There is nothing like Washington DC in the spring! From enjoying the annual Cherry Blossom Festival to visiting all the National Monuments and experiencing all the outdoor activities along the Potomac River to checking out all the free museums, there are plenty of things to do during a Washington DC spring!
After a long winter, there is nothing people crave more than sunny days, warm weather and beautiful blooms! One of the best ways to kick off the spring season is to visit Washington DC in March or early April to enjoy peak bloom for the cherry blossoms. If you travel to Washington DC in April you can experience the Tulip Festival!
Iβve been to Washington DC numerous times because I went to college in Virginia, but my most recent trips to the nationβs capital were in early April 2018 to see the cherry blossom trees and in May 2021 to enjoy a lovely spring break at the beautiful and historic Omni Shoreham Hotel!
Average temperatures in DC in the spring range from highs in the mid 50sΒ°F to lows in the mid 30sΒ°F in March; highs in the mid 60sΒ°F to lows in the mid 40sΒ°F in April and highs in the high 70sΒ°F to lows in the low 50sΒ°F in May.
Washington DC boasts historical monuments, some of the best museums in the country, an incredible dining scene and charming neighborhoods to explore. Discover the top 10 things to do in Washington DC in the spring and see why this season is the best time of the year to visit the United States’ capital city!
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. During my trip to Washington D.C. in 2021, I was hosted at the Omni Shoreham Hotel for two nights.
Pin the Below Image to Keep Handy
Traveling to Washington DC in Spring
Traveling during springtime in Washington DC can easily be done through a flight or road trip! I always drive to Washington DC, which usually takes me a little over four hours from the New York City area. DC is less than a three-hour drive from Philadelphia, an hour’s drive from Baltimore and around seven to eight hours from Boston.
If you are coming from a further distance, you could fly into Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You can find great flight deals on Skyscanner. The best way to get from the airport to your accommodation is via Go Airport Shuttle!
The most convenient way to get around Washington DC is by taking the Metrorail and Metrobus. There are also city taxis as well as Uber and Lyft rides in the capital. Even though having your own vehicle isn’t necessary to get around Washington DC, if you plan to explore beyond the capital city, it is suggested to rent a car.
Another great way to get around Washington DC and enjoy an interactive experience is by taking a city segway tour!
Looking for an RV for your next trip, reserve here!
Best Washington DC Hotel in the Spring
No matter where you stay in Washington DC in the spring, there are many wonderful hotels to suit different budgets. When I visited the DC area with my family for spring events in 2018, we stayed at the Washington Marriott Georgetown.
I loved how clean, beautiful, lively and centrally located it was in relation to all the big sites. It was also close to the Tidal Basin, where all the cherry trees are situated!
During my spring trip to Washington DC in May 2021, I stayed at the elegant Omni Shoreham Hotel. This luxury hotel features timeless rooms and suites, manicured lawns, sculptures, fountains and picturesque gardens.
Some fun facts about the Omni Shoreham in DC are that its hosted dozens of U.S. Presidents over the years, from FDR to Harry Truman to Obama. Also, FDR and Bill Clinton had their inaugural balls at the hotel.
The Beatles called the Omni Shoreham home during their first visit to the nationβs capital. Additionally, the movie The Pelican Brief, starring Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington, was filmed at this historic property.
The NFL Washington Redskins (now The Washington Football Team) has stayed at Omni Shoreham numerous times. The New York Yankees also threw a surprise party for Joe DiMaggio at the hotel.
Overall, there is much more that the Omni Shoreham offers, from onsite restaurants, a marketplace, fire pits, a pool with a pool bar, spa, fitness center, shops, meeting and events spaces, plus more!
This luxury hotel also is located outside Rock Creek Park, which has excellent walking and bike trails. Rock Creek Park is where you can find the Smithsonian National Zoo.
In addition to the many hotels Washington offers, there is also an extensive range of rental options!
Best Things to do in Washington DC in the Spring
Explore the Charming Area of Georgetown:
A trip to Washington in spring is not complete without getting lost in the most charming neighborhood in the city β Georgetown! This area boasts high-end restaurants, cute cafΓ©s, great shopping and adorable, Federal-style architecture.
History of Georgetown in Washington DC:
Georgetown is part of the National Register of Historic Places as it was once a tobacco port town in Maryland. It also housed a lumber yard, cement works and the Washington Flour Mill. Georgetown was also the original point for the C&O Canal, which stands for the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal that ran up to Cumberland, Maryland.
