Planning a Trip to Washington Dc for Family
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Teeming with magnificent monuments, iconic sights, incredible districts and marvelous museums, the United States capital urban center is a fabled destination. All the same, planning a Washington DC trip tin can feel overwhelming – there is simply so much to see and exercise.
In order to make the most of a Washington DC vacation, it is essential to take a skillful trip programme. To help young man travelers planning a trip to DC, nosotros are sharing our succinct Washington DC Itinerary that showcases the accented best of the metropolis.
Program a Trip to Washington DC
Anyone planning a trip to Washington DC will speedily learn that there are an phenomenal number of things to do in the city. When we beginning started our Washington DC vacation planning, there were so many attractions we wanted to include that nosotros could have easily spent a month seeing the sights! However, like virtually visitors, we didn't have a calendar month…we were limited to just 3 days in DC.
Determined to make the most of our time, we carefully planned a long weekend trip to DC that included the must-run into sights and essential activities.
We traveled to the city as a couple, but whether yous are organizing a Washington DC weekend trip with friends or planning a trip to Washington DC for family, you can use our detailed trip program to assist create your itinerary.
About Our Washington DC Itinerary 3 Days
Nosotros think spending 3 days in Washington DC allows just plenty time to encounter the metropolis highlights. In our three-Day Washington DC Itinerary, nosotros feature the top attractions that are most appealing to us. That said, some of our favorite things to practice in DC might not be of interest to other travelers – so we offer suggestions for alternate activities throughout our trip plan equally well.
Furthermore, considering we understand not everyone is planning a visit to Washington DC in 3 days, nosotros offer suggested Washington DC itineraries for more (and less) time at the terminate of the mail. If you merely have two days in DC or are creating a 5-Day Washington DC Itinerary, you can use our suggestions to plan your perfect trip!
FAQs for Planning Trip to Washington DC
Earlier we leap into our detailed iii-24-hour interval Trip Planner Washington DC Itinerary, let's cover some of the most ofttimes asked questions well-nigh planning a holiday to Washington DC.
How Much Should I Budget for a Trip to Washington DC?
When you plan a visit to Washington DC, you will need to create a trip budget. Costs to consider for your Trip to DC Itinerary include accommodations, transportation, food and activities.
Want our all-time tips for traveling on a upkeep? Get our free Vacation Budget Planner – plus our footstep-past-footstep guide for booking a budget trip!
The good news is that many of the must-dos in DC – like Smithsonian museums, thou monuments and some tours – are admittedly gratuitous!
Considering we are budget-conscious travelers, our Washington DC planner features peak tips for free activities, affordable food, cheap transportation and budget accommodations.
How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Washington DC?
One of the biggest considerations for Washington DC trip planning is how many days to spend in the metropolis. Your conclusion should be based on a combination of your interests, budget and commanded time.
Nosotros think it is possible to squeeze the summit things to encounter in Washington DC into a long weekend itinerary – which is why we created a 3-Day Washington DC Vacation Planning Guide. That said, in that location are so many incredible places to visit in DC that visitors could easily spend 5 days in Washington DC or longer.
Review our 3 Day Itinerary Washington DC – then decide what sights are about interesting to you and adapt your trip plan according to your interests, time and budget. If y'all program to spend more than or less time in the city, take a look at our helpful alternating Washington DC itineraries at the end of the web log post.
What is the Best Month to Visit Washington DC?
To be honest, in that location are pros and cons for travel to Washington DC in every flavour.
Summers tend to be the busiest…and likewise the hottest. If yous plan your trip to Washington DC in June, July or Baronial, expect hot, humid conditions and large crowds (which means long lines and difficulty obtaining entry tickets for some sights).
Winters, on the other hand, tin be cold and snowy, which can be unfavorable for long days of sightseeing outdoors. Still, there are far fewer tourists to debate with when visiting DC attractions in wintertime – plus it is a nifty time of yr to visit the many free museums.
