Washington, D.C., in the spring is a delight for locals and visitors alike.

As the leaves start to gain color again, it’s time to head outdoors. Washington, D.C., in the spring will surely delight anyone and everyone who hibernated the winter away and is now desperate for vitamin D and outside activities. And you’re in luck because it is full of beautiful parks, gardens, and just about anything to fill your day. Check out our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington D.C. in the spring (in our opinion).

Though it’s only natural to want to hide away during the winter, the growing popularity of social media and streaming services makes it that much harder to “get away” and enjoy all the outdoors have to offer. As a result, many of us don’t get the exercise we should. And this is a shame, as being outside can provide many health benefits.

Outside activity is proven to accomplish the following:

• Reduce stress  
• Strengthen your immune system
• Improve focus 
• Calm the brain and mind
• Help maintain healthy weight 
• Improve memory

You get the picture. So if you are looking for something different to do this spring in Washington, D.C., our list will surely not disappoint.

Check out these 6 things to do in Washington D.C. in the spring.

Whether you are looking for a few hours away to regroup the mind and body or want to make a day of it, this list of things to do will get you out in the fresh air, enjoying all our nation’s capital has to offer.

1. Take a stroll around the Tidal Basin to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

The Tidal Basin is part of West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C. It offers the best available view of the cherry blossom trees. Be on the lookout for the first blooms during the last week of March or the first week of April. While it varies based on the weather, this is often the best time to catch sight of the gorgeous trees and breathe in their aromatic scent.

2. Grab lunch and take an afternoon stroll along the Baltimore waterfront.

Around an hour’s drive from the Capitol is the waterfront city of Baltimore, Maryland. The Baltimore Waterfront Promenade spans approximately seven miles, allowing walkers to admire the boats, outdoor eateries, various historic sights, and loads of greenery. The promenade consists of a winding brick-and-board pathway, with Canton on the north and Fort McHenry on the south. Check out the Wharf Rat, Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park, Harbor East, Inner Harbor, and kid-friendly Pierce’s Park.

3. Get your shopping on in Georgetown.

If you like to shop till you drop, then the shopping in historic Georgetown will not disappoint. You’ll enjoy national retailers such as J.Crew and T.J. Maxx while also splurging on brands for the fashion connoisseur: Billy Reid, Tory Burch, and Rag & Bone.

4. Take some selfies at the botanical garden.

What better place to capture photos with the one you love than at a botanical garden. Open most of the day and even on weekends, the U.S. Botanic Garden features floral delights ranging from roses to orchids to plants found only in the rainforest. Or check out some of the featured rare and endangered plants and let your imagination run wild.

5. Really into gardens? Explore Dumbarton Oaks.

Dumbarton Oaks offers another great place for garden enthusiasts. Take a stroll in one of many directions across this 53-acre property. Enjoy the details the park’s caretakers have painstakingly prepared for visitor enjoyment, allowing you to learn about the trees and plants, inscriptions, furniture, and ornaments displayed throughout the park.

6. Enjoy the waterfalls and stone arch bridges of Rock Creek Park.

Adults looking for an afternoon away from the kids will surely enjoy exploring all that Rock Creek Park offers. The park has 1,754 acres of Civil War fortifications, colonial houses, working mills, and more history than you can imagine. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at the park too. Enjoy hiking, fishing, horseback riding, golf, kayaking along the great Potomac, and more. 

MASC Dental Studio wants to be your dentist near Friendship Heights.

Though Washington, D.C., is full of great things to do during the spring, don’t let the call of the warm weather keep you from your six-month professional dental cleaning and oral evaluation. Spring is a great time to request an appointment and prioritize oral care. And during your visit, let us know your favorite things to do in the spring. We may just add your idea to our list!