Washington DC 5 Day Itinerary

Washington D.C. 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the National Mall

  • Morning: Arrive at Washington Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Check-in at your hotel (e.g., The Jefferson, The Hay-Adams, or W Washington D.C.).
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Reflecting Pool. Explore the National Mall and take in the historic sights.
  • Evening: Have dinner at The Capital Grille for an upscale American dining experience.
  • Tips: Remember, most federal museums (e.g., Smithsonian Museums) are free of charge!
  • Transportation: Use the WMATA Metro system, taxis, or ride-sharing services to get around.

Day 2: Smithsonian Museums & Monuments

  • Morning: Visit the Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum, or American History Museum.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, or the National Gallery of Art.
  • Evening: Dine at Rasika for contemporary Indian cuisine.
  • Things to Know: Some museums have specific closing days, so check before you go.

Day 3: Capitol Hill & Surroundings

  • Morning: Tour the U.S. Capitol, then visit the Supreme Court and Library of Congress.
  • Afternoon: Stroll around Eastern Market, grab lunch at local eateries, and explore the nearby Barracks Row.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Oyster House. Enjoy fresh seafood and a great view of the Yards Park.
  • Tips: Book your U.S. Capitol tour in advance to secure a spot.

Day 4: Arlington National Cemetery & Georgetown

  • Morning: Visit Arlington National Cemetery and witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
  • Afternoon: Explore historic Georgetown. Visit Georgetown University, stroll along M Street, and enjoy dessert at Baked & Wired.
  • Evening: Dine at Fish Market or Farmers Fishers Bakers for delicious seafood.
  • Transportation: Ferry from Rosslyn (VA) to Georgetown, or use the Metro.

Day 5: Monuments by Night & Departure

  • Evening: Board a Big Bus DC Night Tour to see the monuments and city lights. Alternatively, rent a bike with Capital Bikeshare.
  • Things to Know: Some monuments (e.g., White House) have specific visiting hours or may not be accessible during state functions.
  • Departure: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.