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Situated on the east coast of the United States, along the Potomac River, Washington D.C. was established in 1790. The location between the Southern and Northern states was strategically chosen as the city was planned to be the center of political power and influence in the country. Over the centuries, Washington D.C. has become a symbol of democracy and freedom, hosting iconic landmarks such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Supreme Court. As the epicenter of American governance and history, the city attracts millions of visitors annually, ready to explore its rich heritage and cultural significance.

What to see and do in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. had been on my list for a while. When the time to visit it finally came, of course, I had to be well prepared in order for me to maximize my time and see as much as possible. Planning ahead is key when visiting a destination as rich in history and culture as Washington D.C. But I’ve mentioned before that my key is dividing attractions into areas and grouping them by days. This allows me to explore places efficiently while minimizing travel time and expenses. At the end of this guide you’ll find a 5-day itinerary, organized day by day and with attractions to see in order. This will help you make the most of your trip.

The National Mall

The National Mall area in Washington D.C., often referred to as “America’s Front Yard”, is a historic green space that stretches from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial. This large parkland is home to significant monuments, memorials, and museums, making it a cultural and historical hub of the nation’s capital.

Visitors can walk around National Mall and pretty much explore a big number of the top attractions with one loop. No matter where exactly you are on this path, the majestic views of landmarks will be all around you. As you can assume, this is the part of the city with the biggest tourist concentration.

The National Mall also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, attracting millions of visitors who come to explore its historic sites, enjoy its scenic beauty, and experience the spirit of Washington D.C. One of the biggest events every year is The National Cherry Blossom Festival.

The White House

The White House, of course, is the absolute must-see in the city. It doesn’t matter if you are political or what your political views are, this landmark should absolutely be on your list as it’s similar to the “going to Rome and not seeing the Pope” thing.

As the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, the White House stands as a symbol of American democracy and power. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, the iconic building has served as the residence of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800. Designed by James Hoban, an Irish-born architect, this neoclassical mansion’s architecture is well known worldwide.

The White House was my first stop for the day and the first attraction I headed to as a start of my trip. Visitors gather from both sides to admire its iconic facade, columns and an elegant portico. I spent some time on the northern side, right next to Lafayette Square. This is the most crowded side as everyone wants to take the popular photo with the white pillars in front of the entrance. Another busy spot is the opposite side which gives a good view to the Oval Office. The fence where you can observe it from is a little further away but still close enough. Right behind you, there will be the Ellipse- a big lawn, part of the President’s Park and home to the National Christmas Tree every December.

White House Visitor Center

Don’t miss the White House Visitor Center, located just a block away. This place is like a small museum and it offers visitors an overview of the White House’s history, architecture, and significance. Through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations, visitors can learn more about the rich heritage of the presidential residence and gain insights into its role in shaping American history. From the construction of the White House to the daily operations of the presidential household, the Visitor Center gives a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world’s most famous residences.

Whether you decide to enjoy the exterior from outside and check out the museum or you take a guided tour of the interior, a visit to the White House will give you a profound insight into the heart of American governance and history.

Washington Monument

Standing tall and majestic, the Washington Monument is maybe the second most iconic building in the capital, after the White House. As a big fan of Dan Brown’s books, I personally couldn’t wait to see this landmark.

This obelisk was dedicated to the nation’s founding father and first president, George Washington. It’s visible from many places in and out of the city. Its towering presence and symbolic importance make it a must-see attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts. Well, they will most likely see it even if they don’t want to 🙂 Rising proudly over the National Mall, the Washington Monument is a little over 555 feet tall (a little over 169 meters). It was also the world’s tallest structure at the time of its completion in 1884. Made of white marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss, this iconic obelisk attracts millions of visitors annually.

Potomac Park

Situated along the Potomac River, Potomac Park provides breathtaking views of many iconic landmarks in the city. West Potomac Park, the area between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, includes the Tidal Basin and the beautiful cherry trees, which are a main attraction in the spring. Visitors walk around the basin or ride bikes, enjoying the park’s picturesque pathways.