Even though Georgetown can get crowded with tourists, especially during the spring season, itβs still worth exploring the area. One of the best things to do is admire all the stunning homes this neighborhood boasts.
Some of the best places to tour in Georgetown is the Dumbarton House, a Federal period home where you can go inside and see how it was decorated back in the day. Georgetown also features the Old Stone House, the oldest building in Washington DC that was built in 1765.
One of the best ways to explore Georgetown and learn about Washingtonβs earlier days is to take a walking tour!
Fun Things to do in Georgetown:
Other great things to do in Georgetown are to take a boat ride along the C&O Canal, shop, enjoy the waterfront and rent paddle boards or kayaks to take down the Potomac River, walk Georgetown Universityβs stunning campus, take a fitness class, enjoy a drink with friends, listen to live music and more!
A must-visit in Georgetown during a Washington DC spring is Georgetown Cupcake! This staple of Washington DC is co-owned by sisters Katherine Kallinis Berman and Sophie Kallinis LaMontagne. These two power sisters were the stars of Cupcake Cam LIVE and DC Cupcakes on TLC and are the best-selling authors of The Cupcake Diaries and Sweet Celebrations.
At Georgetown Cupcake, you can enjoy a plethora of different cupcake flavors. I loved the salted caramel cupcake!
Regarding DC dining, you can find some of the best restaurants in Georgetown! My go-to eateries during springtime are Filomena Ristorante, a classic Italian restaurant; El Centro, a fun Mexican restaurant and Fiola Mare, a lovely seafood restaurant situated along the Georgetown Waterfront!
Enjoy the Historical Landmarks around the National Mall:
Located in the heart of the capital, the National Mall must not be missed when enjoying spring travel to Washington DC. The top iconic monuments are found at the National Mall and it is part of the National Park Service! Please note that visiting the National Mall and Memorial Parks is free.
The National Mall and Memorial Parks cover over 1,000 acres of parkland that honor the bravery, sacrifices and beliefs of those who have served the nation and its people.
At the National Mall, youβll find the Belmont-Paul Womenβs Equality National Monument, Constitutional Gardens, Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, Fords Theatre National Historic Site, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Uptown Parks, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington Monument and World War I and II Memorials.
The spring in Washington DC is perfect for strolling around the National Mall! One of the most breathtaking views in DC is from the Lincoln Memorial. The structure alone is incredible, but you can also see the reflecting pool, World War II Memorial and the United States Capitol Building from this spot!
Admire the Beautiful Tidal Basin Cherry Blossoms:
The cherry blossom trees make Washington DC one of the most special places in the spring! If you want to see the cherry blossoms in peak bloom, you must visit Washington DC either the last week of March or the first week of April.
Every spring, Washington DC holds the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This popular event is attended by millions annually and commemorates the 3,000 cherry blossom trees gifted to the United States by Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo. The gift and annual celebration honor the lasting and continued friendship between the United States and Japan. (Japan is also a wonderful spring destination to see cherry blossoms.)
DC is in full swing in early spring with all its floral events. During the National Cherry Blossom Festival, you can enjoy a parade, Japanese-inspired art and music, tasty bites, the Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, fireworks and more. Itβs a free cultural event that is perfect for all to enjoy, which is why itβs considered one of the best festivals in the spring season!
These beautiful pink trees stand out when they are in full bloom and the blossoms are breathtaking in front of the Tidal Basin. They symbolize a new beginning and season!
The Tidal Basin is also a great place to take all different types of photos! Remember that this area is crowded during peak cherry blossom season, so if you want to get pictures without others in them, itβs best to wake up early!
On a beautiful sunny day, you can catch views of the pink cherry blossoms with the beautiful blue water and Thomas Jefferson Memorial in the background. In addition, you could even rent paddle boats at the Tidal Basin if you are feeling adventurous!
Discover Washington DCβs Logan and Dupont Circles:
In addition to Georgetown, Washington DC has other lovely neighborhoods that deserve attention. Logan and Dupont Circles are charming areas with excellent restaurants, bars and shopping! You can find a cherry blossom-themed pop-up bar at Castaβs Rum Bar in this area of Washington DC, in the spring.
Other great places to visit in Dupont and Logan Circles are Right Proper Brewing Company, Mission Dupont (a Mexican restaurant) and Barcelona Wine Bar.
Even though Washington DC is a major U.S. city, it isnβt overwhelming like other larger metropolitan areas. A fun fact about Washington DC is that it doesnβt have a signature skyline because it contains few skyscrapers. No building in DC is allowed to be taller than the National Monument!
Visit Washington DCβs Museums:
A trip to Washington DC in the spring is only complete by visiting one of the many museums. There are museums for all ages to enjoy!
The Smithsonian Museums and Zoo is the worldβs largest museum complex and the best part about it is that itβs free for all! During your spring trip to DC, you must visit the African American Museum, African Art Museum, Air and Space Museum, American Art Museum, American History Museum, American Indian Museum, Anacostia Community Museum, Archives of American Art, Arts and Industries Building, Freer Gallery of Art, Hirshhorn Museum, National Zoo, Natural History Museum, Portrait Gallery, Postal Museum, Renwick Gallery, S. Dillon Ripley Center, Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Castle and Smithsonian Gardens.
During my most recent time in Washington DC, I visited the Hirschhorn Museum, a fifth-decade leading voice for contemporary art and culture. Itβs one of the country’s most visited modern art museums, offering interactive experiences that feature talented works from 21st-century artists.
No matter which museum you visit when you travel to Washington DC in spring, you will be amazed and impressed by them all!
Attend a Lovely Spring Brunch:
As one of the nationβs leading cities to βbrunchβ in, you must experience an authentic brunch during a trip to Washington DC! I love brunch and feel like I donβt go enough, but something about sweet waffles or French toast with eggs and bacon with a refreshing mimosa is spot on.
One of the top brunch spots near the White House in DC is Founding Farmers. This incredible place is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers high-quality food that is delicious and grown with care.
If you plan to eat at Founding Farmers, you must make reservations ahead of time because itβs a popular restaurant. Even with a reservation, we still had to wait 15 minutes to be seated.
I love the Belliniβs and chicken and waffles at Founding Farmers! The open atmosphere includes natural light and the lively ambiance is perfect to enjoy with friends and family on a beautiful spring day.
Another incredible brunch place that is located near Omni Shoreham is Open City. They have a delicious drink menu with outstanding breakfast items ranging from chicken and waffles to omelets and breakfast sandwiches to French toast.
See The White House:
It wouldnβt be a trip to Washington DC without seeing The White House for the first time! Located in the heart of downtown DC, you can find the stunning white home of the current and past U.S. Presidents.
As you can imagine, this area is crowded because people from all over the globe come to see the infamous building. Regardless of your political views, visiting The White House in person is fantastic because every United States President has resided there since the 18th Century.
Even though The White House is highly guarded and gated off, you could still get great photographs as you maneuver through the crowds. I loved the tulip garden and fountain in front!
What is remarkable about The White House is that you can take a free tour! Itβs one of the top things to do in Washington DC in the spring.
Public tour requests are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis through a form submitted by a Member of Congress and their Congressional Tour Coordinator through the U.S. House of Representatives Switchboard. Click here to contact your representative to book a tour of the United States White House!
Before you visit The White House in DC, please note that you must present a valid government-issued photo ID, whether it’s a Driverβs License, passport or military ID. If youβre a non-US citizen, you must present your passport.
Venture to Arlington and Old Town Alexandria in Northern Virginia:
Another one of the best things to do during springtime in Washington DC is to make your way across the Potomac River and visit Arlington and Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. These spots make for fun spring day trips from the heart of the nationβs capital city!
Arlington is a county in Northern Virginia and holds the famous Arlington National Cemetery. Itβs the most well-known cemetery that is home to The Pentagon. Itβs a resting place for U.S. Armed Forces and people have been buried there since the Civil War.
In addition to touring the Arlington National Cemetery, you must go shopping, enjoy the Mount Vernon Trail and eat at one of the many incredible restaurants.
One of my favorite places in Arlington, Virginia, is Nicecream! When I was in college at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, I interned for JMUβs College of Business as a Public Relations Intern. One project involved interviewing two JMU alums on their successful entrepreneurial endeavors.
Sandra Tran and Gilbert (Gil) Welsford combined their skills and love for ice cream and created pop-up shops around the DC area called Nicecream. The use of pop-up shops made their business mobile and convenient for all ice cream lovers!
After many successes and continued growth, the two business partners opened their retail stores in Arlington and Alexandria. Nicecream has been thriving since 2013! On a sunny day in the Washington DC Metro area, head to Nicecream and enjoy one of the many delicious flavors of this liquid nitrogen goodness!
Voted one of the Top 5 Best Small Cities in the U.S. for 2022 by Conde Nast Traveler, Alexandria is one of the most adorable places to visit during spring in Washington DC 2023.
