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Teeming with magnificent monuments, iconic sights and marvelous museums, the United States capital is a fabulous destination. However, planning a Washington DC trip can feel overwhelming. There is simply so much to see and do!
In order to make the most of a Washington DC vacation, it is essential to have a good trip plan. To help those planning a trip to DC, we are sharing our succinct Washington DC Itinerary that showcases the absolute best of the city in 3 days!
Plan a Trip to Washington DC
Anyone planning a trip to Washington DC will quickly learn that there are an astounding number of things to do. The District of Columbia appeals to a wide range of visitors. From those interested in history and politics to architecture aficionados and foodies.
When we started our Washington DC vacation planning, there were so many attractions we wanted to include that we could have spent a month seeing the sights. However, like most visitors, we didn’t have a month. We were limited to just 3 Days in DC.
Determined to make the most of our time, we carefully planned a long weekend trip to DC that included the must-see sights and essential activities.
We were traveling as a couple, but whether you are organizing a DC weekend trip with friends or planning a trip to Washington DC for family, you can still use our detailed trip plan.
As you make reservations and book tickets for your DC itinerary, you will need one place to keep all the details organized. We recommend using our Travel Planning Printables for your DC trip.
About Our Washington DC Itinerary 3 Days
We believe spending 3 days in Washington DC allows just enough time to see the highlights. In our 3-Day Washington DC Itinerary, we feature the top attractions that are most appealing to us. That said, some of our favorite things to do in DC might not be of interest to other travelers. So, we offer suggestions for alternate activities throughout our trip plan.
Furthermore, we offer various sample Washington DC itineraries at the end of the article. If you only have 2 days in DC or are creating a 5-Day Washington DC Itinerary, you can use our suggestions to plan your perfect trip!
FAQs for Planning a Trip to Washington DC
Before we jump into our detailed 3-Day Trip Planner Washington DC Itinerary, let’s cover some frequently asked questions.
How Much Should I Budget for a Trip to Washington DC?
Costs to consider for your Trip to DC Itinerary include accommodations, transportation, food and activities. Each travelers’ cost will vary based on type of accommodation, how they opt to get around, where they eat and what ticketed attractions they choose to visit.
What is the Best Way to Visit Washington DC on a Budget?
Fortunately, there is a way to visit DC on every budget. Many of the must-do’s in DC are absolutely free! Our Washington DC planner features top tips for free activities, affordable food, cheap transportation and budget accommodations. With our tips, it’s simple to plan affordable trips to Washington DC!
How Many Days to Visit Washington DC?
One of the biggest considerations for DC trip planning is how many days to spend in the city. Your decision should be based on a combination of interests, budget and time.
We know it’s possible to squeeze the top things to see in Washington DC into a long weekend itinerary. Which is why we created a 3-Day Washington DC Vacation Planning Guide!
Review our 3 Day Itinerary Washington DC, then decide which sights are most important to you. If you plan to spend more or less time in the city, take a look at our helpful alternate Washington DC itineraries below.
What is the Best Month to Visit Washington DC?
There are pros and cons for travel to Washington DC in every season. Summers tend to be the busiest and the hottest. If you plan your trip to Washington DC in June, July or August, expect humid weather and big crowds. Which means long lines and difficulty obtaining tickets for some sights.
Winters can be cold and snowy, which may be unfavorable for long days of sightseeing outdoors. However, there are far fewer fellow tourists to contend with. Plus it is a great time of year to visit the many free museums in DC.
Spring is a popular time to plan trip to Washington DC – especially when the cherry blossoms reach their peak. That said, springtime weather can be fickle and there’s an influx of tourists during cherry blossom season.
We believe autumn is an ideal time to plan a DC trip. Temperatures tend to be comfortable and crowds lighter.
What is the Best Way to Tour Washington DC?
It is essential that you have a good Washington DC touring plan for your trip! We prefer to explore on foot and have arranged our 3 Days in DC Itinerary as an easy-to-follow walking tour.
