It’s an understatement to say that there is a lot to see and do in Washington, DC. The city bursts with museums, monuments, parks, sporting events, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Clearly, it would literally take you weeks to see it all. However, if you are limited on time, our 3-day Washington DC itinerary will help you make the most of your visit. You won’t feel like you’re cramming in as many sites and experiences as possible. Instead, you’ll enjoy a well-paced exploration. This 3-day Washington DC itinerary guides you through the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.
3-day Washington DC itinerary at a glance
Not all sites in DC are related to politics. Nevertheless, many of them are, especially these days, when everything seems to become a political flashpoint. Just take a few deep breaths and get ready for an amazing ride. You’ll journey through the city of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, and many others.
Day 1: Pay homage to one of the greatest presidents
- Linger at the Vietnam War Memorial
- Look up at the Washington Monument
- Gawk at the Capitol Building
Day 2: Explore the National Gallery of Art
- Make history fun at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History
- Indulge in some Ethiopian fare
Day 3: Stroll around Georgetown
- Eat a half-smoke sausage and indulge in DC’s culinary history
- Walk around the Capitol Riverfront
- Take a walking tour of the city’s highlights
Day 1: Marvel at the Mall
Pay homage to one of the greatest presidents at the Lincoln Memorial
To start your 3-day Washington DC itinerary, immerse yourself in the heart of the National Mall. You can wander on your own, but for a deeper, more insightful experience, join our expert-led Guided Tour of the National Mall. This tour takes you to these iconic sites and brings their rich history to life. You skip the lines, avoid confusion, and get insider tips from locals who truly know the city.
The National Mall sits on a plus-sized rectangular strip of lawn. Here, you’ll see some of the most iconic sites in Washington. It’s best to start on the western end, at the Lincoln Memorial, and work your way east to the domed Capitol Building.
- Stunning views of the Reflecting Pool and Memorials
- Easy access to the Korean War and World War II Memorials along your route
- Plenty of photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset
Since 1922, the Lincoln Memorial has dazzled visitors and hosted political rallies. The neo-classical monument, dedicated to the 16th president, is dominated by an enormous statue of a seated Abraham Lincoln.
Linger at the Vietnam War Memorial
The long, black granite wall stands as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. People simply refer to it as “the Wall.” Maya Lin designed this moving monument. The names of every American veteran who died in the 1960s and 70s war in Southeast Asia are etched into the wall—more than 58,000 men and women. It is a simple monument, yet the memorial offers a thought-provoking experience. Certainly, it is worth spending some time lingering here.
Look up at the Washington Monument
Rome is dotted with obelisks it stole from ancient Egypt centuries ago. Likewise, Washington, as the capital of a Roman Empire successor, has one enormous obelisk at the center of the mall. Robert Mills designed the monument in the middle of the 19th century. When they finally completed it in 1884, it was the tallest structure on the planet at 555 feet.
Gawk at the Capitol Building
Crowning the National Mall at its eastern end stands one of the most iconic buildings in the country: the Capitol Building. Here, the Senate and the Congress make and pass laws. Completed in 1800, the name Capitol is short for Capitolium, referencing Capitoline Hill in Rome. Be sure to stop into the Visitors Center for a better look at the interior of the building. However, if you want to skip long lines, consider taking a tour of the National Archives.
Day 2: Day in the Museum
Explore the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art was established in 1937. Entry is free of charge. The impressive collection focuses on European and American art dating back to the medieval period. The paintings and sculptures on display feature a who’s who of the art world of centuries past. You will see works by Botticelli, Titian, Raphael, as well as El Greco, Albrecht Dũrer, Rogier van der Weyden, Rembrandt, Goya, and Vermeer.
- Free admission year-round
- Two buildings: West (classical art) and East (modern art)
- Don’t miss the sculpture garden, especially in spring and summer
Make History fun at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History
The Smithsonian almost encircles a part of the National Mall with its museums. One of the best is the Smithsonian Museum of American History. Here, you’ll find many centuries-old artifacts—including the desk where the Declaration of Independence was signed, Abraham Lincoln’s top hat, and clothes that George Washington wore. However, there’s also Dorothy’s red slippers from “The Wizard of Oz,” Prince’s yellow Cloud guitar, and a boxing robe worn by Muhammad Ali. This proves that history museums don’t have to be boring.
Indulge in some Ethiopian fare
If all that museum-going has built up an appetite, spend your evening grazing on Ethiopian fare. Why this cuisine? Because the largest Ethiopian community outside Africa is in and around Washington, DC.
That means if you want quality Ethiopian food without flying to Addis Ababa, DC is perfect. Ethiopian cuisine is unique and fun to eat, as it doesn’t require utensils. You scoop it up with spongy bread called injera. One of the best places to sample it is at Dukem, which has served the local Ethiopian community (and those who love their food) since 1997.
Day 3: Stroll around Georgetown
Georgetown is one of the most atmospheric and beautiful neighborhoods in the city. In fact, it may be the most charming in the entire country. Outside of Capitol Hill, it’s where you’re most likely to see a Senator or a former president going about daily life. The neighborhood is a fun place to stroll. Take in the historic stone houses, the mid-19th-century canal, and the various shops and cafes. Georgetown is also home to Georgetown University, one of the most prestigious universities in the country.
Georgetown’s historic charm is best appreciated with an in-depth walking tour. Book a Georgetown Walking Tour with a local guide to explore hidden gems, learn about its storied past, and discover the most scenic spots for photos.
Eat a half-smoke sausage and indulge in DC’s culinary history
A “half-smoke” is a sausage endemic to DC, one of the few foods that locals truly call their own. They smoke and grill this signature sausage. The meat inside is ground coarser than in most sausages.
The best place to sample one is at Ben’s Chili Bowl. For over 65 years, both the famous and politically powerful have come here to eat a half-smoke sausage. It’s become a tradition for presidents, at least once during their term, to stop by to eat one. Afterward, take some time to linger in the alley next door. Admire the mural on Ben’s wall, featuring images of famous Black Americans, including the Obamas, Dave Chappelle, Prince, and Ella Fitzgerald.
Insider’s Tip: Ben’s Chili Bowl is on our list of the 8 great historic restaurants in Washington, D.C. Don’t miss it!
Walk around the Capitol Riverfront
Lastly, the atmospheric neighborhood on the water is filled with historic brick warehouses turned restaurants. The area truly came into its own after the Nationals, the Major League Baseball team, moved in. Today, the area bustles with entertaining street life, breweries, outdoor restaurants, and plenty of cafes. It’s a fun spot to spend time.
Frequently Asked Questions: Washington DC Itinerary
How many days do I really need to see Washington DC?
While you could easily spend a week or more exploring all that DC has to offer, three days is a great amount of time to get a solid introduction to the city’s most iconic monuments, museums, and neighborhoods without feeling rushed.
Are the Smithsonian museums really free?
Yes! All Smithsonian Institution museums in Washington, DC—including the National Museum of American History and the National Gallery of Art—offer free admission year-round. Moreover, some special exhibits may require advance (free) timed-entry tickets, so check ahead.
What’s the best way to get around DC?
The city is very walkable, especially around the National Mall and central neighborhoods. The Metro system is reliable, and buses cover most of the city. Rideshares and bikes are also popular for covering longer distances.
Update Notice: May 29, 2025
Three days are not enough to see and experience all of the American capital. Still, our recommended 3-day Washington DC itinerary is enough to get a great sense of this vibrant city. If you’re really looking to understand the city’s true history, reserve a spot on one of our Walking Tours around Washington, DC. Our small-group tours are led by knowledgeable locals. They take you to the best sites and reveal their history. Don’t miss out!