While walking around Tadin Basin, you not only get to take a break and chill on some of the benches. You can also enjoy the view of the Washington Monument and all the memorials around the basin. The reflections are impressive and you can come across some ducks and geese.

Lincoln Memorial and The Reflecting Pool

I enjoyed this part of National Mall a lot! As I have mentioned before, you’ll find me where the water is. So for me walking around the pool towards Lincoln Memorial was very nice. Well, despite the heat and the discomfort that came with the humidity (late August). There are plenty of trees and benches around the Constitution Gardens so a quick break midway is a good idea.

The Lincoln Memorial, a tribute to the 16th President of the United States Abraham Lincoln, is one of the icons in Washington D.C. Designed by architect Henry Bacon, this majestic structure features a large statue of Lincoln himself seated within a temple. Right in front of the temple you’ll find the Reflecting Pool, stretching all the way to the Washington Monument.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Thomas Jefferson is another American president honored with a memorial in the National Mall. Designed in neoclassical style by architect John Russell Pope, the memorial features a marble statue of Jefferson. The statue is surrounded by columns with inscriptions of his words on freedom and human rights.

US Capitol

Capitol Hill is a symbol of American democracy and political power. Home to the majestic United States Capitol building, this historic neighborhood is on every visitor’s list as it offers plenty of landmarks to check out.

The United States Capitol Building, also known as Capitola, hosts the legislative branch of the U.S. government, including American history, culture, and governance. Completed in 1800, making it one of the oldest buildings in Washington D.C., the Capitol’s building is one of the most recognizable structures in the country. Its iconic dome stands 288 feet tall. It is also topped by the Statue of Freedom which weighs approximately 15 000 pounds. The Capitol is home to the Senate and the House of Representatives, along with the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the Folger Shakespeare Library.

The Capitol Rotunda beneath the dome is known for its impressive frescoes and sculptures. They portray significant moments from American history, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus. The building has hosted many significant events in American history, including presidential inaugurations. Beneath the Rotunda lies a crypt which was originally intended to keep the remains of George Washington.

The Capitol is open for public tours, which include visits to the Rotunda, Statuary Hall, and other significant areas of the building. Additionally, visitors can explore the Capitol Visitor Center. It provides educational exhibits and information about the history and function of the Capitol. I highly recommend the tour as it was very informative and on top of that- FREE! I arrived at the entrance at the last moment and was lucky enough to catch the last tour for the day. You can also book tickets online.

Library of Congress

Located right next to the Capitol Building, the Library of Congress is the largest library in the world and a symbol of cultural heritage in the country. Home to millions of books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts in various languages and formats, the Library of Congress is a must see in the city. Its iconic neoclassical architecture makes the building an attractive destination for many photographers. This is another of Washington D.C.’s landmarks that come with a free entry. Just make sure you book your ticket in advance.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Another powerful tribute in Washington D.C. is The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. The civil rights leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate is honored in the capital with this massive granite statue, designed by Lei Yixin. Around the statue, you will notice inscriptions of quotes and parts from some of Dr. King’s most memorable speeches, holding a message of peace and unity. 

World War II Memorial

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. is a tribute to the millions of Americans who served during one of the most significant conflicts in human history. Located in the National Mall between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, this majestic memorial honors the bravery of the men and women who fought and supported the war effort. 

I was truly impressed by this memorial and its design features. The central plaza was surrounded by 56 granite pillars representing all the U.S. states and territories. The pillars themselves were divided in two pavilions, representing the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war. There you will also see the Freedom Wall that has 4048 gold stars. Each of those stars symbolizes a 100 Americans who gave their lives in service.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a tribute to the men and women who served during the Vietnam War. The monument consists of two black granite walls engraved with the names of almost 60 000 servicemen and women who gave their lives or remain missing in action.

