Washington DC isn’t just the seat of American government—it’s a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. This carefully curated Washington DC itinerary will guide you through the city’s most enriching cultural institutions, from world-class museums to historic libraries, paired with exceptional dining experiences.
While many attractions are free, be sure to check websites for timed-entry passes and special exhibition tickets. Adapt this itinerary by picking the most appealing attractions that you can fit into the number of days you have in Washington.
Day 1: The National Mall
Start your cultural journey at the heart of DC—the National Mall. Begin early at the National Gallery of Art, where you can spend your morning exploring both the East and West Buildings.
The East Building houses modern and contemporary art, while the West Building contains European and American masterpieces from the medieval period through the late 19th century. Don’t miss the underground tunnel connecting the buildings, featuring Leo Villareal’s mesmerizing Multiverse light installation.
Lunch Option: The Pavilion Café in the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden offers a serene setting with indoor and seasonal outdoor seating. Their menu features fresh salads, artisanal sandwiches, and house-made soups—perfect for a quick museum lunch.
After lunch, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. The Hope Diamond and the Hall of Human Origins are must-sees, but leave time for the stunning Butterfly Pavilion.
End your day at the National Air and Space Museum, recently renovated to include cutting-edge interactive exhibits. The highlight for us was seeing Neil Armstrong’s spacesuit, and the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia.
Dinner Recommendation: Cap off your day at the historic Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington’s oldest restaurant and a favorite among politicians and journalists. Known for its oyster bar and classic American fare, it’s just steps from the White House. Reserve in advance, especially for dinner.
Day 2: Politics and Power
Begin with a free self-guided tour of the White House East Wing and Residence. US citizens can request tickets through their congressional representative 3-6 months in advance. It is also possible to book a tour online, as we did. Arm yourself with patience, as tickets are quickly snapped up and start checking the website at least a month in advance of your stay.
Even if you can’t get inside the actual building, the White House Visitor Center offers fascinating exhibits about presidential history and White House architecture. Another option if you don’t have tickets is to visit The People’s House nearby. This free attraction features a lifesize replica of the famous Oval Office where you can take your photo.
In the afternoon, visit the Folger Shakespeare Library, home to the world’s largest Shakespeare collection. Beyond its impressive Tudor-style architecture, the Folger offers rotating exhibits, a recreation of an Elizabethan theater, and rare book displays that will delight any literature enthusiast.
Lunch Option: Quill & Crumb Café, located in the Folger Shakespeare Library, offers a casual experience in the historic Great Hall. Choose from soups, salads and sandwiches or shareables such as a personal picnic with cheese, honey, baguette, berries, pecans and lavash.
Next, make your way to Capitol Hill to visit the magnificent Library of Congress. The Thomas Jefferson Building is an architectural masterpiece, with its ornate Great Hall and Reading Room. Don’t skip the Gutenberg Bible display or the special exhibitions.
Dinner Recommendation: For dinner, try L’Ardente near Capitol Crossing, known for its contemporary Italian cuisine and impressive wine cellar. Their wood-fired pizzas prepared in a gold-plated pizza oven and handmade pasta have earned critical acclaim.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Gardens
Dedicate your morning to the beautiful neighborhood of Georgetown. We recommend starting at the Museum at Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown.
This often-overlooked museum houses exceptional Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art collections. The museum’s gardens are particularly spectacular in spring when the famous cherry blossoms bloom, but they’re beautiful year-round.
Lunch Option: Brasserie Liberté in Georgetown offers classic French cuisine in an elegant setting. Their lunch menu features excellent croque monsieurs, moules-frites, and a notable wine selection. The outdoor terrace is particularly lovely in good weather. For a more casual option, grab a bite at Maman, 1353 Wisconsin Avenue.
In the afternoon, visit either the Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art at 1600 21st Street. Alternatively, the National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum (SAAM), housed in the same historic building on 8th St NW & G St NW are well worth a visit.
Dinner Recommendation: Café Riggs, located in the stylish Riggs Hotel, offers an elegant dining experience in a former bank vault. Their modern American menu and sophisticated atmosphere make it perfect for a break from sightseeing.
Day 4: Modern Art and Native American Heritage
Start your day at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the Smithsonian’s home for contemporary and modern art. Not only is the Gordon Bunshaft designed building impressive, but the collections are thought-provoking and unique.
Lunch Option: The Mitsitam Native Foods Café at the National Museum of the American Indian is a destination in itself, offering authentic Indigenous cuisines from various regions of the Americas. Try the cedar-planked salmon or buffalo chili.
In the afternoon, explore the rest of the National Museum of the American Indian. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed in collaboration with tribes from across the Americas.
Dinner Recommendation: End your day at Oyamel by José Andrés, offering creative Mexican small plates and excellent margaritas in a vibrant atmosphere near the National Portrait Gallery.
