Almost anytime of year is a great time to visit our nation’s capital. Washington, DC, is known for fairly moderate weather in the spring and fall, and autumn in particular is a beautiful, crisp season in the mid-Atlantic states. There’s also always something going on in Washington! If you are planning a weekend or week-long trip to DC, here are some things to do as well as considerations to keep in mind:
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Sports fans will find lots to do in the fall. If you’re a football fan, then you will want to be sure to catch a Redskins game! Hockey fans will be rooting for the Capitals as they (hopefully) win games this fall. You can also participate in or watch The Nation’s Triathlon, held in September, or the Marine Corp Marathon, held in October. If walking is more your thing, lace up your sneakers and take a walking tour through the city; cool temperatures and the warm sun will keep you comfortable as you check out the sights.
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Fall foliage peaks in late October. In the mid-Atlantic states, the fall foliage begins to turn into a colorful display throughout the month of October, peaking toward the end of the month. Just a short venture outside of the metropolis will have you oohing and aahing. Try the views from Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway, You could also visit Shenandoah National Park, Rock Creek Park, the Mount Vernon Estate or the U.S. National Arboretum for beautiful, colorful scenes of fall.
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Catch a festival or two. Nothing says fall like fairs and festivals, and Washington, DC is no exception! The Maryland Renaissance Festival takes place throughout the month of September in Anne Arundel County, which is about 30 miles from Washington. Adams Morgan Day, held on September 8 this year, is a fall street festival featuring sidewalk cafes, clowns, games, various sidewalk exhibits, international food, live entertainment and much more. The Southwest DC Arts Festival is scheduled for September 28 and will not disappoint with its variety of musicians, artists, films and other entertainment. Although Washington, DC is far from Germany, they get into the spirit of Oktoberfest several weekends during the months of September and October with special celebrations.
- Celebrate Halloween in Washington, DC. If you’re visiting the capital at the end of October, you won’t want to miss out on the spooky fun of Halloween. You can go to Six Flags America for Fright Fest from September 28 to October 27 in Mitchellville, MD. From October 25 to October 27, little ones will enjoy trick-or-treating among the animals at Boo at the Zoo, held at the National Zoo. Decide for yourself if you believe in ghosts by participating in a ghost tour in nearby Lafayette Square Park, downtown Annapolis, or Historic Alexandria, all places that are rumored to be haunted.
Visiting Washington, DC, is sure to provide you with plenty to do, and fall is a great time of year to go. Have you been to Washington in the fall months? What was your favorite activity?
