Washington D.C., the nation’s capital, is a city that is steeped in history, politics, and culture. From the iconic monuments and memorials to the world-class museums and galleries, D.C. has something to offer for every kind of traveler. But when is the best time to visit this amazing city? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether March is a good time to visit D.C. and what you can expect during this time of year.
March is a transitional month in D.C., marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s (7-18°C). While it’s not the best time for outdoor activities, March is a great time to visit D.C. if you’re looking for smaller crowds and lower prices. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of visiting D.C. in March, including the weather, events, and activities to enjoy.
The Weather in March
The weather in March is one of the most significant factors to consider when planning a trip to D.C. During this time, the city experiences a mix of winter and spring weather, making it challenging to predict what to expect. Here are some average temperature and precipitation levels in D.C. during March:
| Average High Temperature | Average Low Temperature | Average Precipitation |
|---|---|---|
| 58°F (14°C) | 39°F (4°C) | 3.7 inches (94 mm) |
As you can see, the average high temperature in March is around 58°F (14°C), while the average low temperature is around 39°F (4°C). The average precipitation level is 3.7 inches (94 mm), with most of it falling in the form of rain. However, it’s not uncommon to experience some snow showers during this time.
Pros of Visiting D.C. in March
While the weather in March can be unpredictable, there are several pros to visiting D.C. during this time: (See Also: Worst Time to Visit Disneyland Paris – Avoiding the Crowds)
- Smaller Crowds: March is considered part of the off-season in D.C., which means smaller crowds and shorter lines at popular attractions.
- Lower Prices: With fewer tourists, prices for accommodations and tourist attractions tend to be lower.
- Spring Festivals: March is a great time to experience D.C.’s spring festivals, including the National Cherry Blossom Festival and the D.C. Jazz Festival.
- Outdoor Activities: While the weather can be unpredictable, March is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Cons of Visiting D.C. in March
While there are several pros to visiting D.C. in March, there are also some cons to consider:
- Unpredictable Weather: The weather in March can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s (7-18°C).
- Snow and Rain: It’s not uncommon to experience some snow showers or rain during this time, which can make outdoor activities challenging.
- Closed Attractions: Some outdoor attractions and parks may be closed due to inclement weather.
- Limited Events: While there are some great events in March, the selection is limited compared to other times of the year.
Things to Do in D.C. in March
Despite the unpredictable weather, there are still plenty of things to do in D.C. in March:
- National Cherry Blossom Festival: This iconic festival takes place in late March and celebrates the blooming of the cherry blossoms.
- D.C. Jazz Festival: This festival features live jazz music performances throughout the city.
- Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History: This world-class museum features a vast collection of natural history specimens and artifacts.
- United States Botanic Garden: This beautiful garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including the famous cherry blossoms.
- Georgetown Waterfront: This historic waterfront area offers stunning views of the Potomac River and is perfect for a spring stroll.
Accommodations in D.C. in March
When it comes to accommodations in D.C. in March, you’ll find a range of options to suit every budget:
- Budget-Friendly Options: Consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel or hostel, such as the YWCA or the Hostelling International Washington D.C.
- Mid-Range Options: Mid-range hotels like the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill or the Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown Hotel offer comfortable rooms and amenities.
- Luxury Options: For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at a high-end hotel like the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. or the Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.
Recap
March is a great time to visit D.C. if you’re looking for smaller crowds and lower prices. While the weather can be unpredictable, there are still plenty of things to do and see in the city. From the National Cherry Blossom Festival to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, there’s something for everyone in D.C. in March. (See Also: Good Time to Visit Dwarka – Best Season to Explore)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is March a Good Time to Visit D.C.?
Q: What is the weather like in March in D.C.?
The weather in March is unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s (7-18°C). It’s not uncommon to experience some snow showers or rain during this time.
Q: Are there any festivals or events in D.C. in March?
Yes, there are several festivals and events in D.C. in March, including the National Cherry Blossom Festival and the D.C. Jazz Festival.
Q: What are some things to do in D.C. in March?
There are plenty of things to do in D.C. in March, including visiting the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, exploring the United States Botanic Garden, and taking a stroll along the Georgetown Waterfront.
Q: What are some accommodation options in D.C. in March?
There are a range of accommodation options in D.C. in March, from budget-friendly hotels and hostels to mid-range and luxury hotels. (See Also: Is March Best Time To Visit Bali – Discover Now)
Q: Is D.C. open in March?
Yes, D.C. is open in March, but some outdoor attractions and parks may be closed due to inclement weather.