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Washington D.C. is one of our favorite cities in America. Not only have we had the fortune of visiting this majestic city on multiple occasions, but with each visit, our enthusiasm and love for it only grow stronger.

From its iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument to its awe-inspiring museums and vibrant cultural scene, Washington D.C. is a city teeming with endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. The city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and excitement.

GETTING TO WASHINGTON D.C.

The closest airport to Washington D.C. is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), which is about 6 miles away and usually takes about 10 minutes of driving time. Other nearby airports include Dulles, VA (IAD), which is 26 miles away, and Baltimore, MD (BWI), which is 35 miles away.

Since we were on a road trip, we drove from Asheville, NC, which was 470 miles and it took us 7.5 hours to get to DC with minimal traffic. Most of our drive through Virginia was incredibly beautiful, especially since we were visiting during the peak foliage season. We were also pleasantly surprised by how well-maintained and inviting Virginia's rest stops were.

Appleplay Car Navigation — Driving to DC

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON D.C.

We stayed at Canopy by Hilton Washington DC Embassy Row, which is located a couple of miles from the National Mall and Smithsonian museums. The White House is only a 15-minute walk from the hotel.

This area of DC is beautiful and it’s famous for being called Embassy Row due to its abundance of embassies in Washington DC. Walking through this charming neighborhood, you'll be captivated by the stunning mansions that have now been transformed into diplomatic missions, creating a unique blend of history and international presence.

TRANSPORTATION IN WASHINGTON D.C.

Washington D.C. offers a plethora of transportation options. From the convenience of Uber to the eco-friendly scooters and electric bikes, there is no shortage of ways to navigate the city's bustling streets.

For us, exploring this magnificent city involved a combination of driving our own car during the tranquil mornings and relying on the efficiency of Uber and the thrill of renting electric bikes in the bustling afternoons.

Street parking can be easily found in the mornings along Ohio Drive by West Potomac Park.

Walking along Ohio Drive — Parking on Ohio Street

WASHINGTON D.C. 2-DAY ITINERARY

With so much to do and see, it would probably take a week to even scratch the surface of everything that Washington D.C. has to offer. However, if you find yourself with only 2 days to explore this bustling metropolis, don’t worry! We have the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your limited time and ensure you don't miss out on the highlights of Washington D.C.

We strategically crafted an itinerary that focused on a specific area within a 2-mile radius. By doing so, we ensured that every minute was spent immersing ourselves in the captivating sights, fascinating museums, and awe-inspiring landmarks that make Washington D.C. such a captivating destination.

Washington Memorial Waterfall — Gorgeous FOuntain

Mock presidential podium speech — Crystal nailing her speech

Since we were traveling with Crystal’s dog, Kuma, this itinerary is partly dog-friendly. Most of the National Mall, where the memorials are located, are dog-friendly so Kuma was able to explore these sights with us.

We included where to eat as well since we’ve been hearing from fellow travelers that Washington DC is known for its eclectic and mouthwatering gastronomy scene.

DAY 1

9 AM Memorials and Monuments at the National Mall

Start your day early by immersing yourself in the rich history of Washington D.C. as you explore the iconic memorials and awe-inspiring monuments that dot the landscape of the National Mall.

Korean War Veterans Memorial - Marvel at the solemnity of the memorial.

Lincoln Memorial - Pay tribute to the legacy of Abraham Lincoln.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial - Take a moment of reflection at the poignant wall containing more than 58,000 names of servicemen and women who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.

World War II Memorial - The grandeur of this memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless heroes.

Washington Monument - For a truly breathtaking view of the city, ascend the monument’s observation deck, but be sure to secure your tickets in advance.

White House - This is not part of the National Mall, but it is located directly north of the Washington Monument and is about a 15-minute walk. While a visit inside the White House requires meticulous planning and advanced request for a tour, don't miss the opportunity to admire the president's residence from a distance.

Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC — Lincoln Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall — **Vietnam Veterans Memorial**

12:30 PM Lunch at Tatte Bakery & Cafe

Tatte — which rhymes with “latte” — is a Hebrew nickname for “grandmother.” The founder of the cafe, Tzurit Or, grew up in Israel with a family that loved baking and wanted to build a community she found through baking alongside her mother.

Tatte is located in Boston and Washington D.C. and serves Israeli, Mediterranean, and European influenced dishes. Menus are seasonal and may vary by location. We visited the location at Dupont Circle.

We loved the picturesque café that had a warm and inviting ambiance. We both thoroughly enjoyed our sandwiches and the bread made from scratch made a difference for sure. The next time we visit Tatte, we would love to try the shakshuka dish, which we saw several customers eating and it looked divine.

Tatte Bakery and Cafe Interior — Inviting atmosphere inside Tatte Bakery & Cafe

Tatte Turkey Avocado Sandwich — Turkey Avocado Sandwich

Pastry and dessert display — Pastry and Dessert Display at Tatte Bakery and Cafe

1:30 PM Desserts at Un Je Ne Sais Quio

If you have room left for dessert after lunch, a few doors down from Tatte is a cute French bakery called Un Je Ne Sais Quio. It’s a small and quaint cafe that serves delicious pastries and desserts. We tried the Pistachio Paris Brest which was their best seller and enjoyed every bite.

Eating french pastries — Parisian inspired decor

2:30 PM Smithsonian American History Museum

After lunch, visit one of the Smithsonian museums, which all have free admission. Our favorite Smithsonian museum is the American History Museum as you can go down memory lane and reminisce about the events from the past and learn how American came to be.

Some must-see items to see here are the Star Spangled Banner, Thomas Jefferson’s Desk, Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers, and The First Ladies’ Collection.