Some of the top things to do in Alexandria are to walk along the King Street Mile, where you can enjoy the beautiful architecture, great restaurants and bars, boutique shopping and art galleries. You can also take a city cruise over to the National Harbor!
Since Alexandria, Virginia holds much history that dates back to the American Revolution, itβs the perfect opportunity to do a colonial tour, ghost tour and more. Also located in Alexandria is the Winkler Botanical Preserve, which includes beautiful gardens, nature trails, a waterfall and a mountain lodge.
Watch a Washington Nationals Baseball Game:
One of Washington DC’s best spring outdoor activities is attending an MLB Washington Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park.
Thereβs nothing like attending a ball game during the warmer months. From seeing your favorite players on the field to enjoying tasty snacks, itβs always a great time at the ball park!
Stroll around the U.S. National Arboretum:
Another of the best spring things in Washington DC is walking through the U.S. National Arboretum. What is terrific about this lovely spot is that it is free and operated by the United States Department of Agricultureβs Agricultural Research Service!
One of the best spots to explore in the arboretum is The Asian Collections, which include plant varieties from Japan, Korea and China. There is also a Chinese-style pagoda. The dawn redwoods are also cool to see in the National Arboretum! They are tall, skinny trees that resemble those found in Northern California and Oregon!
You must also see the Dogwood Collection, the Gotelli Conifer Collection, the hybrid azaleas at the Morrison Garden and the Springhouse Run. There are also cherry blossoms scattered in the arboretum.
Planning a memorable USA trip? Find more USA travel tips here.
Looking for more great places to visit in the spring? Discover the below destinations:
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best things to do in Washington D.C. in the spring. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
Basic Facts of the United States:
Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more. Click here to get insured for your next trip.
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There is nothing like Washington DC in the spring! From enjoying the annual Cherry Blossom Festival to visiting all the National Monuments and experiencing all the outdoor activities along the Potomac River to checking out all the free museums, there are plenty of things to do during a Washington DC spring!
After a long winter, there is nothing people crave more than sunny days, warm weather and beautiful blooms! One of the best ways to kick off the spring season is to visit Washington DC in March or early April to enjoy peak bloom for the cherry blossoms. If you travel to Washington DC in April you can experience the Tulip Festival!
Iβve been to Washington DC numerous times because I went to college in Virginia, but my most recent trips to the nationβs capital were in early April 2018 to see the cherry blossom trees and in May 2021 to enjoy a lovely spring break at the beautiful and historic Omni Shoreham Hotel!
Average temperatures in DC in the spring range from highs in the mid 50sΒ°F to lows in the mid 30sΒ°F in March; highs in the mid 60sΒ°F to lows in the mid 40sΒ°F in April and highs in the high 70sΒ°F to lows in the low 50sΒ°F in May.
Washington DC boasts historical monuments, some of the best museums in the country, an incredible dining scene and charming neighborhoods to explore. Discover the top 10 things to do in Washington DC in the spring and see why this season is the best time of the year to visit the United States’ capital city!
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. During my trip to Washington D.C. in 2021, I was hosted at the Omni Shoreham Hotel for two nights.
Pin the Below Image to Keep Handy
Traveling to Washington DC in Spring
Traveling during springtime in Washington DC can easily be done through a flight or road trip! I always drive to Washington DC, which usually takes me a little over four hours from the New York City area. DC is less than a three-hour drive from Philadelphia, an hour’s drive from Baltimore and around seven to eight hours from Boston.
If you are coming from a further distance, you could fly into Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You can find great flight deals on Skyscanner. The best way to get from the airport to your accommodation is via Go Airport Shuttle!
The most convenient way to get around Washington DC is by taking the Metrorail and Metrobus. There are also city taxis as well as Uber and Lyft rides in the capital. Even though having your own vehicle isn’t necessary to get around Washington DC, if you plan to explore beyond the capital city, it is suggested to rent a car.
Another great way to get around Washington DC and enjoy an interactive experience is by taking a city segway tour!
Looking for an RV for your next trip, reserve here!
Best Washington DC Hotel in the Spring
No matter where you stay in Washington DC in the spring, there are many wonderful hotels to suit different budgets. When I visited the DC area with my family for spring events in 2018, we stayed at the Washington Marriott Georgetown.
I loved how clean, beautiful, lively and centrally located it was in relation to all the big sites. It was also close to the Tidal Basin, where all the cherry trees are situated!
During my spring trip to Washington DC in May 2021, I stayed at the elegant Omni Shoreham Hotel. This luxury hotel features timeless rooms and suites, manicured lawns, sculptures, fountains and picturesque gardens.
