February is the slowest month of the year in DC. That doesn’t mean it’s a bad month to visit! Capitalize on the small crowds at the museums and other big sites by visiting Washington, DC in February.

Tips for Visiting Washington DC in February

DC in February Weather

February is the second coldest month of the year. The average daily high is 47 degrees and average daily low is 27 degrees. However, this is an average, which means it could very well be warmer or colder when you visit. February is also the second snowiest month in DC, on average.

Packing for DC in February

You should bring a coat and a hat. Gloves can be a good idea too. You can also bring boots if you are a boot person. You should always remember that you are going to do a lot of walking so make sure your footwear is comfortable, no matter exactly what it looks like.

February holidays and events

There is one government holiday during February: President’s Day. This can be a great time for a weekend trip if you have the day off work or your kids have the day off school. There are not that many special events during President’s day weekend. However, you could visit the presidential memorials and historic sites.

Valentine’s Day is not a government holiday but it is very popular. If you come to DC in February and Valentine’s Day overlaps with your trip, skip the fancy restaurants. On Valentine’s Day, many of them switch over to a fixed price menu that’s often more expensive and lower quality than the regular menu. That’s because food is often cooked in bulk. If you do want to celebrate a nice Valentine’s meal, you can go the day before or the day after to order off the regular menu.

Important things to know about visiting DC in February

February is the month when there are the fewest number of tours operating. Many tour companies close for the winter and don’t re-open until March. That said, you can do a self-guided tour of the monuments on the National Mall or seek out a tour company that operates year round.

Also, you can go ice skating at one of the rinks around town. Most visitors prefer the ice skating rink on the National Mall. However, there is also rinks in Georgetown, the Navy Yard and the Wharf. The Wharf is actually a pretty cool place to see during the winter months. There are open fire pits where you can stop and cook s’mores over an open flame. There are also coffee and dessert places where you can stop for a hot beverage and a sugar break.

Even though outdoor activities are perfectly plausible, a lot of people may want to focus on indoor activities. You can tour the Capitol, the Library of Congress and the U.S. Botanic Gardens.

February is also African American History Month. Make sure to check out the special events spanning the Smithsonian, the National Archives, and other institutions.

You can also see a play at the Kennedy Center or an NBA game or a NHL game. You can check out one of the shows at the smaller theaters around town. For last minute tickets, you should use the website Goldstar. This might even save you a little money.

Coming to Washington DC in February and want us to show you around?

Trip Hacks DC was founded by Rob, a veteran tour guide in the Nation’s Capital. Trip Hacks DC provides tips, tricks and travel hacks for planning your trip; and guided tours to show you around once you get here. Our tours are family and school group friendly and our guides specialize in the major Washington, DC sites. Click here to check out the upcoming tour options and to book your tour here today! Feel free to contact us if you have any tour questions.