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Find the perfect itinerary for you
Seeking the Washington DC 3-day itinerary that feels tailor-made? This dynamic capital transforms to delight every type of visitor—captivating families, immersing history and art enthusiasts in the nation's cultural treasures, and offering solo explorers the perfect balance of iconic experiences and personal discoveries.
Washington DC for families with kids
Washington DC for history and art lovers
Washington DC for solo travelers
Day 1
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Lincoln's Waffle Shop is a no-frills diner near Ford’s Theatre, serving up nostalgia on a plate. Go for the golden Belgian waffles—yes, the namesake lives up to, or the waffle-and-fried-chicken combo if you're feeling bold. Kids will love the chocolate chip pancakes, and the counter seating means they can watch their breakfast sizzle.
Morning: National Air and Space Museum
If your kid thinks space is cool, wait ‘til they stand under the real Apollo 11. The Air and Space Museum turns starry-eyed wonder into full-blown obsession, with rockets, moon rocks, and aircraft you can almost touch. It’s like walking through a sci-fi movie… except it’s all real, and way louder.
Nearest stop: Air & Space Museum
Highlights:
- Touch a lunar rock, see actual astronaut suits, and gawk at the Wright brothers’ plane—all in one intergalactic afternoon.
- Don’t miss the planetarium shows; they’re like cosmic rollercoasters for your eyeballs, and they’re actually educational.
- Flight simulators let older kids (and fun-loving parents) dogfight like aces or do a stomach-dropping barrel roll.
Pro tip: Skip the long gift shop lines and hit the tiny kiosk near the exit—same cool stuff, less chaos.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: 10-minute ride to your next attraction by DC Big Bus tours.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: L’Enfant Bar & Grill is the kind of spot where you can get a steak salad while your kid munches on buttery grilled cheese and everyone wins. The blackened salmon sandwich is a sleeper hit, and the crab cake BLT has a loyal following. The vibe is chill, with big windows perfect for people-watching while you sneak a fry.
Attraction: L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum
From decoding secret messages to crawling through an air vent like a spy-in-training, the International Spy Museum is every kid’s dream field trip gone rogue. Pair that with a quick wander through L’Enfant Plaza’s open-air spaces, and it’s an undercover adventure with snacks nearby.
Nearest stop: L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum
Highlights:
- The museum gives kids a secret identity they’ll actually use, with missions that unfold as they explore.
- See real gadgets used by Cold War spies—yes, there’s a lipstick pistol and even a pigeon with a camera.
- L’Enfant Plaza offers room to run plus easy access to snacks, shops, and parent-friendly caffeine.
Pro tip: Don’t rush the top floor. The exhibits there dive deep into real missions and spy fails with interactive games to boot.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: You're 8 minutes away from the next stop by bus.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: The Wharf
Waterfront strolls, live music, and enough gelato and street performers to keep kids buzzing until bedtime—The Wharf is where DC loosens its tie. It’s the kind of place where families can eat, explore, and watch boats float by without anyone uttering the words “I’m bored.”
Nearest stop: The Wharf & Potomac Boat Cruise
Highlights:
- The firepits on Recreation Pier are the coolest family photo op in DC, and they’re actually fun to swing on.
- Rent a swan boat (yes, it’s ridiculous, yes, it’s worth it) and pedal your way around the marina like a feathery spy.
- Live music often pops up on the Transit Pier stage, and it’s casual enough that dancing kids are basically encouraged.
Pro tip: If someone in the family loves s’mores, head to Camp Wharf—DIY kits and a real fire pit is the ultimate snack-time magic.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Walk 5 minutes to reach the dinner spot.
Late night (8pm - 12am)
Dinner: Come for the crispy cod, stay for the thick-cut chips dusted with sea salt and vinegar dreams at Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips. Not into seafood? The fried chicken sandwich is a crunchy, saucy backup plan and the kids’ meal comes with mini fish bites, chips, and a drink—without any yelling from the kitchen, promise.
Day 2
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Start the day with comfort at Founding Farmers. Their chicken & waffles come stacked and saucy, the avocado toast is not shy with toppings, and the Farmers Breakfast with eggs, hash, and meats covers all the bases. Pancakes are fluffier than a zoo panda and perfect for kids. Expect a cozy, rustic-chic vibe with a whiff of maple syrup in the air.
