There is so much more to Washington D.C. than politics! The nation’s capitol is a wonderful mix of old and new – from the historic landmarks and educational museums to the stylish eateries and modern art galleries. This is the perfect guide to Washington D.C. for an efficient weekend of checking off must-see spots, dining in style, and finding all the best views.
In this travel guide, I will share my tips for where to stay, what to eat and drink, and things to see and do in the capitol of the United States – Washington D.C.
Table of Contents
STAY
Nearly all major hotel chains can be found in Washington D.C. – many with multiple properties across the neighborhoods. When looking for a convenient and safe neighborhood for accommodations, I recommend searching in Dupont Circle, Penn Quarter, or Capitol Hill.
KIMPTON BANNEKER
The Kimpton Banneker is located downtown near Dupont Circle making it easy to get to the monuments and museums on the National Mall, as well as the trendy shops and restaurants on 14th Street. The hotel opened in May 2021, so it is a relatively new space. I love the mid-century modern sophistication of the rooms, lobby, and on-site restaurant (Le Sel) and rooftop bar (Lady Bird). I also love the amenities that are included when staying at any Kimpton property, such as nightly wine hour (5-6pm) and complimentary bikes and in-room yoga mats.
Tip: Make sure to follow Kimpton (@kimpton) on Instagram to learn about their seasonal social passwords. The current social password is STAY COOL. By mentioning the social password at check-in, I received a $25 credit for the hotel’s rooftop bar (Lady Bird) during my stay.
Book HERE!
MORE OPTIONS
The LINE DC, Kimpton Monaco, Willard InterContinental
EAT AND DRINK
Washington D.C. has a diverse range of bars and restaurants. I enjoyed researching to find the best spots, but there was honestly not enough time to try them all in one trip.
I highly recommend making some dinner reservations in advance of your travels – I always check out Resy first.
COFFEE
Coffee: Compass Coffee, The Wydown, Foxtrot Market, Yellow
BREAKFAST & BRUNCH
Breakfast & Brunch: Unconventional Diner, Compass Rose, Martin’s Tavern
LUNCH & DINNER
French: Le Diplomate | So charming. Request a table in the garden room or a window seat.
Italian: L’Ardente | This place is perfectly described as ‘glam Italian.’ You MUST order the 40-layer lasagna.
Spanish: Jaleo | Michelin star chef, José Andrés, serves tasty tapas, paella, and sangria here.
On my list for next time: Rose’s Luxury, Zaytinya, Old Ebbitt Grill, Maydan, Ambar, and Albi
DESSERT
Dessert: Dolcezza Gelato, Baked and Wired
COCKTAILS
Cocktails: Oyamel, Jane Jane, Lady Bird, and Barcelona Wine Bar
Tip: So many bars and restaurants have happy hour during the week – take advantage!
SEE AND DO
SEE THE MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS
My favorite time to see the monuments and memorials is at sunset! Head to the Lincoln Memorial about 45 minutes before sunset and see the reflection of the Washington Monument on the pool. From there, walk over to Tidal Basin and see the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial – both are beautiful against the colors in the sky. I also recommend checking out the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial while you are on the National Mall. Lastly, and not technically a monument or memorial, but you should stop by The White House to admire the perfectly manicured lawn.
VISIT THE MUSEUMS
There is a museum for everyone in Washington D.C.! The Smithsonian Institution’s collection of 17 museums and galleries is probably the most well-known, as it is the world’s largest museum and research complex. The Smithsonian Institution’s museums and galleries are also FREE! These are some of the essentials if you don’t know where to start:
Smithsonian National Museum of American History | See the original Star-Spangled Banner, Dorothy’s ruby red slippers, Julia Child’s kitchen, Prince’s guitar, and the First Ladies’ dresses.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History | See the fossil hall, the ocean hall, and the Hope Diamond.
Smithsonian American Art Museum / National Portrait Gallery | See the presidential portrait collection, Katharine Hepburn’s Oscars, and the stunning Kogod Courtyard.
Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum | Closed through Fall 2022 for renovations. See a lot of spaceships and airplanes, of course.
Tip: I recommend arriving at the museums as soon as they open to avoid the crowds. Don’t overdo it either – two museums per day is realistic.
SPEND THE DAY IN GEORGETOWN
The neighborhood of Georgetown is full of historic townhouses, charming streets, trendy boutiques, and established restaurants. Start your day with coffee at Compass Coffee or Foxtrot Market, then head to brunch at the historic Martin’s Tavern where JFK proposed to Jackie, and save room for a cupcake from Baked and Wired. Check out Old Stone House (built in 1765), Dumbarton Oaks, and the C&O Canal while you are in Georgetown.
Tip: Stop by Call Your Mother Deli for a picture-perfect pink corner. If you go after they close, there won’t be a line or people to maneuver around.
SHOP AND DINE
Head to CityCenterDC to find high end shopping, al fresco dining, and even a farmers market on Tuesdays. Walk down 14th Street NW for endless restaurants, bars, and popular storefronts. Nearly every restaurant on 14th Street NW has an outdoor seating area, which I love when the weather is right!
I hope you enjoyed this guide to Washington D.C. and are planning to visit soon! I will definitely be coming back!
TIPS
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Like the rest of the Northeast, Washington D.C. is better in pleasant weather. This travel guide definitely relies on walking as the primary means of transportation, so you will be happier doing so during the Spring and Fall months. The Cherry Blossom Festival happens annually from late March to early April, which is a lovely time to visit. Visiting from early September to late October is also a great time to visit with lighter crowds and turning leaves.
GETTING AROUND
There are three major airports that you can fly into – IAD, DCA, and BWI. DCA is the closest, while BWI is the furthest.
You can also take Amtrak depending on where you are coming from. This was my choice coming from New York. The train station in Washington D.C. is super accessible at Union Station. Takes approximately three and a half hours to/from New York Penn Station.
Once you are there, the metro is easy to use, Uber/Lyft are available, and walking is very normal.
Tip: Save locations to a list on Google Maps – your hotel, bars and restaurants, sights, etc. for planning your days efficiently. This will help you see which sights, bars, and restaurants are in the same areas.
PACKING
Comfortable shoes are key! You will likely be on your feet a lot walking around or standing in museums and galleries. I liked packing a separate daytime outfit and evening outfit for my days in Washington D.C., but there is not necessarily a dress code for any of the places mentioned in this travel guide, so wear whatever you like.
My complete guide to how to pack for travel is saved HERE!
COVID-19
With the spread of COVID-19, all travelers should prioritize their health and safety. Rules and restrictions are constantly changing, so stay updated HERE for related rules and restrictions in Washington D.C..
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