The weather in September in Washington DC is very attractive for those that want to avoid the peak heat of summer, yet still enjoy lots of warm days on their visit.
On average, peak temperatures during the day in September still reach up to 27°C. But with much cooler, crisper winds filtering through the city, the effect is far more comfortable than the average highs of 31°C experienced in July.
The change in winds can also reduce the feeling of humidity in the air. While the actual levels of humidity in Washington DC do not really change between August and September, overall the climate does feel a lot fresher.
Average low temperatures also feel a little more tolerable at this time of the year. However temperatures of no lower than an average of 17°C are experienced most nights. This ensures plenty of time to enjoy the nightlife and al fresco dining in the city. But a light layer may be required for cooler nights.
Forecasted rainfalls are similar to those of August and October and it is expected that the 80mm of precipitation will to fall over 11 days. With an average of 8 hours of daily sunshine, there is still plenty of good weather about at this time of the year.
Though less tourists are likely to be flooding into the Capital as Labour Day arrives, more business people will return to Washington DC after the hot summer. This means that many hotels will still charge peak prices in September. Though there are always some good deals to be had for the savvy traveller.
With average overall temperatures of 22°C in Washington DC, September is a great time to get out and enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Where to Stay
The Embassy Suites situated by the Chevy Chase Pavilion in the heart of Washington DC offer a luxurious base for any type of visit to the capital. For family holidays, business trips or a personal adventure, the quality of the service, the amenities and the overall atmosphere is impeccable. Choose from the range of different standards and size of suites, and take advantage of the complimentary breakfast in the onsite café. Spa facilities, health club access, a bar and in-room dining are also available. For those warmer days in September, the in house swimming pool is the perfect way to cool off. The hotel is located near many shops and restaurants and with great value offered throughout the year, it is a fabulous place to stay.
The homely feel at the Swann House B&B ensures that so many guests who stay here want to come back for more. The ambience is truly elegant and the bubble tub bath offers the perfect way to relax at the end of a busy day. Enjoy the wide variety of delicious breakfast options or just sit and enjoy the enchanting light that floods each room. The facilities are clean and very well maintained, and the staff just never seem to be able to do enough for you. Within walking distance of many of the most important monuments, Swann House provides a fabulous picturesque backdrop for a wonderful stay.
For cost effective accommodation in Washington that also offers a pool, the Lansburgh is the ideal choice. Choose a furnished apartment to enjoy all the amenities necessary to make a holiday or long term stay very comfortable. With a wealth of restaurants within a five minute walk, it is the perfect alternative to the traditional hotel. Yet the fully equipped kitchen offers a viable alternative to eating out every night. The staff are exceptional and all the rooms are of a good size. Choose accommodation with a courtyard view for the most tranquil location and whatever the weather, the pool is always ready for you to dive straight in.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Don't miss the incredible Irish American welcome that everyone gets at the Dubliner. From the authentic menu to the Celtic music that always seems to be playing. Even the Guinness is poured to perfection at this friendly hostelry. Happy Hour is a great time to meet new people and get a few bargains along the way. But don't be surprised if you end up staying for dinner, the smells that come out of the kitchen are irresistible.
For an exceptional dining experience, book a table at 1789 Restaurant. Set in the heart of Georgetown this refined eatery is the perfect way to spend a sophisticated evening in the City. The food is excellent, as is the wine, and the service is impeccable. Choose from the extensive menu, or your congenial waiter will always have a few suggestions of what is particularly good. Though the atmosphere is very exclusive, there is also a children's menu for those that want to come as a family. Steeped in history and perfectly executed, a night at 1789 Restaurant is an experience to savour.
For a cheap and tasty place to eat in Washington DC, head down to Ben's Chili Bowl. Don't expect any airs and graces at this friendly eatery, just deliciously wholesome food. In business since 1958, Bill Cosby and President Obama have both savoured the delicacies of this chili house. After you have enjoyed the food, you can pop next door to the gift shop and get your own souvenir of the day. Try the all meat chili dog or the signature half smoke. They serve vegetarian options and salad bowls too. Whatever the weather, there is something for everyone and it's all ready and waiting at Bens Chili Bowl.
Things to Do
Labour Day is the annual festival that celebrates the achievements of all those that work hard to keep America great. The best way to celebrate is with a visit to the Labour Day Concert, held on the West Lawn in the centre of the capital. This free concert is held on the Sunday before Labour Day each year with free entertainment from the National Symphony Orchestra. There are on site filling stations so that no one runs out of water. Visitors are positively encouraged to bring their own picnics and refreshments. Just be warned, there is no alcohol allowed. But who needs it when the atmosphere is this incredible.
To enjoy the true ethnic diversity of America, spend a day at the Eastern Market. This magnificent venue in the heart of Capitol Hill plays host to a range of permanent stall holders and temporary vendors, all of whom offer something different. Locals will visit the market on a regular basis to enjoy their range of fresh produce. But for the tourist the atmosphere alone is enough to make this site irresistible. There are craft stalls, entertainers and many type of souvenirs to take home, as well as some very unique food to try. Though shut on a Monday, every other day of the week the Eastern Market offers a truly authentic experience for the entire family.