Spring is a popular time to plan trip to Washington DC – specially when the ruby-red blossoms reach their elevation. That said, springtime atmospheric condition tin exist wet and chilly – and the city sees an influx of tourists at cherry bloom season.
We call up autumn is an ideal time to plan a DC trip. The temperatures tend to be almost comfortable for sightseeing and the crowds are lighter. The weather, withal, can exist unpredictable…so brand sure y'all are prepared for the elements.
What is the Best Manner to Bout Washington DC?
Washington DC is a big city and the top attractions and must-see neighborhoods are spread throughout. Information technology is essential that you take a practiced Washington DC touring programme for your trip!
We like to explore on foot – and we have arranged our iii Days in DC Itinerary for an easy flowing – and easy-to-follow – tour of the city. Nosotros have done all the planning, you only need to do is get yourself around!
Visitors who don't want the hassle of sorting out directions or public transportation can opt instead to buy tickets on the Hop On Hop Off Bus, bring together a tour or hire a private tour guide.
WASHINGTON DC ITINERARY
Our Washington DC 3-24-hour interval Itinerary includes everything you need to plan your trip. Formatted in a solar day-by-day outline, our Itinerary for DC is easy to follow.
Not merely does our Washington DC Sightseeing Itinerary characteristic top attractions and experiences, just we also share tips on how to go there, where to stay and what to pack. Nosotros have made planning a holiday to DC as piece of cake every bit possible!
Salvage, Pin or Bookmark our Washington DC trip planner then that you lot tin access it during your DC trip!
Mean solar day 1 of Your Itinerary for Washington DC
On the beginning day of your Washington DC Iii-Mean solar day Itinerary, kick off your trip by visiting the almost iconic attractions: The White house and the National Mall. After taking in the sights, end your offset 24-hour interval at i of DC'due south all-time events.
The White House
Seeing the White Firm is absolutely essential on your Washington DC tour itinerary! The stately building has served as the home and part of every sitting president of the United States since John Adams in the year 1800. The White Business firm, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Artery, is an icon of America and a symbol of freedom and democracy in the Usa.
How To Visit The White Firm on your Washington DC 3 Solar day Itinerary
White Business firm tours are gratis, but they are offered on a very express ground and demand to be booked through your land congressman or diplomatic mission in advance. Information technology is required to book your tour at least 21 days in advance, but to ensure a spot, it is recommended to request the tour 3 months prior to your trip.
Best Views of the White House
If you exclude the White Business firm tour from your Washington DC vacation planner, y'all should notwithstanding get a look at the iconic building. Information technology is possible – through gates – to run into both the forepart and dorsum of the White House.
When you approach the White House from the north, you will have a view of the front end of the building from Pennsylvania Avenue. Then, walk effectually the White House complex on the east side, taking 15th Street (and passing the United states of america Treasury Building) to E Street. Walk along East Street to the back of the White House, visitors have a view of the south-facing portico beyond the White House S Backyard.
Pro Tip: Before you set up off for the White House, carve out enough time in your Washington DC itinerary for breakfast. We recommend starting your 24-hour interval with a hearty breakfast at Wicked Waffle, then walk through Lafayette Park to the White House.
The National Mall, Washington DC
Spending time on the National Mall is an absolute must for your Washington DC travel itinerary!
Stretching nearly 2 miles from the Capitol steps to the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall features a myriad of monuments, museums and must-run into sights. The Washington Monument stands at the center of the Mall and tree-lined paths through the park enable visitors to road their mode to top destinations.
National Mall Museums for Your DC Trip Planner
In that location are more than than 20 museums and galleries located on the Mall – 11 of which are world-course Smithsonian Museums. Visitors could easily spend a few days at the museums on the National Mall – simply that would get out piffling time for other sightseeing.
Instead, we suggest picking only ane or two National Mall museums to visit on Day 1 of your iii-Mean solar day DC trip. The Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum, and Holocaust Memorial Museum get our vote for top places to visit. As a bonus, all three of these museums are absolutely gratuitous!
