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The nation's capital shines in spring with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, outdoor activities, sports action, free events and so much more.
Washington, DC features so many free activities during spring, with numerous free events during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, free embassy tours during Passport DC, free blossom viewings all over the city and much more.
National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is DC’s signature springtime festivity, honoring the gift of the Japanese trees in 1912 and celebrating peak bloom. Over the course of three weeks, the National Cherry Blossom Festival offers up a robust lineup of events, including the Blossom Kite Festival, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade and Petalpalooza.
Throughout the spring, many DC-area hotels offer special cherry blossom-themed packages that, in addition to deals and discounts, may include a free bloom-inspired cocktail, chocolates, meals or more.
DC is quite the sight to see during the spring, especially with blossoms blooming all over. Discover the best places to photograph the blossoms in the District and you’ll come away with an Instagram post that will make your friends jealous.
The nation’s capital offers two rivers, the Potomac and Anacostia, that double as recreational playgrounds full of family-friendly outdoor activities. Find out how you can take advantage via kayaking, paddleboarding, paddleboating and so much more.
Washington, DC is a dreamy destination any day in the springtime, even after (and before!) the cherry blossoms have come and gone. Check out our flower calendar, packed to the brim with beautiful blooms, including magnolias, tulips, azaleas, wisteria and more – plus, information on when and where to find them across the city.
The Washington Nationals are one of the exciting teams in baseball, so you’re missing out if you don’t get out to a game at Nationals Park during your visit. From the incredible talent on the field to can't-miss bites and so much more, you can get your baseball fix with flying colors in the District.
Nats games are a hot ticket in DC, so make sure to score your exclusive discount today. Go to the single game tickets page, select the game you wish to attend and enter the promotional code VISITDC for up to 20% off.
Passport DC (May 1-31) is an annual celebration of international cultures in DC. Don’t miss two special chances to tour an embassy for free – the Around the World Embassy Tour and the European Union Open House – and learn how you can engage with DC's roster of embassies year-round.
The National Arboretum (located within the city limits in Northeast DC) is a can't-miss experience in the spring, where locals love to picnic, walk, bike and take in the fresh air. Whether you visit in March, April or May, fantastic flora and the astonishing U.S. Capitol Columns await.
DC is a haven for outdoor lovers and fitness enthusiasts, and sightseeing doesn't get better than a run or long walk through the nation's capital. There are so many great routes to take and places to go, including the National Mall, Rock Creek Park, the Mount Vernon Trail and more. Try CityFit Tours for a guided experience.
Vue Rooftop
Springtime is the perfect time to head to a gorgeous rooftop bar, order up some drinks and savor a night in the nation’s capital. There are great locales all over the city offering craft cocktails, delicious bar bites and jaw-dropping views.
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