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14-Day Ultimate Washington D.C. Exploration

Viewed by 583 travelers

Day 1: National Mall Overview

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers, known for its farm-to-table dining.
Located at 1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just a short walk from the National Mall.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Lincoln Memorial

Walk along the Reflecting Pool to the iconic Lincoln Memorial, an inspiring tribute to Abraham Lincoln.
It’s a direct walk down the National Mall.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Next, visit the poignant Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a must-see site commemorating those lost in the Vietnam War.
A short walk from Lincoln Memorial.
Free, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at The Hamilton

Enjoy a delightful lunch at The Hamilton, offering American classics.
Located at 600 14th St NW.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tour the National Gallery of Art

Spend a few hours admiring masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the present at the National Gallery of Art.
Just east of The Hamilton.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Walk through the Tidal Basin

Take a leisurely stroll around the Tidal Basin, especially beautiful in cherry blossom season.
A short walk from the National Gallery.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Indulge in classic D.C. dining at Old Ebbitt Grill, famous for its oysters.
Located at 675 15th St NW.
USD50, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening walk to the White House

End the day with a scenic evening walk to the White House for a stunning night view.
Just a 10-minute walk from Old Ebbitt.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Smithsonian Extravaganza

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Busboys and Poets

Start with a delicious breakfast at Busboys and Poets, a cultural hub for good food and artistic vibes.
Find it at 2021 14th St NW.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of American History

Dive into America’s rich past at the National Museum of American History.
Located on the National Mall.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the National Museum of Natural History

Continue your Smithsonian journey at the incredible National Museum of Natural History.
Adjacent to the American History Museum.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Food Court {Smithsonian}

Grab a quick, casual lunch at the food court within the museum.
Located inside the National Museum of Natural History.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the National Air and Space Museum

Discover the wonders of aviation and space at this world-famous museum.
Located on the National Mall.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Take a peaceful break at the Sculpture Garden while enjoying art in the fresh air.
Just across the street from the National Gallery.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Jaleo

Savour delicious tapas at Jaleo, offering vibrant Spanish cuisine.
Located at 480 7th St NW.
USD35, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Take a night tour of the Monuments

Embark on a stunning guided night tour of the national monuments, which are beautifully illuminated.
Tours often depart from various locations around the National Mall.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Capitol Hill & Union Station

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Eat at the nostalgic Diner, known for its hearty portions and classic American breakfast.
Located at 2450 Wisconsin Ave NW.
USD18, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Tour the U.S. Capitol Building

Explore the U.S. Capitol on a guided tour, learning about American legislative history.
Take the Metro from Dupont Circle to Capitol South.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Library of Congress

Just a short walk away, visit the stunning Library of Congress, the world's largest library.
Follow signs from the Capitol.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Great Hall Café

Dine at the Great Hall Café located inside the Library of Congress for a light meal.
On-site within the Library of Congress.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Supreme Court

Next, head to the Supreme Court for a fascinating glimpse into the judicial branch of government.
A short walk from the Library of Congress.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Eastern Market

Discover local arts and crafts at the historic Eastern Market, a bustling farmer's market.
Take a short Metro ride to Eastern Market.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ambar

Enjoy Balkan cuisine at Ambar for a unique dining experience.
Located at 523 8th St SE.
USD45, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Stroll down Barracks Row

Finish the evening with a relaxed walk down Barracks Row, filled with shops and nightlife.
Just around the corner from Ambar.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Historic Georgetown

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Bonaparte

Enjoy a charming Parisian breakfast at Café Bonaparte, famous for its crepes.
Located at 1522 Wisconsin Ave NW.
USD20, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Walk the C&O Canal

Stroll along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, taking in the serene views.
Accessible from Georgetown Waterfront Park.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Georgetown University Campus

Explore the picturesque campus of Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic university in the U.S.
A short walk from the canal.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Martin's Tavern

Dine at historic Martin's Tavern, known for its local dishes and great atmosphere.
Located at 1264 Wisconson Ave NW.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the boutiques on M Street

Take your time exploring the trendy shops and boutiques along M Street.
Walk along M Street NW.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Fiola Mare

Savour seafood at the upscale Fiola Mare with waterfront views.
At 3100 K St NW.
USD70, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening at the Georgetown Waterfront Park

Relax at Georgetown Waterfront Park, enjoying the sunset views over the Potomac River.
A short walk from Fiola Mare.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Smithsonian Continued

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffe Amouri

Start your day with comforting coffee and pastries at Caffe Amouri.
Located at 105 C St NE.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Explore the profound history at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Located on the National Mall.
Free (Timed Entry Required), 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the National Archives