One of the first things you may notice while walking around National Mall is the lack of restaurants and places for drinks. This whole area is designated as a national park and historical site. Because of that, the only option for food is the food trucks parked around and cafes/food courts at museums. There are strict regulations and limitations on commercial activities within the National Mall. This aims at preserving and showcasing the iconic monuments, memorials, and green spaces there. You can find numerous dining options nearby in surrounding neighborhoods such as Penn Quarter and Capitol Hill.

Other places you should stop by in the National Mall:

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

George Mason Memorial

Albert Einstein Memorial

Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Museums in Washington D.C. include a big network of institutions. Each of them is offering a distinct perspective on different aspects of human history, culture, and scientific advancement. The best part- admission to all of them is FREE! With a big variety of exhibits to explore, the Smithsonian Museums are a significant part of the capital’s cultural life and they stand as pillars of knowledge and enlightenment. 

The Smithsonian institutions include:

• Anacostia Community Museum
• Arthur M. Sackler Gallery (affiliated with the Freer Gallery)
• Arts and Industries Building
• Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
• Freer Gallery of Art (affiliated with the Sackler Gallery)
• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• National Museum of African Art
• National Museum of American History
• National Museum of the American Indian
• National Museum of the American Indian’s George Gustav Heye Center
• National Museum of Natural History
• National Portrait Gallery
• National Postal Museum
• Renwick Gallery
• Smithsonian American Art Museum
• Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle)  

I was mostly interested in the National Museum of Natural History and Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture so those were the two I visited. I spent a few hours in each and I highly recommend both.

The National Museum of Natural History is a must whether you are visiting Washington D.C. with kids or you’re traveling solo. Make sure you have at least a couple of hours to spend there. I couldn’t miss the gift shop at the National Museum of Natural History. I got some tumbled stones along with the popular Smithsonian bag which serves so many purposes!

The Hirshhorn Museum was very interesting as well and I spent maybe 1.5-2 hours there. Its cylindrical building is in contrast to the traditional structures nearby but very interesting to walk around. Named after its founder, Joseph H. Hirshhorn, the museum has a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artworks from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.

National Archives Museum

The National Archives Museum in Washington D.C., located on Constitution Avenue, is a home to the nation’s most important documents. Some of them are the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Exhibits there showcase pivotal moments in American history, from the founding of the nation to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond.

Washington National Cathedral

The Washington National Cathedral, situated in the northern part of the city, is a spiritual center in the nation’s capital. This beautiful building impresses with its magnificent gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The inside is just as gorgeous as outside so make sure you take a look.

Despite its spiritual significance and inspiring beauty, the cathedral often remains undiscovered by many visitors. Most likely because of its location or the fact that a lot of tourists focus on the attractions around the National Mall. Far from the crowds, the Washington National Cathedral serves as a center for worship, cultural events, and ceremonies, including presidential funerals. If you happen to be there in summer like me, make sure you stop at the Bishop’s Garden right next to the cathedral.

Embassy Row

Embassy Row, situated along Massachusetts Avenue in Washington D.C., is a historic district that showcases architectural diversity and serves as a significant diplomatic hub. There you can find tens of foreign embassies and diplomatic residences, fostering international relations. I definitely enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the neighborhood and, of course, I stopped by the Embassy of my country- Bulgaria.

The Wharf D.C.

The Wharf D.C. is a vibrant waterfront destination that offers a variety of dining and cultural experiences. Situated along the scenic Potomac River, this neighborhood features plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors. Walk around and enjoy the lively atmosphere! Compared to the most popular places in Washington D.C., this part of the capital feels like it’s a completely different city.

Don’t miss the Titanic Memorial at the end of Southwest Waterfront Park. This tribute stands to the lives lost during the tragic sinking of Titanic in 1912. It features a female figure wrapped in robes, symbolizing the collective grief and loss felt worldwide.

Among all the restaurants located at the wharf, I picked Hank’s Oyster Bar to have lunch at and I didn’t regret it. Fresh seafood and a delicious cocktail were greatly appreciated after a busy day walking around in the heat! The atmosphere at this place is vibrant and service was great!

