$39 Cheap flight deals from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Washington (WAS)

When you travel from Fort Lauderdale to Washington, D.C., you'll leave the sandy beaches behind to explore the nation's capital, a city that is steeped in history. Whether you are traveling there on business or simply want to visit the place where the country's founding fathers spent their time, use Orbitz.com to make your travel arrangements, and you will have access to low-cost airfares, hotel rooms and rental cars.

Leaving Fort Lauderdale

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport is the primary airport serving the greater Fort Lauderdale area. The airport is conveniently located less than 5 miles south of downtown, with easy access via SW34th Street. Most of the major domestic and international airlines service the airport, including American, AirTran, Frontier, Southwest and Spirit Airlines.

Travelers driving to the airport will find parking easy and convenient. Expect to pay anywhere from $7.50 to $35 per day, depending on which parking lot you use. If you're running late or simply want to start your vacation with a little indulgence, opt for valet parking at only $21 per day. Pay with cash or credit card, or use your SunPassPlus to take care of the bill. If you need ground transportation, your best bet is to use a local taxi service, although many private car companies have very reasonable rates. Airport shuttles and share-a-ride taxis are also available.

All of the terminals and concourses offer eateries where you can grab a snack or a quick bite. In the main terminal building on Concourse B, for example, you'll find Casa de Fresco, Dunkin Donuts, Pasha's, Pizzeria Uno, Chili's To Go and Chef Allen's 2 Go.

The Nation's Capital City

Washington, D.C., is an urban adventurer's paradise. The city has a sophisticated vibe that is both professional and casual at the same time. The city slows down when Congress is not in session, allowing visitors to explore everything at their own pace.

Arriving in Washington, D.C.

The Reagan National Airport is the primary airport serving the greater Washington, D.C., area. It is located across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, less than 5 miles south of the downtown area. Getting to the city is easy using U.S. 1, the George Washington Memorial Parkway or VA-110. If your flight arrives during peak traffic times, you may find yourself stuck in traffic, so be sure to allot plenty of extra time if you are on a tight schedule.

The easiest way to get into the city is by taking one of the cabs stationed outside of the baggage claim areas. If you're not weighed down with too much luggage, you can also use one of the pedestrian bridges to gain access to the airport's MetroRail station. Private cars, limousines and rental cars are also readily available with advance reservations.

Washington, D.C., has cool winters with temperatures that range between the high 20s and low 40s. Summers, however, tend to be hot and humid, with temperatures climbing close to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the city does see some snow during the winter months, it usually avoids major snowstorms. If you do plan to visit there during January or February, pack some gloves and boots so that you're comfortable as you explore the sights.

Depending on how much time you plan to spend in Washington, D.C., you may find that you only have enough time to visit the national monuments, historic landmarks and, of course, the White House, but the city does offer more. Don't leave without visiting the Smithsonian Institution, Georgetown and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The White House is Calling You

Whether you voted for the current crop of politicians or not, you'll find your time spent in Washington, D.C., both fascinating and educational. To get started on your trip from Fort Lauderdale to Washington, D.C., all you need to do is visit Orbitz.com, where you'll have access to flights that suit your schedule at prices that won't break the bank.