Washington DC, United States-4-day-itinerary

Washington D.C. 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: National Mall and Memorials

  • Morning: Start at the National Archives (open from 10am) to see the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights.
  • Afternoon: Walk to the Washington Monument (open from 9am) for panoramic views of the city. Then, visit the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
  • Evening: Head to the Lincoln Memorial (open 24/7) for a stunning sunset view.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Ben’s Chili Bowl ( Iconic D.C. eatery serving chili dogs and half-smokes)
  • Dinner: The Hamilton (Modern American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients)

Where to Stay:

  • Consider staying in the Foggy Bottom or Dupont Circle neighborhoods for easy access to the National Mall.

Things to Know:

  • The National Mall is open 24/7, but some attractions may have limited hours.
  • Be prepared for security checks at popular attractions.
  • Download the National Park Service’s D.C. App for a self-guided tour of the National Mall.

Day 2: Smithsonian Museums and Galleries

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Natural History (open from 10am) to explore exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, and human cultures.
  • Afternoon: Head to the National Gallery of Art (open from 10am) to admire Western European and American art.
  • Evening: Enjoy a free performance at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage (schedule varies).

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: The Café at the National Museum of Natural History (Casual eatery with a view of the museum’s courtyard)
  • Dinner: Old Ebbitt Grill (Classic American cuisine in a historic setting)

Day 3: Arlington and Georgetown

  • Morning: Visit Arlington National Cemetery (open from 8am) to pay respects to America’s fallen heroes.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Georgetown Waterfront, explore the charming streets of Georgetown, and visit the Kennedy Center (guided tours available).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Georgetown’s many restaurants.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: The Fish Market (Seafood restaurant with waterfront views)
  • Dinner: 1789 Restaurant (Upscale American cuisine in a historic setting)

Day 4: National Zoo and Embassy Row

  • Morning: Visit the National Zoo (open from 8am) to see giant pandas, orangutans, and elephants.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along Embassy Row, where you’ll find diplomatic missions from around the world.
  • Evening: End your trip with a scenic drive or walk along the Tidal Basin, a picturesque lake in the heart of the city.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: The Zoo’s Café (Casual eatery with outdoor seating)
  • Dinner: Cafe Milano (Italian cuisine in a cozy setting)

Transportation:

  • Metrorail: D.C.’s subway system is efficient and convenient.
  • Bus: The DC Circulator offers affordable, hop-on-hop-off bus service to popular attractions.
  • Ride-hailing: Uber and Lyft operate in D.C.

Tips and Other Things of Interest:

  • Be prepared for crowds and security checks at popular attractions.
  • Take advantage of free museums and galleries on the National Mall.
  • Explore D.C.’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Shaw, U Street, and Adams Morgan.
  • Don’t forget to try a classic D.C. half-smoke or Ben’s Chili Bowl-style chili dog!

Enjoy your trip to Washington D.C.!