Earlier in the month of October in Washington DC, the weather is very much like the September climate relatively humid and quite hot. However, towards the latter half of the month, the temperature starts to cool in this part of North America, creating the perfect conditions for extensive sightseeing.
Average temperatures across October fall to 15°C in this part of the US, which means a light sweater might sometimes be necessary if there is a slight chill. However, daily average highs of 20°C are expected which is more than enough to still enjoy everything the Capital has to offer.
With the freshness in the air, the levels of humidity also start to fall, creating a more pleasant environment for those that are effected by the heat. Many families will visit Washington DC in October, gaining the benefit of the mild weather, without the summer temperatures.
Overall, this time of the year will see the level of tourists in the city starts to decline, offering plenty of freedom for those that choose to remain. With an average of 7 hours of daily sunshine, there are always some good times to be had.
October is also the driest month in the latter half of the year in Washington DC. Only 70mm of rain are expected to fall over approximately 11 days. This means all but a few showers will be relatively light.
At night the temperature will drop far lower than those that have been experienced through the core summer months, with the latter half of October usually experiencing the freshest evenings.
This means that it is no longer so vital to have the air conditioning on through the night. However with an average low of 10°C, October in Washington DC is still fairly comfortable.
Where to Stay
The Bridgestreet Woodward Building is the ideal way to stay in the heart of Washington DC without paying premium prices. Just two blocks from the White House itself, these low cost apartments offer the height of convenience without the heavy price tag. Even most of the one bedroom apartments include a fully equipped kitchen to ensure everything is provided for. With low cost delis, restaurants and all local transport options just down the road, everything is on hand for a fabulous visit. Book a floor nearer the top of this residential apartment block to avoid street noise and to enjoy the best view. You then have the perfect way to experience life in the city without busting the budget.
Conversely, the Fairmont Washington, D.C. hotel is one of the most exclusive places to stay in Georgetown. Newly renovated in June 2016, this hotel is beautiful inside and out. The Fairmont Gold experience is the best way to enjoy the hotel with exclusive access to a private lounge and hotel floor. The service is impeccable, the food delicious and the entire ambience exquisite. Enjoy drinks on the courtyard during the warmer October nights or exercise in the fitness centre before relaxing by the indoor pool. No matter what type of holiday you are looking for, a stay at the Fairmont will always make it better.
Staying at the Taft Bridge Inn is a bit like staying at friend's house rather than a boutique B&B. You are made to feel so welcome at this renovated Georgian Mansion, it feels like the hosts have known you all their lives. From the delicious freshly cooked breakfasts to the comfort of the individual rooms and the eclectic collection of books which are available to borrow. Every courtesy has been extended to ensure you have a wonderful time. Situated a 15 minute walk from DuPont Circle, the Taft Bridge Inn is based in a quiet and very safe area, providing all the comforts of home in an affordable B&B.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Get your own touch of the blues at Madam's Organ Blues Bar. Four floors boast five different bars to ensure everyone can find something they enjoy. The first floor offers live music every night of the week or the Love Lounge & Pick Up Joint on the second floor has a completely different atmosphere. The Starlit Roof Terrace and Tiki Bar then finish off this eclectic establishment to ensure hours and hours of fun. The drinks are well blended and affordable and the atmosphere seems to thrive throughout the house. There is even free pool tables to while away the time.
Zaytinya is one of the top restaurants in Washington DC, and it's easy to see why. Incredible flavours and the freshest ingredients combine to create a mezze menu that is simply out of this world. Chef José Andrés and his team use influences from Turkey, Greece and the Lebanon to create small plates of delicious food for all their patrons to enjoy. The experienced staff are well rehearsed and very capable of talking through the menu, making their own recommendations as they go, and there is always an inspired cocktail or bottle of wine that compliments the meal perfectly. With so many things to choose from, one visit will never be enough. But even in October, book early, because everyone wants to eat at Zaytinya.
As the name suggests, you only get the best food served at the Good Stuff Eatery. Based on the theory that the deepest flavours come from the freshest food, everything on the menu is sourced from the local farming community to make it as fresh as it can be. This respects the environment and ensures every meal is equally as delicious. From handcrafted burgers to farm fresh salads and a massive variety of different dipping sauces. The flavours are inspirational and the entire experience is mind-blowingly refreshing.
Things to Do
To understand the true volume of loss from the Vietnam War, a trip to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a must. This incredible testament to the men and women that fought in Vietnam is breath taking and truly humbling for anyone that visits. The names of more than 58,000 appear on the memorial that seems to go on and on. A visit is certainly thought provoking and creates a memory in Washington DC that no one should forget.
Take a night time trip around Washington DC with Signature Tours of DC for the perfect way to see the city. These fabulous guided excursions take in all the best sights of the capital, and a few you may not have even considered. Your expert tour guide will walk with you, explaining the historical significance of the area as you go. If you prefer your trips around town limited to daylight hours, Signature Tours can provide for that too.