Some fun facts about the Omni Shoreham in DC are that its hosted dozens of U.S. Presidents over the years, from FDR to Harry Truman to Obama. Also, FDR and Bill Clinton had their inaugural balls at the hotel.
The Beatles called the Omni Shoreham home during their first visit to the nationβs capital. Additionally, the movie The Pelican Brief, starring Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington, was filmed at this historic property.
The NFL Washington Redskins (now The Washington Football Team) has stayed at Omni Shoreham numerous times. The New York Yankees also threw a surprise party for Joe DiMaggio at the hotel.
Overall, there is much more that the Omni Shoreham offers, from onsite restaurants, a marketplace, fire pits, a pool with a pool bar, spa, fitness center, shops, meeting and events spaces, plus more!
This luxury hotel also is located outside Rock Creek Park, which has excellent walking and bike trails. Rock Creek Park is where you can find the Smithsonian National Zoo.
In addition to the many hotels Washington offers, there is also an extensive range of rental options!
Best Things to do in Washington DC in the Spring
Explore the Charming Area of Georgetown:
A trip to Washington in spring is not complete without getting lost in the most charming neighborhood in the city β Georgetown! This area boasts high-end restaurants, cute cafΓ©s, great shopping and adorable, Federal-style architecture.
History of Georgetown in Washington DC:
Georgetown is part of the National Register of Historic Places as it was once a tobacco port town in Maryland. It also housed a lumber yard, cement works and the Washington Flour Mill. Georgetown was also the original point for the C&O Canal, which stands for the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal that ran up to Cumberland, Maryland.
Even though Georgetown can get crowded with tourists, especially during the spring season, itβs still worth exploring the area. One of the best things to do is admire all the stunning homes this neighborhood boasts.
Some of the best places to tour in Georgetown is the Dumbarton House, a Federal period home where you can go inside and see how it was decorated back in the day. Georgetown also features the Old Stone House, the oldest building in Washington DC that was built in 1765.
One of the best ways to explore Georgetown and learn about Washingtonβs earlier days is to take a walking tour!
Fun Things to do in Georgetown:
Other great things to do in Georgetown are to take a boat ride along the C&O Canal, shop, enjoy the waterfront and rent paddle boards or kayaks to take down the Potomac River, walk Georgetown Universityβs stunning campus, take a fitness class, enjoy a drink with friends, listen to live music and more!
A must-visit in Georgetown during a Washington DC spring is Georgetown Cupcake! This staple of Washington DC is co-owned by sisters Katherine Kallinis Berman and Sophie Kallinis LaMontagne. These two power sisters were the stars of Cupcake Cam LIVE and DC Cupcakes on TLC and are the best-selling authors of The Cupcake Diaries and Sweet Celebrations.
At Georgetown Cupcake, you can enjoy a plethora of different cupcake flavors. I loved the salted caramel cupcake!
Regarding DC dining, you can find some of the best restaurants in Georgetown! My go-to eateries during springtime are Filomena Ristorante, a classic Italian restaurant; El Centro, a fun Mexican restaurant and Fiola Mare, a lovely seafood restaurant situated along the Georgetown Waterfront!
Enjoy the Historical Landmarks around the National Mall:
Located in the heart of the capital, the National Mall must not be missed when enjoying spring travel to Washington DC. The top iconic monuments are found at the National Mall and it is part of the National Park Service! Please note that visiting the National Mall and Memorial Parks is free.
The National Mall and Memorial Parks cover over 1,000 acres of parkland that honor the bravery, sacrifices and beliefs of those who have served the nation and its people.
At the National Mall, youβll find the Belmont-Paul Womenβs Equality National Monument, Constitutional Gardens, Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, Fords Theatre National Historic Site, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Uptown Parks, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington Monument and World War I and II Memorials.
The spring in Washington DC is perfect for strolling around the National Mall! One of the most breathtaking views in DC is from the Lincoln Memorial. The structure alone is incredible, but you can also see the reflecting pool, World War II Memorial and the United States Capitol Building from this spot!
Admire the Beautiful Tidal Basin Cherry Blossoms:
The cherry blossom trees make Washington DC one of the most special places in the spring! If you want to see the cherry blossoms in peak bloom, you must visit Washington DC either the last week of March or the first week of April.
Every spring, Washington DC holds the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This popular event is attended by millions annually and commemorates the 3,000 cherry blossom trees gifted to the United States by Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo. The gift and annual celebration honor the lasting and continued friendship between the United States and Japan. (Japan is also a wonderful spring destination to see cherry blossoms.)
