The National Mall and Memorial Parks are a must-see for any visitor to Washington D.C. The area is home to numerous memorials and monuments to American heroes, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Walk through history while surrounded by stunning architecture.
Washington D.C. is home to 19 Smithsonian museums, each of them offering an unparalleled glimpse into American culture and history. Visit the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, or the National Portrait Gallery, just to name a few.
The U Street Corridor is a historically black neighborhood in Washington D.C., famous for its jazz clubs and street murals. Visit the African American Civil War Memorial Museum to learn about the contribution of African American soldiers during the Civil War.
Visit Howard University, a historically black university founded in 1867, to experience the vibrant campus culture. Later, visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which showcases the African American experience from slavery to the present day.
Georgetown is a charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets and quaint shops. Take a stroll along the C&O Canal, which stretches from Georgetown to Cumberland, Maryland. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and a peaceful break from the bustling city.
Take a walking tour of the Embassy Row, where many foreign embassies are located in beautiful mansions. Later, visit the Phillips Collection, a museum showcasing impressionist and modern art pieces from around the world.
Visit Capitol Hill, home of the United States Capitol building and many other government buildings. Later, explore the beautiful architecture and extensive collection of books at the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world.
Washington D.C. has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and a metro system that can take you to all of the locations on this itinerary quickly and easily. A daily pass for the metro costs $13. To save on transportation costs, consider using a ride-sharing service or renting a bike from one of the many stands around the city.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to nearby Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. If you have less time, consider skipping the Embassy Row and Phillips Collection portion of the itinerary to save time and money. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking!
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located 26 miles outside the city center. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located just across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. The airport is only 4 miles from the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers.