Bring the Kids: Washington DC’s Cherry Blossom Festival

Witness the nation's capital at its most glorious By Suzanne Rowan Kelleher on Mar 3, 2014

Spring Getaways

Our nation’s capital is never as beautiful as in the springtime when thousands of Yoshino cherry trees are abloom. This year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place from March 20 to April 13, which is also prime time for spring break. The best place to catch the explosion of pink is in the area of the Tidal Basin and the National Mall. Here are five DC hotels within walking distance of the National Mall with a good-value promotion on the table this spring:

JW Marriott Washington DC

This JW Marriott has a killer address at 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, a stone’s throw from the White House and within a few minutes’ walk of the National Mall and Tidal Basin. Book the Suite Dreams package at least seven days in advance and save 50 percent off a suite upgrade. Ask for a view overlooking the Washington Monument. Available through Mar. 31, 2014. Use promo code XM5.

(MORE: View a family trip plan: 3 days in Washington DC with kids.)

Embassy Row Hotel

This stately property in the historic Dupont Circle neighborhood is the only hotel in DC with a rooftop pool. The Springtime Cherry Blossom package starts at $209 a night and includes accommodations, two all-day Metro passes (kids under 4 ride free), Continental breakfast, and overnight valet parking ($45 value). Available for stays Mar. 20-Apr. 13, 2014.

Sofitel Hotel Lafayette Square

Sofitel Hotel Lafayette Square

Just a half a block from the White House, this elegant hotel at the corner of Lafayette Square is ensconced in a 1920s-era building. Book the Magnifique Family package and the kids can have a second room at half price plus free breakfast.

(MORE: Read our Insider Guide to Washington DC with kids.)

Residence Inn Capitol

This all-suite hotel offers spacious, family-friendly digs, indoor pool, and a super location within walking distance of the Smithsonian Museums and Capitol Building. Weekend advance rates during the Cherry Blossom festival start at $234 a night.

Hotel Monaco

Hotel Monaco

Less than five blocks from the National Mall, this centrally-located Kimpton boutique hotel blends chic, modern-design elements with historic architecture. Save 30 percent when you stay for a three-night weekend, Friday-to-Sunday. Request the Sunday rate.

Suzanne Rowan Kelleher contributed this to MiniTime.com.