Image from US Department of Agriculture

With the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom and the weather still cool before summer hits, April is a beautiful time to visit Washington D.C.  This fact leads to large crowds, but stunning scenery.  A trip to D.C. doesn’t have to be expensive.  Accommodations get cheaper when you get away from the National Mall and the Smithsonian.  The Shaw neighborhood in the northeast region, known for it’s Ethiopian food, is a cheaper area of the city that is only a quick Metro ride away.  The Dupont Circle area is also a conveniently located alternative.  The greater metropolitan region also covers parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia including Arlington and Baltimore.

As the capital of the United States, D.C. is filled to the brim with national monuments, world class museums, and many of the nations most important government buildings.  The National Mall is a must for most visitors, with the National Archives, Tidal Basin, the Smithsonian, and The National Gallery also being extremely popular attractions.

Those wanting to visit the Capitol Building need to request tickets through a Senator or Congressmen.  Tours of the White House should also be booked in advance.  Those interested in the arts can also catch a show at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.  Washington D.C. is also home to more embassies than anywhere else in the world.  Most are located along “Embassy Row” on Massachusetts Avenue, and some smaller country embassies may even offer tours.  Every country has some sort of representation in the city.

LINKS

General Information

• Washington D.C. Official Site
• The District Visitor Information
• Wikipedia: Washington D.C.
• Wikitravel: Washington D.C.

Travel Guides

• Fodors
• Lonely Planet
• Frommers
• Visit Washington D.C. Online
• USA Tourist: Washington D.C.
• About.com: Washington D.C.
• See Washington D.C.

Attractions and Activities

• Cultural Tourism
• 100 Free (or Nearly Free) Things in Washington D.C.
• Wikitravel Itinerary: Washington D.C. in four days

Transportation
Tip: Avoid Driving

• D.C. Metro
• D.C. Circulator (Bus)
• Area Taxis
• Ride the City by Bike
• Virginia Rail Service
• Maryland Transit Information