10 Things to Do in Washington DC in April

April is an exceptional month to plan a visit to Washington DC, as the city begins to leave behind the bitter cold and dresses in new colours.

Nicolas Reffray

Nicolas Reffray

8 min read

10 Things to Do in Washington DC in April

National Mall, Washington DC | ©xiquinhosilva

While spring is still a few months away, Washington DC literally blossoms in April with its many options and great weather. It's also school holiday time for locals, which means there are many more leisure activities than in other months of the year.

Walking through the city and enjoying the spectacle of the cherry blossoms is one of those unforgettable experiences you can't miss. So that you have a clear idea of what to do, let me guide you through the 10 wonderful things to do in April in Washington DC. Here we go!

1. Witness the start of the baseball season with a Washington Nationals game

Nationals Park Stadium.| ©Nymfan9
Nationals Park Stadium.| ©Nymfan9

If you're a sports fan, April is a very special month to book Washington Nationals tickets as the baseball season begins.

Watching a baseball game in the United States is an experience like no other. The general atmosphere in the stadiums, the partying of the fans and all the mystique that surrounds the most American of sports, is truly incredible.

The Nationals are Washington's home team and their home stadium, Nationals Park, is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family, eating hotdogs and watching the game.

Book your ticket for a Washington Nationals game

2. Enjoy a cruise along the banks of the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers

Potomac River at sunset| ©Steve Holsonback
Potomac River at sunset| ©Steve Holsonback

The banks of Washington DC's two major rivers have become very popular, and with the advent of warmer temperatures, enjoying a stroll along the waters of the Anacostia or a music show along the Potomac is impossible to resist.

Experience a day outdoors with the locals, and enjoy the many activities around the rivers. In addition to the Cherry Blossom Festival, there's the Anacostia River Festival where you can enjoy food and drink fairs, sports, canoe rides and water bikes. Finally, book a cruise for a unique experience.

Book a Washington cruise

3. Don't miss the French Market in Georgetown

Touring Georgetown| ©Fatma Şenses
Touring Georgetown| ©Fatma Şenses

One of the city's most distinguished and highly anticipated events is the Georgetown French Market. Inspired by Parisian markets, this open-air fair is the ideal place for you to enjoy the most delicious French pastries, traditional cafés au lait and a host of activities that celebrate in true French style without having to leave DC.

From 29 April, Georgetown dresses up for three full days, with live French music performances and a festive atmosphere. Take the opportunity to stroll through the quaint streets of one of Washington's most charming neighbourhoods while sampling some colourful macarons or pain au chocolat. Definitely one of the most interesting gastronomic markets in the city.

And once you're done, you can book a food tour of Georgetown in Washington DC and sample delicious French, Italian and Korean cuisine.

Book a food tour of Georgetown in Washington DC

4. Visit the United States Capitol

Capitol and people on the lawn| ©Brian Aslak
Capitol and people on the lawn| ©Brian Aslak

The Capitol is definitely one of the most important buildings to visit in Washington and one of the most recognisable places in the world. In addition to the Senate, there is also the Capitol Visitor Center, so you can plan your guided tour.

April is an ideal time for a tour of this bastion of democracy, precisely because with the pleasant temperatures, the vast majority of the public prefers to spend the day in the parks or walking around the city, so you will find fewer visitors to these monuments.

Touring the U.S. Capitol is a unique experience, since, in addition to having an absolutely fascinating architecture, the Capitol is also a great place to visit. Inside you can enjoy a large number of works of art, murals, sculptures and the fresco The Apotheosis of Washington crowning the dome. A place that has become synonymous with democracy. A visit to the Capitol in Washington DC is definitely one of the must-see sights.

Book a guided tour of the US Capitol.

5. Enjoy one of the most amazing shows, the Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry Blossom in Washington| ©Elvert Barnes
Cherry Blossom in Washington| ©Elvert Barnes

April is a key month to visit this enchanting city, as it's the only time to see the cherry blossoms in bloom. In case you don't know, this is one of the most important shows in the city of Washington DC. The 3,000 trees donated in 1912 by the then mayor of Tokyo, Yukio Ozaki, and planted in the Tidal Basin of West Potomac Park, celebrate the arrival of spring.

With this luxurious backdrop, it's a great time to book a cherry blossom bike tour of Washington DC to enjoy the magical scenery. You can also take advantage of Washington DC's Cherry Blossom Festival, a traditional free event where, over the course of two weeks, you can enjoy parades, displays of Asian and local art, a colourful display of oriental kites, sushi and other traditional dishes, workshops and courses, among other things.

