Washington, D.C. is a year-round destination, with visitors coming from around the globe to experience the sophisticated charm of the nation's capital.
From the cherry blossom season in the springtime to the steamy, summer months, you may find that it's hard to choose when to visit Washington, D.C. The best time to visit Washington, D.C. ultimately depends on what you want to do, see and experience during your stay.
The top season to visit Washington, D.C. is during the late spring and early summer months, with tourists flocking in droves in order to experience the mild temperatures and the blooming trees that line the Tidal Basin. However, there is another burst of tourist activity during the fall from mid-September until December.
Knowing what the weather is like throughout the year will help you decide your ideal time to visit Washington, D.C.
What's It Like in January in Washington, D.C.?
January is known as the coldest month in Washington, D.C., with the average high temperature reaching just 44 degrees Fahrenheit and the low temperatures dipping down as far as 30 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. However, if you are willing to brave the colder temperatures, it's actually a wonderful time of year to get outside and explore the sites in Washington, D.C. The tourist crowds are lower than normal and there is very little chance of rain. In fact, January is the driest month of the year in the city.
What You Need to Know About February Weather in Washington, D.C.
Whether you want to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement during Black History Month or you are looking to steep yourself in romance, you may find that February is an exciting and enlightening time to visit Washington, D.C. The temperatures begin to rise as the city inches toward springtime, with the average high temperature reaching close to 47 degrees Fahrenheit. Similar to January, the February days are typically cloudy yet dry — so if you are willing to bundle up a bit, you may find that this is an excellent time of year to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial or explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Washington, D.C. in March: Weather Trends
Cherry Blossom Watch begins in March throughout the city, as locals and visitors alike begin to monitor the weather conditions and predict when the pale pink and bright rose blossoms are going to bloom along the thousands of cherry trees that line the Tidal Basin. Throughout the month, temperatures seem to rise week after week, with the average daily high reaching upwards of 56 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring officially arrives during the month of March and with the addition of the colorful blooms of the cherry blossom trees, many would agree that it's the best time to visit Washington, D.C.
What is It Like to Visit Washington, D.C. in April?
Consistently pleasant and filled with sunshine, April is a wonderful time to visit Washington, D.C. Whether you are hoping to attend the infamous White House Easter Egg Roll or simply enjoy the beauty of the city during the springtime, you will find that the weather is idyllic during April. Temperatures hover between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit in April and the sun shines more often than not. However, don't be surprised if you encounter a few of those April showers — the rainy season begins in early April in Washington, D.C. and there is a 30 percent chance of wet weather on any given day.
What's Washington, D.C. Like in May?
May is perhaps one of the best months in Washington, D.C. to enjoy those walking tours that wind along the National Mall or through the city's historic neighborhoods. The weather in May is nearly perfect, with high temperatures typically reaching about 75 degrees Fahrenheit and lows hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat and humidity of the summer has yet to arrive, making most days balmy and pleasant. You may have to keep your eyes to the skies though, as the chance of precipitation is sometimes higher in May.
What is the Weather Like During June in Washington, D.C.?
The beginning of summer is one of the most popular times of year to visit Washington, D.C., with many travelers hoping to visit the White House or embark on a bus tour that will take them to the most iconic monuments and well-known sites in this historic city. Throughout the month of June, you can expect warm and comfortable temperatures, with the average daily high reaching about 84 degrees Fahrenheit. June is the rainiest month of the year in D.C., however, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or poncho.
How is the Weather in Washington, D.C. in July?
Washington, D.C. was built and developed on natural swampland — and that's incredibly evident during the month of July. Heat and humidity reign supreme throughout the month, with the average high temperatures climbing upwards of 88 degrees Fahrenheit. In fact, July is typically the warmest month of the year in the city.
The oppressive heat doesn't keep activity at bay in Washington, D.C., however. This is one of the most popular months of the year to travel to the city, with visitors from around the world delighting in the raucous and patriotic Fourth of July celebrations that take place each year.
What Can I Expect for Washington, D.C. Weather in August?
The humidity still permeates the air in August, yet it doesn't seem to stop tourists from heading to Washington, D.C. in droves. The average high temperature in August in Washington D.C. is about 86 degrees Fahrenheit and the worst of the summer heat begins to subside quickly as the weeks wane on. Many find that August is the ideal time to escape the heat and head to the air-conditioned museums that can be found throughout the city. Some of the most well-loved museums in Washington, D.C. include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, the National Portrait Gallery and the National Air and Space Museum.
How is the Weather in September in Washington, D.C.?
After months of stifling temperatures and sky-high humidity, September is a welcome reprieve in Washington, D.C. Not only is it a comfortable time of year to visit, but the summer tourist crowds begin to quickly subside after Labor Day, which means that you will be able to enjoy a more tranquil and peaceful visit to the city. Throughout the month, you can expect warm and comfortable temperatures, with the average high hovering around 79 degrees Fahrenheit. As if the near-perfect temperatures weren't good enough, it's also one of the clearest months of the year in Washington, D.C. The sunshine feels endless throughout September, making this one of the best times to visit Washington, D.C.
What is It Like in Washington, D.C. During October?
Once October arrives in Washington, D.C., there is usually a chill in the air that reminds locals and visitors alike that summer has subsided and winter is once again on the way. The average high temperatures typically reach about 68 degrees Fahrenheit, which is still comfortable enough for a stroll along the National Mall. In addition, it's a relatively clear month, so you can expect plenty of sunshine. In fact, the weather is almost always ideal for photographing the changing fall foliage that defines autumn in Washington, D.C. While the pinks and whites of the cherry blossom trees highlight the Tidal Basin during the springtime, the orange hues of fall dominate in late October.
What to Expect From November Weather in Washington, D.C.
The fall colors begin to fade in November, as the trees shed their leaves in preparation for another winter season. While it may seem like nature is hunkering down for a long rest, Washington, D.C. is just coming to life. The weather is cooler yet still comfortable during November, with high temperatures averaging around 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors during this time of year have an opportunity to soak up the remains of fall while they prepare for the festivities of the holiday season.
What is It Like to Visit Washington, D.C. in December?
While the winter winds bring down the temperatures in Washington, D.C. during the month of December, the warm glow of the holiday lights makes the city feel bright and cozy. During a typical day in December, you can expect temperatures to hover around 48 degrees Fahrenheit and it will probably be a bit cloudy and chilly. Sometimes there is a bit of snowfall, but it's relatively rare. However, you won't want to escape indoors in December, because the city really puts on its best show during the holiday season. If you happen to be in D.C. during December, be sure to stop by the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree or the National Christmas Tree for a photo you will cherish forever.
Plan Your Trip to Washington, D.C. With AAA.
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Washington, D.C. today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.