The Best Washington DC Memorials and Monuments
When planning a trip to DC, there are dozens of monuments and memorials you could include in your Washington DC vacation itinerary. While you will certainly stumble on several, there are a few Memorials on the National Mall that y'all will want to make a point to see.
Washington Monument
The famed Washington Monument is a top attraction to exist included on your itinerary for Washington DC.
Proudly continuing in the center of the National Mall almost directly south of the White House, the Washington Monument reaches a height of 555 feet (making information technology the tallest obelisk in the globe). Congenital in the 1800s to honor the first president of the United States, the stone construction is circled by fifty American flags.
Pro Tip: If planning to visit the Washington Monument on your DC Itinerary, there are a few things to know. Tours of the Washington Monument are free – including the ascertainment deck – and then you won't want to miss it! That said, information technology is essential to make advance recommendations online (which incurs a small fee).
West End National Mall Monuments and Memorials
The west end of the National Mall is peppered with some of the about stunning and poignant memorials in the urban center (all of which are gratis to visit). Among the many, a few to specifically seek out are the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veteran Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
Tidal Basin Monuments and Shoreline Walk
On the south side of the west stop of the National Mall is the picturesque Tidal Basin. The modest trunk of h2o is encircled past a two-mile shoreline loop trail – and is brindled with memorials and scenic nature.
Washington DC Cherry Bloom Copse line the paths (a spectacular sight in jump, just pretty in fall, likewise!). Must-run across memorials forth the Tidal Basin route include the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial and the Martin Luther Rex Jr. Memorial.
Tips for Sightseeing the National Mall in DC
We have outlined what to do in Washington DC on the National Mall – but nosotros have a few tips to brand your sightseeing a niggling more enjoyable, too.
Lunch on the National Mall
If you are spending the unabridged first day of your Washington DC Three Day Itinerary on the National Mall, you will need to take a program for eating tiffin.
For a quick, uncomplicated dejeuner, consider grabbing local fare from a food truck (7th Street, 14th Street and Maryland Avenue are good places to find multiple food trucks). For visitors planning a trip to Washington DC on a budget, consider picking upwards picnic foods from a local grocer and eating somewhere along the Mall with an ballsy view of DC landmarks.
Another option is eating at ane of the government building cafeterias or museum restaurants. Eating lunch at a regime building deli might seem an odd selection for your Washington DC trip planer, merely the USDA Food Courtroom is an exception.
The building food court features an assortment of good for you dining options – including everything from a salad bar to sushi. Plus, the space is air conditioned and has clean restrooms! (Note that the nutrient court is accessed by non-employees via Wing iii.)
Getting Around the National Mall and Washington DC Sights
Day 1 of our 3 Day Washington DC Itinerary is packed with sightseeing – all of which is done in the style of a self-guided walking tour. Travelers with weary feet accept a few Washington DC sightseeing options.
Travelers visiting sights can residue their anxiety past utilizing the DC Circulator omnibus, which makes stops at top attractions on the National Mall. Rides are just $1 per trip and buses arrive near every 10 minutes! Detect more than info on the official website.
Alternatively, visitors tin rent a bicycle to see the sights on the Mall and effectually DC.
Plan Washington DC Trip with Guided Tour
Rather than programme a DIY route and walking tour to top Washington DC tourist attractions, upgrade your sightseeing experience with a full-24-hour interval guided tour of the sights – Find out more hither!
Program a Nighttime Out in Washington DC
On the first evening of your Washington DC tourist itinerary, plan a fun dark of entertainment! We recommend attending one of the metropolis's best events – either a game or a performance – but you could also plan for a night of eating and drinking in DC.
DC Sports
Every bit a sports-loving duo, we opted to get to a Washington Nationals baseball game game (because is there annihilation more than American than watching America's game in the state'southward capital city?). Make information technology a existent DC experience and get a famous Half Smoke from Ben's Chili Bowl (located inside the ballpark) for dinner.
If the Nats are not playing, the urban center also hosts the Wizards (NBA), Washington Football game (NFL), Capitals (NHL) and DC United (MLS soccer).
