I am getting conflicting advice on the best week --- scenery wise to visit our nations capital- Washington DC.

One friend tells us to visit the first week of April- when the Cherry Bloosoms are at their peak. Another tells us to come around May 1st during the Dogwood Season with alot of azalas and other flowering bushes and trees.

Which is the most scenic time to visit Washington DC, early April or early May?

If you want Cherry Blossoms, then early April. More flowers and other things will be out later in May.

Either way, expect big crowds.

I was hoping for some cincere responses.

Top!

Having lived in D.C April can weather can be iffy. Some years it was beautiful, mild, sunny and pleasant in early April. Other years we had snow and often rain. I think weather-wise you will be better off in May and it will still be before the schools let out so it should not be that crowded. More will also be blooming/flowering at that time.

I live in the DC area (Northern, Virginia). What the last write says is correct. Some years April has been in the 90s and other years snow. This year the festival starts 3/26 - April 9. Extreme crowds then.
Early May is gorgeous around here. Dogwoods out, all the azaleas, etc. It's a perfect time.

Lois

One other thing to consider is that many schools have April vactions therefore vacations are taken at this time. I don't know of any schools that off May vacations. I always plan my vacations for May or Early September.