I, Daniel Schwen, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3-Day Washington, D.C. Itinerary

Washington, D.C., the U.S. capital, is known for its iconic landmarks like the White House, Capitol, and National Mall. It's a hub of history, politics, and culture, offering world-class museums, memorials, and vibrant neighborhoods along the Potomac River.

Day 1: National Mall and Capitol Hill

• Breakfast: Start your day at Founding Farmers (near Foggy Bottom), a cozy spot known for its farm-to-table breakfasts.
• National Mall: Begin at the U.S. Capitol. Book a tour to explore the Capitol building and its visitor center. Don't forget to visit the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court nearby.

• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at The Capitol Café or head over to Good Stuff Eatery for one of their iconic burgers.
• Smithsonian Museums: Spend the afternoon exploring the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of American History .

• National Gallery of Art : Spend a couple of hours exploring both the West and East buildings if you're into art.

• Monument Walk: As the sun sets, take a scenic walk around the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. The monuments are beautifully lit at night, and the Reflecting Pool makes for a stunning sight.
• Dinner: Head to Old Ebbitt Grill, a classic D.C. restaurant near the White House, perfect for a relaxing dinner.

Day 2: Museums and Memorials

• Breakfast: Stop at Busboys and Poets in the U Street area for breakfast and some book browsing.
• The White House: Kick off the day with a visit to the White House Visitor Center .

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Le Diplomate on 14th Street, a bustling French bistro.
• Holocaust Memorial Museum : This museum offers a powerful experience that details the events of World War II. It’s a reflective, sobering place worth a couple of hours.

• Tidal Basin and Memorials: Visit the Jefferson Memorial , FDR Memorial , and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial around the scenic Tidal Basin.

• Dinner: Try Zaytinya , a Mediterranean tapas spot by José Andrés.
• Nightlife: For a relaxed night, head to The Wharf , a vibrant waterfront area with music, bars, and great views of the Potomac River.

Day 3: Neighborhood Exploration and Nature

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at Blue Duck Tavern in Georgetown, a chic spot with delicious pastries and coffee.
• Georgetown Walk & Shopping: Spend the morning walking along the historic streets of Georgetown . Visit Georgetown University , stroll down M Street, and enjoy the riverside at Georgetown Waterfront Park .

• Lunch: Grab a light bite at Farmers Fishers Bakers , right on the Georgetown waterfront.
• Arlington National Cemetery: Cross the Potomac to visit Arlington National Cemetery , including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK’s Eternal Flame .

• National Zoo: Make a stop at the Smithsonian National Zoo , home to giant pandas and many other animals. It’s a great place for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

• Dinner: Head to Ben’s Chili Bowl for a classic Washington, D.C. experience—try their famous chili half-smoke.
• Wrap-up: End your trip with a visit to The Kennedy Center for a live performance or simply enjoy the rooftop views of the city.