The Perfect Washington DC 4 Day Itinerary for a Long Weekend

 

The USA’s capital, Washington DC, is a great place to explore America’s culture, history, and art. This Washington DC 4 day itinerary is perfect for a long weekend any time of the year.

This article covers everything you need to plan a 4 day trip around Washington DC whether it is your first visit, or a return trip.

I’ve personally followed this itinerary myself, and I can say it covers serious ground.

 

Who is The 4 Day Itinerary Ideal for?

This guide is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the best of the history and culture of DC over the span of a long weekend. You can easily scan the guide and adjust it to fit what you want to do and see.

This Washington DC 4 Day Itinerary can be used to plan a long weekend, but is also flexible enough for any time of year. Plus, if this is your first time to the city, it will help you make the most of each day.

 

 

How to Make The Itinerary Your Own

• Check the times estimates for each activity.
• Take out or add activities to your day to fit your style of travel perfectly. 

In the end, there is no right or wrong way to experience a place!

 

Washington DC Transportation

Washington DC public transportation is easy to use, inexpensive, and feels safe. 

Here is how you can use the Metrorail:

• Download the Metrorail app.
• If you have an iPhone, don’t download the app, instead add the pass to your iPhone Wallet.
• Load money. $10 covered my four day trip perfectly with $0 remaining. You can add more money easily at any time.
• Scan the pass when you arrive at the Metrorail system.
• Review the Metrorail map on the app, on the Metrorail website, and at Metrorail locations.

 

Major Airports in Washington DC

The Ronald Reagan Airport is the closest to downtown Washington DC. The Metrorail also connects to this airport via the Blue Line.

The Washington Dulles International Airport is another option. This airport is further from the city, but still connects to the Metrorail via the Silver Line.

 

Reservations to Make Before Your Washington DC Trip

Even if you are not a planner (I’m not a natural planner either), taking care of these details will save massive amounts of valuable time during your vacation.

It can feel overwhelming to make travel arrangements. If so, try blocking 30 minutes on your calendar 2 to 3 days during a given week, and tackle planning in little chunks of time. This helps reduce overwhelm.

 

 

Tour Reservations (Avoid long lines)

• The United States Capitol Building tour (free)
• Library of Congress timed entry ticket (free)
• Museum time slots (depending on which museums you want to enter)
• Walking tours

 

Restaurant and Bar Reservations

Reservations fill up quickly for dining and after dinner venues. A friend who lives in DC informed me that the best way to ensure you get a table is by making a reservation at most restaurants, regardless of the day of the week.

 

Theater Reservations

If you plan to attend a show at Fords Theater or the Kennedy Center, purchase tickets ahead of time.

 

Metrorail or Metrobus Passes

If you know you will use the Metrorail or Metrobus, save time by adding funds to the pass before you get to the city. That way you are off and running when you arrive.

You can use Google Maps to plan your trip on the Metrorail and estimate the cost.

 

Capital Bikeshare App Download

If you plan to use the Capital Bikeshare bike rental system, download the app.

You can choose to pay per ride or purchase a day pass when you arrive at any of the bike stands during your trip. The app has a handy map to show bike stand locations, and number of bikes on the stand.

 

Packing for Your Washington DC 4 Day Trip

 

Pack for the Right Season

Washington DC weather can be mild, but it does experience all four seasons. Packing for summer months versus winter months will vary.

Pack comfortable walking shoes, it is easy to spend all day on your feet. 

 

Pack an External Battery Charger

Travel apps and metro passes drain your phone battery. It is helpful to bring an external phone battery charger so you’re not slowed down or limited due to a low battery.

 

The 4 Day Itinerary

 

 

Now let’s get Into the Washington DC 4 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival, Historic Monuments at the National Mall, White House, Dinner.
• Day 2: Capitol Building Guided Tour, Lunch at the Capitol Building Cafe, Library of Congress, Capitol Hill stroll, National Portrait Gallery, Dinner and Night out.
• Day 3: Arlington National Cemetery, The National Archives Museum, Museums at the National Mall, Dinner, Show or Exhibit at Fords Theater or Kennedy Center.
• Day 4: Breakfast at Historic Restaurant, Guided Audio Walking Tour, Museums at the National Mall.

