Explore Washington DC: An Exciting 1-Day Itinerary Guide
Washington DC, District of Columbia
1 days
About Washington DC, District of Columbia
Experience the heart of American history and culture in Washington DC, the capital city of the United States. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol, and the Washington Monument. Explore the Smithsonian museums, stroll along the National Mall, and pay tribute at the war memorials. Immerse yourself in the vibrant neighborhoods, diverse cuisine, and thriving arts scene. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring or the beautiful fall foliage. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Washington DC offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to all interests. Don't miss the chance to discover the rich heritage and dynamic present of this fascinating city.
1-Day Itinerary
Attractions in Itinerary (5)
1National Mall
The National Mall is a landscaped park within the National Mall and Memorial Parks, an official unit of the United States National Park System. It is located near the downtown area of Washington, D.C., the capital city of the U.S.
2Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill, in addition to being a metonym for the United States Congress, is the largest historic residential neighborhood in Washington, D.C.
3Smithsonian Museums
A group of museums and research centers administered by the Government of the United States.
4Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood, commercial, and entertainment district located in northwest Washington, D.C. It is known for its federal-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and fashionable shops and restaurants.
5Georgetown Waterfront Park
A national park offering a multi-use park and recreational waterfront.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Half-Smoke
A local specialty of Washington, D.C., a half-smoke is a half pork, half beef sausage, which is smoked and then grilled. It's typically served on a hot dog bun and topped with herbs, onions, and chili sauce.
Chesapeake Blue Crabs
A popular food in the D.C. area, these crabs are sourced from the nearby Chesapeake Bay. They are typically steamed and seasoned with Old Bay, a local spice blend.
Mumbo Sauce
A sweet and tangy sauce that originated in the city's African-American community. It's typically used as a dipping sauce for fried chicken or french fries.
Ben's Chili Bowl Chili Dog
A famous chili dog from Ben's Chili Bowl, a landmark restaurant in Washington, D.C. The chili is made with a secret recipe and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Rockfish
A local fish that's abundant in the Chesapeake Bay. It's often grilled or baked and served with a lemon butter sauce.
Smith Island Cake
Maryland's official state dessert. It's a multi-layered cake, typically with 8 to 12 thin layers of yellow cake with chocolate icing in between each layer.
Virginia Ham
A type of country ham that's cured in Virginia. It's known for its salty flavor and is often served sliced thin and eaten on biscuits or rolls.
Chicken and Waffles
A popular southern dish that's made its way to D.C. It consists of fried chicken served on top of waffles, often with syrup or gravy.
Ricotta Pancakes
A breakfast staple in D.C., these pancakes are made with ricotta cheese, giving them a rich and creamy texture.
DC Brau
A local craft beer that's brewed in Washington, D.C. It's known for its unique flavors and is a favorite among beer enthusiasts.
Virginia Wine
With Virginia's wine country just a short drive from D.C., many local restaurants and bars offer a selection of Virginia wines. The state is particularly known for its Viognier and Cabernet Franc.
Rye Whiskey
A type of whiskey that's popular in the D.C. area. It's made from at least 51% rye and has a spicy, fruity flavor.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Washington DC, District of Columbia is during the spring (March to June) and fall (September to November). Spring is particularly popular due to the blooming of the cherry blossoms, which is a spectacular sight. The weather during these seasons is generally mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing. Fall also offers beautiful foliage around the city. Summer can be quite hot and humid, and winter can be cold, although the city is less crowded during these seasons. Remember, though, that spring and fall are also peak tourist seasons, so attractions may be crowded and prices may be higher.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Metrorail
Washington DC's Metrorail system is a convenient and efficient way to get around the city and the surrounding areas. It consists of six lines: Red, Blue, Orange, Silver, Yellow, and Green. The system connects all four quadrants of DC, with stops at popular attractions such as the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums, and the Capitol.
Bus
The District's bus system, operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), provides extensive coverage throughout the city and its suburbs. The Metrobus operates hundreds of routes, including express services and special routes for events.
Bikeshare
Capital Bikeshare offers thousands of bikes at hundreds of stations across Washington DC, Arlington, Alexandria, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and Fairfax County. It's a fun, affordable, and convenient way to get around, especially for short trips.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft operate extensively in Washington DC. These services offer a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in Washington DC and can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked via phone or app. All DC taxis use a meter, so the cost of your trip will depend on the distance and time.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to visit places outside of DC where public transportation is less available. However, parking in the city can be expensive and hard to find, and traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.
Walk
Many of DC's most popular attractions are located close together, especially around the National Mall. Walking can be a pleasant and convenient way to get around, especially in good weather.
Scooter
Electric scooters, available from companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin, are a fun and quick way to get around. They can be found and rented using a smartphone app, and can be left anywhere in the city when you're done.
Water Taxi
The Potomac Riverboat Company operates water taxis that connect Washington DC with Alexandria, National Harbor, and Georgetown. It's a scenic and relaxing way to travel, especially on a nice day.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Washington DC, District of Columbia as a first time visitor
1
Washington DC operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) and observes daylight saving time.
2
The city is known for its hot, humid summers and mild-to-chilly winters. Average temperatures range from 24-40°F (-4 to 4°C) in winter and 73-89°F (23 to 32°C) in summer.
