Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Explore Washington, D.C.: Capitol, Museums, Portrait Gallery & National Cathedral - August 13 to 15, 2025

Viewed by 78 travelers

Day 1: Mall and Capitol Tour

Washington, D.C., USA on August 13, 2025

8:30am

Library of Congress

Start your day early with a visit to the Library of Congress to admire its stunning interiors and vast collections. The library opens at 8:30am and closes at 4:30pm; entrance is free.
USD0, 1h

9:45am

National Air and Space Museum

Discover the world’s largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft at this renowned Smithsonian museum, open 10:00am to 5:30pm with free admission. Arrive early to align with subsequent Capitol tour.
USD0, 1h

11:00am

U.S. Capitol Building Tour

Join the guided tour of the U.S. Capitol, the historic home of the U.S. Congress. Tours start at 11:00am by prior reservation and are free, allowing you to experience the heart of American democracy.
USD0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at the Capitol Visitor Center Cafe

Enjoy a convenient lunch at the Capitol Visitor Center Cafe offering fresh sandwiches and salads, open daily 8:30am to 4:30pm.
USD20, 1h

2:15pm

Leisure Walk along the National Mall

Spend your afternoon strolling the National Mall, visiting monuments like the Washington Monument and enjoying outdoor sculptures and gardens.
USD0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

End your day dining at D.C.’s historic Old Ebbitt Grill, known for classic American dishes, open until 10:30pm.
USD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Washington

Day 2: Museums and Portraits

Washington, D.C., USA on August 14, 2025

9:00am

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Begin with exploring America’s rich history through engaging artifacts and exhibits. The museum is open 10:00am to 5:30pm and offers free admission.
USD0, 2h

11:30am

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Discover incredible exhibits on natural history, from dinosaur fossils to precious gems, open 10:00am to 5:30pm with free entry.
USD0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Ambar

Savor flavorful Balkan small plates in a vibrant setting, open 11:30am to 10:00pm.
USD30, 1h

3:00pm

National Portrait Gallery

Explore portraits of notable Americans and contemporary figures; the gallery is open 11:30am to 7:00pm with free admission.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Founding Farmers

Enjoy farm-to-table American comfort food with sustainable sourcing, open until 9:30pm.
USD45, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Washington

Day 3: Cathedral and Modern Art

Washington, D.C., USA on August 15, 2025

9:30am

Washington National Cathedral

Visit the stunning Gothic Revival National Cathedral, open 10:00am to 5:00pm, featuring spectacular architecture and sweeping views from the tower.
USD0, 2h

11:45am

National Gallery of Art East Building

Explore an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art housed in a striking architectural landmark, open 10:00am to 5:00pm with free admission.
USD0, 1h15m

1:15pm

Lunch at Cafe Milano

Delight in upscale Italian cuisine in a lively atmosphere, open 11:30am to 10:00pm.
USD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Washington
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Washington dc

Trip Packing List: Washington, DC (Late February / Early Spring: travel dates around 2026-02-27)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: April 3–12 — DC, New Haven, Boston, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco
Packing List
Washington, D.C. Weather: A Year-Round Climate Guide
Weather Guide
Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Washington, D.C.
Travel Expert
Full Guide to Michelin Star Cities: 2025 Updated List
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Washington dc Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go