Washington DC, United States-6-day-itinerary

Washington D.C. 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the National Mall

  • Morning: Arrive in Washington D.C. and check-in at your hotel (see recommendations below). Start your day with breakfast at Ben’s Chili Bowl, a D.C. institution since 1958.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Mall and walk to the World War II Memorial, which honors the 16 million Americans who served in the war. Take a stroll around the Tidal Basin, a beautiful lake with stunning cherry blossom trees (in season).
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill, the oldest saloon in D.C.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Explore the Hope Diamond, the Butterfly Pavilion, and other exhibits.
  • 6:00 PM: Head to the Georgetown Waterfront for dinner at The River Inn or Tony & Joe’s Seafood Place.

Day 2: Monuments and Memorials

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
  • 10:30 AM: Stop by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall) and the adjacent Korean War Veterans Memorial.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Good Stuff Eatery, a modern American bistro.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Please note that this museum can be emotionally challenging, so be prepared.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Hamilton, a trendy restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Day 3: Smithsonian Museums

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Air and Space Museum. Explore the historic aircraft and spacecraft on display, including the Wright Brothers’ Flyer.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Pavilion Cafe, located within the museum.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the National Museum of American History. See iconic items like Dorothy’s ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” and the First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Zaytinya, a Mediterranean restaurant with a focus on small plates.

Day 4: Capitol Hill

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the United States Capitol Building. Take a guided tour of the building and its grounds, including the National Statuary Hall.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Monocle, a restaurant located in the heart of Capitol Hill.
  • 1:30 PM: Stop by the National Archives, home to some of America’s most important documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Source, a modern American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Day 5: Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Arlington National Cemetery. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
  • 11:30 AM: Stop by the Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Pentagon’s Catering Service, located within the building.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the National Museum of American Diplomacy (located within the Pentagon).
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Grille at 600 F, a modern American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Day 6: Last-Minute Sightseeing

  • 9:00 AM: Spend your last morning in Washington D.C. visiting any attractions you missed earlier in the trip.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill, which we mentioned earlier as a great spot for dinner on Day 1.
  • 2:00 PM: Head back to your hotel and pack up for departure.

Hotel Recommendations

  • The Hay-Adams: A luxurious boutique hotel with stunning views of the White House.
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C.: A high-end hotel located in the heart of downtown D.C.
  • The Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location.

Transportation

  • Metro: The easiest way to get around D.C. is by using the Metrorail system. Buy a SmarTrip card for convenient travel.
  • Ride-hailing: Uber and Lyft are widely available in D.C.
  • Walking/Biking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.

Tips

  • Be prepared for security checks at many museums and government buildings.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the city.
  • Try some delicious Ben’s Chili Bowl half-smokes!
  • Don’t forget your camera to capture all the amazing sights and landmarks.

Other Things of Interest

  • National Cherry Blossom Festival: If you’re visiting in late March or early April, catch the beautiful cherry blossom trees in bloom.
  • D.C. Street Art: Explore the vibrant street art scene in neighborhoods like Adams Morgan and H Street Corridor.
  • Georgetown Food Tour: Join a guided tour to discover the best eats and treats in this historic neighborhood.

This itinerary provides a great balance of history, culture, and entertainment for your visit to Washington D.C.!