Immerse Yourself in Washington, DC's Cultural Offerings
Day 1: Smithsonian Museums and National Mall Start your trip with a visit to the Smithsonian Museums, including the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, and National Museum of Natural History. Afterwards, stroll through the National Mall to see the Washington Monument, WWII and Lincoln Memorials, and other landmarks.
Day 2: Capitol Hill and Georgetown Begin your day at the U.S. Capitol Building and take a tour of the historic landmark. Then, head over to Georgetown to explore the charming streets, shops, and restaurants. End your day by taking in a show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Day 3: The National Gallery of Art and The Wharf Start your day at The National Gallery of Art, home to over 150,000 works of art spanning various time periods and styles. Next, head over to The Wharf for some waterfront strolling, dining, and shopping. End your trip by catching a performance at the Shakespeare Theatre Company.
Time and Costs Estimates
Smithsonian Museums and National Mall (4-6 hours, free)
U.S. Capitol Building (1.5 - 2 hours, free)
Georgetown (3-4 hours, cost varies)
National Gallery of Art (3-4 hours, free)
The Wharf (2-3 hours, cost varies)
Shakespeare Theatre Company (2-3 hours, cost varies)
Total Estimated Costs: $50-$100+
Transportation
Getting around Washington DC is easy with the Metrorail and Metrobus systems, which run throughout the city and connect to major attractions. Fares start at $2 per trip, or you can purchase a SmartTrip card for multiple trips. Taxis and ride-share services are also available. Be aware that rush hour traffic can be heavy, so plan accordingly.
Useful Tips
If you have more time, consider visiting other museums and monuments in the city, such as the National Archives Museum and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. If you have less time, focus on seeing the top must-see attractions in each area. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. Also, pack sunscreen, water, and snacks for a day out.
Airports
Washington, DC has three major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), located 4 miles south of downtown Washington DC; Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), located 26 miles west of downtown Washington DC; and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), located 32 miles northeast of downtown Washington DC. All airports offer shuttle, taxi, and ride-share services to get to and from the city center.