It’s cold in winter in our nation’s capital, but that means fewer tourists, shorter wait times, and a city decked out in holiday finery. Here’s our guide to an unexpected winter getaway in Washington DC.
Get in the festive mood at the U.S. Botanic Gardens
Starting on Thanksgiving Day and running through January 5, 2020, visitors can tour the U.S. Botanic Garden’s Season’s Greenings exhibit. This year they are celebrating “America’s Gardens” with plant based recreations of conservatories, fountains, and sculptures from Hawaii to Maine. If that wasn’t enough to delight you, it’s all in a room filled with model trains! Entry is free of charge.
Shop at the Holiday Market
Located in the area in front of the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, the Holiday Market has been running for 15 years. More than 150 exhibitors will be selling handmade gifts and yummy things to eat. Live music of all genres is performed daily. The market is open from Noon – 8 PM, November 22 through December 23.
Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden is made more magical by the addition of an ice rink from mid-November to mid-March. Get the chill off with a mug of hot chocolate or mulled wine at the Pavilion Café.
Other notable ice skating locations are the “Enchant Christmas” ice skating trail at Nationals Park, the frozen dancing fountain of Washington Harbour in Georgetown, and the “Top of the Gate”, a unique skating rink on the rooftop of The Watergate Hotel.
Start Christmas at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
On December 5 at the President’s Park on the White House grounds, the President of the United States flips the switch to light a gargantuan live tree. This beloved tradition has been taking place almost 100 years and features musical performances for the whole family. Tickets are free, but you must apply via an online lottery system. Visit www.recreation.gov and click “TICKET LOTTERY”.
Book your winter flights to Washington DC!
Let Fare Buzz’s experienced travel advisors help plan your trip to Washington DC. They are knowledgeable about individual, family and group travel, and can handle all the details for you.
Start here:
● Fill in the Request a Quote with your travel details and a travel specialist will research options and contact you shortly
● Call 1-800-847-1963 to speak directly with a travel specialist