Washington DC Theater Events
If attention a theatrical operation is of more interest, you take plenty of options! Bank check what is playing at 1 of the famous theaters in Washington DC. Top picks are the National Theater (one of the longest operating theaters in the Usa), Ford's Theater (where President Lincoln was assassinated) or the Kennedy Center (where they offer complimentary daily performances, too!).
DC Nightlife at The Wharf
Alternatively (or in improver to a DC result), spend the first evening of your Washington DC weekend itinerary at The Wharf – one of the hippest entertainment districts in DC. Prepare along the Potomac waterfront, the district is an eating, drinking and shopping destination.
Pro Tip: Another fun mode to spend the evening is on a craft brewery tour! Sample suds from DC brewers and consume dinner on a guided tour of the Washington DC arts and crafts beer scene. Get the details!
Mean solar day 2 of Your Washington DC Trip Itinerary
On Day two of your 3 Days in Washington DC Itinerary, explore a few of the city's best districts, including Capitol Hill, Arlington and Georgetown. Programme on using public transportation to go betwixt these DC destinations.
Capitol Loma Neighborhood
Washington DC vacation planning would non exist complete without exploring Capitol Loma! The center of US politics, the Capitol Hill District features major attractions and top foodie spots.
The United States Capitol
Visiting the United States Capitol Building is essential when planning a trip to Washington DC!
The Capitol Building stands in the center of the Federal Commune – and is dwelling house to the The states Congress (which is comprised of both the Senate and the House of Representatives). The landmark building features a massive dome, which is topped past the Statue of Freedom.
From the steps of the US Capitol Building, the view due west encompasses the length of the Washington Mall, with the Washington Monument continuing tall in the centre and the Lincoln Memorial beyond it.
Tour the Capitol Building on Your Washington DC Trip Itinerary
When you plan a trip to Washington DC, we highly recommend taking a tour of the Capitol Edifice – and that is how nosotros first Day 2 of your Washington DC in iii Days Itinerary.
The guided tours of the United states Capitol Edifice are free and sometimes you lot can even sentinel Congress in session. Yet, accelerate reservations are required, and guests must attach to strict rules.
More Things To Do in Capitol Hill
Continue your exploration of the Capitol Colina district at Eastern Market, where you can bask tasty food and peruse local goods. Then, stroll through the historic Barracks Row – once part of the Navy M and ane of the urban center's oldest commercial districts, dating to 1801.
In improver to visiting the United states of america Capitol, there are other iconic buildings that you tin can bout on Twenty-four hour period two of your 3 day trip to Washington DC.
For case, you can likewise visit the US Supreme Court building (only open Monday through Fri), take a bout of the Library of Congress (closed Sundays) or explore the Belmont-Paul Women'southward Equality National Monument that details the history of Women's Rights in America (closed Mon and Tuesday).
Lunch in Capitol Hill
For luncheon, dine at i of the iconic Capitol Hill eateries. For something quick and inexpensive, get to Good Stuff Eatery, a fast food joint with astonishing burgers. We recommend getting the Prez Burger and Spike's Village Fries!
Other luncheon options are Mangiarlardo's (a family-owned Italian sandwich shop dating to 1953) or Rose's Luxury (which will likely have a line down the street).
Arlington National Cemetery
The next stop on Day 2 of your 3 Days in Washington DC Itinerary is the famous Arlington National Cemetery. From Capitol Hill, hop on the Metro (Blueish Line) to Arlington.
Arlington National Cemetery is a 624-acre war machine cemetery. Established in 1864 during the Ceremonious War, the cemetery is listed on the National Register of Celebrated Places. Us Presidents Taft and Kennedy are buried along with 400,000 American soldiers at Arlington.
What to See at Arlington Cemetery
Although visiting a cemetery may seem similar an odd thing to do on your vacation to Washington DC, it is a must-see!