Attraction: National Zoo
The National Zoo isn’t just a zoo—it’s a full-on animal adventure and parent-approved. From giant pandas to tiny frogs, it’s 163 acres of “did you see that?!” moments. Kids can roam, roar, and run wild while learning something like science.
Nearest stop: Union Station
Highlights:
- Watch the giant pandas flop, chomp, and roll in the Asia Trail—Bao Bao might just steal the show.
- Amazonia’s indoor rainforest has monkeys swinging overhead and piranhas lurking below—yes, it's that wild.
- Kids' Farm lets little ones brush goats, moo at cows, and pretend they're running the barn.
Pro tip: Download the Smithsonian’s free Zoo app—it helps you track feedings, talks, and where the heck the elephants are hiding.
Suggested time to spend: 3 hours
Time needed to next stop: Hop back on—15 minutes to your next stop.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Open City at the National Cathedral serves up chill vibes with a side of cathedral views. Go for the Huevos Rancheros with a smoky salsa punch or the creamy tomato-basil penne. Kids can get grilled cheese with fruit—simple, no bribes required. It's casual, colorful, and perfect for a midday reset before climbing cathedral towers.
Attraction: National Cathedral
This Gothic beauty looks like it was lifted from a fairy tale—and yes, there’s a Darth Vader gargoyle if you know where to look. It’s not all hush-hush and hymnals, as you can climb towers, hunt down quirky carvings, and catch a rainbow in the stained glass. It’s part Hogwarts, part history lesson, all wow.
Nearest stop: The White House & Willard Hotel
Highlights:
- The stained glass “Space Window” has a real moon rock in it—NASA nerds and dreamers, take note.
- Walk the Bishop’s Garden, where stone paths twist through roses, herbs, and medieval garden magic.
- Try the Tower Climb: 333 steps to sweeping views and epic bragging rights.
Pro tip: The lower-level crypt has cool mini-chapels and a quiet nook for a snack break or stroller moment.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Take the 25-minute ride to your next can't-miss.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Georgetown Waterfront Park
This riverside stretch is the cool-down lap your family day deserves. Think breezy walks, splash fountains, ice cream carts, and people-watching gold. It’s stroller-friendly, kid-happy, and sunset-stunning.
Nearest stop: Lincoln Memorial & Korean War Memorial
Highlights:
- The dancing water fountains double as a splash zone—an instant hit with kids in need of a cooldown.
- Riverfront benches and big grassy lawns are picnic-ready and perfect for chasing ducks or each other.
- Views of the Kennedy Center, kayaks, and sailboats give parents something scenic too.
Pro tip: Bring towels or a change of clothes. The fountains are fun, and soggy socks are uncomfortable.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Dinner is 2 minutes away on foot.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Right on the waterfront, Farmers Fishers Bakers nails the cozy-chic vibe with river views and a menu that doesn’t skimp. Their shrimp & grits are bold and buttery, sushi rolls are surprisingly great, and the skillet cornbread? Legendary. Kids can score mac & cheese or mini burgers and soft-serve if they've behaved... or even if they haven’t.
Day 3
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Busboys and Poets is an artsy, book-filled café that serves up way more than just coffee. The sweet potato pancakes are a favorite, while the shrimp & grits pack some Southern sass. The avocado toast is also a hit for the veggie crowd. Meanwhile, your little ones will be all over the French toast with a side of fruit. Cozy, colorful, and conversation-starting.
Attraction: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
It’s not every day you get to meet a 31,000-pound dinosaur and a giant squid before lunch. The Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum is an absolute wonderland for kids who love animals, glittery gems, and things with way too many legs. Educational? Sure. But it also totally rocks (pun intended).
Nearest stop: Natural History Museum
Highlights:
- Meet the towering T. rex and other fossilized giants in the Hall of Dinosaurs—prehistoric jaw-drops guaranteed.
- See Hope Diamond sparkle in the Hall of Geology, then get wowed by crystals bigger than your head.
- Explore the Butterfly Pavilion, where live butterflies float around like confetti you can't catch.
