Surprisingly, fall is Americans’ most favorite season. Could the sort of activities characteristic of that time of the year be the reason why? Let’s discover together.
Honestly, when I saw this YouGov survey online that says Americans favor autumn over all the other seasons, I could not really be sure if that was accurate.
Then I started exploring why it could be the case and, I think, I figured it out, at least for those living in the nation’s capital. This city, for both fundamental and some functional reasons, is best enjoyed in fall.
First, let’s do a bit of definition by exclusion. The urban life here often becomes almost unbearable during winters and summers for it gets either too cold or too hot. So I see why people might think they are better off outside those two particular seasons.
A Common Denominator
But then again, the question remains: Why should it be fall, but not spring that they like better?
With the cherry blossoms and all other indications of the nature’s revitalization all around, particularly after a winter they survived on vitamin/mineral support, people can’t actually be blamed for falling in love rather with spring.
When you take into account the annoyingly common asthmatic issues and pollen allergies, however, a completely different picture emerges. Spring is actually when too many people have their hardest times of the year, carrying loads of tissue everywhere they go, sneezing, with itching, watery eyes and a runny nose, not to mention severe breathing troubles.
So I do get it now. In fall, it is not too hot, nor is it too cold. Yes, it does rain a lot, but I guess most people would still prefer showering with what the heavens above gift us over their own sweat like they do during most of summers. Plus, nobody gets seasonally sick just because it is fall, unlike winter and spring.
Additionally, from touring the city to going on a hike to best explore the colorful foliage to picking your own pumpkins and apples to unrestricted nightlife joy, fall is also when the city allows wonderful experiences for everyone.
Don’t Miss Out on Foliage
As the trees change colors, a full autumn splendor takes over the nation’s capital. Everywhere — from the city’s wide recreation areas to the waterfront and the National Mall to Mount Vernon — goes through an amazing transformation. Residents and visitors alike should, therefore, do their utmost to make the best of it.
Better sooner than later, put on a pair of comfortable shoes and set out on a stroll or hiking journey as often as you can around the city.
Not that much into walking? Your physician won’t like this just the same but you can enjoy those picturesque views from inside a vehicle, like your own or on a bus tour, as well. What you should never miss in the process, though, is taking enough time to see the National Mall in its mesmerizing autumnal costume.
And know that it would be an equally big loss to skip the majestic Mount Vernon trail along the Potomac River leading to George Washington’s historic estate south of the city. Some of the nation’s greatest landmarks are at their best exactly this time of the year.
Pick Your Pumpkins/Apples Yourselves
D.C. folks could also turn their perfect day out in fall into an opportunity to experience Mother Nature even deeper. On a visit to nearby farms, you could pick your own pumpkins (Remember? Halloween is upon us, too) and apples.
In less-than-an-hour driving distance from downtown, the following three farms in Maryland are very convenient to do all that:
- Rock Hill Orchard: Open for pick-your-own events all days of the week except on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 28600 Ridge Road, Mount Airy.
- Butler’s Orchard: Open between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday at 22222 Davis Mill Road, Germantown.
- Homestead Farm: Open everyday from 9:00 a.m. at 15604 Sugarland Road, Poolesville. Work hours end at 5:00 p.m. on weekdays, extend till 6:00 p.m. on weekends.
Catch The Best of Nightlife
On any night of the week, but particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, you could also hit the city’s liveliest neighborhoods for nightlife and extend your seasonal joy through the early hours of the next day.
The District never disappoints with all the great choice of restaurants, pubs, clubs and wineries. It always is a great place to enjoy a few bites and drinks, talk, laugh and dance. With most people enjoying their favorite season, fall is hardly an exception.
Sports Fun Returns to Town
When summer turns to fall, it also is the time for the city’s sports teams end a long recess and return to town. It is when people restart enjoying the Washington Capitals flirt with ice, the Washington Redskins crush opponents on the field and the Washington Wizards reach out for championship with absolute court magic once again.
Thank God for legendary scorer Wayne Rooney, because D.C. United doesn’t promise any less than that on the field with him still running all over and playing like he is 15 years younger.