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.

• Health and safety: Washington DC is safe for tourists, especially in well-travelled areas like downtown and the National Mall. However, it always pays to stay vigilant and avoid less populated areas at night.

• 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.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a valid passport and an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for entry into the USA.

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.

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.