See the Declaration of Independence and other founding documents at the National Archives.
A short walk away.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Capital Grille

Savour a fine lunch at The Capital Grille, offering classic American steakhouse fare.
Located at 601 Pennsylvania Ave NW.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Newseum

Tackle subjects of media, news and history at the engaging Newseum.
Take the Metro to Judiciary Square.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Pershing Park

Take a brief respite at the tranquil Pershing Park.
A scenic walk from the Newseum.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at RPM Italian

End the day with delicious Italian cuisine at RPM Italian, known for its fresh pasta.
Located at 650 K St NW.
USD45, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening at The John F. Kennedy Center

Catch a performance at the iconic Kennedy Center for a taste of D.C.'s art scene.
Located at 2700 F St NW.
Varies, 2-3 hours
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Day 6: Outdoor Adventures

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pumpernickels

Begin the day with brunch at Pumpernickels serving classic breakfast dishes.
Located in Shaw, at 1001 N. Capitol St NE.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Rock Creek Park

Get some fresh air while walking or biking through the sprawling Rock Creek Park.
Take Metro to the Rock Creek Park entrance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack your own picnic or grab takeout from a nearby café to enjoy in nature.
Find a scenic spot in the park.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the National Zoo

Continue your outdoor adventure at the renowned National Zoo, featuring diverse animal exhibits.
A short drive or Metro ride from Rock Creek Park.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Lincoln Park

Stop at Lincoln Park for a beautiful and open green space in the heart of the city.
Short Metro ride to Lincoln Park.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at H Street Country Club

Close the day with some delicious Mexican dishes at the H Street Country Club.
At 1335 H St NE.
USD30, 2 hours

8:00PM

Trivia Night at H Street Country Club

Stay for trivia night and enjoy some casual competition after dinner.
Same venue.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Art and Culture

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, featuring fresh bakery items.
Located at 1025 Connecticut Ave NW.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Hirshhorn Museum

Dive into modern art and sculpture at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
A short walk from the National Mall.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Phillips Collection

Admire an exceptional collection of modern art at the Phillips Collection in Dupont Circle.
Take a quick Metro or ride-share.
USD12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Paradiso

Savour delicious wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeria Paradiso.
Located at 2003 P St NW.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the National Portrait Gallery

See remarkable American portraits at the National Portrait Gallery.
Located adjacent to the National Gallery of Art.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll down U Street

Take a walk along U Street, known for its rich cultural history, music, and dining.
Short Metro ride to U Street station.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ben's Chili Bowl

Savor the famous half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, a D.C. institution.
Located at 1213 U St NW.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30PM

Jazz at the Lincoln Theatre

Cap off your day with a live jazz performance at the historic Lincoln Theatre.
Nearby at 1215 U St NW.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 8: Museums and Markets

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Smith

Start your day at The Smith for a lively brunch atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Located at 901 F St NW.
USD20, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of Women in the Arts

Explore the contributions of women artists at the National Museum of Women in the Arts.
A short walk from The Smith.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at District Taco

Enjoy a casual lunch at District Taco, known for their fresh, authentic Mexican food.
Located at 1309 F St NW.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the National Building Museum

Discover architecture and design exhibits at the National Building Museum.
A short walk from District Taco.
USD10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Union Market

Explore the vibrant Union Market, a foodie paradise with stalls serving global cuisines.
Take a short Metro ride to Union Market.
Free (Varies per purchase), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Red Hen

Savour seasonal italian dishes and warm hospitality at The Red Hen.
Located at 1822 First St NW.
USD40, 2 hours

8:30PM

Enjoy Craft Cocktails at Barmini

Experience an innovative cocktail adventure at Barmini.
Nearby, at 855 E St NW.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 9: Day Trips and Nature

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at South Street Steaks

Fuel your day with a filling breakfast at South Street Steaks.
Located at 1310 7th St NW.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Trip to Mount Vernon

Take a trip to George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, to explore American history.
Book a tour or take the Metro & bus there.
USD20, 1.5 hours travel + 2 hours visit

1:00PM

Lunch at Mount Vernon Inn

Dine at Mount Vernon Inn for a taste of early American cuisine.
Located on the Mount Vernon estate.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Gardens at Mount Vernon

Stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens at Mount Vernon.
Same estate as the inn.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to D.C.