Visitors who don’t want the hassle of sorting out directions or public transportation can ride the Hop On Hop Off Bus, join a small group day tour or hire a private tour guide.
WASHINGTON DC ITINERARY
Our Washington DC 3-Day Itinerary includes everything you need. Not only does our trip feature top experiences, we also discuss on how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. We have made planning a vacation to DC as easy as possible!
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Washington DC Trip Planner for your USA Trip!
DAY 1 of Your Itinerary for Washington DC
Begin your Washington DC Three-Day Itinerary by visiting the most iconic attractions: The White House and the National Mall. Then end your first day at one of DC’s best events.
The White House
Seeing the White House is absolutely essential on your Washington DC tour itinerary. The stately building has served as the home and office of every US president since John Adams in 1800. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, is an icon of America and a symbol of freedom and democracy in the United States.
How To Visit The White House
White House tours are free, but they are offered on a very limited basis. They also need to be booked through your state congressman or embassy in advance. It is required to book your tour at least 21 days prior, but recommended to request the tour 3 months before your trip.
Best Views of the White House
If you exclude the White House tour from your Washington DC vacation planner, you should still get a look at the iconic building. It is possible – through gates – to see both the front and back of the White House.
When you approach the White House from the north, you will have a view of the front of the building from Pennsylvania Avenue. Then, walk to the east, taking 15th Street south (and passing the US Treasury Building) to E Street. Walk west along E Street for a view of the south-facing portico across the White House South Lawn.
Pro Tip: Before you set off for the White House, carve out enough time in your Washington DC Itinerary for breakfast. We recommend starting your day with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers DC, then walk through Lafayette Park to the White House.
The National Mall
Spending time on the National Mall is a must for your DC travel itinerary! Stretching nearly 2 miles from the Capitol steps to the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall features a myriad of monuments and museums. The Washington Monument stands at the center of the Mall and tree-lined paths guide visitors along.
Top National Mall Museums
There are more than 20 museums and galleries located on the Mall – 11 of which are world-class Smithsonian Museums. Visitors could easily spend days at the museums on the National Mall – but that would leave little time for other sightseeing!
We suggest picking just one or two National Mall museums to visit on Day 1 of your 3-Day DC trip. The Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History get our vote for top places to visit. As a bonus, all three of these are absolutely free!
Best Washington DC Memorials and Monuments
There are dozens of monuments and memorials you could include in your Washington DC vacation itinerary. While you will certainly stumble on several, there are a few Memorials on the National Mall that you will want to make a point to see.
Washington Monument
Proudly standing in the center of the National Mall and almost directly south of the White House, the Washington Monument reaches a height of 555 feet. Built in the 1800s to honor the first president of the United States, it’s circled by fifty American flags and is the tallest obelisk in the world.
Pro Tip: If planning to visit the Washington Monument on your DC Itinerary, there are a few things to know. Tours of the Washington Monument are free – including the observation deck. However, it is essential to book online (which incurs a $1 fee).
West End National Mall Monuments and Memorials
The west end of the National Mall is peppered with some of the most stunning and poignant memorials in DC (all of which are free to visit). A few to specifically seek out are the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veteran Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
Tidal Basin Monuments and Shoreline Walk
On the south side of the west end of the National Mall is the picturesque Tidal Basin. The lake is encircled by a 2-mile shoreline trail. Washington DC Cherry Blossom Trees line the paths and are a spectacular sight in spring. Must-see memorials along the Tidal Basin route include the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
Tips for Sightseeing the National Mall in DC
We have outlined what to do in Washington DC on the National Mall – but we have a few tips to make your sightseeing a little more enjoyable.
Lunch on the National Mall
If you are spending the entire first day of your Washington DC Three Day Itinerary on the National Mall, you will need to have a plan for eating lunch.
