Since Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States of America you will find that private aviation is busy almost year-round. Not only is D.C. full of exciting historical monuments, great food and plenty of activities to keep busy, but it also boasts a moderate climate with average temperatures of 89 F (31 C) in summer and 47 F (8 C) in winter. This is a great place to explore if you have extra time on the ground, especially if you are in town for cherry blossom season.
When flying to D.C., you will be touching down at one of 10 airports in the area depending upon your mission. While Ronald Regan National Airport (KDCA) is located in Washington, D.C. the rest of the airports are located in Maryland and Virginia. Andrews Air Force Base (KADW), Baltimore-Washington International Airport (KBWI), Frederick Municipal Airport (KFDK), Montgomery County Airpark (KGAI) and Hagerstown Regional Airport (KHGR) are in Maryland. Dulles International Airport (KIAD), Manassas Regional Airport (KHEF), Leesburg Executive Airport (KJYO), Winchester Regional Airport (KOKV) are located nearby in Virginia. The only slower months for visiting D.C. are August and September, when Congress is not in session.
For anyone interested in American History, there are endless activities to enjoy. For residents, the Capitol Hill tour requires booking through the offices of your Representative or Senator (everyone else can book a tour on their own) which will be let by a member of their staff. The tour includes a visit to your Representative’s or Senator’s office, the White House, Old Executive Office Building, Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, the new Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and Jefferson Memorial. If you are looking for a relaxing day, Dumbarton Oaks is home to one of the top ranked gardens in the world, according to National Geographic.
If you are looking for an interesting place to eat, Rose’s Luxury is sure to fit the bill. This restaurant features a roof garden and is located in Barracks Row. It is also close to the historic Eastern Market that offers one of the oldest weekend farmers markets in the region. If you are craving Chinese cuisine, a visit to D.C.’s Chinatown will provide plenty of options. Otherwise, the H Street Corridor has a variety of dining options, shops and nightlife to explore.
The Washington, D.C. area, like any large metropolitan area in the United States, has a variety of offerings for overnight stays. Some of the more economically priced, yet highly-rated, hotels include the Washington Plaza Hotel, State Plaza Hotel and Topaz Hotel. If you have time to relax, visit Bliss Spa, known for their popular line of skin care products, or Tusuva which offers a facial with real gold flakes.
If you are a history buff, and have ample time on the ground, you will have your choice of museums, government buildings and monuments to tour. Likewise, foodies have several areas full of options to try out. For more ideas on what to do during your visit, take a look at the Washingtonian.
Questions?
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