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Is it still worth coming

I have reservations for 3 nights from 13 Jan to 16 Jan and am concerned with the recent snow and bad weather if the city will be up and running. So will getting from Reagan airport to the Royal Sonesta at Dupont Circle be possible and will public transport be operating. Also will all of the public museums and monuments be open? Thanks for any help & advise.

Washington, DC generally recovers quickly from snow events, and the city tends to remain operational even in winter weather, though some minor delays can occur. Here’s a breakdown to help plan your trip:

Getting from Reagan National Airport (DCA) to the Royal Sonesta at Dupont Circle:

  • The Metro is typically operational after snow, though expect possible minor delays and slower service on the Yellow Line from Reagan to L’Enfant Plaza, transferring to the Red Line toward Dupont Circle. The trip usually takes around 30–40 minutes under normal conditions.
  • Taxi or rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are available and can be slightly delayed if roads are snowy, but generally manageable.
  • If streets are cleared, a taxi may be a more direct option with luggage, though fares will be slightly higher than normal.

Public transport in the city:

  • Buses and Metro trains generally run after a snowstorm, but service can be limited on less-traveled routes.
  • Check WMATA alerts for real-time service updates during your stay.

Museums and monuments:

  • The Smithsonian museums on the National Mall typically remain open even after snow, unless there is severe weather or operational hazards.
  • National monuments and outdoor sites are usually accessible, but paths may be slippery; dress appropriately and wear sturdy footwear.
  • Some smaller or privately operated museums may close if conditions are severe, so it’s a good idea to check specific websites for the latest updates.

Additional advice:

  • Layered clothing is essential for walking outside in winter; gloves, hats, and waterproof boots are recommended.
  • Allow extra time for transfers and travel, as snow can slow traffic even if streets are plowed.
  • Many restaurants and cafes in Dupont Circle remain open, so dining options are not typically impacted by snow.

Overall, if your travel dates are 13–16 January, the city should be largely functional, and you can expect museums and most monuments to be open. Just plan for possible minor transportation delays and dress warmly for outdoor sightseeing.

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