Washington, D.C.-7-day-itinerary
Washington, D.C. 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the National Mall
- Morning: Arrive in Washington, D.C. and check-in to your hotel.
- 10:00 AM: Visit the National Archives Building, home to the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Ben’s Chili Bowl, a D.C. institution since 1958.
- 2:00 PM: Take a stroll through the National Mall, visiting the Washington Monument and World War II Memorial.
- Evening: Head to Penn Quarter for dinner and exploring.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel: The Hay-Adams Hotel, a historic hotel with luxurious accommodations.
- Alternative: Consider staying in the Logan Circle neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife.
Day 2: Smithsonian Museums and Memorials
- 9:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of Natural History, one of the world’s largest natural history museums.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at the museum’s cafe or grab a bite to eat in the nearby Georgetown neighborhood.
- 2:00 PM: Visit the National Museum of American History, home to American culture and history exhibits.
- Evening: Head to the Tidal Basin for a scenic stroll around the lake.
Transportation:
- Metro: Use the Metrorail system (WMATA) to navigate the city. Consider purchasing a SmarTrip card for convenient travel.
- Walking and Biking: Explore the city on foot or rent a bike through services like Capital Bikeshare.
Day 3: White House, Capitol Hill, and More
- 9:00 AM: Visit the White House, the official residence of the President.
- 10:30 AM: Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and explore its beautiful architecture.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill, a historic restaurant near the White House.
- 2:00 PM: Visit the National Gallery of Art, featuring Western European and American art.
Tips:
- Reservations: Book reservations for popular restaurants like Old Ebbitt Grill in advance to avoid long wait times.
- Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather with layers, umbrellas, or sunscreen as needed.
Day 4: Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon
- 9:00 AM: Visit Arlington National Cemetery, a national military cemetery and final resting place of President John F. Kennedy.
- 11:00 AM: Attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch in nearby Crystal City or return to D.C. for dinner.
- Evening: Consider visiting the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, home to over 1,800 animals.
Transportation:
- Metro: Use the Metrorail system to travel from Washington, D.C. to Arlington National Cemetery (Yellow or Blue Line).
- Car: Consider driving from D.C. to Arlington and parking in designated areas.
Day 5: Mount Vernon
- 9:00 AM: Visit Mount Vernon, the historic estate of George Washington.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant or bring a picnic lunch.
- 2:00 PM: Explore the grounds, gardens, and museum exhibits.
- Evening: Return to D.C. for dinner or stay overnight in nearby Alexandria.
Transportation:
- Metro: Use the Metrorail system to travel from Washington, D.C. to Mount Vernon (Yellow Line).
- Car: Consider driving from D.C. to Mount Vernon and parking in designated areas.
Day 6: Georgetown and DuPont Circle
- 9:00 AM: Visit the Georgetown Waterfront, a historic neighborhood with upscale shopping and dining.
- 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby Old Stone House, one of D.C.’s oldest buildings.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of Georgetown’s many restaurants or cafes.
- 2:00 PM: Visit the National Geographic Museum in nearby DuPont Circle.
Tips:
- Parking: Be prepared for limited parking in Georgetown and consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.
- Shopping: Take advantage of sales and discounts at upscale shopping destinations like Georgetown.
Day 7: National Harbor
- 9:00 AM: Visit National Harbor, a waterfront destination with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in National Harbor.
- 2:00 PM: Take a stroll along the marina or rent a boat for a relaxing cruise.
- Evening: Return to D.C. for dinner or stay overnight in nearby Alexandria.
Transportation:
- Metro: Use the Metrorail system to travel from Washington, D.C. to National Harbor (Green Line).
- Car: Consider driving from D.C. to National Harbor and parking in designated areas.
Additional Tips and Recommendations:
- **Consider purchasing a SmarterTrip card for convenient travel on public transportation.
- **Be prepared for unpredictable weather with layers, umbrellas, or sunscreen as needed.
- Reservations: Book reservations for popular restaurants and attractions in advance to avoid long wait times.
- Walking and Biking: Explore the city on foot or rent a bike through services like Capital Bikeshare.
Accommodations:
Consider staying in the Logan Circle neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, or the Georgetown area, with upscale shopping and dining options.