Washington has the National Mall's monuments and the Smithsonian's free museums, plus excellent international food and a neighborhood scene beyond the tourist core. Late March to early April brings the cherry blossoms.
Good to know
- Smithsonian museums are free, but some need timed passes; the Air and Space and the African American History museums fill up.
- The Metro is clean and efficient; weekend service is reduced.
- Book White House and Capitol tours through your representative months ahead.
Eat this
Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
The Mall's most moving memorial, best at sunrise or after dark.
Apollo 11 command module, the Wright Flyer and flight simulators.
Hope Diamond, dinosaurs, an ocean hall and a butterfly pavilion in one of the most visited museums in the world.
Powerful chronology from slavery to today; timed passes are required.
Free collection including Leonardo's only painting in the Americas.
Free tours of the Capitol and the stunning Jefferson Building reading room.
Walk the circular path under the blooming trees in late March; the Jefferson Memorial is on the south side.
Cobblestone streets, boutiques and a waterfront park; cupcakes optional.
Historic Black Broadway with clubs, music venues and the chili-dog landmark.
Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, plus the Kennedy gravesite.
Waterfront district with restaurants, live music and fire pits along the Potomac.