Top 5: Reasons Why Spring is D.C.’s Best Season

The nation’s capital has a plethora of activities and attractions for all seasons: Redskins football in the fall, outdoor ice skating in the winter and boating and fishing on the Potomac in the summer. But spring is arguably Washington, D.C.’s best season. As flowers begin to bloom and temps start to warm up, here’s why spring is the best time of year to visit D.C.

Cherry Blossom Festival

The end of March and the beginning of April bring the capital city’s most well-known festival of cherry blossom trees that encircle the Tidal Basin and accentuate the Jefferson Memorial. The peak bloom varies each year depending on the weather, so check the online bloom calendar to schedule your visit at the best time.

Hiking in Rock Creek Park

With an area larger than New York’s Central Park, Rock Creek Park runs right through the middle of D.C., separating downtown from Georgetown. Paths line the Rock Creek and begin to fill up with hikers, runners and cyclists.

Picnics Along the Potomac

As the days become longer, the grassy banks of the Potomac River provide the perfect setting for sunset picnics. 

Baseball at Nationals Park

Beginning in March, Nationals Park opens its gates for baseball games, serving as an alternative happy hour spot for busy professionals. Before and after games, the Fairgrounds — an outdoor event space across from the stadium — sells cheaper drinks, food trucks sell snacks and live music acts take the stage.

Terrace and Rooftop Bars

After spending eight hours inside office buildings, D.C. denizens opt to head outside for nightly drinks and dinners, possible when restaurants and bars open roof terraces and patios. Grab a half-liter of beer at Biergarten Haus on H Street NE, or go for a Dos Equis or margarita at El Centro on 14th Street.