District of Columbia Hostels
Washington DC is nothing short of monumental – and the Washington DC hostel is right in the middle of it all. DC’s rich and diverse culture is as colorful as the world-famous early-April National Cherry Blossom Festival, during which thousands of Yoshino cherry trees lining the Tidal Basin are in full, radiant bloom. DC is home to all three branches of the U.S. Federal government, many international and national institutions, including the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the Organization of American States, as well as the Smithsonian Institution – the world’s largest museum complex.
A great place to start your DC adventure is the two-and-a-half mile long National Mall, lined with museums and galleries - including many of the free Smithsonian Institution museums – as well as the Lincoln, Washington, Jefferson, and Vietnam Veterans Memorials. The White House is just a few blocks from the hostel, while the Capitol Building, Supreme Court, and FBI Building are all just a short distance away. The Library of Congress and National Archives, both open to the public, house thousands of documents covering every period throughout American history. There are numerous regular tours given throughout the city, with some tourist favorites including touring the monuments at night, cruises on the Potomac River, and open-air bus tours.
The fun doesn’t end when the museums close – DC’s nightlife is known for its downtown dance clubs and intimate music venues, including the Black Cat and 9:30 Club. DC is also a major performing arts hub. The beautiful John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is known for its impressive shows and events, ranging from ballet performances to opera and award-winning theater, and hosts the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera, and the Washington Ballet, among others.
Washington DC’s weather is typical of the Mid-Atlantic with four distinct seasons, yet sometimes unpredictable. Summers are very hot and humid, while heavy snowfall and arctic temperatures are often experienced in the winter. Averaging in the high 60s and low 70s, spring and fall are generally comfortable, but spring’s low humidity, mild temperatures, and blooming trees make the season a tourist favorite.
