Traveling to D.C. Post-Inauguration: When to Expect Reduced Prices for Flights and Hotels

Traveling to Washington, D.C. After Inauguration Day: What to Know

As Inauguration Day approaches, travelers are experiencing skyrocketing prices for flights and hotel accommodations in Washington, D.C. However, for those planning to visit the capital after the swearing-in ceremony, substantial price reductions are expected.

High Prices During Inauguration

President Donald Trump’s inauguration attracts visitors nationwide, leading to inflated costs for transportation and lodging. According to Google Flights data, searches for flights to D.C. during inauguration week surged by nearly 50% compared to the previous week.

Hotel Rates Skyrocket

Recent analysis of hotel booking platforms like Hotels.com and Booking.com indicates that the cost of hotel rooms is exceptionally high during inauguration week. Prices can reach $1,000 per night and even climb to $3,000 or more. In contrast, costs will likely drop significantly—between 50% to 85%—following January 20.

During the inauguration weekend, the average hotel rate in D.C. hovered around $700, while the typical weekend rate for accommodations in the city usually stays around $300.

Flight Prices: A Sharp Contrast

In addition to hotel prices, flight fares reflect a similar trend. Last-minute flights to D.C. are significantly more expensive; for example, a round-trip flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, cost as much as $1,888, while a ticket from Dallas, Texas, totaled $760.

However, prices will return to more reasonable levels shortly after the inauguration. For instance, within the week following the event, a round-trip fare from Dallas to D.C. may reduce to roughly $180—a drastic decrease of over 420%. Similarly, the same route from Fort Lauderdale could drop to $323, representing a 584% reduction compared to prices during inauguration.

When to Book for the Best Prices

According to travel forecasts, flight prices should decrease starting Thursday, January 23, with Friday identified as a particularly favorable day to fly into the capital. Hotel rates are expected to follow suit, aligning with the decline in air travel costs.

Kristin Petersen, a travel advisor with Travelmation, stated, “Flight prices continually rise with increased demand. The inauguration coincides with a holiday weekend, contributing to the heightened attendance as many enjoy an extended break from work.” She added that as the excitement wanes and dignitaries depart, travel prices will normalize.

Expect Regional Variability

Prices may differ based on your departure location. Some cities might maintain elevated costs until late January or early February, at which point prices should stabilize.

Petersen also explained that once the inauguration events conclude, evidence of the celebration will begin to disappear. “When the inauguration moved indoors, the preparations outside the Capitol were dismantled. Visitors in D.C. will not encounter any remnants of the celebration,” she said.

Plan Ahead for the Best Experience

For those planning a future visit, Petersen recommends making reservations for a Capitol Building tour to fully appreciate its beauty, especially the Rotunda. This suggestion aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that travelers have a memorable experience while visiting the nation’s capital.

Overall, while prices for travel to Washington, D.C., will peak during the inauguration period, savvy travelers can take advantage of substantial savings by booking flights and accommodations immediately following the event. By planning ahead, visitors can enjoy a rich experience in the city without overspending.