Washington Dc 4 Day Itinerary

Washington D.C. - A 4-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: HI Washington DC Hostel, The Capitol Hill Hotel
  • Mid-Range: The Embassy Row Hotel, Hotel Hive
  • Luxury: The Hay-Adams, Willard InterContinental

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable, covering most attractions. Purchase a SmarTrip card for easy access.
  • Walking: DC is relatively walkable, especially within the National Mall area.
  • Bikeshare: Capital Bikeshare offers bike rentals for exploring neighborhoods.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Can vary significantly throughout the year. Pack layers and check forecasts.
  • Crowds: Popular attractions can get crowded, especially during peak season (spring/summer). Arrive early or consider visiting in the off-season.
  • Free Museums: Many Smithsonian museums are free, but timed entry passes may be required. Book online in advance.

Day 1: Monuments and History

  • Morning: Explore the National Mall. Visit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
  • Lunch: Grab a sandwich at Pret A Manger near the National Archives.
  • Afternoon: Tour the White House (advance reservation required) and the U.S. Capitol Building.
  • Dinner: Enjoy classic American cuisine at The Old Ebbitt Grill.

Day 2: Museums and Art

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of American History or the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
  • Lunch: Have a casual meal at the museum cafeteria or try &pizza near Dupont Circle for customizable pizzas.
  • Afternoon: Explore the National Gallery of Art, home to masterpieces by renowned artists.
  • Dinner: Indulge in Ethiopian cuisine at Dukem on U Street Corridor.

Day 3: Georgetown and Culture

  • Morning: Stroll through charming Georgetown, browse boutiques, and visit the historic Dumbarton Oaks estate.
  • Lunch: Enjoy waterfront dining with Chesapeake Bay views at Sequoia.
  • Afternoon: Catch a performance at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts or explore the National Portrait Gallery.
  • Dinner: Savor Italian flavors at Fiola Mare in Georgetown.

Day 4: Arlington and Departure

  • Morning: Pay respects at the Arlington National Cemetery, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and John F. Kennedy’s gravesite.
  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Founding Farmers in Pentagon City.
  • Afternoon: Depending on departure time, visit Alexandria’s Old Town for historic charm and waterfront views.
  • Dinner: Enjoy your final meal in DC before heading to the airport.

Tips:

  • Download the Washington D.C. app for maps, transit information, and attraction details.
  • Consider purchasing a CityPASS or similar pass for discounted entry to multiple attractions.
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Other Points of Interest:

  • International Spy Museum
  • National Air and Space Museum
  • Holocaust Memorial Museum
  • Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
  • National Zoo