Washington, D.C. is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. Because of that, it’s nearly always busy in the city, especially at the major tourist attractions. If you’re planning a trip to the nation’s capital, you might be wondering when the best time to visit Washington DC is, if it’s always so busy.
The answer depends greatly on a lot of things, so we wanted to give you our perspective on when is the best time, depending on those factors. If your main concern is avoiding crowds, your best time to go will differ from someone whose main goal is to see the cherry blossoms, for instance.
Having lived in DC for 8 years myself, I’ve seen it in all the seasons, during all the peak times, and I’ve been to many of the events and festivals, so I’m pretty well versed in the best times to visit. I hope some of my knowledge will be helpful to your planning.
» Want more? We’ve got a great 3-day itinerary to make your planning easier. Add to your plan with these 50 top activities to do in Washington DC, or see it like a local with these non-touristy things to do. We also recommend seeing these special landmarks.
Where to Stay in Washington DC See all hotel options
- Willard Intercontinental – this is an exceptional hotel close to everything
- Conrad Washington DC – right next to the Capital One Arena and great restaurants
- Westin Washington DC City Center – right in the center of everything
Best Tours and Experiences in Washington DC
Best Time to Visit Washington DC
The best time to visit Washington, D.C. largely depends on your preferences for weather, events, and crowd levels. However, the most popular times to visit the city are spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the city’s foliage is particularly beautiful.
I’d say my favorite times to be in Washington, D.C. are late April to early May and late September to early October. During these months, the weather is mild (you won’t start sweating the second you leave the hotel), and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months (June to August) and the winter holiday season.
Many of the city’s top attractions, such as the National Mall and the Smithsonian museums, are free and open to the public year-round, making it easy to plan your itinerary without worrying about seasonal closures.
» You might like these 15 Weekend Road Trips from Washington, D.C.
Tourist Crowds and Hotel Rates
When planning your trip to Washington DC, it’s important to consider the tourist crowds and hotel rates. These factors can greatly impact your overall experience and budget. Here’s what you need to know about the different seasons in Washington DC:
Peak Season
The peak season in Washington DC is from late March to early April, and late June to August. During this time, the city is bustling with tourists who come to see the cherry blossoms, attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage. As a result, hotel rates are at their highest, and you can expect long lines at popular attractions. If you’re planning to visit during this time, it’s best to book your hotel well in advance to get the best rates.
Low Season
The low season in Washington DC is from December (with the exception of Christmas & New Years Eve) to February. During this time, the city is less crowded, and hotel rates are at their lowest. However, the weather can be quite cold, and some attractions may be closed for the season. If you don’t mind the cold weather and want to avoid crowds, this is a great time to visit.
Shoulder Season
The shoulder season in Washington DC is from early April to late June and September to November. During this time, the weather is hot and humid, but the crowds are smaller, and hotel rates are lower than during the peak season. Many locals leave the city during this time, so you’ll have more space to explore the city’s attractions. However, keep in mind that some outdoor attractions may be closed during this time due to the heat.
Washington DC by Season
Spring (March to May)
Spring is an excellent time and one of the most popular times to visit Washington, D.C., as the weather is generally pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 50-70 F (10-21C).
The city comes alive with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which typically takes place in late March or early April. The cherry blossoms are a stunning sight to behold, and the festival includes a range of events and activities.
In addition to the cherry blossoms, spring in Washington DC is characterized by mild temperatures and low humidity. This makes it a great time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions, such as the National Mall and the Tidal Basin.
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Washington, D.C. can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees F (32C). However, this is still the peak tourist season. Prepare for heat and potential afternoon thunderstorms.
There are still quite a few outdoor events and festivals, such as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and the Fourth of July celebrations. So if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and plenty of events and activities, summer might be the best time to visit.
Fall (September to November)
Fall in Washington DC is a beautiful time of year, with the changing leaves creating a stunning backdrop for the city’s many attractions. Temperatures are mild, making it a great time to explore the city on foot.
