A 7-Day Itinerary for Washington D.C.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the National Mall

• Morning: Arrive in Washington D.C. and check into your hotel or accommodations.
• Afternoon: Start your day at the National Museum of Natural History, part of the Smithsonian Institution. Explore the Hope Diamond exhibit, the human origins collection, and the butterfly pavilion.
• Evening: Head to the National Mall for a sunset view of the monuments. Walk along the Tidal Basin to see the famous cherry blossom trees (if you’re visiting in spring).

Day 2: Presidential History

• Morning: Visit the White House, the official residence and workplace of the President. Take a guided tour, but be sure to book well in advance.
• Afternoon: Head to the Presidential Memorial Commission, which honors the memory of each U.S. President with a statue or monument. Stop by the Lincoln Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial as well.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants on U Street, known for its eclectic vibe and international cuisine.

Day 3: Smithsonian Delights

• Morning: Visit the National Air and Space Museum, another iconic Smithsonian museum. Explore exhibits on aviation, space exploration, and historic aircraft.
• Afternoon: Head to the National Museum of American History, home to the original Star-Spangled Banner flag, as well as artifacts from American culture and history.
• Evening: Take a stroll along the Georgetown Waterfront, enjoying the views of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center.

Day 4: Art and Culture

• Morning: Visit the National Gallery of Art, with its impressive collection of Western European and American art, including works by da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Picasso.
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant arts scene in Adams Morgan, a neighborhood known for its street art, galleries, and music venues. Stop by the H Street Corridor for more art installations and murals.
• Evening: Catch a show at the Kennedy Center, which hosts world-class performances in theater, dance, and music.

Day 5: Historical Landmarks

• Morning: Visit the United States Capitol Building, an iconic symbol of American democracy. Take a guided tour to explore its architecture and history.
• Afternoon: Head to the Arlington National Cemetery for a somber and poignant visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, as well as the gravesites of President John F. Kennedy and the Challenger astronauts.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Old Town Alexandria, known for its colonial charm and historic architecture.

Day 6: More Memorials and Museums

• Morning: Visit the National World War II Memorial, honoring the millions who served during WWII. Take a stroll through the memorial’s 7 acres of fountains, pools, and walking paths.
• Afternoon: Explore the Newseum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history of the news industry and the importance of a free press in American society.
• Evening: End your day with a visit to the National Archives, home to some of America’s most treasured documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

Day 7: Departure and Last-Minute Delights

• Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions.
• Afternoon: Visit the National Zoo, home to over 1,800 animals from around the world. Be sure to check out the giant pandas!
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Washington D.C.’s many excellent restaurants before departing.

This itinerary should give you a taste of everything Washington D.C. has to offer – history, culture, art, and more!