 

Day 1: Arrival, Historic Monuments at the National Mall, White House, Dinner

 

Overview

The first day includes arriving and settling into DC. Once you’re ready to explore, head to the historic monuments at the National Mall and visit the north gate of the white house White House before heading to dinner. Let’s dive in!

 

Arrive and Settle in

Plan to arrive early to make the most of your first day. Or, you can fly in the night before and get a head start on sightseeing. Either way the Washington DC 4 day itinerary can be adjusted to fit your schedule.

 

How to get to the Monuments at the National Mall

You can take the Metrorail to multiple different metro station starting points, I mention two below that I used frequently during my trip.

Farragut West Metrorail stop. From this stop, you can easily grab a Capital Bikeshare bike to go from the Metrorail stop towards Washington Monument. You will also pass the White House and several prominent buildings along the route.

Smithsonian Metrorail stop. This will put you very near 12th Street NW and the Washington Monument. There are bikeshare racks nearby this stop as well.

Be aware of local bike laws. Familiarize yourself with the laws before you head out.

 

​Historic Monuments at the National Mall

Time estimate: 2 to 6 hours. Monuments are open 24/7. 

This itinerary moves from east to west. However, all monuments listed are within a  distance and a roughly one mile (1.6 kilometer) distance.

You can park your bike back at a bike stand before each monument you enter. This is the most secure option, because nothing is really preventing someone from walking away with an unlocked bike. There are select areas where bike riding is not allowed near monuments, such as in the World War II Monument.

The National Park Service is responsible for the monuments and does an amazing job with the upkeep, so be sure to follow the directions of guards at each monument.

If you want to take a guided tour, there are good options listed on TripAdvisor. I haven’t personally done a tour, but some people might prefer it. I found this five star guided bus and walking tour for under $100 dollars.

 

 

Washington Monument

The first stop to visit is The Washington Monument. At 555 foot the marble obelisk is quite impressive. It was built to memorialize and honor George Washington, the first president of the United States of America.

You can explore it from outside and to take in the views of surrounding monuments and buildings.

If you want to go into the monument, you must have a ticket. Upon entering, you’ll take a 70 second elevator ride to the observation deck at 500 feet. The deck has views from all four sides of the monument. There is also a small museum to explore at the elevator level.

Tours: You must get a ticket to go into the monument and tour it. There are a few ways to get a ticket. Get advance tickets online or by phone (recommended), or try for a same day ticket by walking up to the Washington Monument Lodge in a separate location. All information is included on the Washington Monument website.

Interesting fact: The Washington Monument was the tallest building in the world when its construction was first completed in 1884. It held that title until the Eiffel Tower was completed in 1889.

 

 

World War II Memorial

The next stop is the World War II Memorial is an impressive stone plaza built to remember and honor the 16 million Americans who served during the second World War. The memorial was completed in 2004 and honors the spirit, sacrifice, and commitment of Americans throughout the war period.

It features pillars representing states and territories, and centers around the Rainbow Poo. (reconfigured to become part of this memorial)l and the wall of Gold Stars symbolizing the more than 400,000 American servicemen who gave their lives during the war.

Take time to read the plaques and engravings throughout the monument. There is a lot of symbolism in each element of the structure. You can also take a deep dive into the full symbolic meaning of the monument’s design on the official website. 

The memorial rests just across from the Washington Monument and 17th Street NW. There is a bikeshare rack nearby to park your bike, but don’t ride it inside the memorial as this is now allowed.

Tours: Self-paced, open 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

Interesting Fact: You can use the World War II registry to search the names of individuals who contributed to the war effort. The official website has a lot of interesting information about the memorial.

 

 

Vietnam War Memorial

Follow the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to The Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This memorial was constructed to create a space of healing and remembrance following the Vietnam War. It was dedicated in 1982.

