Weekend in Washington, D.C.

Stay

This year’s Cherry Blossom Festival marks the 98th celebration of the original gift of the cherry blossom trees and their symbol of friendship between the citizens of Japan and the United States. To celebrate the annual festivities, the Dupont Hotel, on historic and cosmopolitan Dupont Circle, offers room rates from $137 to $187 on stays through April 4. Rates rise to $239 during the final festival weekend. Use promo code CHERRY; www.doylecollection.com/dupont, 1500 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 202-483-6000.

Eat

For burgers, brews and family fare, visit Clyde’s. Opened in 1963 in Georgetown, Clyde’s is pure Americana, with plank flooring and an oak saloon bar. The late afternoon appetizer menu inspired the 1976 hit “Afternoon Delight” (see the gold record inside). Dinner entrees from $13.95-$16.95; www.clydes.com, 3236 M St. NW, 202-333-9180.

Experience

Enjoy the parade on April 10 from the best vantage point — grandstand seating along Constitution Avenue between 15th and 16th Streets. Individual ticket prices are $17, plus service charges; www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org. On Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from March 27-April 11, the National Park Service offers a free two-hour guided lantern walk (8-10 p.m.) through thousands of illuminated cherry blossoms along the 5-mile perimeter of the Tidal Basin. Bring a flashlight. Other tours available; www.nps.gov/cherry.

MODERATE

Getting there

Frequent one-way sale rates start from $89 with a 10-day advance purchase. Walk-up rates from $124 on Saturdays, Sundays through June 9. Valid on AirTran or Delta to Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA).

Stay

From March 26 to April 30, stays at The Liaison Capitol Hill are priced from $169 and include a commemorative cherry blossom branch, a goodie bag of treats, a box of handmade chocolates and two all-day Metro passes. The hotel is blocks from the Capitol, Union Station, the National Mall and within easy walking distance of festival activities. Book stays by March 26 using code CHERRY; www.affinia.com/liaison, 415 New Jersey Ave. NW, 202-638-1616.

Eat

The Tabard Inn Restaurant is filled with cozy ambience and diners who know where to find five-star cuisine and service at reasonable prices. It’s also a hands-down local favorite for weekend brunch. Dinner entrees $21-$33; Saturday and Sunday brunch entrees $11-$17. Reservations necessary; www.tabardinn.com/restaurant, 1739 N St. NW, 202-331-8528.

Experience

A fine way to see the cherry blossoms is with a “Blossoms by Bike” tour. The two-hour tour is guided along the Potomac Tidal Basin to East Potomac Park and beyond. The ride of 5 to 6 miles is easy along flat terrain. Tour prices include bike rental, helmet and bottled water. Adults $32; $22 children age 12 and under; www.bikethesites.com, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-842-2453.

SPLURGE

Getting there

One-way, walk-up business class rates from $408; valid on AirTran or Delta.

Stay

The historic Hay Adams’ spring break packages, valid now through April 11, include deluxe accommodations, full American breakfast and parking from $399 per night (three-night minimum stay). Guest rooms here are simply sumptuous; www.hayadams.com, 16th and H streets NW, 202-638-6600. Another luxurious choice is the St. Regis, host to royalty, presidents, and prime ministers. Stays from March 25-April 11 are $375-$495, including Parisian breakfast, valet parking, macaroons and Jake Rajs’ “Cherry Blossoms” book; www.stregis.com/dc, 923 16th and K streets NW, 202-638-2626.

Eat

Blue Duck Tavern prepares many dishes in a wood-burning oven in the heart of the restaurant and other robust dishes using roasting, braising and smoking methods. Seating around the open kitchen is coveted; entrees from $14-$42; www.blueducktavern.com, 1201 24th St. NW, 202-419-6755.

Experience

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Gala Dinner Cruise sails the Potomac April 8. Take in lighted views of the nation’s monuments and the cherry trees along Haines Point. Included is a four-course dinner, open bar and dancing to live bands. Proceeds support the festival programs. Cocktail attire recommended. Space is limited. Tickets are $125 per person; www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.