DC is in full swing in early spring with all its floral events. During the National Cherry Blossom Festival, you can enjoy a parade, Japanese-inspired art and music, tasty bites, the Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, fireworks and more. Itβs a free cultural event that is perfect for all to enjoy, which is why itβs considered one of the best festivals in the spring season!
These beautiful pink trees stand out when they are in full bloom and the blossoms are breathtaking in front of the Tidal Basin. They symbolize a new beginning and season!
The Tidal Basin is also a great place to take all different types of photos! Remember that this area is crowded during peak cherry blossom season, so if you want to get pictures without others in them, itβs best to wake up early!
On a beautiful sunny day, you can catch views of the pink cherry blossoms with the beautiful blue water and Thomas Jefferson Memorial in the background. In addition, you could even rent paddle boats at the Tidal Basin if you are feeling adventurous!
Discover Washington DCβs Logan and Dupont Circles:
In addition to Georgetown, Washington DC has other lovely neighborhoods that deserve attention. Logan and Dupont Circles are charming areas with excellent restaurants, bars and shopping! You can find a cherry blossom-themed pop-up bar at Castaβs Rum Bar in this area of Washington DC, in the spring.
Other great places to visit in Dupont and Logan Circles are Right Proper Brewing Company, Mission Dupont (a Mexican restaurant) and Barcelona Wine Bar.
Even though Washington DC is a major U.S. city, it isnβt overwhelming like other larger metropolitan areas. A fun fact about Washington DC is that it doesnβt have a signature skyline because it contains few skyscrapers. No building in DC is allowed to be taller than the National Monument!
Visit Washington DCβs Museums:
A trip to Washington DC in the spring is only complete by visiting one of the many museums. There are museums for all ages to enjoy!
The Smithsonian Museums and Zoo is the worldβs largest museum complex and the best part about it is that itβs free for all! During your spring trip to DC, you must visit the African American Museum, African Art Museum, Air and Space Museum, American Art Museum, American History Museum, American Indian Museum, Anacostia Community Museum, Archives of American Art, Arts and Industries Building, Freer Gallery of Art, Hirshhorn Museum, National Zoo, Natural History Museum, Portrait Gallery, Postal Museum, Renwick Gallery, S. Dillon Ripley Center, Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Castle and Smithsonian Gardens.
During my most recent time in Washington DC, I visited the Hirschhorn Museum, a fifth-decade leading voice for contemporary art and culture. Itβs one of the country’s most visited modern art museums, offering interactive experiences that feature talented works from 21st-century artists.
No matter which museum you visit when you travel to Washington DC in spring, you will be amazed and impressed by them all!
Attend a Lovely Spring Brunch:
As one of the nationβs leading cities to βbrunchβ in, you must experience an authentic brunch during a trip to Washington DC! I love brunch and feel like I donβt go enough, but something about sweet waffles or French toast with eggs and bacon with a refreshing mimosa is spot on.
One of the top brunch spots near the White House in DC is Founding Farmers. This incredible place is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers high-quality food that is delicious and grown with care.
If you plan to eat at Founding Farmers, you must make reservations ahead of time because itβs a popular restaurant. Even with a reservation, we still had to wait 15 minutes to be seated.
I love the Belliniβs and chicken and waffles at Founding Farmers! The open atmosphere includes natural light and the lively ambiance is perfect to enjoy with friends and family on a beautiful spring day.
Another incredible brunch place that is located near Omni Shoreham is Open City. They have a delicious drink menu with outstanding breakfast items ranging from chicken and waffles to omelets and breakfast sandwiches to French toast.
See The White House:
It wouldnβt be a trip to Washington DC without seeing The White House for the first time! Located in the heart of downtown DC, you can find the stunning white home of the current and past U.S. Presidents.
As you can imagine, this area is crowded because people from all over the globe come to see the infamous building. Regardless of your political views, visiting The White House in person is fantastic because every United States President has resided there since the 18th Century.
Even though The White House is highly guarded and gated off, you could still get great photographs as you maneuver through the crowds. I loved the tulip garden and fountain in front!
What is remarkable about The White House is that you can take a free tour! Itβs one of the top things to do in Washington DC in the spring.
Public tour requests are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis through a form submitted by a Member of Congress and their Congressional Tour Coordinator through the U.S. House of Representatives Switchboard. Click here to contact your representative to book a tour of the United States White House!
Before you visit The White House in DC, please note that you must present a valid government-issued photo ID, whether it’s a Driverβs License, passport or military ID. If youβre a non-US citizen, you must present your passport.