The memorial includes the Three Servicemen statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, the In Memory plaque, a flagpole with both the United States flag and the MIA flag, and The Wall. The Wall lists names of soldiers confirmed lost or missing in action during the war.

The statues are a bit spread out, so keep an eye out for the Three Servicemen statue and Vietnam Women’s memorial near The Wall.

Tours: Self-paced, open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. You can also read about each element of the memorial on the official website.

Interesting fact: There is a directory beside The Wall to help visitors look up names.

 

Lincoln Memorial

Continue west a little bit further and you’ll find yourself on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. This is a good place to drop off bikes near the Korean War Veterans Memorial so you can explore the interior of the Lincoln Memorial.

This is one of the most historic sites in Washington DC. Visit the small museum to the left of the staircase on the ground floor for a timeline of important events that have taken place in and around the building.

Lincoln Memorial was dedicated in 1922. Since that time it has been the location of important national events including Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963.

Walk up the 87 steps into the main chamber of the memorial to see the 19 foot tall statue of President Lincoln. In each side chamber there is a wall inscribed with two of President Lincoln’s most well-known speeches, the Gettysburg Address and his second inaugural speech.

Tours: Self-paced, open 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

Interesting fact: There is so much symbolism embedded into the Lincoln Memorial, I recommend reading about it on the official website to get a full appreciation. 

 

 

Korean War Veterans Memorial

South of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is the Korean War Veterans Memorial. The memorial pays homage to those who served in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953.

The memorial includes a collection of 19 statues in an open field, an engraved wall representing those who served, and a quiet reflecting pool memorializing the names of fallen soldiers.

Tours: There are no official memorial tours. 

Interesting fact: The memorial was finalized in 1993, and differed from its original design plan. The 19 sculptures on patrol represent a cross-section of the American population and the different military branches of the United States.

 

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Heading towards the Tidal Basin is the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial. It commemorates the life and impact of Martin Luther King Jr. and was dedicated in 2011, on the 48th anniversary of the March on Washington. The memorial includes a bookstore.

Tours: Self-paced, open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. There are ranger tours available depending on the time of day. 

Interesting fact: The memorial’s design is inspired by a line of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream Speech” that reads “with this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.”

 

 

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Head around the Tidal Basin to the steps of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Standing on the steps of the building, you can see clearly to the front steps of the White House.

The memorial’s architecture and design honors Thomas Jefferson’s contributions in the founding of the United States. The official website shares details about the history and symbolism of the monument.

In the spring, the Tidal Basin and memorial are surrounded by cherry blossoms, making it a beautiful time to visit. However, the memorial is beautiful year round.

Tours: Self-paced, open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. 

Interesting fact: The design of the Jefferson Memorial was inspired in part by Jefferson’s own design of the rotunda at University of Virginia.

 

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Continuing around the Tidal Basin’s west bank is The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. It commemorates the life and presidency of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the country’s 32nd president. 

Franklin Delano Roosevelt was president through the Great Depression and most of World War II. The memorial guides visitors through President Roosevelt’s four terms in office. There is also a small bookstore on the premises.

Tours: Self-paced, open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. 

Interesting fact: This is the only presidential memorial to include a first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt. 

 

The National Mall

From the Jefferson Memorial (or any of the memorials mentioned above) it is easy to get to the National Mall.

The National Mall is also called “America’s Front Yard”. It reaches from the steps of the Capitol building to the edge of the Pontiac River and makes up a huge green space in the center of Washington DC.

It also includes all the memorials mentioned above and many museums, all within walking distance of one another. Now that you’ve seen the incredible monuments around the National Mall, it is time to head towards the White House.

Time: Travel on foot can take about 15 minutes from the tidal basin to the National Mall lawn. It is about 0.5 miles distance.

 

 

The White House North Lawn

The White House is easiest to see from the north lawn. From the National Mall it’s a quick trip up 15th Street NW to reach the north lawn for clear views of the President’s residence.

