More about: Best Things To Do In Washington Dc In April
While spring is still a few months away, April in Washington DC literally blossoms with its many options and great weather. Plus, it's school vacation time for locals, which means there are many more leisure activities than in other months of the year.
Walking through it and enjoying the spectacle of its cherry blossoms is one of those unforgettable experiences you can't miss. So that you have a clear idea of what to do, let me guide you through the 10 wonderful plans in April in Washington DC. Here we go!
1. Witness the start of the baseball season with a Washington Nationals game
If you are a sports fan, April is a very special month to book Washington Nationals tickets as the baseball season begins.
Watching a baseball game in the United States is one of those experiences that can't be beat. The general atmosphere in the stadiums, the partying of the fans and all the mystique that surrounds this most American of sports is truly incredible.
The Nationals are Washington's team and their home stadium is Nationals Park, an ideal place to spend an afternoon with the family, eating hotdogs and watching the game.
2. Enjoy a river cruise along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers
The banks of Washington DC's two major rivers have become very popular, and with the advent of warmer temperatures, enjoying a stroll along the waters of the Anacostia or a music show along the Potomac becomes impossible to resist.
Experience a day outdoors with the locals, and enjoy the many activities around the rivers. In addition to the Cherry Blossom Festival, there is the Anacostia River Festival where you can enjoy food and drink fairs, sports, canoe rides and water bikes. And finally, book a cruise and live a unique experience.
3. Don't miss the French Market in Georgetown
One of the city's most distinguished and highly anticipated events is the Georgetown French Market. Inspired by Parisian markets, this open-air fair is the ideal place for you to enjoy the most delicious French pastries, traditional cafés au lait and a host of activities that celebrate in true French style without having to leave DC.
Starting April 29, Georgetown dresses up for three full days, with live French music performances and a festive atmosphere. Take the opportunity to stroll through the picturesque streets of one of Washington's most charming neighborhoods while sampling some colorful macarons or pain au chocolat. Definitely one of the most interesting gastronomic markets in the city.
In addition, once you finish you can book a food tour of Georgetown in Washington DC and taste delicious dishes of French, Italian or Korean cuisine.
4. Visit the United States Capitol
The Capitol is definitely one of the most important buildings to visit in Washington and one of the most recognizable places around the world. In addition to the Senate, there is also the Capitol Visitor Center, so you can plan your guided tour.
April is an ideal time to take a tour of this bastion of democracy, precisely because with the pleasant temperatures, the vast majority of the public prefers to spend the day in the parks or walking around the city, so you will find fewer visitors in this type of monuments.
Touring the U.S. Capitol is a unique experience, since, in addition to having an absolutely fascinating architecture. Inside you can enjoy a large number of works of art, murals, sculptures and the fresco The Apotheosis of Washington crowning the dome. A place that has become synonymous with democracy. Definitely, a visit to the Capitol in Washington DC is one of the must-see tours.
5. Enjoy one of the most amazing shows, the Cherry Blossom Festival
The month of April is key to visit this charming city, since only at this time you can see the cherry blossoms in bloom. In case you don't know, this is one of the most important shows in the city of Washington DC. The 3,000 trees donated in 1912 by the then mayor of Tokyo, Yukio Ozaki, and planted in the Tidal Basin of West Potomac Park, celebrate the arrival of spring.
With this luxurious setting it is an ideal time to book a cherry blossom bike tour of Washington DC to enjoy this magical scenery. In addition, you can take the opportunity to enjoy the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC, a traditional free event in which, over two weeks, you can enjoy parades, Asian and local art exhibitions, a colorful display of kites alluding to the oriental, tasting sushi and other typical dishes, workshops and courses, among other things.
6. Stroll through the White House gardens as part of a tour of political secrets
Undoubtedly one of the most visited places in the city of Washington DC is The White House, home of the President of the United States, a visit that is included in many of the tours of the city as the private tour of scandals and political secrets in Washington DC
Although this visit can be done almost all year round, the first days of April are enabled visits to its beautiful gardens. You can visit its famous rose gardens and walk where so many presidents have walked over the years, the Jacqueline Kennedy gardens and the Kitchen gardens. A must-see if you travel to Washington in April.