For a quick, uncomplicated lunch, consider grabbing local fare from a food truck. 7th Street, 14th Street and Maryland Avenue are good places to find them. For those planning a trip to Washington DC on a budget, consider picking up picnic items and eating somewhere along the Mall with an epic view of DC landmarks!
Another option is eating at one of the government building cafeterias or museum restaurants. Eating lunch at a government cafeteria might seem an odd choice, but the USDA Food Court is an exception.
This food court features an array of healthy dining options, including everything from a salad bar to sushi. Note that the food court is accessed by non-employees via Wing 3 and it closed on weekends.
Getting Around the National Mall
Day 1 is packed with sightseeing – all of which is done in the style of a self-guided walking tour. Travelers with weary feet can utilize the DC Circulator Bus, which makes stops at top attractions on the National Mall. Rides are just $1 per trip (exact amount in cash or with a SmarTrip Card) and buses arrive about every 10 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can rent a bicycle to see the sights on the Mall and around DC.
Washington DC Guided Tour
Rather than plan a DIY walking tour to top Washington DC tourist attractions, upgrade your sightseeing experience with a full-day guided tour of the sights. Find out more!
Night Out in Washington DC
On the first evening of your Washington DC tourist itinerary, plan a fun night of entertainment. We recommend attending one of DC’s best events – either a game or a performance. Alternatively, go for an epic night of eating and drinking in DC!
DC Sports
We suggest going to a Washington Nationals baseball game. Is there anything more American than watching America’s game in the country’s capital city? Make it a real DC experience and get a famous Half Smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl (located inside the ballpark) for dinner.
If the Nats are not playing, DC also hosts the Wizards (NBA), Washington Football (NFL), Capitals (NHL) and DC United (MLS Soccer).
Washington DC Theater Events
If attending a theatrical performance is of more interest, you have plenty of options. Check what is playing at one of the famous theaters in Washington DC. Top picks are the National Theater (one of the longest operating theaters in the US), Ford’s Theater (where President Lincoln was assassinated) or the Kennedy Center (where they offer free daily performances).
DC Nightlife at The Wharf
If you’re looking for a big night out, spend the first evening of your Washington DC weekend itinerary at The Wharf. Set along the Potomac waterfront, it’s one of the liveliest entertainment district in DC.
Pro Tip: Another fun way to hit the town is on a craft brewery tour. Sample suds from local brewers on a guided tour of the Washington DC craft beer scene. Get the details!
DAY 2 of Your Washington DC Trip Itinerary
Today explore a few of the best DC districts, including Capitol Hill, Arlington and Georgetown. Plan on using public transportation or Uber/Lyft.
Capitol Hill Neighborhood
Washington DC vacation planning would not be complete without exploring Capitol Hill. The center of US politics, the Capitol Hill District features major attractions as well as top foodie spots.
The United States Capitol
The Capitol Building stands in the center of the Federal District – and is home to the United States Congress. The landmark building features a massive dome, which is topped by the Statue of Freedom.
From the steps of the US Capitol Building, the view west encompasses the length of the Mall, with the Washington Monument standing tall in the middle and the Lincoln Memorial occupying the west end.
Tour the Capitol Building
When you plan a trip to Washington DC, we highly recommend taking a tour of the Capitol Building. Guided tours of the US Capitol Building are free and sometimes you can even watch Congress in session. However, advance reservations are required, and guests must adhere to strict rules.
More Things To Do on Capitol Hill
Continue your exploration of the Capitol Hill district at Eastern Market, where you can enjoy a snack and peruse local goods. Then stroll through the historic Barracks Row. Once part of the Navy Yard and dating to 1801, it’s one of the oldest commercial districts in DC.
In addition to visiting the United States Capitol, there are other iconic buildings that you can tour. For example, you can also visit the US Supreme Court (open Monday through Friday), take a tour of the Library of Congress (closed Sundays) or explore the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument (closed Monday and Tuesday).
Lunch in Capitol Hill
For lunch, dine at one of the iconic Capitol Hill eateries. For something quick and inexpensive, go to Good Stuff Eatery, a fast food joint with amazing burgers. We recommend getting the Prez Burger and Spike’s Village Fries!
Other lunch options are Mangiarlardo’s (a family-owned Italian sandwich shop dating to 1953) or Rose’s Luxury (which will likely have a line down the street).
Arlington National Cemetery
The next stop is the famous Arlington National Cemetery. From Capitol Hill, hop on the Metro (Blue Line) to Arlington.
Arlington National Cemetery is a 624-acre military burial ground. Established in 1864 during the Civil War, the cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. US Presidents Taft and Kennedy are buried alongside 400,000 American soldiers at Arlington.
What To See at Arlington Cemetery
In addition to the president and soldier grave sites, there are many monuments and memorials on the cemetery grounds. Most notable is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater. The site houses the remains of servicemen from WWI, WWII, the Korea War and the Vietnam War.
US Army soldiers guard the tomb 24 hours a day and there is a ceremonious Changing of the Guard every hour yearlong and every half hour in the summertime.
Georgetown
Anyone planning a trip to DC should make time to visit Georgetown. A short Metro ride to Rosslyn Station and then the cheap DC Circulator bus will get you there from Arlington Cemetery.
Located along the Potomac River, Georgetown was established as a trading post long before Washington DC existed. The entire district is now labeled as a National Historic Landmark.
Things To Do in Georgetown DC
Over the decades, many DC elites have called Georgetown home. The neighborhood is known for its posh boutique shops and high-end fashion stores. However, shopping is just one of the many reasons to visit Georgetown.
Active travelers can go to Key Bridge Boathouse to rent equipment for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. However, all visitors will enjoy a leisurely walk along the Georgetown Waterfront Promenade.
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath is also terrific for picturesque treks. We find that exploring the Georgetown University campus is an excellent way to ease into the evening.
Other places of interest in Georgetown are the Old Stone House, Tudor Place Historic House, the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Park and the enormous National Cathedral.
Dinner in Georgetown
Stay in Georgetown for an entertaining evening. For something upscale, dine at the legendary Martin’s Tavern, a family-run restaurant serving classic American fare since 1933. Then sip after-dinner drinks overlooking DC at The Rooftop at the Graham.
Those looking for something a little more casual should go to Clubhouse for local craft beer, pub grub and arcade games. Mr. Smith’s, a fun saloon and piano bar, is another good option. If the campus crowd is more your scene, go underground to The Tombs for burgers and pitchers of beer.
Pro Tip: Get a guided introduction to Georgetown on a Food and History Tour! Participants are led to locally-owned and historic spots while learning about the area’s intriguing past.
DAY 3 of Your Washington DC Trip
To wrap up your Itinerary for Washington DC in Three Days, head into the Penn Quarter District and end the night with a divine dinner.
Penn Quarter
Delve deep into the Penn Quarter District, one of the most interesting areas in DC. The once small and historic neighborhood that is just east of the White House has turned into entertainment hub.
Things To Do in DC Penn Quarter
Start with a coffee and croissant from Dolcezzo, a locals’ favorite coffee and gelato shop in the CityCenter DC shopping mall. Then navigate on foot to the best sights in the neighborhood.
Chinatown
Once properly fueled, check out any other sophisticated shops that catch your eye, before making your way to Chinatown. If you walk east along H Street, you stumble onto the Friendship Arch. The ornamental Chinese gate marks what’s left of the small DC Chinatown.
Pennsylvania Avenue
Walking along the diagonal Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House to the United States Capitol Building is a classic stroll to include in your DC itinerary.
The 1.2-mile stretch between the two government buildings is dubbed “America’s Main Street” and was one of the first planned roads in DC. It is most notably known as the walking route that newly inaugurated presidents take to the White House after being sworn in at the Capitol.