We also love the American Presidency exhibit where there’s a fun little section to test your skills at public speaking as an American president.

Dorothy Ruby Red Slippers — Dorothy’s RUby Slippers

First Ladies Dresses — First Ladies Collection of Dresses

Reading a teleprompter — Candy reading the Teleprompter

6:30 PM Dinner at Ben’s Chili Bowl

Many say that no visit to Washington, D.C. is truly complete without a stop at the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl. This beloved restaurant has been a favorite among celebrities, locals, and tourists alike for over 62 years. Known for its authentic food, as well as its welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, Ben's Chili Bowl holds a special place in the hearts of visitors and residents alike.

Don't miss the chance to indulge in their signature dish, the Ben's Famous Chili Half Smoke, which has been awarded as Washington's culinary symbol.

8:30 PM Cocktails Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge

For a delightful night cap experience, make your way to the charming Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge, where you can savor the artfully crafted cocktails amidst the view of the cityscape. With its intimate ambiance, this rooftop oasis promises to be the idyllic conclusion to an unforgettable first day in Washington, D.C.

Margarita at Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge — Gorgeous views at Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge

DAY 2

9 AM Memorials at Tidal Basin

Explore the other side of the National Mall at the Tidal Basin. It is home to several iconic memorials, each offering its own unique experience. The Tidal Basin's serene atmosphere combined with the stunning scenery makes it an ideal place to relax, reflect, and soak in the rich history and natural beauty that surrounds it.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial - Awe-inspiring in its grandeur and significance, this memorial showcases the impeccable craftsmanship of its architects who crafted a magnificent statue of MLK, forever capturing his commanding presence. Encircling the statue, a collection of profound quotes from different stages of MLK's impactful life come together in a harmonious tapestry.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial - Many may be surprised to see Franklin D. Roosevelt’s statue in a wheelchair, as FDR tried to hide his disability from the public, fearing that it would be perceived as a weakness. As you walk further into the memorial, a little waterfall comes into view, adding a touch of tranquility to the surroundings. Standing there, you'll be able to admire a beautiful and alternate perspective of the majestic Washington Monument as well.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial - This memorial stands tall and proud, honoring one of the most influential figures in American history. As one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the brilliant author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson's legacy is etched in stone within this majestic monument.

Martin Luther King Jr Memorial — Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial — Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial

Franklin Roosevelt Memorial Waterfall — Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial Waterfall

11:30 AM Lunch at Founding Farmers

Founding Farmers was our most favorite eatery in Washington D.C. This scratch kitchen prides itself on making everything in-house, from freshly baked bread to homemade jam. They even churn their own butter! There are four locations in DC and we went to the one in Chinatown called Founding Farmers & Distillers DC.

Founding Farmers Pancakes — Pancakes at Founding Farmers

1:30 PM Smithsonian Natural History Museum

Time to check out another Smithsonian museum! The Natural History Museum is always a great choice and very iconic for Washington DC. The museum offers an incredible array of exhibits that delve into the earth's history, from the evolution of life on our planet to the vast biodiversity that exists today. Make sure to check out the Hope Diamond, the star of the museum, and the fascinating Egyptian Mummies.

Another fun section we found in the museum was the Insect Cart. Visitors can view insects up close and have the opportunity to hold them as well.

3:30 PM One More Smithsonian Museum

If you find yourself with a bit more time and energy to spare, there are several other fascinating Smithsonian Museums you can explore.

National Museum of African American History and Culture - Immerse yourself in the rich and complex history of African Americans and their contributions to the United States.

National Air and Space Museum - Marvel at the wonders of aviation and space exploration.

Smithsonian American Art Museum - If you have an appreciation for art, this museum is a must-visit, showcasing a diverse collection that spans from colonial times to the present day.

6:30 PM Dinner at L’ardente

When searching for the best restaurants in Washington D.C., one name that consistently pops up is L’ardente. Renowned for being the ultimate Italian dining experience in the city, this restaurant lives up to the hype according to countless glowing reviews.

It's not just empty praise either; proof lies in their exceptional pasta dishes that leave an indelible mark on your taste buds. The noodles were cooked to perfection, striking that elusive balance between tender and al dente.

Margarita at Lardente — Delicious Margarita

RECOMMENDED DC TOURS

Washington D.C. has many tours to choose from and can be a great way to get you started in this city that has so much to offer. Here are several popular tours that have rave reviews.

DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart - Explore the famous monuments and war memorials of Washington, DC on this small-group or private sightseeing tour. Hop aboard a special eCruiser vehicle and enjoy an educational and entertaining narrated history of our nation’s capital.
DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour - Ride a luxury mini-coach past major landmarks on this night bus tour of Washington DC. A professional tour guide will hop off with you at each of the 9 stops and walk with you through each attraction.
Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour - Guided walking and riding sightseeing tour around the nation’s capital. Visit the city’s historic, iconic landmarks and monuments, like the White House, the United States Capitol, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial.

Cycling in Washington DC — Cycling through the city during rush hour

Corgi exploring Washington DC — Kuma explorking DC

TIPS

If you are driving, street parking can be easily found in the mornings along Ohio Drive by West Potomac Park. It’s recommended to use other modes of transportation such as Uber, scooters, electric bikes, buses, etc.
To get the most out of your trip, try one of the recommended tours. Guided tours help you get oriented so you can better explore the places that interest you on your own later on.
Book popular restaurants a couple of days or more in advance.
If you want to visit the inside of the White House, you’ll have to plan well in advance.
Be prepared to walk for miles and wear the most comfortable shoes possible.