Pro tip: Head to the Q?rius Discovery Room, as it's a hands-on science heaven with microscopes, bones, and real fossils to touch.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Back on DC hop-on hop-off bus: next destination in 5 minutes.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: At National Museum of American History’s Café, try the roast turkey club with house-made chips or the mac and cheese. The flatbread pizza is a solid hit, and there's a kid's meal with grilled cheese and fruit that actually gets eaten. Easygoing, bright, and perfect for a mid-museum energy refuel.
Attraction: National Museum of American History
From Lincoln’s top hat to the original Star-Spangled Banner, this museum is like time-traveling through pop culture, politics, and nostalgia. It’s where history gets personal—and yes, they even have Kermit the Frog.
Nearest stop: The White House & Willard Hotel
Highlights:
- See Dorothy’s ruby slippers, Kermit the Frog, and other screen legends in the “Entertainment Nation” exhibit.
- Walk through “America on the Move” with vintage trains, trolleys, and a 1940s gas station you can actually step into.
- The “First Ladies” exhibit features dazzling gowns and presidential White House trivia with a fashion twist.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the Spark!Lab—a STEM-heavy space where you can invent, tinker, and test wacky ideas hands-on.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Your next attraction is just 17 minutes on the bus ride.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Tidal Basin
This isn't just a body of water with pretty trees—it’s DC’s ultimate chill zone, ringed by monuments and made for slow strolls, paddle boats, and photo ops. During cherry blossom season? Pure magic. But even off-season, it’s a peaceful, scenic breather after a day of museum marathoning.
Nearest stop: Jefferson Memorial
Highlights:
- Rent a paddle boat and drift past the Jefferson Memorial like you're in a postcard. Great for lazy adventurers.
- Kids can race each other between the cherry trees or spot ducks and turtles from the walking trail.
- The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial adds a thoughtful and powerful pause, carved into granite with purpose.
Pro tip: There’s minimal shade, so pack a small umbrella or sun hats even late in the day.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Take a 30-minute ride to your dinner spot.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Café Berlin serves hearty German comfort food in a cozy rowhouse with a leafy patio. Try the Jägerschnitzel (breaded pork cutlet with mushroom gravy) or bratwurst with tangy sauerkraut. For kids, there are pretzel bites, crispy fries, and chicken schnitzel that go down easily.
Day 1
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Blue Duck Tavern is a sleek West End gem bringing a modern twist to rustic Americana, served in a space that feels like a posh colonial farmhouse. Try the wood-fired duck hash, their flaky buttermilk biscuits, and the eggs Benedict with smoked ham.
Attraction: National Gallery of Art
A treasure trove of masterpieces spanning centuries, this gallery is split between a neoclassical West Building and a modernist East. Whether you’re swooning over da Vinci or puzzling over Pollock, it’s an elegant rabbit hole for art lovers.
Nearest stop: US Capitol at Garfield Circle
Highlights:
- Marvel at da Vinci’s Ginevra de’ Benci—his only painting in the Americas, and she’s staring straight into your soul.
- The underground concourse between the two buildings features a glowing light tunnel worthy of an art-world sci-fi movie.
- The Sculpture Garden outside is a refreshing breather with oversized art, shady benches, and in winter, an ice rink.
Pro tip: Take the free highlights tour, as they’re short, witty, and offer juicy artist gossip you won’t find in textbooks.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Take the DC Big Bus tour—15 minutes to your next destination.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Pavilion Café, a sun-soaked café is tucked inside the National Gallery’s Sculpture Garden, with scenic views. Order the roasted turkey sandwich with brie and cranberry mayo, their beloved tomato basil soup, and a spinach feta tart. Grab a seat outside—it’s like lunching in an open-air art installation.
Attraction: Smithsonian American Art Museum
Housed in a Greek Revival building that once served as the Patent Office, this museum captures the evolution of American identity through brushstrokes, neon signs, and folk masterpieces—this place is visual storytelling at its finest.
Nearest stop: City Center & Chinatown
Highlights:
- Wander through the Luce Foundation Center—three levels of glass cases packed with 3,000+ works, including hidden gems and curiosities.
- The collection spans colonial portraits to modern protest art, every room shifts tone, mood, and political spice.