Penn Quarter Museums
Penn Quarter boasts some of the best museums in Washington DC. Our top pick is the National Archives, which houses America’s most treasured documents – the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Other top museums in Penn Quarter are the National Portrait Gallery (a free Smithsonian Museum, which includes the American President Gallery) and Ford’s Theater (which can be toured with a guide).
Lunch in Penn Quarter
Lunch poses a problem…only because there are so many incredible eateries to choose from! Famed Chef Jose Andres has three restaurants in Penn (Oyamel, Jaleo and Zaytinya). Additionally, there are a slew of fantastic Asian restaurants in Chinatown (Daikaya gets rave reviews) and numerous American dining options, too (like Clyde’s and Founding Farmers).
Washington DC Parks and the National Zoo
In the afternoon, explore one of the best places near DC featuring nature and wildlife.
The famous Smithsonian National Zoological Park is one of the top sights in Washington DC. Highlights are the Giant Pandas, American Bison, Great Apes and the Carousel.
One of our favorite parks is Meridian Hill Park, which features fountains, statues and great views – and is also a favored picnic spot for locals.
Further north is Rock Creek Park, which is a true natural gem. Hikers can wander the miles of trails and there are other activities, like horseback riding, playgrounds and historic forts.
Downtown DC Dinner and Drinks
Complete your Long Weekend in DC Itinerary with an epic meal at a historic restaurant where many presidents and most politicians have once dined.
Two fine establishments are Old Ebbitt Grill and The Tabard Inn. The Old Ebbitt Grill, which opened in 1856, is one of the most famous spots to eat in DC and known for their oysters. The Tabard Inn Restaurant, located near Dupont Circle, dates to 1922 and is located in a restored rowhouse.
For a casual DC mainstay, make your way to the U Street Corridor for a meal at Ben’s Chili Bowl (for a chili dog) or Ben’s Next Door (for an array of comfort food), both of which have been frequented by heaps of celebrities – and former US Presidents.
DC Monuments at Night
After dinner, end your 3 Days in Washington DC Itinerary with an evening walk. The White House and the National Mall landmarks look spectacular lit up at night! Or give your feet a well deserved rest and join a coach tour of the sights at night. Get the details!
DC Day Trip Ideas
While we feel there are ample sights to fill your Washington DC travel itinerary, some may choose to add a day trip. If you have the time and energy, there are some excellent options!
Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria
Embark on a journey into America’s past on a half-day tour from Washington DC. Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, tour his mansion and visit his tomb. Then travel by bus through Old Town Alexandria, where you will see historical homes and other famous sights. Reserve your spot!
Gettysburg
Visit some of the most iconic sights in American history on a tour of Gettysburg. Top attractions include the Gettysburg Battlefield and Gettysburg Town. Learn more!
Virginia Wine Tour
Travel into Virginia wine country and visit multiple wineries for tastings and snacks. The small-group tour includes transportation to and from Washington DC. Book it!
More Washington DC Itineraries
If you are planning a trip to Washington DC for 3 days, the above is about all that you need! However, if you have more or less time, we have some suggestions to make your Washington DC vacation planning a breeze.
1-Day Washington DC Itinerary
Planning a 1 Day in Washington DC Itinerary is an immense task…but not impossible! For first time visitors to the city, simply follow our outline for Day 1 above. In addition to attending an evening event, spend time in the Penn Quarter either before or afterwards.
Washington DC Itinerary 2 Days
With two days, we recommend following Days 1 and 2 of our outlined Washington DC travel planner. This allows travelers to see the best sights in the city and surrounding area. Again, we would recommend squeezing in some time in Penn Quarter. Perhaps dine there on Day 2 rather than eating in Georgetown.
4 Day Washington DC Itinerary
To create a 4-Day Washington DC Itinerary, we recommend using our 3 day plan and explore the city parks and zoo on day 4. In the evening, go to the U Street Corridor (or Old Ebbitt Grill, if you went to Ben’s Chili Bowl on Day 3) for dinner.
