Advantages of Fall Travel to Washington D.C.

White House in the Fall (photo hayadams.com)

Late spring tends to be one of the busiest and most exciting times to visit Washington D.C. However, regardless of the time of year, an educational student tour of Washington D.C. is guaranteed to be an enriching experience due to the historical and cultural significance of the city. The fall season is often overlooked when planning a student trip. However, distinct advantages exist for traveling to Washington D.C. in the fall. These include:

Breathing Room

Substantially fewer groups travel during the fall season. As the crowds subside, students can enjoy the extra ‘breathing room’ while exploring the memorials and museums. With fewer lines at exhibits or at building entrances, students can spend more time connecting with history.

Tidal Basin in the Fall (photo iwitness.weather.com)

Sight and Sound

From a logistical standpoint, fewer crowds make it easier for chaperones, group leaders, and tour leaders to keep track of students. With less competing for students’ attention, it is also often easier to hear and focus on the words of the tour leader.

If the Time Is Right

Depending on the interests of the group, schools may request to dine at certain restaurants or to participate in particular events, such as a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Some museums, such as the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, also ask groups of 40 or more people to schedule a visit. Such events require time slot reservations.  With fewer student groups traveling in the fall, the probability scheduling your preferred date and time is greatly increased.

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

Although public tours of the White House are available, they are increasingly difficult to attain. Requests must be made through one’s Member of Congress up to 6 months in advance. Availability is quickly filled. Fall travel may improve your chances of scheduling a White House tour, as fewer groups are requesting tours at this time.

Have you traveled during the fall with a student group? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Comment below!