Day 5: American Democracy and Craft
Begin at the U.S. Capitol (advance reservations are essential). A typical tour lasts about 45 minutes and includes the Exhibition Hall, the Crypt, the iconic domed Rotunda and the National Statuary Hall.
Lunch Option: Good Stuff Eatery on Capitol Hill is perfect for a casual lunch, famous for their handcrafted burgers and milkshakes. It’s a favorite among Congressional staffers.
Visit the Renwick Gallery in the afternoon, followed by the Lincoln Memorial at dusk. Housed in a Second Empire-style building, The Renwick specializes in American contemporary craft and decorative arts from the 19th century to the present. Unlike traditional art museums, the Renwick focuses on works made with materials like wood, fiber, glass, metal, and clay.
The Lincoln Memorial stands as one of America’s most profound monuments. The majestic presence of this famous sculpture is particularly striking at night, when the white marble columns glow against the darkness.
Dinner Recommendation: Conclude your trip at The Dabney, a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrating Mid-Atlantic cuisine. Their wood-fired hearth and locally-sourced ingredients showcase the best of regional American cooking.
Additional Dining Tips for Washington DC
- Reservations are strongly recommended for all upscale restaurants, especially on weekends
- Many museums have their own cafés offering quality casual dining – most close by 4:30 PM
- Georgetown and 14th Street corridors offer numerous additional dining options
- Consider happy hour specials at upscale restaurants for better value
- Many high-end restaurants offer prix-fixe lunch menus that are an excellent value
Where to Stay in Washington DC
Luxury Options
- The Hay-Adams: A historic luxury hotel offering unparalleled views of the White House and the National Mall. Dating back to 1928, this prestigious property combines Italian Renaissance-style architecture with modern amenities. Known for its impeccable service, wood-paneled lounges, and the acclaimed Lafayette Restaurant. Perfect for those who want to be in the heart of political Washington.
- AKA White House: Ideal for extended stays or those who prefer apartment-style accommodations, this property offers sophisticated furnished residences just two blocks from the White House. Each suite includes a full kitchen and living area, while the property features a residents’ lounge, fitness center, and private cinema. The location provides easy access to the National Mall’s museums.
- The LINE DC: Housed in a converted 110-year-old church in vibrant Adams Morgan, this boutique hotel offers a more eclectic, design-forward experience. Features include three exceptional restaurants, a coffee shop, and a community radio station broadcasting from the lobby. The hotel beautifully balances historic architecture with contemporary art and local culture.
Other Notable Options
- Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location over room size
- Thompson Washington DC: A sophisticated option in the Navy Yard area, close to the Capitol
- Eaton DC: A socially conscious hotel with an excellent coworking space and cultural programming
Getting to Washington DC
By Air
- Reagan National Airport (DCA): Closest to downtown (15-20 minutes), directly connected to Metro
- Dulles International Airport (IAD): Larger international hub, 45 minutes west of DC; connected by Silver Line Metro
- Baltimore/Washington International (BWI): Budget-friendly option with MARC train service to DC
By Train
- Union Station: Major Amtrak hub serving the Northeast Corridor
- Regular service from Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and other East Coast cities
- Acela Express offers faster service with fewer stops
By Bus
- Multiple operators including Megabus and BoltBus
- Usually arrive at Union Station or L’Enfant Plaza
- Budget-friendly option from major East Coast cities
Getting Around DC
Metro System
- Clean, efficient subway system connecting all major areas
- Purchase a SmarTrip card for best rates
- Download the Metro app for real-time arrivals
- Runs from 5am to midnight (2am on weekends)
Bus Service
- Extensive Metrobus network complements subway service
- Circulator buses ($1) run popular tourist routes
- NextBus app helps track arrival times
Walking
- Most attractions on the National Mall are within walking distance
- Downtown DC is relatively compact and pedestrian-friendly
- Use the National Mall paths for monument hopping
Rideshare and Bikes
- Uber and Lyft widely available
- Capital Bikeshare stations throughout the city
- Electric scooters available through various apps
Parking
- Limited and expensive in downtown areas
- Many hotels charge $40-50/day for parking
- Consider parking at outer Metro stations if driving
Transportation Tips
- Purchase a Multi-Day Metro Pass if staying for several days
- Avoid driving during rush hours (7-9:30am, 4-6:30pm)
- Metro is typically less crowded on weekends
- Many museums offer validated parking at reduced rates
- Consider water taxi service to Georgetown and National Harbor
- Download DC Metro Transit app for comprehensive transportation info
Best Times to Visit Washington DC
Peak Season (March-June)
- Cherry Blossom Festival (late March-early April)
- Perfect weather for walking tours
- Highest hotel rates and crowds
Summer (July-August)
- Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms
- Free outdoor concerts and events
- Lower hotel rates
Fall (September-November)
- Comfortable temperatures
- Beautiful fall foliage
- Fewer tourists after Labor Day
Winter (December-February)
- Lowest hotel rates
- Holiday decorations and events
- Potential for snow disruptions
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