3
The city is very walkable, but it also has an extensive public transportation system, including the Metrorail and Metrobus.
4
Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are widely available throughout the city.
5
The city is divided into four quadrants (NW, NE, SE, SW), which are important to know when navigating.
6
Washington DC is a very international city, with more than 170 embassies and international cultural centers.
7
The city has a vibrant food scene, with a wide variety of cuisines available, including Ethiopian, Salvadoran, and Vietnamese.
8
Tipping is customary in Washington DC. A 15-20% tip is standard for restaurants, taxis, and other services.
9
The city has strict smoking laws. Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants, and within 25 feet of building entrances.
10
The legal drinking age in Washington DC is 21, and it's strictly enforced.
11
Washington DC is a very bike-friendly city, with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.
12
The city is home to many free public parks, which are great for picnics, sports, or just relaxing.
13
Washington DC is known for its jazz and punk music scenes. Check out local listings for live performances.
14
The city has a dress code that is generally more formal than other US cities. Business casual is a safe bet for most places.
15
Washington DC is home to many farmers markets, offering fresh, local produce and goods.
16
The city has a high sales tax rate of 6%, which is added to most goods and services.
17
Washington DC is a very diverse city, with residents from all over the world.
18
The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Washington Nationals (baseball), Washington Capitals (hockey), and Washington Wizards (basketball).
19
Washington DC is known for its cherry blossoms, which typically bloom in late March to early April.
20
The city is home to many festivals and parades throughout the year, including the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the DC Jazz Festival, and the Capital Pride Parade.
Packing List
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket or sweater
Umbrella or raincoat
Sunglasses
Hat or cap
Comfortable day wear
Toiletries
Travel-sized toothpaste
Toothbrush
Deodorant
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Travel-sized body wash
Facial wipes
Sunscreen
Travel documents and essentials
Valid ID or Driver's License
Credit and/or debit card
Cash
Health insurance card
Hotel reservation confirmation
Map of Washington DC
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Portable power bank
Camera
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Backpack or day bag
Travel guide book
First aid kit
Weather Conditions
When visiting Washington DC, it's important to be aware of the city's four distinct seasons and pack accordingly. Spring (March-May) is a beautiful time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 40-70°F (4-21°C). This is also the time when the famous cherry blossoms bloom, providing a stunning backdrop for your visit. However, spring can also be rainy, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat. Summer (June-August) in DC can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C). It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. Also, don't forget to apply sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors exploring the city's monuments and parks. Fall (September-November) brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 45-70°F (7-21°C), and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy milder weather. A light jacket or sweater would be sufficient for this time of year. Winter (December-February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing (32°F/0°C). Snow is also common during these months, so be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for the weather. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly, so it's always wise to pack a variety of clothing options.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 8° / -2° | January is the coldest month in Washington DC, with occasional snowfall. Dress warmly and prepare for indoor activities. |
February | 9° / -1° | February is still quite cold with a chance of snow. It's a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
March | 14° / 3° | March sees the beginning of spring with slightly warmer temperatures. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month. |
April | 20° / 8° | April is a beautiful month to visit with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. The weather is mild, but bring a light jacket for cooler evenings. |
May | 24° / 13° | May offers warm days perfect for sightseeing. It's an ideal time to visit the National Mall and other outdoor attractions. |
June | 30° / 18° | June marks the start of summer with hot, humid days. Stay hydrated and plan for indoor activities during the afternoon heat. |
July | 32° / 21° | July is the hottest month in Washington DC. Enjoy the city's Independence Day celebrations, but be prepared for high humidity. |
August | 31° / 21° | August is still hot and humid. It's a good time to visit the city's many museums and enjoy evening walks by the Potomac River. |
September | 27° / 16° | September sees the start of fall with milder temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor monuments. |
October | 20° / 10° | October offers beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. It's an ideal month for walking tours and outdoor activities. |
November | 15° / 5° | November is a cooler month with the first signs of winter. It's a good time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy the city's food scene. |
December | 9° / 0° | December is a festive month with holiday decorations around the city. It's cold, so pack warm clothing and enjoy indoor activities. |
Did you know?
Places near by Washington DC, District of Columbia
Mount Vernon
Historic home of George Washington, offering tours & exhibits.
Great Falls Park
National park with waterfalls, hiking trails & picnic spots.
Old Town Alexandria
Historic district with 18th-century buildings, boutiques, restaurants & waterfront park.
National Harbor
Waterfront development with hotels, restaurants, shops & a ferris wheel.
Annapolis
Historic city known for the U.S. Naval Academy, Maryland State House & waterfront dining.
Harper's Ferry
Historic town known for John Brown's raid, Civil War history & outdoor activities.
Baltimore
City known for its Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, historic ships & crab cakes.
Gettysburg
Historic town known for its Civil War battlefield & museum.
Shenandoah National Park
National park known for Skyline Drive, hiking trails & wildlife.
Philadelphia
Historic city known for the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall & Philly cheesesteaks.
Richmond
Capital of Virginia known for its Civil War history, museums & gardens.
Atlantic City
Beachfront city known for its casinos, boardwalk & Miss America pageant.
New York City
World-famous city known for Times Square, Central Park, Broadway & the Statue of Liberty.
