Things to Do in Washington
Plan your days in Washington, your way
Washington gives you the perfect sampler: famous enough to thrill, easy enough to enjoy.
Morning one, walk the Mall from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and pick one Smithsonian that calls to you; they're all free, so follow your curiosity.
Lunch at Eastern Market on Capitol Hill, then wander the brick rowhouse blocks around it with nowhere to be.
Afternoon two belongs to Georgetown: cobblestones, the old canal, cupcakes or coffee on M Street, and a bench by the Potomac.
One good museum deserves one great view, so time the Washington Monument or a Georgetown rooftop for late light.
Dinner might be a half-smoke where locals line up, or Ethiopian in Shaw, eaten with your hands the right way.
Catch whatever's playing free at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage at six o'clock.
If the season's right, the Tidal Basin at sunrise is the memory you'll keep.
Nothing extreme, nothing missed. Just a capital city, tasted properly.
Three days here feels complete, and you'll already be planning the return.
Top attractions and places to eat in Washington
National World War II Memorial
The organization supporting the National World War II Memorial, a grand plaza on the National Mall with fountains and pillars honoring those who served. Travelers come to pay tribute at this monumental, symmetrical war memorial.
monument · 4.9 rating
Lincoln Memorial
An iconic neoclassical monument on the National Mall in Washington, DC, housing the seated statue of Abraham Lincoln. A defining symbol of the capital and American history.
monument · 4.7 rating
Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum
An iconic Smithsonian museum on the National Mall displaying historic aircraft and spacecraft, including the Wright Flyer and Apollo artifacts. One of the most visited museums in the world.
museum · 4.6 rating
Founding Farmers DC
A popular farm-to-table American restaurant near the White House serving comfort food and brunch classics sourced from a family farmers' collective. A busy spot for scratch-made American fare.
restaurant · 4.5 rating
Old Ebbitt Grill
Washington's oldest saloon, an ornate Victorian-era restaurant near the White House known for its oyster bar and classic American dishes. A historic institution popular with politicians and tourists.
restaurant · 4.6 rating
The Wharf DC
A waterfront district along the Potomac River in Washington with restaurants, bars, shops, live music venues and piers. Travelers come to stroll the promenade, dine, and enjoy the riverside setting.
neighborhood · 4.7 rating
Museum of the Bible
A large museum near the National Mall dedicated to the history, narrative, and cultural impact of the Bible through interactive and immersive exhibits. A stop for those interested in religious history and artifacts.
museum · 4.7 rating · $34.99
National Portrait Gallery
A Smithsonian museum housing portraits of notable Americans, including the presidential portraits, in a landmark neoclassical building. A must for art and history lovers.
gallery · 4.8 rating
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
A world-renowned Smithsonian museum on the National Mall featuring exhibits on dinosaurs, gems including the Hope Diamond, and the natural world. A top family destination in Washington, D.C.
museum · 4.6 rating
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The nation's premier performing arts complex overlooking the Potomac, hosting concerts, theater, opera, and dance. Travelers come for world-class performances and riverside views from its terraces.
theater · 4.8 rating
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
A national memorial and museum in Washington, D.C. documenting the history of the Holocaust through exhibits, artifacts, and personal testimonies. Travelers visit for a profound educational experience about one of history's greatest atrocities.
museum · 4.7 rating
National Gallery of Art
One of the world's great art museums, holding an encyclopedic collection spanning European and American masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the present. A must-visit for art lovers on the National Mall.
gallery · 4.8 rating
Zaytinya
A lively José Andrés restaurant in Washington serving Turkish, Greek and Lebanese mezze. Travelers come for shareable Eastern Mediterranean small plates in a stylish setting.
restaurant · 4.5 rating
Library of Congress
One of the world's largest libraries, with hundreds of miles of shelving and millions of items.
library · 4.7 rating
Unconventional Diner
A modern American diner offering elevated comfort food, creative brunch dishes, and playful takes on classics in a bright, contemporary setting. Travelers visit for a lively sit-down meal near the convention center.
restaurant · 4.7 rating