- Don't miss the Lunder Conservation Center, one of the few places where you can watch art being restored in real time.
Pro tip: Look out for special rotating exhibits. They often spotlight underrepresented artists or major American movements.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: A short 15-minute bus ride gets you there.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Library of Congress
This is a Renaissance palace masquerading as a library. The Library of Congress is a symphony of marble, mosaics, and mahogany, with more books, maps, and manuscripts than any other library on the planet. If you geek out over art, history, or architecture, this is holy ground.
Nearest stop: US Capitol at Garfield Circle
Highlights:
- The Main Reading Room is a domed dream with Thomas Jefferson’s book collection within arm’s reach.
- Check out original drafts of the Gettysburg Address and handwritten letters from historical icons.
- Marvel at the ceiling frescoes, tiled floors, and stained glass skylights. It’s basically an art museum with footnotes.
Pro tip: Grab the free visitor’s guide, as it includes art details and symbolism most folks miss while staring at the ceiling.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Just 5 minutes of walking to reach dinner.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Butterworth’s chef Bart Hutchins crafts dishes like lamb tartare with foie gras and pheasant pâté, complemented by seasonal vegetarian options such as grilled white asparagus. The ambiance exudes timeless elegance, making it a perfect finale for a day steeped in art and history.
Day 2
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Le Diplomate is a DC brunch favorite. Order the pillowy ricotta pancakes, steak frites that could make a French chef weep, and a pain au chocolat that should probably have diplomatic immunity.
Attraction: Holocaust Memorial Museum
This museum is a deeply moving, rigorously documented account of the Holocaust told through artifacts, survivor voices, and stark design. It’s a must for anyone who wants to understand the human cost of history and how memory can serve as resistance.
Nearest stop: L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum
Highlights:
- The three-floor exhibition traces Nazi rise to power, genocide, and liberation with over 900 artifacts and heart-stopping detail.
- Don’t skip the Tower of Faces, a haunting wall of photographs from one Jewish village, wiped out in 1941.
- The Hall of Remembrance offers a quiet, circular sanctuary where you can light a candle and pause with the weight of it all.
Pro tip: Talk to the volunteers, as some are survivors or descendants, and their stories bring an extra layer of perspective and depth.
Suggested time to spend: 2.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Take the 10-minute walk to your next can't-miss.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Steps away from the White House, Old Ebbitt Grill is where oysters meet politics. Locals swear by the oysters Rockefeller (baked oysters topped with herbed butter and breadcrumbs). Then go classic with the crab cakes or the bourbon-glazed meatloaf. Mahogany interiors, velvet booths, and portraits of presidents? It’s DC on a plate.
Attraction: National Museum of African American History and Culture
Bold, layered, and unflinchingly honest, this museum tells the sweeping story of Black America—from the shackles of slavery to cultural revolutions in art, music, and politics. Be ready for an emotional, eye-opening journey on every floor.
Nearest stop: L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum
Highlights:
- Descend into history with lower-level galleries tracing the brutal roots of slavery and the path to freedom.
- The Community galleries upstairs shine with Black achievements in sports, activism, and the arts, including Chuck Berry’s Cadillac.
- Don’t miss the visual art gallery: Romare Bearden collages, Lorna Simpson photos, and a few knockout pieces by Alma Thomas.
Pro tip: The building itself is a tribute! Check out the filigree bronze panels, inspired by African American ironwork from New Orleans.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Take a 30-minute ride to your dinner spot.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: The Phillips Collection
Tucked into a historic Dupont Circle townhouse, The Phillips Collection blends classic charm with modern masterpieces. It’s America’s first museum of modern art, and it feels more like stepping into someone’s very sophisticated and very well-curated home.
Nearest stop: Union Station
Highlights:
- Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating Party lives here, and yes, it’s as dreamy and sun-dappled as you’d hope in person.
- The Rothko Room was designed for maximum introspective brooding—just you and the color fields.
- Rotating exhibitions often feature underrepresented artists and bold contemporary themes with historical roots.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the Music Room, as this chandeliered gallery hosts pop-up performances and once housed Duncan Phillips himself.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: 15-minute walk to your next food stop.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Slip through the ivy-draped entrance of Iron Gate, and you're in a candlelit courtyard that feels like a Mediterranean villa. The shareable mezze is the move—try the wood-roasted carrots with labneh and the crispy halloumi with date molasses. For mains, the spit-roasted lamb shoulder is rich, fragrant, and slow-cooked to melt-in-the-mouth status.
