Washington Dc United States 5 Day Itinerary

Washington D.C. 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the National Mall

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Lincoln Memorial, followed by the Washington Monument and the World War II Memorial. Grab a quick breakfast at Baked & Wired, a popular bakery in Georgetown.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Have lunch at Good Stuff Eatery near the Capitol Building, known for its creative burger options.

  • Evening: Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of American History or the National Museum of Natural History. End your day with a visit to the U.S. Capitol and enjoy dinner at The Fish Market, a seafood restaurant located just steps away from the Capitol.

Day 2: Museums & Monuments (Smithsonian Institutions)

  • Morning: Visit the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Grab a coffee at Starbucks Reserve Roastery, a unique location offering a variety of coffee experiences.

  • Afternoon: Head to the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, where you can relax, have lunch at Iron Gate Restaurant, and continue exploring more of the museums nearby.

  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Tidal Basin, viewing the Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial illuminated at night. Dine at Rasika, an upscale Indian restaurant in Penn Quarter.

Day 3: Explore Neighborhoods & Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, then explore Eastern Market in Capitol Hill for unique shops and local food vendors. Have lunch at Ben’s Chili Bowl, a D.C. institution known for its chili dogs.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Georgetown neighborhood, visit the historic Georgetown University campus, and stroll along the waterfront. Enjoy an afternoon tea or dessert at Georgetown Cupcake.

  • Evening: Visit the Ford’s Theatre Museum, followed by dinner at Central Michel Richard, a French bistro in Penn Quarter.

Day 4: Monuments by Night & Dinner Cruise

  • Early Evening: Revisit some of your favorite monuments, such as the Lincoln Memorial or the Washington Monument, during the evening hours for a different perspective.

  • Late Evening: Embark on a dinner cruise to see iconic landmarks and enjoy a meal while floating along the Potomac River. Check out Potomac Riverboat Company for options.

Day 5: Explore Arlington National Cemetery & Georgetown

  • Morning: Take the Metro to Arlington National Cemetery. Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Kennedy Gravesite, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb. Have lunch at The Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton.

  • Afternoon: Return to D.C. and spend your final hours exploring Georgetown’s historic streets, shops, and waterfront, or visit any museum or monument you may have missed during your trip. Grab a farewell dinner at Fish Market Mall, which offers a variety of cuisines under one roof.

Things to Know:

  • D.C.’s Metro system is an efficient way to get around the city. Purchase a SmarTrip card for unlimited travel during your visit.
  • Free walking tours are available throughout the city, offering insights into D.C.’s history and landmarks.
  • Many museums, including those on the National Mall, are free to enter. Some exhibits may have additional fees.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Capitol or the Supreme Court. Shoulders and knees should be covered.