In addition to the president and soldier grave sites, there are many monuments and memorials on the cemetery grounds. Nigh notable is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater. The tomb houses the remains of servicemen from WWI, WWII, the Korea War and the Vietnam State of war.
U.s. Army soldiers baby-sit the tomb 24 hours a day and in that location is a ceremonious Changing of the Guard every hour (and every half 60 minutes in the summertime).
Georgetown
Anyone planning a trip to DC should make the time to visit Georgetown – and a brusk Metro ride to Rosslyn Station and and so the cheap DC Circulator bus volition get yous there from Arlington Cemetery.
Located forth the Potomac River, Georgetown was established equally a trading post long before Washington DC existed. In fact, the entire commune is now labeled as a National Historic Landmark.
Things To Exercise in Georgetown DC
Over the decades, many DC elites have chosen Georgetown home – and the neighborhood is known for its posh bazaar shops and high-cease style stores. Still, shopping is merely i of the many reasons to visit Georgetown.
Active travelers tin can get to Key Span Boathouse to hire equipment for a river adventure – like kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. However, all visitors will enjoy a leisurely walk along the Georgetown Waterfront Promenade.
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath is besides terrific for picturesque treks. Exploring the Georgetown University campus is an excellent way to ease into the evening.
Other places of involvement in Georgetown are the Old Stone House, Tudor Place Historic House, the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Park and the National Cathedral.
Dinner in Georgetown
Stay in Georgetown on the second night of your DC Trip Itinerary for an entertaining evening. For something upscale, dine at the legendary Martin's Tavern, a family-run restaurant serving classic American fare since 1933 – then sip later on-dinner drinks overlooking the river at The Graham.
Visitors looking for something a little more coincidental should go to Church Hall for local craft beer, pub grub and arcade games – then toss a few back at Mr. Smith's, a fun piano bar. Or, if the campus crowd is more your scene, go hush-hush to The Tombs for burgers and pitchers of beer.
Pro Tip: Go a guided introduction to Georgetown on a Food and History Tour! Participants are led to locally-owned and historic spots while learning about the area's intriguing past. Get the details!
Day iii of Your Itinerary for Washington DC Trip
On the last day of your Itinerary for Washington DC in Three Days, delve deep into the Penn Quarter District (or travel exterior of the city to a nature park or the zoo) and end the nighttime with a divine dinner.
Penn Quarter
Delve deep into the Penn Quarter Commune, i of the about interesting districts in the metropolis. The once small historic neighborhood that is but eastward of the White House has turned into entertainment hub.
Things To Do in Washington DC Penn Quarter
Start with a coffee and croissant from Dolcezzo, a locals' favorite coffee and gelato shop in the CityCenterDC shopping commune – and then navigate on foot to the best sights in the neighborhood.
Chinatown
Once properly caffeinated, check out the other sophisticated shops before making your way due east into Chinatown. If yous walk along H Street, you stumble onto the Friendship Arch – an ornamental Chinese gate.
Pennsylvania Avenue
Walking along the diagonal Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House to the United States Capitol Building is a classic stroll to include in your DC itinerary.
The one.two-mile stretch betwixt the two government buildings is dubbed "America'southward Primary Street" and was 1 of the showtime planned streets in the city. The street is used for parades and protests – but is most notably known as the walking route that newly inaugurated presidents take to the White Business firm later being sworn in at the Capitol.
Pro Tip: Visitors planning a Washington DC Ane Day Itinerary can include Pennsylvania Artery in their trip plan by using the street to walk from the White House to Capitol Hill and so exploring the National Mall.
Penn Quarter Museums
Penn Quarter boasts some of the best museums in Washington DC.
Our peak pick is the National Athenaeum (which houses America'south almost treasured documents – like the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Beak of Rights). Other top museums in Penn Quarter are the National Portrait Gallery (a gratis Smithsonian Museum, which includes the American President Gallery) and Ford'south Theater (which can be toured with a guide).
