Here’s a well-structured 3-day and 5-day itinerary for exploring Washington, D.C., with Union Station as your base. This itinerary balances iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and local neighborhoods, ensuring a comprehensive visit.
3-Day Washington, D.C. Itinerary
Day 1: National Mall & Memorials
- Morning: Start your day by visiting the Lincoln Memorial, then stroll along the Reflecting Pool to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the World War II Memorial.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring the Washington Monument and National World War I Memorial. Take in the grand architecture of the U.S. Capitol from a distance.
- Evening: Visit the Smithsonian Institution Building, known as "The Castle," and explore nearby landmarks like the National Gallery of Art.
Day 2: Smithsonian Museums & Capitol Hill
- Morning: Head to the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History to see world-renowned exhibits, including the First Ladies’ gowns and dinosaur fossils.
- Afternoon: Explore the National Gallery of Art and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
- Evening: Walk through Capitol Hill, and visit the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court. End your day with a visit to the U.S. Capitol.
Day 3: Georgetown & Cultural Exploration
- Morning: Take a trip to Georgetown, where you can walk along the C\&O Canal and explore the charming streets.
- Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Georgetown and take a relaxing walk along the Tidal Basin, especially beautiful during sunset.
5-Day Washington, D.C. Itinerary
Day 1: National Mall & Memorials
- Morning: Visit the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and World War II Memorial.
- Afternoon: Explore the Washington Monument, the National World War I Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol.
- Evening: Visit the National Gallery of Art and Smithsonian Institution Building.
Day 2: Smithsonian Museums & Capitol Hill
- Morning: Visit the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History.
- Afternoon: Head to the National Gallery of Art and Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
- Evening: Walk through Capitol Hill, visiting the Library of Congress and Supreme Court.
Day 3: Georgetown & Cultural Exploration
- Morning: Visit Georgetown, explore the C\&O Canal, and walk through the quaint streets.
- Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in Georgetown and take a sunset walk along the Tidal Basin.
Day 4: U Street Corridor & U Street
- Morning: Explore the historic U Street Corridor, known for its vibrant music and cultural history.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring the neighborhood and enjoy lunch at a local eatery. Visit the African American Civil War Memorial.
- Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife with live music venues along U Street. Enjoy a night out in one of D.C.’s most lively neighborhoods.
Day 5: Union Market District & Atlas District
- Morning: Spend your morning exploring Union Market District, known for its artisanal shops and diverse food scene.
- Afternoon: Head over to the Atlas District, home to a mix of art galleries, restaurants, and bars.
- Evening: Enjoy a performance at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, followed by a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Moxy Hotel: A modern hotel located near Union Station, providing easy access to transportation and nearby attractions.
- The Hay-Adams: A luxurious historic hotel located near the White House, offering exceptional service and accommodations.
- The Watergate Hotel: Known for its rich history, this iconic hotel offers modern amenities and views of the Potomac River.
Dining Recommendations
- Founding Farmers: A popular spot for American comfort food with a modern twist, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- Old Ebbitt Grill: A historic restaurant famous for its oysters and classic American dishes.
- Ben’s Chili Bowl: A D.C. institution known for its half-smokes, a must-try when visiting the city.
This itinerary gives you a balance of historical landmarks, cultural exploration, and local experiences, ensuring that your time in Washington, D.C. is both fulfilling and memorable. Let me know if you'd like further customization based on your interests!
