Washington, D.C., is one of those American cities that genuinely deserves the hype. But going in without a plan is a rookie mistake, no matter how seasoned a traveler you are. For example, time your visit around the Cherry Blossom Festival in late March or early April, and contact your congressional representative to score a free tour of the Capitol or even the White House. The first will save you countless headaches getting around; the second will give you a story worth telling for years. Here are 10 tips to make the most of your trip to Washington, D.C.