Tiffin in Penn Quarter
Tiffin in the Penn Quarter poses a problem…only considering at that place are so many incredible eateries to choose from! Famed Chef Jose Andres has 3 restaurants in Penn (Oyamel, Jaleo and Zaytinya). Additionally, there are a slew of fantastic Asian restaurants in Chinatown (Daikaya gets rave reviews) and numerous American dining options, too (like Chophouse).
Washington DC Parks and the National Zoo
In the afternoon of the 3rd solar day of your Washington DC trip itinerary, escape the metropolis to ane of the city's best attractions featuring nature.
The famous Smithsonian National Zoological Park is one of the top sights in Washington DC. The zoo is free to enter – and highlights are the Giant Pandas, American Bison, Great Apes and the carousel.
One of our favorite parks near the city center is Summit Loma Park, which features fountains, statues and great views – and is also a favored picnic spot for locals.
Farther north is Rock Creek Park, which is a true natural precious stone! Hikers can wander the miles of trails that wind through the park – and at that place are other attractions, like horseback riding, playgrounds and historic forts.
Downtown DC Dinner and Drinks
Complete your Long Weekend in DC Itinerary with an epic meal at a celebrated restaurant where many presidents and most politicians have once dined.
Ii fine establishments are Old Ebbitt Grill and The Tabard Inn. The Old Ebbitt Grill, which was opened in 1856, is one of the well-nigh famous spots in the city and known for their oysters. The Tabard Inn Restaurant, located about Dupont Circle, dates to 1922 and is in an old rowhouse.
For a more casual DC mainstay, make your way to the U Street Corridor for a meal at Ben's Chili Basin, a chili canis familiaris articulation which has been frequented by heaps of celebrities – and former US Presidents.
Monuments at Nighttime
After dinner, stop your 3 Days in Washington DC Itinerary with an evening walk. The White Firm and the National Mall landmarks look spectacular lit upward at dark!
Or requite your feet a well deserved rest and bring together a jitney bout of the sights at night. Get the details!
DC Day Trip Ideas
While we think there are ample sights in the city centre to fill your Washington DC travel itinerary, some travelers may instead opt to take a Washington DC Twenty-four hours Trip.
Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria
Embark on a journeying into America'due south past on a half-day bout from Washington DC. Visit George Washington'southward Mount Vernon estate, tour his mansion and visit his tomb. Then travel by motorcoach through Old Town Alexandria, where you will see additional famous historical sights. Reserve your spot!
Gettysburg
Visit some of the most iconic sights in American history on a tour of Gettysburg. Height attractions on the bout include Cemetery Ridge, the Gettysburg Battlefield and the Shriver House Museum. Learn more than here!
Virginia Vino Tour
Travel into Virginia wine country and visit multiple wineries for tastings and snacks. The tour includes transportation from Washington DC. Book information technology here!
How Many Days in Washington DC?
Deciding how many days to visit Washington DC is one of the toughest parts near planning a trip to the metropolis. Nosotros recollect a Washington DC 3-day trip is the perfect corporeality of fourth dimension to get an introduction – which is why we outlined the perfect 3-Day DC Itinerary.
That said, it would be easy to programme to spend a week in Washington DC – or longer – without ever getting bored (peculiarly if you dear museums and United states History!).
How many days you need to visit Washington DC will depend on many factors, including your interests, budget and overall time-frame.
More Washington DC Itineraries
If y'all are planning a trip to Washington DC for 3 days, our above outline DC Itinerary is all that you lot need! That said, if you lot are trying to plan a trip to DC with more (or fewer) days, nosotros have some suggestions to make your Washington DC vacation planning a breeze!
1-Day Washington DC Itinerary
Planning a 1 Twenty-four hours in Washington DC Itinerary is an immense job…but non impossible! In order to maximize your time, you will want to take some time to carefully plan your trip.
How To Plan a One Day Trip to Washington DC
For first fourth dimension visitors to the city, we think the best way to create a Washington DC one-Solar day Itinerary is to simply follow our outline for Day i of our 3-Twenty-four hours Washington DC Itinerary planner. In addition to attention an event in the evening, we would propose spending time in the Penn Quarter and dining at a celebrated city establishment.