Venture to Arlington and Old Town Alexandria in Northern Virginia:
Another one of the best things to do during springtime in Washington DC is to make your way across the Potomac River and visit Arlington and Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. These spots make for fun spring day trips from the heart of the nationβs capital city!
Arlington is a county in Northern Virginia and holds the famous Arlington National Cemetery. Itβs the most well-known cemetery that is home to The Pentagon. Itβs a resting place for U.S. Armed Forces and people have been buried there since the Civil War.
In addition to touring the Arlington National Cemetery, you must go shopping, enjoy the Mount Vernon Trail and eat at one of the many incredible restaurants.
One of my favorite places in Arlington, Virginia, is Nicecream! When I was in college at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, I interned for JMUβs College of Business as a Public Relations Intern. One project involved interviewing two JMU alums on their successful entrepreneurial endeavors.
Sandra Tran and Gilbert (Gil) Welsford combined their skills and love for ice cream and created pop-up shops around the DC area called Nicecream. The use of pop-up shops made their business mobile and convenient for all ice cream lovers!
After many successes and continued growth, the two business partners opened their retail stores in Arlington and Alexandria. Nicecream has been thriving since 2013! On a sunny day in the Washington DC Metro area, head to Nicecream and enjoy one of the many delicious flavors of this liquid nitrogen goodness!
Voted one of the Top 5 Best Small Cities in the U.S. for 2022 by Conde Nast Traveler, Alexandria is one of the most adorable places to visit during spring in Washington DC 2023.
Some of the top things to do in Alexandria are to walk along the King Street Mile, where you can enjoy the beautiful architecture, great restaurants and bars, boutique shopping and art galleries. You can also take a city cruise over to the National Harbor!
Since Alexandria, Virginia holds much history that dates back to the American Revolution, itβs the perfect opportunity to do a colonial tour, ghost tour and more. Also located in Alexandria is the Winkler Botanical Preserve, which includes beautiful gardens, nature trails, a waterfall and a mountain lodge.
Watch a Washington Nationals Baseball Game:
One of Washington DC’s best spring outdoor activities is attending an MLB Washington Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park.
Thereβs nothing like attending a ball game during the warmer months. From seeing your favorite players on the field to enjoying tasty snacks, itβs always a great time at the ball park!
Stroll around the U.S. National Arboretum:
Another of the best spring things in Washington DC is walking through the U.S. National Arboretum. What is terrific about this lovely spot is that it is free and operated by the United States Department of Agricultureβs Agricultural Research Service!
One of the best spots to explore in the arboretum is The Asian Collections, which include plant varieties from Japan, Korea and China. There is also a Chinese-style pagoda. The dawn redwoods are also cool to see in the National Arboretum! They are tall, skinny trees that resemble those found in Northern California and Oregon!
You must also see the Dogwood Collection, the Gotelli Conifer Collection, the hybrid azaleas at the Morrison Garden and the Springhouse Run. There are also cherry blossoms scattered in the arboretum.
Planning a memorable USA trip? Find more USA travel tips here.
Looking for more great places to visit in the spring? Discover the below destinations:
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best things to do in Washington D.C. in the spring. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
Basic Facts of the United States:
Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
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32 Comments
Thank you for sharing so many beautiful pictures and useful informations. Best wishes.
We visited Washington DC over Summer and it was so hot that day. Would love to come back for Cherry Blossom season.
I love DC. I’ve gone during Cherry Blossom season a couple of times, both times I just missed the peak but it was still beautiful. I’ve stayed at the Georgetown Marriott before, great hotel in a perfect location.
Those chicken and waffles looks delicious, I’m going to have to have brunch there my next trip!We just went to the DC cherry blossoms yesterday! It was soooo cold, but glad we got some nice shots. So happy you tried out Founding Farmers! That’s one of my favorite restaurants in the area. A little pricey but so good!
Such beautiful photos Taylor! I have been to DC but never during Cherry Blossoms! I so wish to return to DC during Spring.. hopefully next year! Your detail blog post has inspired me to see these blooms.
I would LOVE to visit during cherry blossom season. It looks gorgeous! I would love to see the White House too!
I am definitely wanting to do this!!! Too late for this year, but will hope to plan for next year. It looks breathtakingly beautiful.
Since I’ve learnt at highschool that Japan gave cherry blossoms trees to Washington DC, I’ve been dying to visit! And your post just make me want to go right now *w* this looks so beautiful
Would you believe Iβve lived 30 minutes from DC for two years and still havenβt seen the cherry blossoms? Your post inspired me to change that ASAP. Also Georgetown cupcake is the BEST.
