Thinking of going with my parents and husband...any advice on whether crowds are unbearable at this time or should we wait? Best times to travel to DC are.....?
Thanks!

There will be crowds, but nothing like the ones on the Fourth of July. Tourist season isn't in full bloom until the schools let out in June

the 6% unemployment figure is not going unnoticed by me. So I am saving soley for an expensive trip to Hawaii in August.

Rachel,

My husband and I went to D.C. last Memorial Day weekend - NEVER again! It was so crowded. I can't imagine it being any worse, but I supposed July 4th might top it. I'm not sure if it's an annual event on Memorial Day (locals might know), but last year I think every Harley Davidson rider was circling the Mall area. It took us 20 minutes of standing around to cross over many of the streets. In my humble opinion, avoid D.C. for the Memorial Day weekend.

Memorial Day is a nice holiday around DC but most DC'ers leave the area and generally go to the beach. I am surprised that it was that crowded here in town. Independence Day (July 4th) is "THE BIG DAY" in DC and most of the Mall and all around the Potomac River (both sides ) is mobbed with people to watch the fabulous entertainment and fireworks.
It should be pleasant here - we get a good number of tourists every day.

Any time but summer is a good time to visit DC. I have been there in Feb and there are no waits anywhere (compared to a June visit when it was packed). I would guess anytime between Labor Day and Memorial Day (when kids are in school) would be the best time to visit.