Day 3
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Located in a historic building, The Hamilton serves up an upscale, American breakfast. Try the eggs Benedict with creamy hollandaise or the indulgent blueberry pancakes. The Southern fried chicken biscuit with spicy honey is a local favorite and definitely worth a bite.
Attraction: Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is one of America’s most sacred grounds, serving as the final resting place for over 400,000 veterans and military personnel. With its rich history dating back to the Civil War, it offers a profound journey through the nation's legacy.
Nearest stop: Arlington Cemetery
Highlights:
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier holds a powerful presence, where the Changing of the Guard is a must-see ceremony.
- Pay your respects at the John F. Kennedy Memorial, the final resting place of one of America’s most iconic presidents.
- Explore the Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee, which provides insight into the complex history of the Civil War.
Pro tip: Visit the Memorial Amphitheater to learn about its role in major state events.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Ride 15 minutes and arrive at your next highlight.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: When hunger strikes after a morning of history, Pentagon City Mall is the perfect stop. This bustling mall has everything from grab-and-go eats to sit-down meals. The ShackBurger at Shake Shack hits the spot. Or, if you're looking to keep it light, their Asian-style Bowl is fresh, flavorful, and filling.
Attraction: Pentagon Memorial
The Pentagon Memorial is a beautiful yet somber tribute to the lives lost in the 9/11 attacks. The memorial features 184 illuminated benches, each one etched with the name of a victim. It’s a space designed for reflection, offering a chance to connect with history in a quiet, meaningful way.
Nearest stop: Lincoln Memorial North & Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Highlights:
- The illuminated benches offer a unique, thoughtful way to reflect on each life lost, with the arrangement representing the victims' ages.
- The flowing water features scattered throughout symbolize the flow of life, offering a peaceful contrast to the somberness of the memorial.
- Pay your respects at the Memorial Plaza, a spot where visitors often leave flowers and personal notes.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial Visitor Center for deeper context and personal stories from the day.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time needed to next stop: On the bus: 40 minutes to your next stop.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: World War II Memorial
Standing proudly between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, it honors the 16 million Americans who served during the war. Its design strikes a balance between grandiosity and quiet reverence, with 56 granite pillars symbolizing the U.S. states and territories.
Nearest stop: World War II Memorial
Highlights:
- The Rainbow Pool offers a tranquil spot, especially at sunset when the light reflects off the water, creating a stunning scene.
- Granite pillars surround the memorial, each one representing a state or territory, and are inscribed with their names at the time of the war.
- The Freedom Wall, with its 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 Americans who died in the conflict, offers a powerful visual reminder of the war’s impact.
Pro tip: Take a few moments to read the inscriptions on the pillars for an extra layer of context.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Stroll 20 minutes and you're there.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Marcel's by Robert Wiedmaier is where French and Belgian flavors meet. Try their signature pan-seared foie gras, roast duck breast, or the classic steak frites. The warm, refined atmosphere and impeccable service make it perfect for an evening to remember. Pair your meal with a wine recommendation from their carefully curated list!
Day 1
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Start your day at Compass Coffee, a local favorite known for its smooth brews and inviting atmosphere. Pair your coffee with a buttery croissant or a hearty breakfast sandwich. The minimalist decor and communal tables make it a perfect spot to relax before your day starts.
Attraction: United States Capitol
Explore the heart of American democracy at the United States Capitol. Delve into the rich history and architecture of this iconic building, gaining insight into the nation's legislative process.
Nearest stop: US Capitol at Garfield Circle
Highlights:
- Visit Emancipation Hall to see the original plaster model of the Statue of Freedom and other significant sculptures.
- Discover the Exhibition Hall's interactive displays, including documents signed by George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
- Watch a short film in the Capitol Visitor Center's theater, providing an overview of Congress's role and history.
