Impact-Site-Verification: e97618de-a52b-470d-b945-7e81282bcff0
Washington Monument and reflecting pool

Washington D.C., United States

Best Time to Visit Washington D.C.

Weather month by month, from 20 years of weather-station records.

Best months
April, May, and October
Warmest month
July, 33°C
Wettest month
June, 127 mm

Washington D.C. weather by month

Average daily high and low, total rainfall and days with at least 2.5 mm of rain.

MonthHigh / lowRainVerdict
January7°C / -2°C62 mm · 6 daysCold
February9°C / -1°C59 mm · 5 daysCold
March14°C / 3°C79 mm · 6 daysFair
April20°C / 8°C93 mm · 7 daysGreat
May25°C / 14°C120 mm · 8 daysGreat
June30°C / 19°C127 mm · 7 daysFair
July33°C / 22°C124 mm · 8 daysHot
August31°C / 20°C105 mm · 7 daysHot
September28°C / 17°C102 mm · 6 daysFair
October22°C / 10°C104 mm · 6 daysGreat
November15°C / 4°C72 mm · 5 daysFair
December10°C / 0°C99 mm · 6 daysCold

Washington D.C. by season

Spring

Spring is D.C.'s most famous season, marked by the spectacular blooming of cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for walking.

  • + Iconic cherry blossom views
  • + Comfortable temperatures (10-20°C)
  • + Outdoor festivals begin
  • − Extremely crowded, especially during peak bloom
  • − Hotel prices are at their highest

Summer

Summer is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. It's the peak tourist season, with long days and a full calendar of events and outdoor concerts.

  • + Long daylight hours
  • + Free outdoor events and concerts
  • + All attractions are open with extended hours
  • − Intense heat and humidity (often above 31°C)
  • − Large crowds and long lines

Autumn

Autumn brings crisp, cool air and stunning fall foliage, particularly in Rock Creek Park. The summer crowds dissipate, making it an ideal time for exploration.

  • + Pleasant, mild weather
  • + Beautiful fall colors
  • + Fewer tourists than spring/summer
  • − Weather can be unpredictable
  • − Daylight hours grow shorter

Winter

Winter is cold and can be damp, with occasional snow that beautifully coats the monuments. It's the quietest tourist season, offering a more serene experience.

  • + Minimal crowds at major sites
  • + Hotel deals are plentiful
  • + Seeing monuments in the snow is magical
  • − Cold temperatures (often around 4°C or lower)
  • − Some outdoor attractions/fountains may be closed

Washington D.C. month by month

Washington D.C. in January

Cold

In January, Washington D.C. averages highs of 7°C and lows of -2°C, with about 6 rainy days and 62 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.

Washington D.C. in February

Cold

In February, Washington D.C. averages highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C, with about 5 rainy days and 59 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.

Washington D.C. in March

Fair

In March, Washington D.C. averages highs of 14°C and lows of 3°C, with about 6 rainy days and 79 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.

Washington D.C. in April

Great

In April, Washington D.C. averages highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C, with about 7 rainy days and 93 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.

Washington D.C. in May

Great

In May, Washington D.C. averages highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C, with about 8 rainy days and 120 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.

Washington D.C. in June

Fair

In June, Washington D.C. averages highs of 30°C and lows of 19°C, with about 7 rainy days and 127 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.

Washington D.C. in July

Hot

In July, Washington D.C. averages highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C, with about 8 rainy days and 124 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.

Washington D.C. in August

Hot

In August, Washington D.C. averages highs of 31°C and lows of 20°C, with about 7 rainy days and 105 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.

Washington D.C. in September

Fair

In September, Washington D.C. averages highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C, with about 6 rainy days and 102 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.

Washington D.C. in October

Great

In October, Washington D.C. averages highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C, with about 6 rainy days and 104 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.

Washington D.C. in November

Fair

In November, Washington D.C. averages highs of 15°C and lows of 4°C, with about 5 rainy days and 72 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.

Washington D.C. in December

Cold

In December, Washington D.C. averages highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C, with about 6 rainy days and 99 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.

Top tours and experiences in Washington D.C.

The tours and tickets travellers book most, with ratings and reviews from Viator.

DC Monuments by Night: 10+ Landmarks | Open-Top Upgrade Available

DC Monuments by Night: 10+ Landmarks | Open-Top Upgrade Available

4.77,284 reviews3h
DC Monuments Night Tour with 10+ Stops, National Mall, Tickets

DC Monuments Night Tour with 10+ Stops, National Mall, Tickets

4.66,042 reviews3h
Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

4.64,233 reviews2h 30m
Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour + Boat Cruise

Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour + Boat Cruise

4.73,750 reviews6h
All things to do in Washington D.C. →

Tours and prices from Viator, a Tripadvisor company. Prices change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.

Plan your Washington D.C. trip

Best time to visit Washington D.C.: FAQ

What is the best month to visit Washington D.C.?+

April is the most comfortable month on average, with highs of 20°C. May and October are close behind.

What is the rainiest month in Washington D.C.?+

June is the wettest month, with about 127 mm of rain.

How hot does Washington D.C. get?+

July is the warmest month, with average highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C. The coldest nights come in January, averaging -2°C.

Averages for 2006–2025 from the NATL ARBORETUM DC weather station (6 km from the centre), NOAA Global Historical Climatology Network. Verdicts rate sightseeing comfort from daytime highs and rainy days.