Discover Washington DC's Iconic Landmarks in 7 Days

Day 1: Arrival and National Mall Tour

On arrival, meet your private guide who will drive you to the hotel. Start your trip by exploring the National Mall and Memorial Parks, home to famous landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. Then, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History to learn about the country's cultural heritage. In the evening, visit Georgetown for a relaxing stroll and a delicious meal at one of its many fine-dining restaurants in Washington.

Day 2: Capitol Hill and Air and Space Museum

Spend the morning exploring Capitol Hill by visiting the United States Capitol Building and the Library of Congress. Afterward, head to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum to learn about the history of aviation and space travel. In the evening, catch a performance at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Return to your hotel for dinner.

Day 3: White House and U Street Corridor

After enjoying breakfast, take a tour of the White House and visit the White House Visitor Center. Afterward, head to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History to explore exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to gems and minerals. In the evening, visit the U Street Corridor to experience DC's lively nightlife and dining scene.

Day 4: Monuments and Nationals Park

Spend the day visiting the many monuments and memorials scattered throughout the city, including the Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. In the evening, catch a baseball game at Nationals Park, home of the Washington Nationals. Return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and rest.

Day 5: Mount Vernon and Adams Morgan

Take a day trip to Mount Vernon, the historic home of George Washington, where you can tour the mansion and grounds and learn about the life of the first President of the United States. In the evening, head to the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood for dinner and drinks.

Day 6: Portrait Gallery, National Zoo, and Ford's Theatre

Spend the morning visiting the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Then, head to the National Zoo to see animals from around the world. In the evening, catch a show at Ford's Theatre, the historic site of Abraham Lincoln's assassination.

Day 7: Visiting the Annapolis and Departure

Take a day trip to Annapolis, Maryland, a charming town on the Chesapeake Bay that is home to the United States Naval Academy. Have a farewell lunch before your private guide transfers you to the airport to catch a flight back home.

Fun Facts About Washington, DC

• The city was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.
• DC is not a state, but a federal district that serves as the capital of the United States.
• The Washington Monument is the tallest structure in DC, standing at 555 feet tall.
• The city is home to over 170 foreign embassies and international organizations.
• The Smithsonian Institution, which operates 19 museums and galleries in the city, is the world's largest museum and research complex.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Washington, DC?

The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit Washington because the weather is mild and the city is not too crowded.

How do I get around Washington, DC?

The city has an extensive public transportation system, including a subway system (known as the Metro) and bus routes. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available.

What are the best restaurants to try in DC?

Best Restaurants to Visit in Washington, DC:

• Rose's Luxury
• Founding Farmers
• Le Diplomate
• Little Serow
• Ben's Chili Bowl
• The Dabney
• Bad Saint

Are there any free things to do in Washington, DC?

Yes, there are many free things to do in Washington, including visiting the Smithsonian museums, touring the monuments and memorials on the National Mall, and exploring the U.S. Capitol Building and Library of Congress.

What is the dress code for visiting Washington, DC's attractions?

There is no specific dress code for visiting the city's attractions, but it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there may be a lot of walking involved. It is also a good idea to dress appropriately for the weather.

Is Washington, DC a safe city to visit?

Yes, Washington, DC is generally a safe city to visit. However, like any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. It is also a good idea to avoid certain neighborhoods that may have higher crime rates.

How can I get tickets for popular attractions like the White House and Capitol Building tours?

If you are booking your itinerary with Leisure, the cost of your tickets for the White House and Capitol Building tours is included. However, if you are planning to explore on your own, it is important to note that you can still obtain tickets for these popular attractions through the official websites or by contacting your representative or senator's office. It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance as they can sell out quickly, particularly during peak tourist season.