How many days do you need in Philadephia and Washington DC?

This itinerary covers 8 days in Philadephia 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 Philadephia and Washington DC?

Plan your perfect 8 days trip to Philadephia and Washington DC. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Adventure: Philadelphia & Washington DC Cultural Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring Philadelphia

Philadelphia, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Sabrina's Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast, known for its delicious brunch options including stuffed French toast.

USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the African American Museum

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of African Americans through interactive exhibits.

USD14, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Sample local flavors and international cuisines from various vendors in this historic market.

USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Mother Bethel AME Church

Explore America’s oldest African Methodist Episcopal church and learn about its historical significance.

USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk to Liberty Bell & Independence Hall

Tour two of the most iconic symbols of American history.

USD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Zahav

Enjoy Israeli cuisine at this award-winning restaurant known for its simple yet flavorful dishes.

USD30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check into campus housing

Settle down for the night in the provided housing at a local university.

USD100, 1 hour

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Day 2: Cultural Exploration in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Federal Donuts

Indulge in tasty donuts and fried chicken in the heart of Philadelphia.

USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

President’s House Exhibit

Learn about the complex history of slavery and freedom at this important site.

USD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at City Tavern

Experience colonial-style dining with a menu inspired by 18th-century recipes.

USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Explore one of the biggest art museums in the country, with a focus on American art.

USD25, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Sustainability Tour of the Museum

Join a guided tour discussing the museum’s sustainability practices.

USD10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Dandelion

Enjoy a cozy dinner with British-inspired dishes in a unique setting.

USD30, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Travel and Arrive in DC

Washington DC, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at Campus Housing

Grab a quick breakfast before hitting the road to Washington DC.

USD0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Washington DC

Embark on your journey to Washington DC, enjoying scenic views along I-95.

USD0, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Check into campus housing in DC

Arrive at your accommodations and drop off your luggage.

USD100, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Ben's Chili Bowl

Taste the iconic half-smoke sausage at this famous eatery rich in history.

USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit National Museum of African American History

Explore America's largest museum dedicated to African American culture and history.

USD0, 3 hours

4:30PM

Walk to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Pay tribute to an iconic leader and learn about his contributions to peace and civil rights.

USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hamilton

Experience a diverse menu in a vibrant environment near The White House.

USD25, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Visiting Landmarks in DC

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the campus housing

Start your day with a quick breakfast, preparing for a day of exploration.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Visit the home of the famed abolitionist and learn about his inspiring life.

USD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Howard University Campus Tour

Experience this historic institution and its significance in African American culture.

USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Busboys and Poets

A vibrant restaurant and bookstore known for its diverse menu and activism.

USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

National Gallery of Art

Explore one of the highest-quality art museums in the world, free to the public.

USD0, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at DC Brau

Enjoy local brews and tasty bites at DC's original craft brewery.

USD20, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Cultural Day in Washington DC

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at campus housing

Fuel your day with a simple breakfast at your accommodation.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

National Zoo Visit

Enjoy free entry to one of the oldest zoos in the USA, part of the Smithsonian Institution.

USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Nature Walk at Rock Creek Park

Explore the historic paths and diverse wildlife in this urban park.

USD0, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Enjoy delicious burgers and shakes, a family favorite for lunch.

USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the United States National Museum of Natural History

Discover exhibits that include the Hope Diamond and dinosaur fossils.

USD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Attend a Food Tour in DC

Taste your way through neighborhoods, sample local favorites, and learn from the guide.

USD50, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner from the Food Tour

Enjoy all the things you sampled on the tour, a perfect end to a day of flavors.

USD0, 1 hour

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Day 6: Natural & Cultural Experiences

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at campus housing

Get ready for an exciting day with a healthy breakfast.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Paddle Boating at Tidal Basin

Enjoy a fun morning paddling on the water with views of the famous cherry blossoms.

USD36 (for rental), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Siteseeing at the National Mall

Discover memorials and monuments that shape America’s rich history.

USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Wharf Seafood

Delight in a fresh seafood lunch at this beautiful waterfront destination.

USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Explore the history and science of aviation and space exploration.

USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

National Geographic Museum

Learn about geography, wildlife, and history through engaging exhibits.

USD15, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Savor classic American dishes in an iconic DC eatery loved by locals.

USD30, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Last Explorations in DC

Washington DC, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at campus housing

Another great breakfast to fuel your last day of exploration.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the African American Civil War Memorial

Visit the memorial honoring the contributions of African Americans during the Civil War.

USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Tour the Capitol Building

Discover the history and significance of America’s legislative center.

USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Founding Farmers

Dig into a delicious farmer-focused menu in this popular DC spot.

USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the National Archives

Explore America’s founding documents, including the Declaration of Independence.

USD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk through the Gardens of the National Gallery

Relax in the beautiful gardens while reflecting on your trip.

USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Olde Towne Inn

End your trip with a splendid dinner offering American comfort food.

USD30, 1.5 hours

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Day 8: Return Home

Philadelphia, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at campus housing

Enjoy a light breakfast while sharing your favorite memories from the trip.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Philadelphia

Take a scenic drive back home reflecting on all the experiences you shared.

USD0, 2.5 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Adventure: Philadelphia & Washington DC Cultural Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring Philadelphia

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

8:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Exploration in Philadelphia

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Travel and Arrive in DC

7:30AM

8:30AM

11:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Visiting Landmarks in DC

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Cultural Day in Washington DC

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:30PM

Day 6: Natural & Cultural Experiences

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

6:30PM

Day 7: Last Explorations in DC

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 8: Return Home

8:00AM

9:00AM

Plan Your Philadephia and Washington DC Trip