Washington DC

Washington D.C. is more than just the capital of the United States. What you think is political, reveals more when you scratch the surface. Charming neighborhoods are lined with appealing row houses, celebrated museums including the 20 Smithsonian museums that offer free admission, as well as a startlingly underrated fine dining scene. Politics govern the professional energy of the district, much in the same way that San Francisco's tech population does.

The capital of the United States is also an educational center. There are universities such as Georgetown, Howard and George Washington all within the city. The city is as academically as it is political. But more than its atmosphere being tinged with politics or education, it also has the weight of historical history. This is our friendly guide to Washington D.C.'s finest activities, including where to stay, and the most significant museums and historic sites.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Washington DC is between April and June or September to October. The temperatures in late spring and early summer will be warm and inviting. In September and October, you’ll feel the warmth without the heat and crowd who flock into the city in summer.

Washington's Cherry Blossom Event draws crowd from late March through early April. The blooms peak between the first and second weeks of April. This university town welcomes graduates in May, filling up hotels with proud relatives. The Fourth of July is a joyful spectacle but it can also lead to a very crowded weekend in the capital. July and August are considered the peak season in Washington D.C., as they are the hottest months of year.

The summer June to August in DC is humid. The air can be heavy and feel hotter. February is usually the coldest month but there can be conversational snow in November or April. Comparing the two, it’s best to avoid the summer in DC.

Pro Tip

D.C. might be expensive to visit. You can save lots of money by doing free activities. All Smithsonian museums, including the National Zoo, are free. Many art museums and galleries offer free admission, including the National Gallery, Hirshhorn and the Freer and Sackler Gallery.

Airport

Washington Dulles International Airport, typically referred to as Dulles International Airport, Dulles Airport, Washington Dulles or simply Dulles is an international airport in the Eastern United States, located in Loudoun County and Fairfax County in Virginia, 26 miles (42 km) west of Downtown Washington, D.C.

Best Things to Do

Take your kids to Clemyjontri Park
Clemyjontri Park features a unique playground where children of all abilities can play side-by-side. It is a playground where every child is welcome. This park is a place where children who use wheelchairs, walkers or braces, or who have sensory or developmental disabilities, can have a parallel playground experience of fun and exploration.

Enjoy a day at Glen Echo Park
Glen Echo Park is one of the liveliest visual and performing arts sites in the Washington area. The Park is home to 13 resident artists & organizations, including two award-winning children’s theaters; a nature & aquatic life program for kids; a thriving social dance program; a restored 1921 Dentzel Carousel; numerous art studios and galleries; and hundreds of classes in visual & performing arts, including ceramics, painting, photography, glass, music, dance, and more.

Tour Georgetown Waterfront Park
While Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, cupcake stores, historic bars and stylish boutiques account for many of its charms, Washington, DC’s oldest neighborhood also sports a bevy of waterfront recreation that any visitor can thoroughly enjoy. From on-the-water revelry to dining accompanied by spectacular scenery to highly anticipated annual events, the Georgetown waterfront presents an array of activities for you to explore. And while you're there, explore the shops and cafes out there.

Explore Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park was founded in 1890 by the United States Congress as a recreational resource for the nation’s capital. These 1,700 acres cut a wide swath through Northwest Washington DC, providing a haven for people and wildlife. An oasis in a bustling city, most of Rock Creek Park consists of hardwood trees, a boiling brook, and rocky outcrops. But nestled inside the park are exciting activities to put on your must-do list.

Visit The White House
The official residence of each US president since 1800, the 132-room White House in Washington DC draws visitors from around the world. Admire from afar; stop by the White House Visitor Center; or request access for a self-guided tour of the East Wing, State Dining Room, China Room, and the White House Rose Garden.

Recommended Hotels in Washington DC

Washington DC is much more than just a capital of the US. Whether you're here for business or leisure, DC has everything to keep you hooked on. Enjoy a personal stay with these amazing hotel options that include Four Seasons Hotel Washington, The Jefferson, rump International Hotel Washington, The Willard InterContinental, The Hay-Adams, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown to name a few.

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