Senate Fountain

Surrounded by green spaces and historic architecture, the Senate Fountain offers a peaceful break in the heart of the nation’s capital. During the summer, this is a nice place to pause at and rest from the exhausting heat. I walked around Columbus Circle and Senate park and spent some time chilling in the shade next to the fountain.

Artechhouse

Artechouse is a place that blends art, science, and technology, offering visitors immersive digital art experiences. This innovative space showcases some light installations and dynamic audiovisual experiences. I recommend checking out Artechouse as a last stop of your day. This way you don’t need to do it during the bright part of the day as it’s open late. I enjoyed the main room and I consider it a cool place but it wasn’t anything extremely impressive. If you like immersive experiences you would like it but if your schedule is too packed and you’re looking for something to skip- this might be the way to go.

Planet Word

Planet Word is a unique museum dedicated to the celebration and exploration of language. Opened in 2020, it offers immersive and interactive exhibits that showcase the power, beauty, and evolution of language in various forms. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities, interactive displays, and multimedia installations. They are all designed to educate and inspire curiosity about language and communication.

Of course, the highlight for me was the globe, showcasing people from around the world and their languages. Another part I really enjoyed was the interactive display. There you can see how many speakers of your language have visited the museum. Planet Word is an ideal stop for families with kids, but it’s a lot of fun for solo visitors too. Make sure you stop by for a quick break at Franklin Park right across.

Meridian Hill Park

Meridian Hill Park, situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Columbia Heights. It spans across 12 acres and is a vibrant community hub and recreational space. Home to lush landscapes, cascading fountains, and historic architecture, Meridian Hill Park was originally envisioned as a grand presidential estate.

During my visit in August, I couldn’t help but notice that several areas of the park appeared to be neglected or abandoned, at least from my perspective. Hopefully things look better now and you get to enjoy a better scenery! Make sure you walk around Columbia Heights and Adams Morgan neighborhoods and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is situated just across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. in the state of Virginia. It serves as a tribute to the men and women who have served the United States. With acres of green and well maintained grounds, Arlington is a resting place for over 400 000 soldiers, veterans, and their families. Row upon row of white headstones, the cemetery is also home to memorials, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the iconic Arlington House. As an emblem of honor, patriotism, and sacrifice, Arlington National Cemetery holds a sacred place in the hearts of Americans and serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom.

The Pentagon

The Pentagon, a symbol of American military power, is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Located next to Arlington National Cemetery, this iconic five-sided structure is known for its distinctive shape and the fact that it houses offices and command centers for military purposes. While the Pentagon primarily operates on a 24/7 basis, guided tours are available to the public on weekdays. They allow visitors to experience the inside of this historic institution. These tours provide insight into the building’s history, architecture, and the vital role it plays in safeguarding the nation’s security. Be aware that photography from outside is strictly prohibited by signs and patrols around.

National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial

Just outside the Pentagon, you will find the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial. It honors the 184 victims of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Designed as a peaceful space, the memorial features 184 illuminated benches arranged according to the victims’ ages (from 3 to 71), each engraved with the name of a victim. Visitors can walk along pathways lined with benches and spend a quiet moment honoring the lost lives.

Alexandria, Virginia

Having an organized plan and well structured itinerary allowed me to spare some time for attractions outside of Washington D.C. too. Located along the banks of the Potomac River, Alexandria, Virginia, made a perfect one day trip from Washington D.C. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque waterfront, this vibrant town offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern culture. From boutiques and restaurants of Old Town to the parks and trails, Alexandria is a place rich in culture and a must stop if you are in the area.

I took a train from Washington D.C. and it was perfect since I could utilize the daily transportation pass. Once I arrived at the station I took an Uber to Old Town and started exploring from Oronoco Bay Park. You can walk around the water to Founders Park and then all the way down to Joins Point Park. There the greenery meets the Potomac River. 

