Hi,
We were in DC and VA for the Inauguration There is so much to see I am thinking of a return trip. Is fall a good time to go? I am thinking after school starts crowds should be more manageable.

Thanks!

Yes, it is nice here in the fall.

Fall is the best time to be here, although not necessarily the cheapest. You are correct it will be less crowded with tourists, but Fall is when business people and conventions come to town. Things also get hopping because Congress is back in session after Labor Day (this town does change significantly based on whether Congress is in or not in session).

Still, it's a beautiful time to be here. You can often still dine in sidewalk cafes, the weather is usually nice through October, and the town just feels different.

Fall has some seniors here on group tours but it is much less crowded than the spring where we are innundated with school trips. I always tell people fall is best--and it is.

I have visited in Fall and April. By far, April or May is just beautiful!!! I have never seen so many tulips in all my life! They plant them everywhere in front of the white house, arlington etc. The weather is perfect. The Cherry blossoms were also beautiful. It's a city that cannot be seen in one visit. Enjoy

I love DC in the fall. Two of my five trips have been in the fall and those were the best. Enjoy!

Fall is wonderful--we hibernate in Northern Virginia during the summer tourist season and emerge in mid October to enjoy our favorite museums on weekends, many of which are kicking off their new exhibits. The weather is generally still very mild, and the pace seems less frantic, as well.

Mid-October is ideal - it can be spectacular! But anytime from late Sept. into mid-November should be fine.

Fall weather is usually beautiful and there are fewer tourists - but you won;t get the best hotel rates - since Congress - and all the lobbyists are in town. Also, if comng in the fall check out if there are any conventions in town. I've done a couple of meeting there with 20,000 to 25,000 attendees - and hotel rates are sky high those weeks.

We went in late October a few years back. Stayed at the Woodley Park Guest House. It is withing 500 feet of a Metro stop and a few blocks from the zoo. We paid $120 a night for two people, bath in room and it included a cold breakfast. I am sure it is a bit more now but it was the best deal going. Very comfortable and the staff is very helpful with suggestions.