Washington DC Itinerary ii Days
Planning a Washington DC two-Day Itinerary is a little bit easier – information technology's just enough time to see the highlights, without feeling too overwhelmed. If you are going to plan a trip to DC for 2 days, you tin really cover some ground.
How To Plan 2 Days in Washington DC
With ii days in Washington DC, nosotros recommend following Days ane and 2 of our outlined Washington DC travel planner. This allows travelers to run across the best sights in the urban center and surrounding area. Again, we would recommend squeezing in some time in Penn Quarter, so perhaps dine there on Solar day 2 rather than eating in Georgetown.
Some other Washington DC 2 Day Itinerary
Alternatively, visitors could create a Washington DC in two Days itinerary that stays completely in the heart of the city past using Days one and 3 of our 3 perfect days in Washington DC outline. This 2-Day Washington DC Itinerary is ideal for people most interested in museums – and those who like all-time to notice sights on human foot (rather than hassling with public transportation or taxicabs).
Washington DC Itinerary 4 Days
With 4 days in Washington DC, visitors tin really get a feel for the city. Planning a DC trip for 4 days is relatively easy – specially when using our outlined iii-Day Washington DC Itinerary as a base.
How to See Washington DC in iv Days
To create a 4-Day Washington DC Itinerary, nosotros recommend using our three-Day Washington DC Suggested Itinerary as it is written – then, on the concluding twenty-four hour period, explore the city parks and zoo (or Penn Quarter if y'all spend Day 3 in nature). In the evening, get to the U Street Corridor (or historic eatery, if you went to Ben's Chili Bowl on Day iii) for dinner.
Another Washington DC four-Twenty-four hour period Itinerary
Another way to spend 24-hour interval iv of a Washington DC 4-Twenty-four hour period Itinerary is on a DC Day Trip – either a celebrated trip to Gettysburg or Mount Vernon or on a carefree bout of Virginia wineries.
Washington DC Itinerary 5 Days
Visitors creating a Washington DC 5-Day Itinerary tin fit a lot of sightseeing into a DIY Washington DC tour!
How To Plan a 5 24-hour interval Itinerary Washington DC
With five days in DC, nosotros recommend using all of our suggestions listed in the above Washington DC Itinerary 4 Days – including Penn Quarter, City Parks and Zoo and a Day Trip from DC.
New York, Boston, Washington Itinerary
Due to close proximity, it is possible to create a multiple East Coast urban center trip plan. Whether flying, driving or taking the train, with at least a week, visitors could easily run across New York Metropolis, Boston and Washington DC. For tips on how to plan a trip to DC, Boston and NYC, use our helpful guides: Weekend in Boston Itinerary and 4 Twenty-four hours New York Itinerary. Considering a stop in Philadelphia as well? Bang-up! Check out our Top Tips for a 24-hour interval in Philly!
Washington DC Trip Planner Tips
We want to help make planning a trip to DC a cakewalk – which starts with creating the all-time itinerary for Washington DC. Yet, we know in that location is more to your Washington DC vacation itinerary, than the sights to run across. To help, nosotros are sharing our height tips for your trip – like how to get at that place, where to stay and what to pack.
Brand Advanced Attraction Ticket Reservations
We have shared our all-time tips for how to plan a trip to Washington DC – but we have ane golden piece of communication that nosotros remember is essential.
Our meridian Washington DC vacation tip is this: Reserve tickets in advance…especially in the summertime!
The metropolis's top attractions see a alluvion of visitors every yr. While many sights are free, there are often long lines to get in due to overcrowding. However, many tourist sights now allow visitors to reserve time slots in advance – with a modest reservation fee (which is about $one USD). We think it is well worth the price to reserve tickets online, then that you don't waste your precious vacation time standing in line!
How To Get To Washington DC
Washington DC can be reached past plane, train, bus or machine. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is past flight – we are JetSetting Fools, after all! When we demand to buy aeroplane tickets, we start our search for the best airfare on SkyScanner.