I used to live out in DC for a few years and LOVED cherry blossom season…apart from the swarms of people! There’s just something special about all those flowers up against the monuments. Great post!
DC looks amazing in cherry blossom season! There’s just something magical about cherry blossom that makes places look stunning. I also love your dungarees π
DC looks great to visit in the springtime! I love all of the cherry blossom trees, and now I have a craving for ice cream too!
I always hear about the DC Cherry Blossoms but never knew how they got there! Cool fact π I need to get back to DC and explore the neighborhoods!!
I will definitely have to take my allergy medicine before seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms . I think itβs a great sight to see. I would also love to visit the museum .
DC is such a beautiful town, but cherry blossom season always takes it to the next level. Next time you go, check out the Adams Morgan neighborhood… super cool & colorful area, with lots of great cafes & bars.
I love visiting DC anytime of year, but this is always the best!
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Thank you for sharing so many beautiful pictures and useful informations. Best wishes.
Thank you so much Marcel. I’m glad you enjoy them!
We visited Washington DC over Summer and it was so hot that day. Would love to come back for Cherry Blossom season.
It’s such a great city and you totally need to revisit during the spring. It is so pretty! π
I love DC. I’ve gone during Cherry Blossom season a couple of times, both times I just missed the peak but it was still beautiful. I’ve stayed at the Georgetown Marriott before, great hotel in a perfect location.
Those chicken and waffles looks delicious, I’m going to have to have brunch there my next trip!
Yes, DC really is a great city to visit during this time of the year. π I am actually heading back there next month, which I’m really excited about! Brunch in DC is the best. π
We just went to the DC cherry blossoms yesterday! It was soooo cold, but glad we got some nice shots. So happy you tried out Founding Farmers! That’s one of my favorite restaurants in the area. A little pricey but so good!
Ah no way! It is cold out, even here in New Jersey! Also yes, I loved Founding Farmers. I can’t wait to try more restaurants when I return in May. π
Such beautiful photos Taylor! I have been to DC but never during Cherry Blossoms! I so wish to return to DC during Spring.. hopefully next year! Your detail blog post has inspired me to see these blooms.
Thank you so much Sunetra! It really is a gorgeous city to visit during springtime. π
I would LOVE to visit during cherry blossom season. It looks gorgeous! I would love to see the White House too!
You totally have to! DC is so beautiful during the spring. π
I am definitely wanting to do this!!! Too late for this year, but will hope to plan for next year. It looks breathtakingly beautiful.
You definitely should go next year because it is so beautiful and a happy place π
Since I’ve learnt at highschool that Japan gave cherry blossoms trees to Washington DC, I’ve been dying to visit! And your post just make me want to go right now *w* this looks so beautiful
Yes, it is so beautiful Marina! You totally have to go in the near future. π
Would you believe Iβve lived 30 minutes from DC for two years and still havenβt seen the cherry blossoms? Your post inspired me to change that ASAP. Also Georgetown cupcake is the BEST.
Ah yes, you totally have to go at some point. It is absolutely beautiful! Also I love Georgetown Cupcake! π
I used to live out in DC for a few years and LOVED cherry blossom season…apart from the swarms of people! There’s just something special about all those flowers up against the monuments. Great post!
Thank you Agnes! It really is a beautiful city during this time of the year! The only downside is the crowds of people I will agree lol
DC looks amazing in cherry blossom season! There’s just something magical about cherry blossom that makes places look stunning. I also love your dungarees π
Thank you Kitti! It really is a love place to visit during springtime. π
DC looks great to visit in the springtime! I love all of the cherry blossom trees, and now I have a craving for ice cream too!
It really is a beautiful spring city! π
I always hear about the DC Cherry Blossoms but never knew how they got there! Cool fact π I need to get back to DC and explore the neighborhoods!!
It really is a beautiful springtime destination! I am actually heading back in May and I’m so excited. π
I will definitely have to take my allergy medicine before seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms . I think itβs a great sight to see. I would also love to visit the museum .
It really is a beautiful city to visit during this time of the year! I love it! π
DC is such a beautiful town, but cherry blossom season always takes it to the next level. Next time you go, check out the Adams Morgan neighborhood… super cool & colorful area, with lots of great cafes & bars.
I totally agree Shelley! I love it during springtime. Also sounds great, I actually head back there in mid May. I will be sure to check it out! π
I love visiting DC anytime of year, but this is always the best!
I agree Denise! π