Washington DC 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Washington D.C.

Day 1: National Mall & Monuments

  • Morning: Start with the iconic Lincoln Memorial. Then head towards the Washington Monument and World War II Memorial.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Don’t forget to take a picture with the Reflecting Pool.
  • Evening: Enjoy a meal at The Fish Market, offering seafood right on the Potomac River.
  • Overnight Stay: Kimpton George Hotel or Washington Marriott Wardman Park for mid-range accommodations.
  • Tips: The National Mall area is walkable, but if you prefer, use the DC Circulator bus which has stops along the Mall.

Day 2: Museums & Capitol Hill

  • Morning: Visit the National Air and Space Museum. Then head to the United States Capitol for a tour (be sure to book in advance).
  • Afternoon: Explore the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History.
  • Evening: Dine at Rasika, known for its modern Indian cuisine.

Day 3: Smithsonian National Zoo & Georgetown

  • Morning: Spend the morning at the Smithsonian National Zoo.
  • Afternoon: Head to historic Georgetown. Walk along M Street and explore the shops, then take a stroll on the C&O Canal Towpath.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Farmers Fishers Bakers, offering a variety of seafood and American classics.

Day 4: Arlington National Cemetery & Pentagon City

  • Morning: Visit Arlington National Cemetery for the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Kennedy Gravesite.
  • Afternoon: Head to Pentagon City. Shop at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City or visit the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum (requires advanced tickets).
  • Evening: Dine at America Eats Tavern, a restaurant by celebrity chef Michael Mina.

Day 5: Historic Neighborhoods & Nightlife

  • Morning: Visit Georgetown University and the surrounding historic homes.
  • Afternoon: Head to Dupont Circle and explore the embassies, Freer Gallery of Art, and Sackler Gallery.
  • Evening: Experience Washington D.C.’s nightlife in Adams Morgan. There are numerous bars, restaurants, and music venues here.

Day 6: Sports & Entertainment

  • Morning: If in season, attend a Washington Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park. Otherwise, visit the International Spy Museum.
  • Afternoon: Explore The Wharf, a vibrant waterfront area with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • Evening: Dine at Del Mar for modern Mediterranean cuisine with stunning river views.

Day 7: Sightseeing & Farewell

  • Morning: Visit any sights you may have missed earlier in the week, or revisit your favorites.
  • Afternoon: Spend a relaxed afternoon at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, his historic estate.
  • Evening: Have a farewell dinner at The Source by Wolfgang Puck, offering Asian-inspired cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

Transportation: Washington D.C. has an extensive metro system (Metro), as well as buses operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). Taxis, rideshares, and bike rentals are also available.

Things to Know: Dress appropriately for visiting museums and monuments, as some require certain attire. Be mindful of security protocols at government buildings and major attractions. Enjoy your trip!