Washington D.C. Travel Guide

Every American should visit Washington, DC at least once. The bustling hub of the United States government has plenty of offerings for both children and adults alike. Tours of the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court are available free of charge by booking in advance through your local congressional representative. Roam the halls the President walks and witness Congress or the Supreme Court in session on your Washington, DC vacation. 

And the Smithsonian Institute offers 15 free museums full of all sorts of history. Some of the most popular museums include the Natural History Museum where the brilliant Hope Diamond is on display, the American History Museum where the original American flag sewn by Betsy Ross can be seen, and the Air and Space Museum where the very first airplane designed by the Wright brothers can be viewed up close. The National Portrait Gallery also offers one of only two complete collections of portraits of every United States President (the other is in the White House). If you’re looking for a unique dining experience try eating a meal in the food court at the American Indian Museum. The cafeteria-style environment makes it possible to sample offerings native to various different regions.

Best Times to Visit

The ideal times of year to visit Washington, DC are spring and fall. In the spring the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom and in the fall the leaves begin changing colors and the air is a crisp yet comfortable 50-60 degrees. Since walking is a necessity if you want to tour many of the sites or the famed national monuments, visiting in the winter when it tends to rain or snow is not ideal. Summer may be convenient for families with children who aren’t in school, but the hot and humid weather can make being outdoors uncomfortable.

Airports and Ground Transportation

There are primarily two airports that service Washington, DC. Washington Dulles International Airport is located 26 miles outside of the city and offers the most direct flight options. Public transportation options from that airport include for-fee shuttles and taxis. Ronald Regan National Airport is only four miles outside of the city, and is serviced by the public metro rail system in addition to shuttles and taxis.

Parking is nothing short of an absolute nightmare in Washington, DC as parking lots charge extremely high fees, and space is limited. The public metro rail system is the easiest (and most economical) way to get around. With stops near all major attractions and weekly tourist passes (or pay per ride) options, this mode of transportation really is ideal.

Discount airfare to Washington, DC can easily be found, especially if you are willing to fly into Washington Dulles. Cheap flights can be found for less than $300 with average prices from JFK for as low as $134, and discount airfare to Washington, DC from SFO can be found for as low as $292, $275 from LAX and $192 from ORD.

Lodging in and Near Washington, DC

There are plenty of boutique and chain hotels right in the heart of Washington, DC. But many people prefer to stay just outside the city in historical Alexandria, VA—one of America’s oldest cities. Both the metro rail and public bus system run to local neighboring cities making it easy to get away from the hustle and bustle of politics while still partaking in the best the city has to offer.