8-Day Itinerary for Bethesda

1. Day 1: National Gallery of Art
   30 minutes (10.2 miles) from Reagan National Airport

   Explore the impressive collection of American and European art. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes are required.

2. Day 2: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
   20 minutes (6.2 miles) from National Gallery of Art

   Learn about the history of aviation and space exploration through interactive exhibits and displays. Admission is free.

3. Day 3: Old Town Alexandria
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   15 minutes (5.5 miles) from Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

   Stroll along the picturesque streets of this charming colonial-era town, known for its historic architecture and boutique shopping.

4. Day 4: Great Falls Park
   25 minutes (13.5 miles) from Old Town Alexandria

   Take in the stunning views of the Potomac River and hike along the scenic trails of this beautiful national park.

5. Day 5: Brookside Gardens
   20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Great Falls Park

   Marvel at the colourful gardens and landscapes of this 50-acre park, which includes a butterfly garden and a nature centre. Admission is free.

6. Day 6: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
   25 minutes (8.8 miles) from Brookside Gardens

   Learn about the history of the Holocaust and honour the memory of its victims and survivors through exhibits, programs, and special events. Timed-entry passes are required.

7. Day 7: National Museum of African American History and Culture
   20 minutes (5.7 miles) from United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

   Explore the rich history and culture of African Americans through exhibits, programs, and special events. Timed-entry passes are required.

8. Day 8: C&O Canal National Historical Park
   25 minutes (8.6 miles) from National Museum of African American History and Culture

   Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the picturesque canal towpath, and enjoy the natural beauty and history of this historic waterway. Admission is free.

Time and Costs Estimates

• National Gallery of Art (2-3 hours, free)
• Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (2-3 hours, free)
• Old Town Alexandria (3-4 hours, free)
• Great Falls Park (3-4 hours, $20 per vehicle)
• Brookside Gardens (1-2 hours, free)
• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (2-3 hours, free with timed-entry pass)
• National Museum of African American History and Culture (2-3 hours, free with timed-entry pass)
• C&O Canal National Historical Park (2-3 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: $20 for vehicle admission to Great Falls Park

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the National Zoo or the International Spy Museum. If you have less time, skip Old Town Alexandria and/or Brookside Gardens.