Washington DC, United States 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the National Mall

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Baked and Matched (1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002). Known for their delicious pastries and coffee.
  • Head to The National Mall. You can start from the Lincoln Memorial, then head west to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korea War Veterans Memorial, and end at the Washington Monument.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Ford’s Theatre, adjacent to where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. They offer a variety of American dishes.
  • Visit the United States Capitol Building. Guided tours are available and can be arranged online or in person.
  • Explore the National Gallery of Art. It has two buildings, one for modern art and one for European art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Rasika (600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001). Award-winning Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
  • Enjoy a performance at The Kennedy Center. Check their schedule for shows during your visit.

Day 2: Discovering Other Attractions

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Founding Farmers (1924 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003). A farm-to-table restaurant with a variety of breakfast options.
  • Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Located on the National Mall, it’s home to the Wright Brothers’ plane and the Apollo 11 command module.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Shake Shack (6th & Eye St NW, Washington, DC 20004). A popular burger chain with a location in downtown DC.
  • Explore the Folk and Fine Art Museums of the Smithsonian. Located next to the National Mall, they offer a rich cultural experience.
  • Visit Georgetown neighborhood. Stroll along the historic waterfront, explore Georgetown University campus, and shop at boutique stores.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Jaleo (480 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004). A renowned Spanish tapas restaurant.
  • Take a night tour of the Monument Grounds. The Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial are beautifully illuminated at night.

Transportation:

  • The Washington Metro is the easiest way to get around DC. Single ride fares start at $2.25.
  • Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
  • Walking is a great way to explore many parts of the city, especially the National Mall.

Things to Know:

  • Free admission to all Smithsonian Museums and the National Zoo.
  • DC has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Check the weather before you go.
  • Tipping is expected in restaurants, aim for 15-20% of the bill.
  • Remember to respect the historic sites and follow all rules and regulations.

Tips:

  • Buy a SmarTrip card for unlimited rides on Metrobus and Metrorail for multiple days.
  • Take advantage of free walking tours offered by organizations like DC by Foot or Kaplan’s Tours.
  • Visit the U.S. Botanic Garden, it’s open every day except Christmas and is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.