Pro tip: Bring a journal to jot down thoughts or sketch the impressive architecture—it's a great way to reflect on your visit.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Catch the DC hop-on hop-off bus—only 20 minutes to the next site.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Tucked near the Archives, Teaism serves up Asian-inspired comfort food with a side of serenity. Try the salmon ochazuke (rice in green tea broth), the bento-style curry chicken, or a salty oat cookie that’s weirdly addictive. It’s casual, cozy, and tea-scented—ideal for recharging midday.
Attraction: Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle)
Step into the Smithsonian Castle, the red sandstone landmark that serves as the gateway to the Smithsonian museums. Gather information, plan your museum visits, and appreciate the building's unique architecture.
Nearest stop: Washington Monument East/West
Highlights:
- Explore the Visitor Center's exhibits to get an overview of all Smithsonian offerings.
- Visit the crypt of James Smithson, the institution's enigmatic founder.
- Admire the Gothic Revival architecture and learn about the building's history through informative displays.
Pro tip: Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the Castle—they're perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time needed to next stop: Climb back on and ride for 15 minutes and you're there at your next destination.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Chinatown
Experience the vibrant energy of D.C.'s Chinatown, a neighborhood blending rich history with modern flair. You can explore unique shops, enjoy diverse cuisines, and take in the colorful architecture.
Nearest stop: City Center & Chinatown
Highlights:
- Snap a photo of the iconic Friendship Archway, a symbol of cultural pride and artistry.
- Discover the neighborhood's history through plaques and preserved buildings.
- Enjoy street performances and local events that often enliven the area.
Pro tip: Check out local event listings; Chinatown frequently hosts festivals and cultural celebrations.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: The restaurant’s just a 2-minute walk away.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Just a short walk from Chinatown, Daikaya Ramen Shop offers a cozy atmosphere and flavorful Sapporo-style ramen. Enjoy the rich miso broth, tender noodles, and a variety of toppings at the counter seating. It's a satisfying end to a day of exploration.
Day 2
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Couch-filled, espresso-slinging Tryst is where DC creatives come to caffeinate and contemplate since 1998. Grab a Nutella latte and pair it with their goat cheese scramble or the hearty breakfast burrito. Feeling sweet? Their Belgian waffle with fresh berries is a solo traveler's edible hug.
Attraction: National Museum of Women in the Arts
Meet your cultural power-up. This is the world’s only major museum solely dedicated to championing women artists—historic, iconic, and wildly overlooked. It’s bold, thought-provoking, and refreshingly unfiltered. You won’t find wallflower art here.
Nearest stop: City Center & Chinatown
Highlights:
- See Frida Kahlo, Mary Cassatt, and Amy Sherald shine without being footnotes in someone else’s legacy.
- Temporary exhibits tackle gender, power, and identity with unflinching honesty. Each visit feels like a new conversation.
- The museum building? A neoclassical gem from 1908 that once housed a Masonic temple—talk about glow-ups.
Pro tip: Want even more context? Use the NMWA's digital guide to dig deeper into featured artists—a great solo companion.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: It's a 15-minute trip to the next highlight.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Zaytinya brings bold Eastern Mediterranean mezze to downtown DC, thanks to José Andrés. Go for the creamy, garlicky hummus, the legendary crispy Brussels sprouts with coriander seed and barberries, and the lamb bahar, a spiced lamb kebab served over earthy, cinnamon-scented tabbouleh.
Attraction: National Museum of the American Indian
Striking from the outside and soulful within, this museum isn’t just about Native American history—it’s told by Native voices. This is your chance to listen deeply, reflect, and unlearn in the best possible way. It’s more personal than expected, and that’s the point.
Nearest stop: L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum
Highlights:
- The “Americans” exhibit cleverly shows how Native symbols are everywhere—Super Bowl teams, city names, and even butter tubs.
- The Potomac Atrium, with its curved limestone and towering prism skylight, is stunning.
- Lelawi Theater’s multimedia film surrounds you with landscape, history, and ceremony. It’s short, immersive, and worth it.
Pro tip: Check the daily schedule for storytelling sessions or hands-on demos—they're often intimate and interactive.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: This next must-see is 30 minutes away—worth the ride.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Dupont Circle
A relaxed mix of art, politics, and café culture, Dupont Circle is where you go to unwind without zoning out. The fountain’s a local hangout, embassies line the streets, and historic charm runs deep without being fussy.
