DC is so awesome! Why wouldn’t you want to visit the Nation’s Capital? Theres so much more to it than just the government. Fun museums, beautiful art, beautiful people and amazing eats. What more could you want?
So here’s a little guide on how you can get the most out of the city without feeling like you missed out on anything.
Day 1: National Mall
Do I really need to explain? This is why you come to DC! There are so many museums, monuments and history that this could really be your whole weekend. But in case you don’t have the time, these are the highlights:
Favorite Museum: It’s always a toss up between the Smithsonian Natural History Museum or National Gallery of Art. Go to either one of them and you won’t regret it. Then let me know which one you like better cuz I can’t decide!
Tip: Go to the Smithsonian Natural History Museum early and go to the live butterfly exhibit before it gets super crowded. So fun!
Tunnel connecting the East and West wing of the Gallery of Art
Best View: From the top of the Washington Monument. You gotta plan this one early, but if you’re lucky enough to get a ticket, this is the best seat in the house.
View of the Lincoln Memorial, Reflecting Pool and WWII Memorial from the top of the Washington Monument
Day 2: Penn Quarter/Chinatown
This little neighborhood is one of my favorites in DC. It has a character all on its own. While you’re there check out the top level of the National Portrait Gallery. Super modern, super interesting.
Electronic Superhighway in the National Portrait Gallery
Favorite Eats: I’m a ramen fan! And Daikaya is one of the most popular places for these noodles in DC. Theres usually a line but you can skip it and head to the second floor for Izakaya. The food is just as good and you don’t have to wait as long.
Shopping: Such great shopping in Penn Quarter. You’ve got all the big name stores as well as some that are exclusive to DC. If you’re a photo enthusiast like myself, you GOTTA check out the Leica store. Sooo awesome (Homer Simpson drool).
Day 3: Capitol Hill/Georgetown
Eastern Market: The cutest little market right in Capitol Hill. There’s a lady that sells baked goods at her own stand. Sorry I don’t know her name but she is the only one who sells coconut cake. Serious yumms right there. And I don’t even like coconut. But there are so many stalls to get great food, meats, local art and flowers. Be warned, it can get crowded on the weekends.
Afternoon Tea in Georgetown: Capitol Hill and Georgetown are not that close to each other, so you may have to take a taxi for this one but going Georgetown is the perfect way to spend your afternoon. So why not have afternoon tea with some furry friends at DC’s first and only Cat Cafe: Crumbs and Whiskers. Just remember they are reservations only.
Didn’t move an inch the whole time we were there. Treat bribes didn’t work either.
Last but not least, a leisurely stroll around Georgetown is the perfect backdrop to more shopping, more great eats and the cute views like this one.
The C&O canal brings the right amount of history to this hip neighborhood
Dinner and drinks on the waterfront with a view of the Potomac River is a must. The best view is definietly at Sequoia but Farmers Fishers Bakers has some great farm to table food too.
*And if you really want to get down with DC, you gotta get down with go go music. YESSSS!!!!!
Enjoy your weekend in DC and let me know if you liked these suggestions or would like to see more 🙂 Follow some of my other DC guides: