Washington DC FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Washington DC.

When is the best time to visit Washington DC?

Washington DC can be visited year-round thanks to having one of the most temperate climates on the East Coast. But for the best experience in the city, you should visit Washington DC in the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasantly warm for sightseeing, the nature is at its peak, and there are plenty of events and festivals to take part in. Spring is DC’s peak tourism season as the city comes alive with the advent of the first blossoms in the Cherry Blossom Festival which occurs every March and April. Not to be missed, this is an exquisite time of year to visit as daytime highs will also be between 17°C and 20°C. Autumn is an equally special time to visit as between the months of September and November the weather will get the last of summer’s warmth and be less crowded as kids will be back in school. The autumn foliage throughout the city is spectacular, and out of all the months, autumn guarantees the driest visit.

Washington DC can be visited in the summer and winter too, but these seasons are best for taking advantage of indoor activities, such as experiencing the city’s world-class museums. The months of July to August are hot and humid – daytime highs around 30°C – and the winter months of December to February are cold and wet.

What is the time difference between the UK and Washington DC?

GMT – 5 hours

What places combine well with Washington DC?

Washington DC is a gateway to any holiday within the Capital Region. A short distance away from many other historic and contemporary locations, one can easily reach the metropolis of Baltimore, Virginia’s charming old-world towns and wine country, and coastal locales like the renowned Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Beach.

What are the main cultural events in Washington DC?

March to April – Cherry Blossom Festival
June – DC Jazz Festival
June – The National Capital Giant Barbecue Battle (annual BBQ food festival in DC)
June to July – Smithsonian Folklife Festival
July – Potomac Jazz & Seafood Festival
August – National Book Festival
November – Veteran’s Day (different ceremonies held at each memorial in the city)
December – National Christmas Tree Lighting (annual ceremony of carols and Christmas lights)