Fall is also a popular time for festivals and events, such as the H Street Festival and the Taste of DC food festival. However, it’s worth noting that fall can also bring some rain, so be prepared with appropriate clothing.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Washington DC can be cold and snowy, but it’s also a quieter time of year for tourists. If you’re looking for a more peaceful and relaxed trip, winter might be the best time to visit.
Some popular winter attractions in Washington DC include the National Christmas Tree and the Smithsonian museums. Just be prepared for the cold weather, and make sure to dress appropriately.
Overall, the best time to visit Washington DC depends on your preferences and what you want to see and do. Whether you’re looking for cherry blossoms in the spring, lively festivals in the summer, or changing leaves in the fall, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Visiting Washington DC for Events
Washington DC is known for its vibrant and diverse events throughout the year. From cultural festivals to political ceremonies, there is always something happening in the nation’s capital. Here are some of the events you should consider when planning your trip to DC.
Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most popular events in DC. It usually takes place in late March or early April, and it celebrates the arrival of spring with beautiful cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. The festival includes a parade, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an annual event that takes place in late June and early July. It celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of the United States and other countries through music, dance, crafts, and food. The festival is free and open to the public.
National Book Festival
The National Book Festival is an annual event that takes place in September. It features famous authors, illustrators, and poets who give talks, sign books, and participate in panel discussions. The festival is free and open to the public.
H Street Festival
The H Street Festival is a popular street festival that takes place in September. It celebrates the vibrant culture of the H Street neighborhood with music, food, and art. The festival is free and open to the public.
White House Easter Egg Roll
The White House Easter Egg Roll is an annual event that takes place on the Monday after Easter. It features egg rolling, storytelling, and other fun activities for children on the White House lawn. Tickets are required and can be obtained through a lottery system.
Independence Day
Independence Day is celebrated on July 4th with a parade, concerts, and fireworks on the National Mall. It is one of the busiest days in DC, so plan accordingly.
Inauguration
The Presidential Inauguration takes place every four years on January 20th. It is a historic event that attracts millions of visitors to DC. Tickets are required for some events, and security is tight.
Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year is celebrated in late January or early February with dragon and lion dances, cultural performances, and food. The festival takes place in Chinatown and is free and open to the public.
Blossom Kite Festival
The Blossom Kite Festival takes place in March and celebrates the arrival of spring with colorful kites flying over the National Mall. The festival is free and open to the public.
Capital Pride
Capital Pride is an annual event that takes place in June and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, concerts, and other events. The festival is free and open to the public.
DC is a great place to visit for events throughout the year. From the National Cherry Blossom Festival to the Presidential Inauguration, there is something for everyone. Keep in mind that some events require tickets and planning ahead is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see attractions in Washington DC?
Washington DC is home to many iconic attractions, including the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian Museums, the White House, and the United States Capitol. Visitors can also explore historic neighborhoods like Georgetown and Dupont Circle, or take a stroll along the Potomac River.
How can I get around Washington DC?
Washington DC has an extensive public transportation system, including the Metro subway and bus system, which is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or rent a bike or scooter to explore the city on their own.
How can I visit the White House or the United States Capitol?
Visitors can tour the White House and the United States Capitol by booking a tour in advance through their Member of Congress. These tours are free, but they do require advance planning and security screening. Visitors can also view the White House from outside the gates on Pennsylvania Avenue, or take a guided tour of the Capitol Visitor Center.
What time of year is cheapest to visit DC?
The cheapest time to visit Washington, DC is during the winter months from December to February. During this time, you can find cheaper hotel rates and airfare prices. However, keep in mind that the weather can be cold and snowy during this time, so be sure to pack accordingly.
How many days do you need to visit Washington, DC?
You should plan to spend at least three to four days in Washington, DC to see the major attractions. This will give you enough time to visit the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and other popular attractions. However, if you want to explore the city in-depth and see more of the lesser-known attractions, you may want to plan to stay for a week or more.
Be Prepared For Travel
Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:
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- Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
- Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner)
- Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
- Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)
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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.