least crowded time to visit DC in the spring?
 

Thinking of visiting DC as a family trip next spring. I read that April is often less crowded when Congress is on holiday but I was thinking that that time would be crowded with spring breakers.

Pretty much any time from the Cherry Blossom festival (late March/early April) on is busy (until, say, August). I think Congress matters less than all the Spring Break visitors, who seem to still be around.

Thanks, that was my thinking as well. Off to see when the Cherry Blossom festival is and try to go before then.

Cherry blossom festival runs for two full weeks, with the final events (parade, street fair) on a Saturday (April 9 this year). Peak blooming of the Tidal Blossom trees is typically around April 1, with throngs of peepers beginning to arrive around March 25. Probably best to come around March 20 to avoid them.
However, since 2012 will be the 50th festival, bigger and better seems to be the plan -- five weeks instead of two, March 20 to April 27. My guess is that the major events will center around the usual two week period when the blossoms are actually out.

Nosy-Going before the crowds come will make your visit so much more enjoyable!!