Admission is free, but a ticket is required. If you are interested in taking a tour of this amazing place I recommend you go to The White House website for more information.
7. Sign up for the traditional Easter Egg Hunt in the White House Gardens
Annually, the White House hosts an Easter Egg Hunt on its lawn in the week leading up to Easter. It takes place on the South Lawn and is an ideal event to enjoy as a family if you are traveling with children.
The number of participants is limited, so the government organizes a lottery where tickets are raffled. If you are interested you can enter the official website of the White House Easter Egg Roll and try your luck.
8. Join the events in commemoration of Emancipation Day
April 16 commemorates Emancipation Day, when President Abraham Lincoln abolished slavery in the United States, freeing more than 3,000 people. This important date is celebrated throughout the city with various parades and events, such as concerts, food and drink fairs, ideal for enjoying the atmosphere of the city on one of the most important days.
Experience Emancipation Day like a local. The event with venues throughout the city is a good place to enjoy with the family, even with the little ones, as the general atmosphere is festive. At the end of the day there is a fireworks show that lights up the entire Washington sky.
9. Be dazzled by the cherry blossomed Jefferson Memorial
Another place that looks much more photographable in April is the imposing Jefferson Memorial. Located in the Tidal Basin, this cemetery is the best place to see the cherry blossoms, so you can take advantage when you visit the Cherry Blossom Festival to take a stroll around this beautiful spot. Jefferson was responsible for drafting the U.S. Declaration of Independence, so he is considered one of the great founding fathers of the United States.
The circular architecture of this monument is truly majestic. Its marble columns surround the imposing statue of Thomas Jefferson holding the Declaration of Independence, created in bronze by sculptor Rudulph Evans.
The Memorial is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and admission is free, so you can visit whenever you please. From there you can look out over the calm waters of the Potomac River. It is usually a place where many visitors come for inspiration and calm. If you are interested in this kind of walk, you can find out what are the best monuments in Washington DC
10. Participate in the Japanese Street Festival Sakura Matsuri
Enjoy one of the most important events of Japanese culture in Washington, the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival, an event full of color and activities that revolve around Japanese culture, with traditional music, performances, dances, writing and painting workshops, typical food and a fair with handmade objects. An event not to be missed if you want to rediscover one of the richest cultures in the world.
This free festival welcomes thousands of Japanese enthusiasts looking to experience a different and absolutely oriental day in the heart of DC. Sakura Matsui takes place on Pennsylvania Ave. not to be missed!
Some tips for your visit to Washington DC in April
If you are only going to be in this amazing city for a couple of days, discover what to see and do in Washington DC in 2 days, as you have seen throughout this article, the city has a lot to offer.
Although if you are one of those who enjoy cities more at night than during the day, don't miss the best night tours in Washington DC, an amazing experience.
What should I pack to visit Washington DC in April?
Temperatures in April are usually very pleasant, so you won't need a warm jacket.
Keep in mind that many of the things to do in this amazing city are outdoors, so it won't hurt to pack a light jacket and some sweaters.
What are the average temperatures in Washington during the month of April?
Temperatures in April are usually much more pleasant than in previous months, so you can walk around the city without any problems. Lows are between 10 and 12 degrees, and highs range from 12 to 25 degrees.
Is there a lot of tourism during April in Washington DC?
April is one of the most popular months, precisely because of its cherry blossoms and good weather, it is ideal to enjoy everything to see and do in Washington DC. However, as it is a school vacation period for Americans you may find more tourists than usual.
What is the best way to get around Washington DC?
The fastest, most comfortable, efficient and economical way to get around DC is by Metro (Metrorail) and bus. It is also worthwhile to get to know the Metro stations, they are truly beautiful.
You can buy the Metrotrip Washington DC city transportation card, with which you can move freely paying only once. In addition, you can buy a card or use your own cell phone to pay in the subway, bus or train.
Is April considered high season in Washington DC?
Yes, April is high season, so you may find that hotel prices may be higher than in other months.
Also, you will probably find a lot more people at the different attractions to visit. However, let me tell you that, despite this, April is still one of the best months to tour Washington DC, so do not hesitate.