Washington DC is a city rich in history and culture, with plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in visiting iconic landmarks, exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the nation’s capital, this 7-day itinerary has got you covered.
With so much to see and do in Washington DC, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive itinerary, complete with detailed information on the best activities and attractions for each day. From visiting the White House to exploring the Smithsonian museums, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and exciting city.
ITINERARY:
Day 1:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Start your day with a visit to the White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. Take a tour of the historic building and learn about its history and architecture.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants near the White House, such as Old Ebbitt Grill or The Capital Grille.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you can explore the nation’s past through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a walk around the Tidal Basin and the National Mall, where you can see famous landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
Day 2:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Begin your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where you can learn about the history of aviation and space exploration.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many food trucks or street vendors in the area.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, where you can learn about the history and architecture of the building, as well as the legislative process of the United States government.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where you can explore the natural world through a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.
Day 3:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Start your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of American Indian, where you can learn about the history and culture of Native American tribes.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Dupont Circle area, such as Le Diplomate or Komi.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, where you can learn about the history and culture of African Americans in the United States.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, where you can see portraits of famous Americans and learn about the history of portraiture in the United States.
Day 4:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Begin your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of American Art, where you can see a collection of American art spanning from the colonial period to the present day.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Penn Quarter area, such as Zaytinya or Oyamel.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, take a stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood, where you can see historic homes and shops, as well as the famous C&O Canal.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals from around the world.
Day 5:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Start your day with a visit to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, where you can see a collection of American art spanning from the colonial period to the present day.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Chinatown area, such as China Doll or Ping Pong Dim Sum.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you can explore the nation’s past through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, where you can learn about the history and culture of Native American tribes.
Day 6:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Begin your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, where you can learn about the history and culture of African Americans in the United States.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the H Street Corridor, such as Toki Underground or Sticky Rice.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, take a walk through the historic Eastern Market neighborhood, where you can see historic homes and shops, as well as the famous Eastern Market building.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, where you can see portraits of famous Americans and learn about the history of portraiture in the United States.
Day 7:
- 9:00am-12:00pm: Start your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you can explore the nation’s past through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
- 12:00pm-1:00pm: Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Federal Triangle area, such as The Old Ebbitt Grill or The Capital Grille.
- 1:00pm-3:00pm: After lunch, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where you can explore the natural world through a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.
- 3:00pm-5:00pm: End your day with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of American Indian, where you can learn about the history and culture of Native American tribes.
With so much to see and do in Washington DC, this 7-day itinerary is just a starting point. There’s always something new to discover in this vibrant and exciting city, so don’t be afraid to explore on your own and make your trip your own. Enjoy your journey to Washington DC!
