is less rainfall than in the summer months.

  6. Best Time to Visit Washington, DC

    The best time to visit Washington, DC, is in the fall, between September and November. During the fall, the crowds of summer and the burning sun have dissipated, allowing for a more personal and comfortable visit to the national monuments among the colorful leaves.