Exploring Washington DC in 3 Days

  • Day 1: National Mall
    20 minutes (3 miles) from Arlington National Cemetery

    The National Mall is a famous park in the heart of the city, stretching from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial. It is home to several famous memorials and museums, including the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

  • Day 2: Georgetown
    15 minutes (2 miles) from the National Mall

    Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, boutique shopping, and delicious restaurants. Highlights include the C&O Canal, the Old Stone House, and the exorcist steps.

  • Day 3: U Street Corridor
    25 minutes (4 miles) from Georgetown

    The U Street Corridor was once called Washington DC’s “Black Broadway”. Highlights of the neighborhood include the African American Civil War Memorial, Ben’s Chili Bowl, and the Lincoln Theater.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • National Mall (3-5 hours, free)
  • Arlington National Cemetery (2-3 hours, free)
  • Smithsonian National Museum of American History (2-3 hours, free)
  • Georgetown (2-4 hours, free)
  • U Street Corridor (2-4 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($0)

Transportation

To get around Washington DC, visitors can use the Metrorail, which has several stations throughout the city. Each ride costs $2-6 depending on the time of day and distance travelled. Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are also available but can become expensive.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the International Spy Museum, or take a walk through Rock Creek Park. If you have less time, focus on the National Mall and the memorials within.

Airports

Washington DC has three major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). DCA is the closest to the city center, about 4 miles away, and is the most convenient for visitors.

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