Nearest stop: The White House & Willard Hotel
Highlights:
- The central fountain is designed by the same duo behind the Lincoln Memorial, and it's great for people-watching.
- Kramerbooks & Afterwords has been serving up novels and nosh since the 70s—think late hours, sharp reads, and great wine.
- The circle’s triangle parks are full of sculptures, chess tables, pop-up musicians, and locals playing speed rounds like it’s the U.S. Open.
Pro tip: If you’re into embassies, walk up Massachusetts Ave. during golden hour—it’s architecture, history, and quiet grandeur all in one.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: 20-minute ride to your dinner spot.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Jaleo brings vibrant Spanish tapas to the heart of DC. Must-tries include their patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with spicy tomato sauce) and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). Perfect for solo diners looking to savor small plates and unique Spanish wines in a bustling, friendly setting.
Day 3
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Start your day in style at Café du Parc, a charming French bistro. Dig into their flaky croissants or opt for their savory, egg-filled quiches. For something heartier, the duck confit hash is a showstopper, combining tender duck with crispy potatoes. Whether you’re savoring a coffee or enjoying a simple brekkie, this spot sets the tone for a fabulous day in DC.
Attraction: Smithsonian National Museum of African Art
Step into the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, where centuries of culture and creativity collide in a stunning collection of art from the African continent. From intricate masks to bold contemporary works, immerse yourself in the history, heritage, and evolving artistry of Africa.
Nearest stop: Washington Monument East/West
Highlights:
- Explore the timeless beauty of African masks, textiles, and sculptures that span diverse cultures and time periods.
- The museum’s contemporary section is an electrifying mix of cutting-edge art from some of Africa’s most celebrated artists.
- Don’t miss the “Africa Collection”, showcasing rare cultural artifacts from across the continent, each with a story to tell.
Pro tip: Stop by the museum shop for handcrafted treasures you won’t find anywhere else, perfect for taking home a piece of the culture.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: The next must-see is 30 minutes away by bus.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Known for its upscale vibe and fresh offerings, Joe’s Seafood serves seafood that feels like an event. Their stone crab claws, served chilled with mustard sauce, are a must-try. Don’t miss the crab cakes, packed with flavor, and the juicy prime steak.
Attraction: National Geographic Museum
Dive into the history of human adventure from the breathtaking story of ancient civilizations to the cutting-edge expeditions of today’s scientists and explorers. Whether it's a journey through hidden tombs, a peek into natural wonders, or real-world issues facing our planet, this museum will leave you feeling inspired.
Nearest stop: The White House & Willard Hotel
Highlights:
- Explore fascinating exhibits like “The Tomb of the Unknown Explorer”, where the past meets cutting-edge archaeology.
- Interactive displays give you the chance to virtually engage with the most significant explorations in human history.
- Be sure to check out “The Nature Lab”, where you can dive deeper into the natural world with immersive experiences.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on special exhibitions—these temporary shows offer a deep dive into some truly awe-inspiring discoveries.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time needed to next stop: Rejoin the bus route—30 minutes to the next point.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Korean War Memorial
A powerful tribute to those who served in the war, blending art and history in a hauntingly beautiful way. The striking statues of soldiers walking through a field evoke the intense emotions of the era. The reflective wall adds another layer, inviting quiet reflection.
Nearest stop: Lincoln Memorial & Korean War Memorial
Highlights:
- The 19 stainless-steel statues of soldiers, representing troops from various branches, seem to march through a field of juniper bushes.
- The Wall of Remembrance—reflecting the sky—honors the 36,574 Americans who lost their lives in the conflict.
- At night, the statues seem almost lifelike when illuminated, providing a dramatically different experience from daytime visits.
Pro tip: Look out for the small plaques nearby, which offer quotes from veterans and highlight lesser-known stories of the war.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time needed to next stop: Dinner’s waiting—20 minutes on foot.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: The Prime Rib offers a throwback to classic fine dining, where you’re greeted by white tablecloths, jazz, and the aroma of perfectly aged prime rib. Don’t miss the tender prime rib (cooked to your liking) and the lobster tail, which pairs well with their signature martini.