Adventure to Washington, D.C.: Planning a Trip to Our Nations Capitol

When to go to Washington D.C.? The time of year you plan to visit Washington D.C. can make a big difference. We learned that hotel rates in downtown D.C. are significantly lower on Thursday through Sunday nights, due to the fact the typical work week ends on Thursday. The rates at our hotel dropped nearly $200 from Wednesday to Thursday.

I had heard that summer temperatures in Washington D.C. were hot, but I didn't take these warnings seriously. After all, I'm a native southerner and used to hot, humid summers; how bad could it be? I quickly learned that June can be unseasonably hot! Touring D.C. involves walking to most attractions, so you will be spending a lot of time outdoors. Summer also means more tourists. The crowds don't really affect your experience at outdoor attractions, but the various museums can become quite crowded. Expect to stand in line during the summer months to view the exhibits in the Holocaust Museum, The National Archives, and the Smithsonians.

While it may be hot and crowded in July, the city puts on a spectacular show on Independence Day. What place could be more patriotic on the 4th of July than Washington D.C.? There are other events of interest during the summer as well, including free concerts and festivals.

A plus to visiting D.C. during the warmer months is that the local Boys of Summer, the Washington Nationals baseball team, are playing in their brand-new park. This state-of-the-art facility has some great views of the city's landmarks including the Capitol and the Washington monument. Check the Nationals' web site for their home schedule.

• Destination D.C. (official Washington D.C. tourism site)

• Smithsonian museums

• National Park Service, District of Columbia

• U.S. Senate

• U.S. House of Representatives

• Cherry Blossom Festival web site