Washington, D.C., the vibrant capital of the United States, stands as a top destination for travelers both domestically and internationally. Its rich history, iconic monuments, and world-class museums offer an unparalleled experience. However, planning a trip to DC can feel overwhelming. To simplify your vacation planning, we’ve crafted a detailed five-day itinerary, acting as your ultimate Dc Travel Planner, ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-see sights.
Before diving into the daily schedule, explore our comprehensive Washington guide for valuable insights on accommodations, dining, and historical landmarks. This itinerary is ideally suited for families with children aged 10 and older who have an interest in history, but we also provide suggestions for those traveling with younger children.
Keep in mind that Washington, D.C. experiences hot summers, and traffic congestion is a constant throughout the year. This itinerary considers both factors. Utilize the efficient Metro system, the convenient DC Circulator bus, and trolley services whenever possible to navigate the city with ease. Always carry water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated while exploring.
Five Days in DC: Your DC Travel Planner
Day 1: Immersive Museums and Iconic Monuments
Images provided by Google Maps
Begin your DC journey on the National Mall, the heart of the city, with a visit to the renowned Smithsonian Museums. These free museums house some of the most significant artifacts in American history and are a major draw for visitors. Expect crowds, especially during peak seasons. If you find yourself tiring, the DC Circulator bus is an excellent option for getting around the National Mall quickly and affordably (only $1!).
Here’s a recommended route for your first day of museum hopping:
Kick off your day at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Known for its popularity, arriving early will help you beat the long lines.
Hall of Mammals exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, a popular attraction in Washington DC
Exterior view of the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington DC, showcasing its grand architecture
Allocate about an hour here before heading next door to the Smithsonian Museum of American History. A favorite for history enthusiasts, this museum is a must-see. Plan to spend around two hours exploring its exhibits.
The Star-Spangled Banner exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, a key highlight for visitors to Washington DC
First Ladies exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, showcasing historical fashion and artifacts in Washington DC
Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, an iconic piece of pop culture in Washington DC
Transportation exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, featuring vintage cars and locomotives in Washington DC
19th-century Flag exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, displaying historical flags and banners from the past in Washington DC
Continue to the adjacent Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Note that this museum, along with the National Air and Space Museum, requires timed entry tickets which are free but should be reserved well in advance. Aim for a 1 pm entry to this museum. Enjoy lunch at the museum’s acclaimed Sweet Home Cafe before exploring the history galleries downstairs. Dedicate 1-2 hours to this impactful museum.
Exterior of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, showcasing its unique architecture on the National Mall in Washington DC
Conclude your museum visits for the day at the National Archives. Timed entry passes are also recommended here; for this itinerary, a 3:30/4 pm entry is ideal.
The Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom at the National Archives Museum in Washington DC, displaying the Declaration of Independence and Constitution
The monuments and memorials along the National Mall are accessible 24/7 and free to visit. The best way to see them, especially after a day of museum visits, is by taking a trolley tour. The after-dark Monuments by Moonlight trolley tour offers a particularly stunning perspective.
World War II Memorial at night, illuminated on the National Mall in Washington DC, part of the Monuments by Moonlight trolley tour
For dinner, before or after your monuments tour, experience one of DC’s iconic restaurants like Old Ebbitt Grill or the popular Hamilton.
Itinerary with younger kids:
Begin your day at the Museum of Natural History, followed by the American History Museum. Have lunch at the food court in the Reagan building (and don’t miss the Berlin Wall exhibit). Then, visit the National Children’s Museum before heading back to the hotel for rest. If the kids are still energized, the Monuments by Moonlight tour is a great family-friendly option.
Day 2: Exploring the Seat of Government
Washington, D.C. is where history continues to unfold in its government buildings. Day two of your DC travel planner focuses on these pivotal locations. Start with a tour of the US Capitol, where significant debates and historical events have shaped the nation. Timed entry tickets are required in advance, although some walk-up tickets might be available but are not guaranteed. This tour showcases the Capitol’s significant halls but doesn’t include Senate or House gallery passes, which must be requested through your senator or representative. Allocate 1.5-2 hours for the Capitol tour. Enjoy lunch at the visitor center cafe, and be sure to try the Capitol-themed desserts!
