Spring has sprung and there’s a lot more to see in Washington DC than cherry blossoms and monuments. Enjoying nature’s beauty is one reason to visit Washington; another is to catch some colorful events and fascinating exhibits at DC’s museums. Now, really is the perfect time to visit the Nation’s Capital.

1. The US National Arboretum – This living museum, encompassing 446-acres of gardens, forests, herbs and shrubs, is at it’s most stunning when the azaleas bloom in early May.  Stroll the hillside trails amid the brilliant spring display and don’t miss the renowned bonsai exhibit while you’re there. (free)

   

2. Folger Shakespeare Theatre-Visit the Folger Library with its Shakespeare-centric exhibitions, or catch one of the Bard’s famous plays. Shakespeare’s Birthday event is April 6 (free)

   

3. Sewall-Belmont House & Museum – Learn about the Women’s Suffrage Movement at this historic mansion, steps from The Capitol. The exhibits demonstrate strategies used by women activists fighting for voting rights and social justice.
   

   

   
4. Newseum – There’s so much history to absorb and experience here at this unique interactive, multimedia museum. Watch the slideshow above for a taste of the exciting exhibits and interactive experiences you can have there.
5. Dumbarton Oaks – This museum and 53-acre garden feature a wide array of blossoming plants—hanging wisteria vines, weeping cherry trees, heirloom roses, and a riot of peonies. Acres of planted gardens, a graceful mansion/museum; it’s the perfect daytime date or family outing ($8 adults, $5 students, seniors and children)
   
6. U. S. Supreme Court –-catch the high court in action or tour the museum exhibits at this incredibly impressive building across from The US Capitol.

   

7. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens – Tour this water wonderland, where bald eagles fly overheard, and lilies turn their blossoms toward the sun. Stroll the boardwalk over the Anacostia River wetlands to behold the fronds, lilies and lotus at their colorful peak. (free)

   

8. Washington National Cathedral – Tour the gardens and grounds of this historic landmark. Take Tea in the Tower, or go bird watching in Olmstead Woods adorned with iris, peonies and blooming shrubs. Sign up to visit the tour where you won’t believe the panoramic views of Washington’s most important landmarks (tours $10 adults, $6 for children)
   

   

    

9. Daughters of the American Revolution Museum and Library – this beautiful beaux arts marble building near the White House has period rooms, inspired by the original States, and decorated to honor Colonial American design. The huge library is the perfect place to research family history and lineage.
10. Hirshhorn Museum – This modern art museum is the hottest ticket in town thanks to the Kasuma’s Infinite Mirrors Exhibit. It’s hard to score a ticket but they do give some out every morning. There’s no charge and the rest of the museum’s permanent collection is stellar too.
    

    

Attractions; Free Things to Do in DC family travel Kid Friendly MidAtlantic Travel Musings About the DC Area Politics and Women Top sights in DC Travel Daughters of the American Revolution Museum Folger Shakespeare Library Kenilworth Aquatic Garden Museum of Crime and Punishment National Cathedral Newseum Sewall Belmont House US Supreme Court; Dumbarton Oaks