3-Day Washington Itinerary: Smithson Museums and Zoo Exploration

Day 1: Museums Day

Washington, D.C.

8:00AM

Breakfast at Busboys and Poets

Start your day with a delicious vegetarian breakfast from Busboys and Poets, known for its cozy ambiance and hearty options.
Located centrally, you'll head to the National Mall afterwards.
USD 15, 30 mins

8:30AM

National Museum of American History

Explore American cultural heritage, from the original Star-Spangled Banner to exciting exhibits on American innovation.
It's a short 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

National Museum of Natural History

Discover the wonders of the natural world, including the Hope Diamond and giant dinosaur skeletons.
A 10-minute walk through the National Mall.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Indian Grill

Enjoy a fulfilling vegetarian buffet featuring authentic Indian flavors.
A 15-minute walk from the museum to the restaurant.
USD 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

National Air and Space Museum

Experience the history of aviation and space exploration with interactive exhibits and unique artifacts.
Only a 5-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Explore modern art pieces both inside the museum and outside in the beautiful sculpture garden.
A 5-minute walk from the Air and Space Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art

Admire classical and contemporary art from various artists across centuries.
An easy 10-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Rasika

Savor innovative Indian cuisine with plenty of vegetarian options in a trendy setting.
A 5-minute cab ride for convenience.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll at the Washington Monument

Conclude your day with a beautiful stroll and view of the iconic monument illuminated at night.
A short 10-minute ride to the monument area.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Zoo Day

Washington, D.C.

8:00AM

Breakfast at Teaism

Enjoy a light vegetarian breakfast with options like oatmeal and tea, perfect for fueling up for the day ahead.
Drive towards the National Zoo after breakfast.
USD 15, 30 mins

8:30AM

Visit the Smithsonian National Zoo

Spend the morning exploring the zoo and visiting the adorable giant pandas.
A 10-minute ride from Teaism.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Zoo's Exhibits

Check out various animal houses and interactive exhibits throughout the zoo.
Continue your exploration within the zoo grounds.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at the zoo café

Grab a quick vegetarian snack from the zoo café, offering salads and wraps.
Conveniently located on zoo premises.
USD 10, 30 mins

1:00PM

Return to Hotel/Rest

Take a short break before heading out to more sightseeing in the afternoon.
Return via taxi or Metro.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the U.S. Capitol and Surroundings

Visit the U.S. Capitol building and take photos in the scenic surroundings.
A 15-minute ride from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Library of Congress

Discover one of the world's largest libraries and its stunning architecture.
Only a 5-minute walk from the Capitol.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the National Archives

See original documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
A 10-minute walk from the Library.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Enjoy some fresh air while appreciating the outdoor sculptures.
A short 10-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Kadhai Indian Cuisine

Relish traditional Indian dishes with rich spices and vegetarian options.
A quick 10-minute ride.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening at the Lincoln Memorial

End your day with a contemplative visit to the Lincoln Memorial, perfect at sundown.
A 15-minute ride.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Final Morning

Washington, D.C.

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweetgreen

Savor a healthy, fresh vegetarian salad or grain bowl to start your final morning.
Quick 10-minute ride.
USD 12, 30 mins

8:30AM

Visit the National Mall Memorials

Walk through and photograph the stunning memorials, including the MLK Memorial and WWII Memorial.
Just a short walk from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Optional Last-minute Shopping

Take any last chances for souvenirs or gifts near the Mall.
A 15-minute walk to various shops.
Varies, 1 hour

11:00AM

Wrap Up at Your Hotel

Collect your belongings and check out of your hotel before heading to your next destination.
Return to your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour
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