Your Complete Guide to DCLX Travel: Plan Your Trip to the DC

Table of Contents

Introduction

Are you ready to dance through an unforgettable weekend in Washington, DC? DCLX travel is about heading to the DC Lindy Exchange (DCLX), a fantastic event for swing dancers and music lovers. Happening April 25-27, 2025, DCLX 2025: Jump for Joy brings live swing-era jazz and tons of fun to the nation’s capital. Whether you’re a local or coming from far away, this guide will help you plan your trip with ease. From getting there to finding a place to stay, we’ve got all the simple details you need. Let’s jump in and get you ready for DCLX travel!

What Is DCLX?

DCLX stands for DC Lindy Exchange, an annual event where people gather to dance Lindy Hop—a lively swing dance from the 1930s and ’40s. It’s held in Washington, DC, and runs for three days, packed with live bands, dance floors, and happy vibes. In 2025, it’s themed “Jump for Joy,” promising an extra dose of energy with top musicians like Gordon Webster and Scott Silbert’s Big Band.

Started in 2001, DCLX has grown into a must-visit for dancers worldwide. It’s not just dancing—you’ll enjoy workshops, social events, and meeting new friends. Travelling to DCLX means stepping into a weekend of rhythm and fun!

Why Travel to DCLX?

Why pack your bags for DCLX? It’s a blast! You can dance to live swing music, which differs from recorded tracks. The event draws hundreds of people—850 filled the ballroom last year—so the energy is electric. Plus, DC is an incredible city with famous sights like the Lincoln Memorial and tasty food to explore between dances.

It’s also a chance to learn. Workshops teach new moves, and the mix of dancers, from beginners to pros, keeps it exciting. If you love swing, music, or just a good time, DCLX travel is worth it.

When and Where Is DCLX 2025?

Mark your calendar: DCLX 2025 runs from Friday, April 25, to Sunday, April 27. Most events happen at Glen Echo Park, a historic spot outside DC in Maryland. The Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion are the main dance spots, offering big floors and a vintage feel.

Some DC events, like late-night dances or jam sessions, might pop up. Check the DCLX website (dclx.org) closer to the date for the full schedule. Knowing where and when helps you plan your travel perfectly.

How to Get to DCLX: Travel Options

Getting to DCLX is simple, no matter where you’re coming from. Here’s how:

By Plane: Fly into one of DC’s three airports—Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), Dulles International (IAD), or Baltimore-Washington International (BWI). DCA is closest to DC (about 5 miles), while IAD and BWI are 25-40 miles away. From there, rent a car, take a taxi, or use rideshare apps like Uber to reach Glen Echo Park (about 10-15 miles from DCA).
By Train: Amtrak trains stop at Union Station in DC. From there, it’s a quick 30-minute drive or rideshare to Glen Echo.
By Car: Driving to DC? Glen Echo Park is off I-495, with free parking onsite. Traffic can get busy, so leave extra time if you’re coming Friday afternoon.
By Bus: Greyhound and Megabus also drop off near Union Station. Then, grab a rideshare or taxi to the venue.

Flights and trains book up fast for spring, so snag your tickets early—think January or February for the best deals.

Getting Around During DCLX

Once you’re in DC, moving around is easy. Glen Echo Park is the hub, but events might spread out. Here’s how to get around:

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are everywhere in DC. Depending on traffic, a trip from downtown to Glen Echo costs about $15-$25.
Public Transit: The DC Metro’s Red Line goes to Bethesda or Friendship Heights, and then a short taxi or bus (like the 29 bus) gets you to Glen Echo. It’s cheap but takes longer—plan for 45 minutes from central DC.
Car: If you drive, parking at Glen Echo is free but fills up fast during DCLX. Arrive early to grab a spot.

For late-night events in DC, rideshares are your best bet—public transit slows down after midnight.

Where to Stay for DCLX

Finding a place to crash is key for DCLX travel. The event doesn’t arrange housing in 2025, but you’ve got options:

Hotels Near Glen Echo: The Bethesda Marriott (about 3 miles away) or Holiday Inn Express Bethesda (4 miles) are close. Rooms start at $100-$150 per night. Book early—DCLX weekend sells out fast.
Downtown DC Hotels: Stay in DC for a city vibe. The Hilton Garden Inn near Union Station is $120-$200 per night. It’s 10-12 miles to Glen Echo, so factor in travel time.
Airbnb: Rent a room or house near Bethesda or DC. Prices range from $50-$150 per night. Split with friends to save cash.
DCLX Housing Group: Join the DCLX Facebook Housing Group (linked on dclx.org) to find locals offering spare rooms or group rentals. It’s a budget-friendly way to connect with dancers.

Book by March to lock in reasonable rates—April is busy with cherry blossoms and events in DC.

Packing for DCLX Travel

What should you bring? Keep it light and dance-ready:

Dance Clothes: Pack comfy outfits—breathable shirts, skirts, or pants. Swing dancing gets sweaty! Bring a few changes for each day.
Shoes: Flat dance shoes with good grip are a must. Sneakers work, too. Pack extras if your feet get sore.
The basics are a toothbrush, deodorant, a water bottle (refillable—Glen Echo has fountains), and a small towel for sweating.
Extras: A jacket for cool April nights, your phone charger, and cash for food or tickets.

The weather in DC in late April is mild—highs around 65-70°F and lows in the 50s. Check the forecast a week out for rain gear.

How to Register for DCLX

To join the fun, you need a ticket. DCLX 2025 registration is open now at dclx.org. Here’s the deal:

Complete Weekend Pass: This covers all dances and workshops. It’s sold out in past years, so grab yours quick—historically, it’s around $100-$150.
A La Carte Tickets: If passes sell out, buy tickets at the door for single events. Prices vary ($15-$30 per dance), but space is limited.
Volunteering: Sign up to help (like checking tickets) and earn $15 per hour toward your pass—email register@dclx.org to join.

What to Expect at DCLX

DCLX is a whirlwind of joy. Friday starts with a big dance at the Spanish Ballroom—think live jazz and a packed floor. Saturday brings workshops (beginner to advanced) and more dancing, including a late-night slow room with Gordon Webster’s Blues Edition. Sunday wraps up with an afternoon jam and a final blowout.

The music is top-notch—bands like The Riffers and Jon Tigert’s Hangover Jam Band keep toes tapping. Dress ranges from casual to vintage swing style—wear what feels good. Expect friendly vibes and lots of smiles.

Food and Drinks During DCLX

Dancing burns energy, so fuel up! Glen Echo has no food onsite, but options are close:

Nearby Eats: Praline Bakery in Bethesda (3 miles) offers sandwiches and sweets, and Glen’s Garden Market in DC (8 miles) offers quick bites.
Food Trucks: Some nights might have trucks at the venue—check the DCLX schedule.
Bring Snacks: Pack nuts, fruit, or granola bars to munch between dances.

Water’s free at Glen Echo, but bring cash or a card for vendors. If you explore, DC’s food scene (like Ben’s Chili Bowl) is a bonus.

Exploring DC During DCLX

Got downtime? DC’s packed with stuff to see:

Monuments: Walk the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and more. It’s free and about 10 miles from Glen Echo.
Museums: The Smithsonian’s Air and Space or Natural History museums are free and near the Mall.
Cherry Blossoms: If they’re still blooming (peak is early April), stroll the Tidal Basin.

Plan quick trips—DCLX keeps you busy, but morning sightseeing fits nicely.

Budgeting for DCLX Travel

How much will DCLX travel cost? Here’s a rough breakdown:

Travel: Flights to DCA ($100-$300 round-trip), train ($50-$150), or gas ($20-$50).
Lodging: $50-$150 per night x 2-3 nights = $100-$450.
Tickets: $100-$150 for a pass, or $15-$30 per event.
Food: $20-$50 per day x 3 = $60-$150.
Transport: Rideshares or Metro = $30-$75 total.

The total is $310-$1,125, depending on your choices. You can save by sharing a room, volunteering, or skipping extras.

Tips for a Great DCLX Trip

Make your trip smooth with these ideas:

Book Early: Flights, hotels, and passes go fast—start in January.
Rest Up: Dancing all weekend tyres you out—sleep when you can.
Meet People: Chat with dancers in the housing group or at events—swing folks are friendly.
Check Updates: Follow DCLX on Facebook or dclx.org for last-minute news.

A little planning makes it all fun and stress-free.

Who’s Behind DCLX?

A passionate volunteer team runs DCLX in DC’s swing dance community. Since 2001, they’ve kept it affordable and welcoming. They’re not a big company—just dancers who love sharing Lindy Hop. That grassroots vibe makes DCLX unique.

Conclusion: Dance Into DCLX 2025

DCLX travel is your ticket to a weekend of swing, music, and DC charm. From April 25-27, 2025, you’ll dance at Glen Echo, enjoy live bands, and see the Lincoln Memorial. Book your flight or train, snag a hotel or Airbnb, and register at dclx.org. With this guide, you’re set to jump for joy at DCLX. Pack your shoes, and we’ll see you on the dance floor!

References

DC Lindy Exchange. “DCLX 2025: Jump for Joy.” www.dclx.org
Glen Echo Park. “Visitor Information.” www.glenechopark.org
Washington, DC Tourism. “Getting Around DC.” www.washington.org

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