How many days do you need in New York and Washington DC?

This itinerary covers 5 days in New York and Washington DC, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for New York and Washington DC?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to New York and Washington DC. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family-Friendly Adventure and Relaxation in New York and Washington DC

Day 1: Explore New York

New York City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your day with a quintessential New York bagel experience at Ess-a-Bagel, known for its fresh, chewy bagels and liberal selection of schmears.

USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Central Park

Post breakfast, stroll through Central Park, enjoying the greenery and perhaps renting bikes to explore more of this iconic urban oasis.

USD40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch on the water at The Loeb Boathouse, where you can also enjoy the scenic views of the park.

USD100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the American Museum of Natural History

Dive into adventures with dinosaur fossils and the planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, perfect for kids and adults alike.

USD100, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Junior's Restaurant

Finish your day with a classic slice of New York cheesecake at Junior's Restaurant, famous for its desserts and hearty fare.

USD80, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

New York City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Balthazar

Start with a delightful brunch at Balthazar in SoHo, enjoying classic French bistro fare.

USD90, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Statue of Liberty

Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty and gain insight into America's history.

USD60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fraunces Tavern

Travel back and pause for lunch at Fraunces Tavern, a historical landmark with a kid-friendly menu.

USD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Children's Museum of the Arts

Let the kids unleash their creativity at the Children's Museum of the Arts, where they can engage in hands-on exhibits.

USD50, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Carmine's

Enjoy a family-style Italian dinner at Carmine's, known for its generous portions and family atmosphere.

USD120, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Travel to Washington DC

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ruby's Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ruby's Cafe in New York before your journey.

USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Washington DC

Catch an Amtrak train from Penn Station to Washington DC, enjoying the scenic views along the way.

USD300, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Founding Farmers

Upon arrival, head to Founding Farmers for a delicious farm-to-table lunch experience, suitable for all ages.

USD85, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the National Air and Space Museum

Explore the fascinating exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum, perfect for curious minds in the family.

Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

End your day in DC with a cozy dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill, known for its oyster bar and lively atmosphere.

USD100, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Monuments and Museums

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Smith

Enjoy a classic American breakfast at The Smith, known for its brunch specialties.

USD85, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Lincoln Memorial

Pay homage to history at the Lincoln Memorial, where kids can learn about Lincoln's impact on America.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the National Museum of Natural History

Stroll through the National Museum of Natural History and marvel at the giant dinosaur skeletons and the Hope Diamond.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Museum Café

Grab lunch at the museum café, serving quick bites that the whole family can enjoy without losing too much time.

USD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the National Gallery of Art

Spend the afternoon at the National Gallery of Art, where children can engage in interactive art programs.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sequoia

Conclude your day with dinner at Sequoia, where you can enjoy fantastic views of the Potomac River.

USD100, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Last Explorations

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Savor a lovely breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, featuring organic breads and hearty breakfast bowls.

USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the White House

Capture family photos in front of the historical White House, where kids can learn about the presidency.

Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the United States Capitol

Take a guided tour of the United States Capitol to understand its significance in the American legislative process.

USD50, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Capital Grille

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Capital Grille, perfect for a celebratory meal before your journey home.

USD120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at the National Mall

Spend your final hours in DC relaxing at the National Mall, soaking in the beauty of the monuments one last time.

Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Depart for Home

Head to the airport for your departure home, reminiscing on the memorable experiences of this trip.

USD50, 1 hour

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family-Friendly Adventure and Relaxation in New York and Washington DC

Day 1: Explore New York

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:30PM

Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 3: Travel to Washington DC

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 4: Monuments and Museums

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Last Explorations

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

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