Discover our best tips for booking affordable flights in our weblog post, How To Book The Best Flights.
DC Airports
There are three major airports near Washington DC: Ronald Reagan Washington National Aerodrome (DCA), Washington Dulles International Aerodrome (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).
Of the 3 Washington DC Airports, we prefer flying into Reagan National, equally it is by far the almost convenient. To get from DCA Drome to downtown DC, visitors can book a Private Transfer, hop on a Metro, grab a taxi or society an Uber.
Autobus and Railroad train Travel To DC
Both buses and trains terminate at Washington DC Spousal relationship Station. Greyhound and Commodities both offer autobus services and regional trains are operated past Amtrak. DC is continued to several destinations past railroad train – including New York, Philadelphia, Boston and Baltimore.
Where To Stay In Washington DC
Deciding where to stay is a major part of planning a trip to DC! With only three days in DC, nosotros think it is best to stay in the heart of the city center so that you lot tin easily access sights and transportation (when necessary).
One of our favorite places to stay in DC is Club Quarters Hotel. Although the rooms are small-scale, the location – just down the street from the White House – is superb! The hotel is also just steps from the Metro, which is extremely convenient when traveling to districts outside of the downtown. Best of all, notwithstanding, is that the hotel is affordable – specially as compared to nearby options. Check rates and availability!
Whether looking for a luxury stay or humble hostel, we recommend starting your search on Booking.com – like we exercise…and use our Top Tips for Booking Hotels!
What To Pack For Your 3-Day Trip To Washington DC
We have a few final tips on what to take to Washington DC on a trip! You tin read all of our Packing Hacks and get set up with our Packing List post.
Comfy Shoes for Your DC Trip
One of our top Washington DC sightseeing tips is to pack comfortable travel shoes! Nosotros cover some ground in our DC Itinerary – and you lot don't want your feet pain forth the route. I similar to habiliment lightweight shoes for women by Columbia – and Kris prefers wearing men's Merrell trail shoes.
Of grade, if the distances are too far for your liking, you can always buy tickets on the Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Tour that makes stops at all of the DC tourist attractions. Go tickets here!
Conditions Gear for your Trip to Washington DC
Washington DC experiences all 4 seasons – with hot and humid summers and common cold winters…and rain all year long.
Summer travelers should bring clothing that is breathable and lightweight – sunglasses, good sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat are likewise highly recommended. Wintertime visitors will need to pack a coat, chapeau and gloves; and layers are recommended if traveling to DC in the spring or autumn.
Because it can pelting any time of year, we likewise suggest bringing a packable raincoat or travel umbrella for your trip.
Travel Photographic camera for Your Trip to DC
Washington DC is decorated with historic sights and g monuments – all of which begged to be photographed. Rather than trying to capture the beauty of the city with your cell telephone, nosotros recommend using an actual camera. We travel with a DSLR Canon Insubordinate and use an everyday 18-135mm lens, which provides decent zoom capabilities. The camera is easy to utilize and comes bundled with heaps of accessories, making it perfect for beginner photographers.
Day Bag for Washington DC Sightseeing
Whether you lot travel with a suitcase of backpack, y'all volition also desire a great day pack to organize and secure all of your essential, everyday travel items. Just be aware that certain sights and monuments require pocketbook screening (and, perhaps, research what items are non immune earlier packing your 24-hour interval handbag).
Washington DC Travel Guide
On our nigh contempo Washington DC trip, we used the DK Eyewitness pocket book for Top ten DC Travel – which was a swell accompaniment for sightseeing! The book provided helpful data near the history of Washington DC, facts most sights and data regarding attractions. Plus, the small book easily fit into my day pack!
Start planning your trip to Washington DC! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning folio for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, accept a look at our Travel Guides folio!
Nosotros Desire To Know: What would you add to our Washington DC Itinerary? Exercise you have whatsoever tips for spending 3 days in Washington DC? Tell u.s.a. in the comments!
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