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A Week of Family Fun in Washington DC

Saturday August 26: Exploring the National Mall

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the history and culture of the National Mall. Begin your morning at the Lincoln Memorial, marveling at the iconic statue and enjoying the sweeping views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on space exploration and aviation. Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll around the Tidal Basin, admiring the famous cherry blossom trees and the Jefferson Memorial.

  • Lincoln Memorial: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Tidal Basin: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Founding Farmers for a delicious meal with a farm-to-table concept. They offer a wide range of options, including fluffy pancakes, hearty omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • Grab a quick and tasty lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill, a historic restaurant located near the White House. They serve classic American dishes, such as crab cakes and burgers, in a lively atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
  • Indulge in a delightful dinner at Rasika, known for its modern Indian cuisine. The menu features flavorful dishes like butter chicken and spiced lamb chops. The elegant ambiance and attentive service make it a perfect spot for a memorable dinner. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Sunday August 27: Family Fun at the National Zoo

Spend a day with the animals at the Smithsonian's National Zoo. Start your morning by exploring the various exhibits, including the Giant Panda Habitat and the Elephant Trails. In the afternoon, catch one of the daily animal demonstrations or attend a feeding session. Don't miss the opportunity to ride the Conservation Carousel before ending your day at the Kids' Farm, where children can interact with farm animals.

  • Smithsonian's National Zoo: Free, 4-5 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to The Coupe, a popular neighborhood cafe known for its delicious breakfast options like fluffy pancakes and savory egg dishes. With an average cost of about $10 per person, it's a great place to start your day.
  • If you're looking for a place to have lunch, check out Founding Farmers. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a diverse menu with options ranging from salads and sandwiches to comforting classics like fried chicken and mac and cheese. With an average cost of about $15 per person, it's a great spot to refuel.
  • For dinner, I recommend Rasika, an award-winning Indian restaurant known for its modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine. With dishes like butter chicken and lamb curry, it's a feast for the senses. Expect to spend around $30 per person for a memorable dining experience.
Monday August 28: Discovering the Smithsonian Museums

Dive into the world of knowledge and discovery at the Smithsonian museums. Begin your day at the National Museum of Natural History, where you can marvel at dinosaur fossils and explore interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of American History to learn about the nation's history through fascinating artifacts and displays. End your day at the National Gallery of Art, where you can admire a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks.

  • National Museum of Natural History: Free, 2-3 hours
  • National Museum of American History: Free, 2-3 hours
  • National Gallery of Art: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday August 29: Exploring the United States Capitol

Embark on a journey through American democracy by visiting the United States Capitol. Start your morning with a guided tour of the Capitol Building, where you can learn about the history, architecture, and legislative process. In the afternoon, explore the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, and marvel at its stunning interior. End your day at the Supreme Court, where you can witness the justice system in action or take a guided tour.

  • United States Capitol: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Library of Congress: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Supreme Court: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to The Dubliner Pub, located just a short walk from the Capitol Building. This cozy Irish pub offers delicious breakfast options such as traditional Irish breakfast and breakfast burritos. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
  • When it's time for lunch, make your way to Tortilla Coast, a Tex-Mex restaurant known for its tasty tacos and margaritas. Enjoy their famous grilled chicken or beef tacos with a side of chips and salsa. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at The Monocle Restaurant, a classic American steakhouse near the Supreme Court. Indulge in their juicy and tender steaks, fresh seafood, and delectable desserts. The average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Wednesday August 30: Capitol Hill and Eastern Market

Spend the day exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Capitol Hill. Start your morning with a visit to the United States Botanic Garden, where you can admire a wide variety of plant species. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Eastern Market, known for its fresh produce, local artisans, and unique crafts. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Capitol Hill, admiring the historic rowhouses and charming gardens.

  • United States Botanic Garden: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Eastern Market: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Capitol Hill: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday August 31: A Day in Georgetown

Head to the charming neighborhood of Georgetown for a day of shopping, dining, and exploring. Start your morning with a visit to the historic Georgetown University, known for its beautiful campus and rich history. In the afternoon, wander along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, where you'll find a plethora of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to take a relaxing stroll along the scenic Georgetown Waterfront Park.

  • Georgetown University: Free, 1-2 hours
  • M Street and Wisconsin Avenue: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • Georgetown Waterfront Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday September 1: Day Trip to Mount Vernon

Take a break from the city and embark on a day trip to Mount Vernon, the historic estate of George Washington. Explore the mansion and its beautiful gardens, learn about the life and legacy of the first president of the United States. Enjoy a boat tour along the Potomac River before heading back to Washington DC in the afternoon.

  • Mount Vernon: Cost varies, 4-5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the National Building Museum, where you can explore immersive exhibits and interactive installations. Another off the beaten path attraction is the International Spy Museum, where you can learn about the world of espionage through engaging exhibits and interactive activities. Locals also love visiting the National Arboretum, a sprawling garden and research facility with beautiful landscapes and unique flora.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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