Washington DC 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historical Landmarks

  • Morning:

    1. Start your day at the National Mall. Visit iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building. Map
    2. Don’t miss the Reflecting Pool and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

  • Lunch:

    1. Head to Potbelly Sandwich Shop near the National Mall for some delicious sandwiches, salads, and shakes. Location

  • Afternoon:

    1. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History or the National Air and Space Museum. Both are located on the National Mall. Museums
    2. Take a stroll around the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Site

  • Dinner:

    1. Dine at Le Diplomate, a French bistro in the heart of the city. It offers a variety of dishes and a lively atmosphere. Location

  • Overnight Stay:

    1. Kimpton George Hotel or The Hay-Adams. Both are centrally located and offer luxury accommodations. Hotel 1, Hotel 2

Day 2: Museums and Monuments

  • Morning:

    1. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Museum
    2. Explore the U.S. Botanic Garden. It’s a short walk from the National Mall. Garden

  • Lunch:

    1. Grab lunch at Farmers Fishers Bakers in Georgetown. They offer a variety of seafood dishes, salads, and pizzas. Location

  • Afternoon:

    1. Visit the Holocaust Memorial Museum or the Spymuseum. Both require advance tickets. Museum 1, Museum 2
    2. Take a stroll around historic Georgetown. Visit Georgetown University and explore the charming streets.

  • Dinner:

    1. Dine at Rasika, an upscale Indian restaurant in Penn Quarter. They offer a variety of dishes that are sure to please. Location

Day 3: Art and Culture

  • Morning:

    1. Visit the National Gallery of Art. It houses an extensive collection of art from around the world. Gallery
    2. Explore the Sculpture Garden. It’s located near the National Mall and features an outdoor collection of modern and contemporary sculptures. Garden

  • Lunch:

    1. Head to Founding Farmers in downtown Washington DC for some farm-to-table fare. They offer a variety of dishes that showcase regional ingredients. Location

  • Afternoon:

    1. Visit the Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery on the National Mall. Both are part of the Smithsonian museums and focus on Asian art. Gallery 1, Gallery 2
    2. Take a stroll around the Tidal Basin and visit the Jefferson Memorial.

  • Dinner:

    1. Dine at Oyster House, a seafood restaurant located in the historic district of Old Town Alexandria. They offer a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood. Location

Things to Know:

  1. Washington DC has a metro system (WMATA) that can take you to most major attractions. Purchase a SmarTrip card for easy and convenient travel.
  2. Many museums are free, but some require tickets or timed entry passes. Check their websites for more information.
  3. Tip 15-20% in restaurants and for taxi services.
  4. Washington DC has a humid subtropical climate, so be prepared for warm summers and cool winters.
  5. The city is known for its cherry blossoms, which bloom in late March to early April. Plan your trip accordingly if you want to see them.
  6. Respect the historical significance of the monuments and landmarks.
  7. Enjoy your trip!