The Capitol Rotunda interior, showcasing its impressive dome and historical artwork in Washington DC
Statue of Freedom atop the US Capitol dome, an iconic symbol of Washington DC and American democracy
Capitol Visitor Center, the entrance point for tours of the US Capitol in Washington DC
Walk across the street or through the underground tunnel from the Capitol Visitor Center to the Library of Congress. Timed entry tickets are essential for entry. This is a must-visit for book lovers and anyone interested in stunning architecture and historical significance. Even a short visit to see the main reading room is worthwhile. Plan for around 30 minutes here.
Interior of the Main Reading Room at the Library of Congress, renowned for its architectural beauty and scholarly atmosphere in Washington DC
Walk down Capitol Hill to the National Museum of the American Indian. If you skipped lunch at the Capitol, the museum’s cafe is a good alternative (though it’s currently under renovation, so check its status beforehand). Spend about 30 minutes here.
Pottery exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian, showcasing Native American art and cultural artifacts in Washington DC
Clothing exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian, displaying traditional Native American garments and textiles in Washington DC
End your day at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Timed entry tickets are required; aim for a 2:30/3 pm entry. This museum is a highlight for many visitors, featuring newly renovated exhibits that are both engaging and family-friendly.
Space Shuttle Discovery exhibit at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, a centerpiece of space exploration history in Washington DC
Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia exhibit at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the spacecraft that carried astronauts to the moon in Washington DC
Wright Brothers' 1903 Flyer exhibit at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, a pivotal artifact in aviation history in Washington DC
Aviation exhibit featuring various aircraft at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, showcasing the evolution of flight in Washington DC
Before or after your museum visit, explore the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, located across the street.
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial on the National Mall in Washington DC, honoring the former president and general
Itinerary with younger kids:
Focus on the Capitol and Air and Space Museum, skipping the Library of Congress and American Indian museums. Walk to the carousel on the National Mall, located just past the Air and Space Museum, and conclude the day at the International Spy Museum, which is also engaging for older children.
Day 3: Presidential History and Legacies
Day three of your DC travel planner delves into the heart of American presidential power. While White House tour tickets are obtained through your congressman or senator (apply well in advance!), even without a tour, numerous presidential sites are accessible. Check our review of the White House and the White House Visitor Center for detailed information.
As of September 2024, the new White House experience, The People’s House, at 17th and Pennsylvania Avenue, offers free tickets and is a must-see. Start here, then walk past the White House to the visitor center.
The White House North Portico in Washington DC, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States
The White House Visitor Center in Washington DC, offering exhibits and information about the presidential residence
After the White House and/or visitor center, visit the nearby WWI Memorial.
Sculptures at the World War I Memorial in Washington DC, honoring the soldiers and events of the First World War
Reflecting pool at the World War I Memorial in Washington DC, providing a serene space for contemplation and remembrance
Engraved names at the World War I Memorial in Washington DC, commemorating the individuals who served in the war
Next, head to Ford’s Theatre, the site of President Lincoln’s assassination. Purchase tickets in advance, opting for the ticket that includes both the theater and the Petersen House, where Lincoln passed away.
Interior of Ford's Theatre in Washington DC, the historic site of President Lincoln's assassination
Petersen House across from Ford's Theatre in Washington DC, where President Lincoln was taken after being shot
Lunch options are plentiful in this area. Grab a bite before or after your Ford’s Theatre tour. Hard Rock Cafe and Shake Shack are popular choices en route to your next destination.
After Ford’s Theatre and lunch, walk to the National Portrait Gallery, home to portraits of prominent Americans, including presidents and first ladies. It’s a notable art museum.
Portrait of Michelle Obama at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC, a popular exhibit featuring contemporary portraiture
Portrait of Abraham Lincoln at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC, part of the museum's extensive collection of presidential portraits
Portrait of George Washington at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC, an iconic representation of the first US president
Portrait of Barack Obama at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC, a modern addition to the presidential portrait series
America's Presidents exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC, showcasing portraits of all US presidents
History buffs should conclude the day with a cab ride to President Lincoln’s Cottage, where Lincoln drafted the Emancipation Proclamation. It’s a bit off the main tourist path but historically significant. Note that it closes at 4:30 PM and is about a 20-25 minute cab ride from the National Portrait Gallery – plan accordingly.