What to do in Alexandria, Virginia for a day:

• Old Town Alexandria Waterfront 
• George Washington Masonic National Memorial
• Alexandria City Hall
• Walk on Kings Street

All the cozy restaurants, unique boutiques, and souvenir shops make Alexandria a charming small town, full of American history and perfect for a half day or one day trip from Washington D.C. 

How to get to Washington D.C. from Dulles International Airport (IAD)?

About 30 miles away from Washington D.C. Downtown, Dulles International Airport (IAD) is the primary and largest airport serving the capital and its surrounding areas. Located in Virginia, it ranks among the busiest airports nationwide. The cheapest and most convenient option for transportation to the city from Dulles International Airport and back, is the metro’s Silver Line. Fares typically range from $2 to $6.

How to get to Washington D.C. from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)?

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located in Virginia too and it’s literally less than 4 miles away from the capital’s downtown. When departing and landing, you can even see some of the most iconic landmarks in the city- Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and The Capitol Building. This airport is the second busiest airport in the Washington D.C. area and there are two lines of the subway that connect it with the capital’s downtown (Yellow and Blue lines). The price varies between $2 and $6.

Keep in mind that navigating through traffic from Dulles International Airport (IAD) with a car can be time-consuming, especially during weekdays and peak traffic hours. I highly recommend taking the subway, for both time and money saving reasons.

Where to stay in Washington D.C.?

Just like any other destination, when deciding where to stay in Washington D.C. it’s essential to consider factors such as commute to attractions, budget, and preferred amenities. Here are some popular areas to stay in Washington D.C.:

• Downtown: Ideal for visitors looking to be close to major attractions like the National Mall.
• Dupont Circle: Known for its vibrant nightlife, dining scene, and cultural attractions, perfect for experiencing the capital as a local.
• Georgetown: Offering a charming blend of historic architecture, upscale shopping boutiques, and waterfront dining.
• Capitol Hill: A historic neighborhood known for its iconic row houses and political significance, very close to main attractions. 
• Adams Morgan: Known for its diverse dining scene, eclectic nightlife, and colorful street art.

How to move around Washington D.C.?

Using public transportation in Washington D.C. was an absolute time saver, super convenient , and budget friendly. On top of that, stations and vehicles were pretty clean (maybe the cleanest public transport system I’ve seen). Whether traveling just a few blocks in between attractions or commuting for longer, it made getting around very easy, especially when I was exhausted from walking (and humid heat).

I used public transport a lot, even for the shortest distances. It helped me arrive on time for all of my reservations, even those that were a walking distance to each other but I wasn’t in a mood to walk. Currently, the subway system has six lines and it transports passengers to both Dulles International and Reagan National Airports. Of course, if you’re planning on going out of Washington D.C. more it’s best to get a car, although you wouldn’t really need it while exploring the city itself. Uber and Lyft are both an option as well.

Public transportation in Washington D.C.

Get a SmartTrip card so you don’t have to worry about buying tickets every time. While single ride fares start from $2, I highly recommend the daily pass for your busiest days ($13 for a day of unlimited rides and $28 for three days of unlimited rides on both Metrorail and Metrobus). It’s totally worth it, especially if you’re planning on visiting the attractions in Virginia as well. For at least a couple of days I maximized my plan and made it pay off. When I was leaving Washington D.C., I even noticed that I had over $6 left and unused from my credit.

While the places above look like a pretty long list for a first time visit, I promise you- it’s possible to visit all of them for a few days. But first you need to use my planning strategy and on top of that- to be prepared for a packed itinerary. 

The days below are divided by areas and will save you time commuting. This way you don’t have to go back to certain neighborhoods more than once. You can visit everything you are interested in on the same day. The attractions each day are put in order so the best way would be to visit them as listed.

From the majestic White House to the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, every corner of this historic city tells a story of honor, patriotism, and sacrifice. With detailed planning and a spirit of exploration, you can immerse in the vibrant culture and heritage that define the nation’s capital. Enjoy!

Have you ever been to Washington D.C.? What was your favorite attraction? Let me know in the comments below!