When would be the best time to travel to Washington DC in the fall?
I live in Miami, and don't really get a sense for the changing of the seasons because of our tropical climate. I would love to take a trip to DC, as I have not been there, and would love to go during fall, when the leaves start to change colors to red and orange, and it starts to get a bit cooler. I would love to know when would be an optimal time to go for this. Thanks! Washington, D.C. - 5 Answers
People's Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
Answer 1 :
Probably late October or early November. The weather will be cold (by Miami standards) but should otherwise be pleasant. The daily temperature will probably be in the 40s and 50s. It's rare to have any snow that early. It's never clear when the leaves will change color in the DC area, as it has a lot to do with the weather patterns over the summer, including how much rain there has been. The fall is also a good time in terms of tourists--there aren't all that many.
Answer 2 :
I grew up in the DC area and even I still have trouble figuring out when the leaves change...it's difficult because every year is different depending on when it gets cold and how much rain we have. Also, about two hours west of the city, in the mountians will peak about 3 or 4 weeks before the leaves in the Washington D.C. area. In all honesty, the leaves in and around the immediate DC area are dull because there is to many people and to many buildings and not enough areas of just trees. What I would recommend you do, is come in mid to late October, so you can see the leaves peak in the mountains (Skyline Drive is spectacular, very crowded for fall, but spectacular) and see about a 60 % color change in the Washington D.C. area. However if you choose to stay in the D.C. area, come in late October to mid November and go to Rock Creek Park in the city and Great Falls just west of the city (the Virginia side has a better view). If you can, try to wait to plan your trip until early fall so you can have a better idea on when the leaves will peak in this area.
Answer 3 :
Mid-October to early November are really lovely here. The leaves are turning, the weather is still warm during the day and most of the tourists are gone. It gets chilly at night, but the sky is so blue it almost hurts your eyes and when a slight wind kicks up whitecaps on the river, you will never forget how lovely it is.
Answer 4 :
Because of the mix of trees in the DC area, leave don't change all at one time. Maples first, then others follow. Like others have said, it's hard to judge exactly when the leaves in the area will be best. I'd suggest you aim for mid-October. If you have some flexibility in when you have to make your decision, you might want to follow the local news station, here: http://www.nbcwashington.com/ They keep track of fall foliage conditions as the season approaches.
Answer 5 :
October is probably your best bet. Unfortunately, with the crazy weather the last couple years, it's been a little hectic, but any time during that month would probably be ideal. I wouldn't wait until November though, as another poster said, as (at least where I live) most of the leaves have turned brown and fallen by then. Good luck!
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