President Lincoln's Cottage in Washington DC, the summer residence of President Lincoln where he developed the Emancipation Proclamation
Evening entertainment options include catching a Wizards or Capitals game at the Capital One Arena, or returning to Ford’s Theatre for a play in the historic venue. Dinner recommendations include Clyde’s of Gallery Place, The Smith, and Succotash.
Itinerary with younger kids:
Visit the White House (or The People’s House) and Ford’s Theatre, skipping the National Portrait Gallery and President Lincoln’s Cottage. After the theatre tour, take a cab or metro to the National Zoo for the rest of the day. Dinner at Cactus Cantina near the zoo is a great family-friendly choice.
Day 4: Honoring Fallen Heroes
Map of Arlington National Cemetery and Pentagon Memorial area in Washington DC, locations for Day 4 of the DC travel planner
Washington, D.C. is home to many poignant historical sites dedicated to honoring fallen heroes. Day 4 of this DC travel planner focuses on these memorials.
Start your day at Arlington National Cemetery, where you can pay respects to soldiers, Presidents Taft and Kennedy, and the Unknown Soldiers. Plan to spend 1-2 hours here.
Take the Metro one stop or use Uber to reach the Pentagon for a visit to the National 9/11 Memorial. This memorial is located on the site of the 9/11 Pentagon attack.
For lunch, Uber or drive to The Wharf, a waterfront area offering dining and shopping options.
In the afternoon, take an Uber to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum. This museum provides a powerful and important experience for both adults and children, especially relevant in today’s world.
After the museum, reflect at the nearby memorials: WWII, Korean, and Vietnam Veterans Memorials.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall in Washington DC, a place for reflection and remembrance of service members
For dinner, Uber to Georgetown for shopping and dining. Consider Clydes of Georgetown or Sequoia. On your way back to the hotel, ask your driver to pass by the US Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima statue), which is particularly impressive at night.
Itinerary with younger kids:
This day’s itinerary is manageable with younger children, including the US Holocaust Museum, which has a child-friendly exhibition. For younger children, consider focusing more time at the memorials along the National Mall and possibly adding a visit to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing next to the Holocaust Museum.
Day 5: Exploring Beyond DC – Alexandria and Mount Vernon
Map of Alexandria and Mount Vernon area near Washington DC, locations for Day 5 of the DC travel planner
Washington, D.C. is surrounded by historic towns. Day five of your DC travel planner takes you across the Potomac River to Alexandria, Virginia, home to historical treasures and George Washington’s residence.
Begin your day at George Washington’s estate, Mount Vernon (car or Uber access needed).
Mansion at Mount Vernon, George Washington's historic estate in Alexandria, Virginia, near Washington DC
Gardens at Mount Vernon, showcasing the beautifully maintained grounds of George Washington's estate near Washington DC
Have lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn restaurant or in Old Town Alexandria along the waterfront, such as Vola’s Dockside. Spend the afternoon exploring Old Town Alexandria, including Old Town Books, George Washington’s church (Historic Christ Church Episcopal), and the Lee-Fendall House.
If you have a car and dine at Mount Vernon, consider visiting the National Museum of the US Army.
Exterior of the National Museum of the United States Army in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, near Washington DC, showcasing military history
For dinner with a car, head to National Harbor across the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, offering many restaurants like Succotash, along with attractions like a Ferris wheel.
Without a car, take the metro back to DC and dine near the National Cathedral. Cactus Cantina and 2 Amys pizzeria are good options.
Itinerary with younger kids:
Day 5 is excellent for younger children, with hands-on activities at Mount Vernon and the Ferris wheel at National Harbor.
This comprehensive itinerary, your detailed DC travel planner, promises a rich exploration of our nation’s capital for history enthusiasts and families alike. For extended stays, consult our Washington guide for more historical sites.
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