Head back to Washington D.C. to unwind after a day of exploration.
Take a return bus or Metro.
USD20, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Black’s Bar & Kitchen

Enjoy seafood and steak with a breathtaking view.
Located at 7750 Waverly Way, in Bethesda.
USD50, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Relax and Review

Enjoy a quiet evening reflecting on your day and planning for tomorrow.
Back in D.C., at your accommodation.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Cultural Exploration

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Duck Tavern

Fuel up at Blue Duck Tavern for an exceptional breakfast experience.
Located at 1201 24th St NW.
USD35, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of the American Indian

Learn about Native American history and culture at this dedicated museum.
Located on the National Mall.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe

Enjoy native-inspired cuisine at the Mitsitam Café inside the museum.
On-site at the museum.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the National Gallery of Art East Building

Wander through a vast collection of contemporary art at the East Building of the National Gallery.
Adjacent to the original Gallery.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the National Catholic Basilica

Stroll through the majestic National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
A short drive or Uber ride.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Savour an upscale dining experience at The Capital Grille, with fine steaks and wines.
Return to 601 Pennsylvania Ave NW.
USD60, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk Around the Capitol

Stroll around the Capitol building to enjoy its grandeur under the stars.
Short walk from dinner location.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 11: Local Markets and Cuisine

Washington DC, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Paul Bakery

Start your day at Paul Bakery with traditional French pastries.
Located at 801 Pennsylvania Ave NW.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Dupont Circle Farmers Market

Wander through the Dupont Circle farmers market for fresh produce and local goods.
Located at Dupont Circle.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Oval Room

Enjoy a fine lunch at The Oval Room with refined American cuisine.
Located at 800 Connecticut Ave NW.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art West Building

Continue exploring the National Gallery of Art with the West Building dedicated to older art.
Return to the National Gallery.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Plume

Savour a luxurious dining experience at Plume, known for its exquisite tasting menu.
Located at 1200 16th St NW.
USD100, 2 hours

8:30PM

Watch a show at the Studio Theatre

Catch a compelling performance at the Studio Theatre.
Located at 1501 14th St NW.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 12: National Parks and Gardens

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Capital City Diner

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at The Capital City Diner.
Located at 2000 1st St NE.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the United States Botanic Garden

Experience the beauty of varied plant life at the United States Botanic Garden.
A short walk from Capitol Hill.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through The National Mall

Take a leisurely stroll through The National Mall, enjoying picturesque views.
Walking distance from the Botanic Garden.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Courtyard Café

Enjoy a lovely lunch at The Courtyard Café, nestled in the Botanic Gardens.
Located on-site.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Pay your respects at the powerful Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
A short distance from The National Mall.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Visit the moving FDR memorial, encapsulating his four terms in office.
Nearby the MLK Memorial.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Inn at Little Washington

Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at The Inn at Little Washington.
Located 60 miles from D.C., consider booking this in advance.
USD200, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening Walk around the National Mall

Conclude your day with another serene evening walk around the National Mall.
Back to the Mall.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 13: Cuisine and Arts

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Busboys and Poets (again)

Enjoy another delightful breakfast at Busboys and Poets, a local favourite.
Back at 2021 14th St NW.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Textile Museum

Discover the artistry of textiles from around the world at the Textile Museum.
A short Uber ride to George Washington University.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Founding Farmers (again)

Savour lunch at Founding Farmers for their beloved signature dishes.
Return to 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Kreeger Museum

Admire art and sculpture in the intimate setting of the Kreeger Museum.
A short ride from Founding Farmers.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Corcoran Gallery of Art

Appreciate American art and design at the Corcoran Gallery.
Short ride from the Kreeger Museum.
USD12, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Oval Room (again)

Experience an upscale dinner again at The Oval Room for American cuisine.
Return to 800 Connecticut Ave NW.
USD35, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Performance at Arena Stage

Catch a live performance at Arena Stage to wrap up an artistic day.
Located at 1101 6th St SW.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 14: Last Day Highlights

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The National Press Club

Breakfast at The National Press Club, known for its historic ambiance.
Located at 529 14th St NW.
USD30, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the National World War II Memorial

Pay homage at the National World War II Memorial, honouring those who served.
A short walk from The National Press Club.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the National Archives

Revisit the National Archives for any main attractions you may have missed.
If time allows, a repeat visit.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Capital Grille (again)

Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Capital Grille before departure.
Return to 601 Pennsylvania Ave NW.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Final Stroll through The National Mall

Take a leisurely final stroll through The National Mall for some reflection.
Walking distance from The Capital Grille.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Head to the Airport for Departure

Make your way to the airport for your flight home, filled with memories from D.C.
Use ride-share or taxi services.
USD30, 1 hour
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