New York, Boston, DC Itinerary
Due to close proximity, it is possible to create a multiple East Coast City Itinerary. Whether flying, driving or taking the train, visitors could easily see New York City, Boston and Washington DC in 1 Week. Use our helpful guides to get started: Weekend in Boston Itinerary and 4 Day New York Itinerary. Considering a stop in Philadelphia as well? Check out our Top Tips for a Day in Philly!
Washington DC Trip Planner Tips
We want to make planning a trip to DC a breeze, and we know there is more to it than choosing which sights to see. So we are sharing some practical advice – like how to get there, where to stay and what to pack.
Make Advanced Reservations
Our top Washington DC vacation tip is this: Reserve tickets and book restaurants in advance…especially in the summertime! The city’s top attractions see a record flood of visitors every year.
However, many tourist sights now allow visitors to reserve time slots in advance – with a small fee (usually $1 USD). We think it is well worth it to reserve online, so that you don’t waste your precious vacation time standing in line!
How To Get to Washington DC
The US capital city can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying – we are JetSettingFools, after all! When we need to buy plane tickets, we start our search for the best airfare on SkyScanner.
Read our advice on How To Book Cheap Flights.
DC Airports
There are three major airports the serve the DC Metro Area: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).
Of the 3 Washington DC Airports, we prefer flying into Reagan National, as it is by far the most convenient. To get from DCA Airport to downtown DC, visitors can book a Private Transfer, ride the Metro, or order an Uber.
Bus and Train Travel to DC
Major bus and train routes serve DC Union Station. Greyhound and Bolt offer bus services and regional trains are operated by Amtrak. DC is connected to several destinations by train – including New York, Philadelphia, Boston and Baltimore.
Where To Stay in Washington DC
Deciding where to stay is a major part of planning a trip to DC. With only three days, we believe it is best to stay in the heart of the city center so that you can easily access sights and transportation. Start your search on Booking.com and use our Top Tips for Booking Hotels!
One of our favorite places to stay in DC is Club Quarters. Although the rooms are small, the location – just down the street from the White House – is superb! The hotel is also just steps from the Metro, which is extremely convenient when traveling to districts outside of downtown. Best of all, however, is the price – especially compared to nearby options. Check rates and availability!
What To Pack For a 3-Day Trip to Washington DC
Okay, it’s time to talk packing. You can read all of our Packing Hacks later, but for now grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get to DC!
Durable Shoes
Another one of our top Washington DC sightseeing tips is to pack comfortable travel shoes. Admittedly, we cover some ground in our DC Itinerary – and you don’t want your feet hurting along the way. I like to wear lightweight shoes for women by New Balance – Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes.
DC Weather Gear
Washington DC experiences all four seasons – with hot and humid summers and cold winters.
Summer travelers should bring clothing that is breathable and lightweight – sunglasses, good sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat are also highly recommended. Wintertime visitors will need a coat, hat and gloves.
Layers are recommended if traveling to DC in the spring or autumn. Because it can rain any time of year, we also suggest bringing a packable raincoat or travel umbrella for your trip.
Travel Camera
Washington DC is decorated with historic sights and grand monuments – all of which begged to be photographed. Rather than trying to capture it all with your phone, upgrade to an actual travel camera. We shoot with a DSLR Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens, which we believe provides an excellent set-up. The camera is easy to use and comes bundled with heaps of accessories, making it a great value for beginner photographers.
Day Bag and DC Guidebook
Whether you travel with a suitcase of backpack, you will also want a great day pack to organize and secure all of your everyday travel items. Be aware that certain sights and monuments require bag screening and research what is not allowed.
Even though we’ve made multiple trips to The District, we still carry the DK Eyewitness Pocket Book for latest Top 10 in DC Travel. It’s very informative and fits right in our day pack!
Start planning your trip to the USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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