On your trip to Washington, D.C., you can see some of the greatest historical sites and landmarks in the country. You can also explore arts and culture at renowned theaters and museums, such as the John F. Kennedy Center. Trying to fit it all into a weekend can be near impossible. For this reason, we’ve put together an exciting travel plan for you. Along with the must-see attractions, our weekend itinerary in Washington, D.C. will take you to some unforgettable places, such as the International Spy Museum and the DEA Museum. So, pack your bags and get ready to see D.C. as you’ve never seen it before.
Day 1
7:00 AM
Start your 48 hours in Washington, D.C. with a hearty breakfast at Seasons on Pennsylvania in Georgetown. This is a favorite restaurant of many of the legislators, so you just might spot one of them while you’re munching on your pancakes. Some other menu items include chocolate chip French toast, corn beef hash, egg white omelets, and roasted salmon.
09:00 AM
After a delicious breakfast, you’ll be ready to do some sightseeing. Because you’ll be close to the White House, why not start there? After the White House, you can tour the U.S. Capitol where you can potentially watch Congress in session. Before you leave, stop by the Capitol Cafe for a salad, sandwich, and a cold drink.
1:00 PM
Work off your lunch with some outdoor fun. In the spring, take a walk around Tidal Basin to see the cherry blossoms. In the winter season, you can go ice skating at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden Ice Rink or Washington Harbor. If you have time, you can book a 2-hour tour of the National Mall in an electric vehicle. You’ll also get to see many historical landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the MLK Monument, and the Smithsonian Museum on this excursion.
3:00 PM
Take the afternoon to visit the International Spy Museum followed by the DEA Museum. Before dinner, you can take a boat tour on the Potomac River for sightseeing. Many water taxis also have tour guides that will point out key landmarks, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Jefferson Memorial.
7:00 PM
Get a look at Washington, D.C. at night. It will be an entirely different experience. On this guided tour, you’ll see the monuments and the White House by moonlight. You’ll be on a trolley, so you won’t have to worry about traffic or following GPS.
9:00 PM
Don’t leave D.C. without checking out some of its thriving bars and nightclubs. You can do this by signing up for the Haunted Bar Tour. On this fun excursion, you’ll be able to drink at several haunted bars. Your entertaining guide will also tell you different stories about ghost sightings.
Day 2
08:00 AM
After breakfast, visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Air & Space. This is a guided tour that will take a couple of hours. You’ll meet your guide outside of the museum. On your tour, you’ll learn all about aviation, astronomy, and the planets.
1:00 PM
Taste some of the best food that Washington, D.C. has to offer on this food walking tour. You’ll get nice and full on this three-hour eating tour that takes you to many local cafes and restaurants. Although you’ll do lots of snacking, you’ll work it off with plenty of walking.
5:00 PM
Take a short trip to National Harbor just outside of Washington, D.C. You can start with a ride on the Ferris wheel where you can see panoramic views of the city. Also, close by is a carousel (great for kids), shopping along the waterfront, and the National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park (with many nature trails).
7:00 PM
Looking for some entertainment? Catch a show at one of the performing arts centers, such as the John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Ford’s Theater, or the Wooly Mammoth Theater Company.
9:00 PM
Spend your last night in Washington, D.C. at the Hard Rock Cafe. Here you’ll enjoy a rock and roll-themed dining room with a diverse menu of burgers, fries, gourmet salads, baby back ribs, and signature cocktails.
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Plan your trip to Washington, D.C.