Book a Washington Bike Tour

6. Stroll through the White House gardens as part of a tour of political secrets

White House in spring| ©Stephen Melkisethian
White House in spring| ©Stephen Melkisethian

Undoubtedly one of the most visited places in the city of Washington DC is The White House, home of the President of the United States, a visit that is included in many of the tours of the city as the private tour of scandals and political secrets in Washington DC

Although this visit can be done almost all year round, the first days of April are available for visits to its beautiful gardens. You can visit the famous rose gardens and walk where so many presidents have walked over the years, the Jacqueline Kennedy gardens and the Kitchen gardens. A must-see if you travel to Washington in April.

Admission is free, but a ticket is required. If you are interested in taking a tour of this amazing place I recommend you visit the White House website for more information.

Book a tour of scandals and political secrets in Washington DC

7. Join the traditional Easter Egg Hunt on the White House lawn

Easter on the White House lawns| ©GETTY IMAGES
Easter on the White House lawns| ©GETTY IMAGES

Annually, the White House hosts an Easter Egg Hunt on the White House lawn in the week leading up to Easter. It takes place on the South Lawn and is an ideal event for families travelling with children.

The number of participants is limited, so the government organises a lottery where tickets are raffled. If you are interested you can go to the official White House Easter Egg Roll website and try your luck.

8. Join in the events in commemoration of Emancipation Day

Emancipation day| ©DCist
Emancipation day| ©DCist

April 16 marks Emancipation Day, when President Abraham Lincoln finally abolished slavery in the United States, freeing more than 3,000 people. This important date is celebrated throughout the city with various parades and events, such as concerts, food and drink fairs, ideal for enjoying the atmosphere of the city on one of the most important days.

Experience Emancipation Day like a local. The event with venues across the city is a great place to enjoy as a family, even with the little ones, as the general atmosphere is one of celebration. At the end of the day, a fireworks display lights up the Washington skyline.

9. Be dazzled by the cherry-blossomed Jefferson Memorial

Jefferson Memorial| ©David Tato
Jefferson Memorial| ©David Tato

Another of the most photo-worthy sights in April is the imposing Jefferson Memorial. Located in the Tidal Basin, this cemetery is the best place to see the cherry blossoms, so take advantage of your visit to the Cherry Blossom Festival to take a stroll around this beautiful spot. Jefferson was responsible for drafting the US Declaration of Independence and is considered one of the great founding fathers of the United States.

The circular architecture of this monument is truly majestic. Marble columns surround the imposing bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson holding the Declaration of Independence by sculptor Rudulph Evans.

The Memorial is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and admission is free, so you can visit at your leisure. From here you can look out over the calm waters of the Potomac River. It's a place where many visitors come for inspiration and calm. If you are interested in this kind of walk, you can find out what are the best monuments in Washington DC

10. Take part in the Japanese street festival Sakura Matsuri

Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival.| ©Mvincec
Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival.| ©Mvincec

Enjoy one of the most important events of Japanese culture in Washington, the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival, an event full of colour and activities revolving around Japanese culture, with traditional music, shows, dances, writing and painting workshops, typical food and a fair with handmade objects. An event not to be missed if you want to rediscover one of the richest cultures in the world.

This free festival welcomes thousands of Japanese enthusiasts looking to experience a different and absolutely oriental day out in the heart of DC. Sakura Matsui takes place on Pennsylvania Ave. Not to be missed!

Some tips for your April visit to Washington DC

Fun day out in Washington| ©Mohamad
Fun day out in Washington| ©Mohamad

If you are only going to be in this amazing city for a couple of days, find out what to see and do in Washington DC in 2 days, as you have seen throughout this article, the city has a lot to offer.

Although if you are one of those who enjoy cities more at night than during the day, don't miss the best night tours in Washington DC, an amazing experience.

What should I pack to visit Washington DC in April?

Temperatures in April are usually very pleasant, so you won't need a warm jacket.

Keep in mind that many of the things to do in this amazing city are outdoors, so it won't hurt to pack a light jacket and some jumpers.

What are the average temperatures in Washington in April?

Temperatures in April are usually much more pleasant than in previous months, so you can walk around the city without any problems. Lows are between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius and highs range from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Are there a lot of tourists in Washington DC during April?

April is one of the most popular months, with its cherry blossoms and great weather, it's the perfect time to enjoy all there is to see and do in Washington DC. However, as it is a school holiday period for Americans, you may encounter more tourists than usual.

What is the best way to get around Washington DC?

The fastest, most comfortable, efficient and economical way to get around DC is by Metro (Metrorail) and bus. It's also worth checking out the metro stations, they are really beautiful.

You can buy the Metrotrip Washington DC city transit card, which allows you to move around freely for a one-time fee. You can also buy a card or use your own mobile phone to pay on the metro, bus or train.

Is April considered peak season in Washington DC?

Yes, April is high season, so you may find that hotel prices are higher than in other months.

Also, you will probably find a lot more people at the various attractions to visit. However, let me tell you that, despite this, April is still one of the best months to tour Washington DC, so don't hesitate.

Book a Washington DC sightseeing tram