Washington D.C., United States
Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States and home to numerous iconic landmarks such as the White House, the National Mall, and the Lincoln Memorial. The city also boasts world-class museums, excellent dining options, and vibrant cultural offerings.
Trip to Washington D.C., United States
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to the City
On your first day in Washington D.C., after arriving and getting settled, start with a visit to the National Mall where you can get a glimpse of some of DC’s iconic landmarks. The National Mall is home to over 10 different memorials including the Lincoln Memorial, The Washington Monument, The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, and WWII Memorial. As you walk, you will notice the stunning Capitol Building at one end of the mall and the Lincoln Memorial on the other end. There are also museums that line the mall, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and the National Gallery of Art. After enjoying the walk, you can visit one of DC’s famous bar and restaurants for your first night.
Day 2: Exploring History and Culture
On your second day in DC, start with a visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. This museum is located just south of the National Mall and offers a solemn and thought-provoking experience to visitors. From there, you can visit the new National Museum of African American History and Culture, which has quickly become one of DC’s most popular museums. The museum showcases the culture, history, and experiences of African Americans. After that, you can visit the National Portrait Gallery & Smithsonian American Art Museum, where you can see a collection of portraits of some of the most influential people in American history.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Vernon
On day three, visit Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon is about 30 minutes south of DC and was the home of George Washington. Here, you can tour his estate and see the place where he lived, worked, and died. The estate is located on the banks of the Potomac River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. After visiting Mount Vernon, you can rest and enjoy a delicious dinner at The Wharf, a retail and restaurant hub in southwest DC that offers waterfront views and is one of the most popular destinations in the city.
Day 4: Visiting Monuments and Memorials
On day four, spend some time visiting the various monuments and memorials around the city. Start with the Lincoln Memorial, where you can see the massive statue of Lincoln and read the famous speech inscribed on the wall behind him. From there, visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, which are just a short walk away. You can end your day by visiting the National World War II Memorial, a beautiful and moving tribute to those who served in World War II.
Day 5: Exploring the Smithsonian
On the fifth day, visit some of the famous Smithsonian Museums that are scattered throughout the city. Start by visiting the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where you can see the Wright Brothers’ first airplane, artifacts from space travel, and other exhibits that showcase the history and technology of aviation. Also, you can visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, and the Smithsonian Institution Building where you can learn more about the Institution itself!
Day 6: Shopping and Dining
On Day six, go shopping for souvenirs in Georgetown, the city’s historic neighborhood. Known for its tree-lined streets and charming shops, Georgetown is the perfect place to buy unique souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else. For dinner, visit one of the many Michelin-star restaurants in the city, such as The Inn at Little Washington, Pineapple and Pearls, or Kinship, which offer exceptional dining experiences at a slightly higher budget.
Day 7: Final Day in the City
On your final day in DC, visit the National Geographic Museum, which showcases beautiful photography from around the world, and has rotating exhibits on various topics. From there, you can visit the Tidal Basin which is home to the beautiful cherry blossoms at peak bloom during late March and early April, before finally returning to your hotel and preparing for your departure from Washington D.C.
