Jefferson Memorial
Washington, D.C.

Washington DC, showcase of the United States, is distinct from the states, to serve as the Nation's Capital. The Potomac River lines the south of the city dividing the district from neighboring Virginia. Maryland, which once included the DC area surrounds the remainder of the district.

Washington DC is the center of all three branches of the United Sates Federal Government, and home to many of the country's well known monuments and landmarks. The Washington DC metropolitan area expands into Virginia and Maryland. which are home to many treasured US sights. The Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery and Mount Vernon are all part of the metro area.

Spring brings the 2010 National Cherry Blossom Festival - the official dates are March 27th through April 11th. Events kick off the first Saturday at the National Building Museum with a free family day. Activities will include demonstrations, displays and performances. Saturday April 10th the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade will run along Constitution Avenue, bring the family for an energetic show of marching bands, giant balloons and performers.

Exercise enthusiasts can participate in the Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run, 5K Run-Walk and a 1K Kids Run. The course runs through the beautiful blooming cherry trees surrounding waterways and monuments. Organized bicycle rides are featured, river tours, and a soccer tournament. The 2010 Cherry Blossom Soccer Tournament will feature thirty-two adult coed teams, competing for the Cherry Blossom Cup.

Basketball fans, this is the season to catch a Washington Wizards home game at the Verizon Center. Regular season games are scheduled through mid-April. The DC United MLS home opener is April 3 at RFK Stadium, with an on going schedule through spring and summer. On May 1st a special double-header will be played featuring DC United and the Washington Freedom at RFK Stadium. The Washington Freedom is the professional women's soccer team. The 2010 season has expanded and includes 12 home games at the Maryland SoccerPlex.

On the cultural side, Washington DC hosts the top names and events from across the world. The John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is holding a week long tribute, Gospel Across America late April. There are a variety of performances by the best Gospel performers on the schedule. Theater performances this time of year include Terrence McNally's Nights at the Opera: Master Class and the comedy Shear Madness. If music is your passion the Kennedy Center hosts the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera. Whatever your passion, this is an inspiring setting to take in a performance.

Best Western Hotels in the Washington DC metro area are convenient and affordable. With locations in and around the district you can make your vacation easy with Best Western Hotels.