Washington DC holidays

How to reach Washington DC

Flight time: Flights to Washington DC from London typically take about 8 hours. Direct flights are available from a number of major UK airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick.

Transfer time:

• Washington DC is served by three major airports: Dulles International Airport (IAD), Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

• From Dulles, the Washington Flyer Express Bus connects to the Metro and takes around 30 minutes to reach downtown.

• BWI offers a free shuttle to the rail station, followed by a 40-minute train ride to Union Station.

• From Ronald Reagan, it’s a quick 15-minute Metro ride to the city centre.

Price:

• The Washington Flyer Express Bus costs $5 one-way.

• The MARC train from BWI to Union Station costs about $7.

• The Metro fare from National Airport to downtown ranges from $2 to $3 during peak times.

• Taxis from Dulles and BWI to downtown cost around $70–$85, and from National Airport, it’s about $35.

Best time to visit Washington DC

Choosing the best time for holidays to Washington DC depends mostly on your weather preferences and what you want to see and do.

• March to May is a popular time to visit, with the cherry blossoms in full bloom and a glut of outdoor events. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 21°C, with rainfall around 70–100mm and 7–9 hours of sunshine daily.

• June to August can be hot and humid, but it’s the season for festivals and outdoor activities. Expect temperatures from 24°C to 30°C, with 80–120mm of rainfall and 8–10 hours of sunshine. Visitors should also be prepared for the occasional thunderstorm.

• September to November offers cooler weather and colourful autumn foliage. Temperatures drop from 26°C in September to around 10°C in November. Rainfall varies from 70mm to 100mm, with 6–8 hours of sunshine daily. It’s the perfect time of year for walking tours and exploring the city on foot.

• December to February is cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 7°C. Snowfall is possible, especially in January and February. Rain and snow combined total 60–100mm, and there’s roughly 6 hours of sunshine per day.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken.

• Local habits and customs: Washingtonians are generally friendly and helpful. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services.

• Currency: The US dollar (USD) is the currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to have some cash for small purchases or tips.

• Getting around: The Metro is the most efficient way to get around, with fares ranging from $2–$6 depending on the distance and time. Buses are also available for about $2 per ride. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are common. Car rentals are also an option if you plan to explore beyond the city limits.

• Electricity and plug types: The US uses 120V electricity with Type A and B plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Washington DC is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is 5 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in Washington DC

America’s capital city is a treasure trove of historic, cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the best things to see and do during your Washington DC holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Washington Monument: This towering obelisk offers spectacular views of the city from its observation deck. To visit, you need to book a ticket in advance, but the panoramic vistas are well worth it.

• Lincoln Memorial: Not only is this monument a significant historic site, the steps also provide a wonderful viewpoint over the Reflecting Pool and the National Mall.

• Old Post Office Tower: Climb to the top of this (less crowded) tower for another fantastic perspective, looking out over DC’s landmarks.

The best districts

• Georgetown: Known for its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings, Georgetown is a vibrant district filled with shops, restaurants and waterfront views.

• Dupont Circle: This lively neighbourhood is famous for its eclectic dining options, art galleries and the beautiful circle park at its heart.

• Capitol Hill: Home to iconic buildings such as the US Capitol and the Library of Congress, this area is steeped in history and politics.

Parks and gardens

• National Mall: This expansive green space is home to many of the city’s monuments and museums. It’s perfect for a day of exploring and picnics.

• Rock Creek Park: This sprawling urban park has hiking, biking and horse-riding trails, as well as picnic areas and nature centres.

• United States Botanic Garden: Located near the Capitol, this garden features a massive array of plants and themed exhibits.

Historic monuments

• US Capitol: A must-visit for anyone interested in American politics, the US Capitol offers tours that delve into the workings of the US government.

• White House: Although tours require advance reservations through an embassy, seeing the residence of the US President is a quintessential DC experience.

• Jefferson Memorial: This neoclassical monument dedicated to Thomas Jefferson offers top-notch views of the Tidal Basin, especially during cherry blossom season.

Day trips in the area

• Mount Vernon: George Washington’s historic estate is located just outside DC and gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life of the first US President.

• Arlington National Cemetery: This is the resting place of many American heroes, including John F. Kennedy. Visitors can witness the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony.

• Annapolis: A short drive away, this charming maritime town is known for its colonial architecture and vibrant harbour.

Activities for families in Washington DC

Washington DC is thoroughly family-friendly, with a variety of activities that children and parents will love.

• Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: Kids will be thrilled with the exhibits showcasing the history of aviation and space exploration, including real aircraft and spacecraft.

• National Zoo: Home to over 2,000 animals, the zoo is particularly famous for its giant pandas.

• International Spy Museum: This interactive museum allows kids to take on spy missions and learn about espionage through fun, hands-on exhibits.

• National Museum of Natural History: With exhibits ranging from dinosaur skeletons to an enormous collection of gems and minerals, this museum captivates visitors of all ages.

• National Children’s Museum: Combining play with learning, this museum features engaging exhibits on science, technology and the arts, all tailored for younger children.

Free things to do in Washington DC

DC is a great destination for budget-conscious travellers, with many of its top attractions free of charge.

• The Smithsonian Museums: The vast majority of these world-class museums are free, including the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.

• National Mall: Wander through this iconic area, home to numerous monuments and memorials, all of which are free to explore.

• National Gallery of Art: Both the West Building, which features classical art, and the East Building, which houses modern works, are free to the public.

• Rock Creek Park: Enjoy hiking, biking and nature walks in this expansive park without spending a penny.

Local dishes in Washington DC

Exploring Washington DC’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself, with a diverse range of dishes and drinks that reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Some typical dishes

• Half-smoke: A local speciality, this is half pork, half beef sausage, smoked and grilled, then topped with chilli, onions and cheese. Ben’s Chili Bowl is the most iconic spot to try this.

• Maryland Blue Crab: Thanks to its proximity to Chesapeake Bay, Washington DC offers fantastic crab dishes. Maryland Blue Crab is a local delicacy and a must-try.

• Mumbo Sauce: This unique tangy sauce (typically a mix of ketchup, soy sauce, hot sauce and sugar) is a staple at DC’s Chinese takeouts, and is often served with wings and fries.

Street food

• Food trucks: The city boasts a vibrant food truck scene, especially around Farragut Square. Here you can find everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean Tacos.

• Shawarma: Reflecting the city’s Middle Eastern community, you’ll find plenty of vendors serving up these tasty wraps filled with spiced meats, fresh vegetables and tangy sauces.

Sweets and desserts

• Cupcakes: DC is home to the famous Georgetown Cupcake bakery, known for its delectable and beautifully decorated treats. Their Red Velvet and Chocolate Ganache offerings are among the best.

Local drinks

• Craft beer: The craft beer scene in Washington DC is thriving, with breweries like DC Brau and Atlas Brew Works leading the charge.

• Cocktails: DC has a notable cocktail scene, with many bars and lounges serving innovative and classic concoctions. The Jack Rose is renowned for its meticulously crafted drinks and is a perfect spot for a sophisticated evening out.