Day 1: National Mall and Tidal Basin In the morning, visit the Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool. Head to the National WWII Memorial and walk along the National Mall towards the United States Capitol. Catch a glimpse of the White House through Lafayette Square. In the afternoon, visit the Smithsonian museums and the National Museum of Natural History. End the day by watching the sunset at the Tidal Basin. Recommended restaurant: Founding Farmers.
Day 2: Georgetown and Dupont Circle Start the day by exploring Georgetown. Walk along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, and take a stroll by the Georgetown Waterfront. In the afternoon, visit Dupont Circle - home to some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and galleries. Take a break at the Phillips Collection, a stunning art museum. Recommended restaurant: Farmers, Fishers, Bakers.
Day 3: Capitol Hill and Eastern Market Begin the day by touring the United States Capitol and Library of Congress. Head to the Supreme Court and visit the nearby Folger Shakespeare Library. In the afternoon, visit the Eastern Market - a bustling indoor-outdoor market featuring local vendors and crafts. End the day with a tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Recommended restaurant: Rose's Luxury.
Time and Cost Estimates
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool - 1 hour - free admission
National WWII Memorial - 30 minutes - free admission
Smithsonian museums and National Museum of Natural History - 3 hours - free admission
Tidal Basin - 1 hour - free admission
Georgetown - 3 hours - free to walk around
Phillips Collection - 2 hours - $16 admission fee
United States Capitol and Library of Congress - 2 hours - free admission with reservation
National Museum of African American History and Culture - 3 hours - free admission
Estimated Total Costs: $16 admission fee at the Phillips Collection
Transportation
Washington DC has an excellent public transportation system including the metro and bus system that can easily transport visitors to major sites around the city. It is recommended to purchase a SmartTrip card to easily access metro rides. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the National Zoo or Rock Creek Park. If you have less time, consider focusing on the National Mall and Capitol Hill sites.