1st trip to Washington, DC-Help???

[dominiondad]

Regarding specific days for specific attractions, I haven't really noticed a difference. Rush hour generally begins around 6:00 am and ends around 10:00 am. Evening is about 3:30 to 7:00. However it is not uncommon to find heavy traffic at absolutely any time any day. I have also noticed that Thursday evenings seem to be heavier than others.
If school is still in session, I would consider spending my mornings at the memorials and hitting the museums in the afternoon. The local schools have the kids at the museums in the spring so by going in the afternoon, you might avoid those large groups. The reality is that there is so much to do and so much space, once you're off the roads, I don't think the crowds are an issue.

 

[mommyrom]

Only been to D.C. twice as a teenager...DS is a high school freshman and we are thrilled that his high school marching band will be participating in the July 4th parade in D.C. this summer.

Of course, the rest of our family will be separately traveling to D.C. and I am beginning the planning. Knowing it's going to be crazy busy over the holiday, I am getting a bit nervous since it is uncharted territory to plan a trip to go anywhere but to see Mickey.

Some info: We will be driving, but hope to brave the Metro when needed. Need at least a suite, being that we are a family of 5 to start. We will add DS to the mix after the school tour is done, as we want to stay longer than the 3 days of the school trip. Hoping to learn about safer areas/walking options for family with younger kids (11, 9 and 4).

ANY advice/pointers (like metro walking direction "rules") from those of you "in the know" would be greatly appreciated! TIA

 

[ntink]

according to http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/ the festival runs from 3/20-4/14

 

[KAPTink]

Our family took a bike tour of the monuments with Bike and Roll DC. We all loved it. It was the highlight of our trip! Very informative guide, who gave us lots of info at each stop that we wouldn't have otherwise learned.

We stayed at the Omni Shoreham, and got a great deal hat included parking directly through he hotel. It was about 120/night incl parking. Great deli/bakery and Metro across the street. Good luck and have a great trip!