It isn’t easy to get a tour of the White House. But, you can request a tour from your member of Congress. Tours must follow specific rules and be requested well in advance.

Time: Travel on foot can take about 15 to 30 minutes from the National Mall Lawn to the north gate of the White House. It is about 0.6 miles distance.

 

Dinner in Downtown Washington DC

As mentioned at the start of the article, reservations are recommended especially at peak dinner hours. Since the nation’s capital naturally attracts people from around the world, the city’s cuisine reflects this wonderful diversity. There is a large variety of restaurant options in downtown DC that are easy to reach by walking, biking, or taking a rideshare from the National Mall.

We reserved a table at Swahili Village, a Kenyan restaurant in the heart of downtown DC. I recommend getting a reservation if possible, as this restaurant is popular (for obvious reasons). 

 

Day 2: Capitol Building, Lunch, Library of Congress, Capitol Hill, National Portrait Gallery, Dinner and Night out

 

Overview

Today is the first full day in Washington DC! Head to the Capitol building for a guided tour, then enjoy lunch at the Capitol cafe. After lunch, explore the Library of Congress, take a stroll along Capitol Hill, and visit the America’s Presidents at the National Portrait Gallery. Last, enjoy dinner and night out in the capital’s awesome food scene.

 

 

Capitol Building Guided Tour

The Capitol building tour is a must-see while you’re in the city. You can book a tour online before you arrive, or you can hope for a same-day walk up spot. The best time to arrive for the tour is early in the day.

The tour is free, and led by a professional tour guide. The 90 minute tour starts on the first floor and includes a short video presentation followed by a visit to the Crypt, Rotunda, and the National Statuary Hall. There is also a gift shop and cafe in the same building.

You can arrive to the Capitol building by Metrorail, or by car. There are several Metrorail stations nearby, including Capitol South, Smithsonian, and Union Station. Which station you arrive at will depend on the direction you are coming from.

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish of the tour. This does not count time in line or waiting for the tour to begin. Hours for tours as of 2023 are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. However, if you’re doing a walk-up tour you must arrive by 2:30 p.m. at the latest, and it is recommended you show up as early as possible because walk-up spots cannot be guaranteed.

 

Lunch at the Capitol Building

The Capitol building features a cafeteria-style restaurant on the ground floor, and the food is fresh with a decent variety to choose from. Think soup, salad, sandwich, pizza, and roast options. They also have decent coffee.

It is easy to finish the tour and then grab lunch in the cafe before walking through the adjoining tunnel to the Library of Congress. The tunnel walk takes about 10 minutes.

Time: Food is ready made to order. Seating is open seating. Factor in 45 minutes or more for lunch.

 

 

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress was founded in 1800 and is the oldest Federal cultural institution. It is also the largest library in the world, holding millions of books, films, newspapers, audio recordings, and more that can be accessed for free on the premises and online. This was one of my favorite things to do in the capital because the architecture of the historic building was so stunning.

In addition to the impressive collection, the structure’s intricate architecture is truly captivating. As soon as you walk into the library you’ll be immersed in the ornate details of the quotes, symbols, and meaning crafted into every aspect of the building.

You can access the library’s research area with or without an appointment (learn more about how to do so online). You can also walk throughout the rest of the building and see historical displays, including Thomas Jefferson’s private book collection. He sold this collection to the library after the building was tragically burned down in the War of 1812.

Events are hosted at the library from time to time, you can check the schedule of events here.

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours to walk through the halls and view the displays. Hours as of 2023 are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on select days.

 

 

Capitol Hill Stroll

Capitol Hill is the neighborhood encompassing the Capitol building, Senate House of Representatives, and the Supreme Court and a few others. You can walk past the Supreme Court and take pictures en route to the National Portrait Gallery

Time: 15 minutes or longer depending on how long you want to spend walking around. The buildings are close together.

 

 

The National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery holds a wide range of noteworthy art exhibits as well as the permanent exhibit, America’s Presidents.

You do not need a reservation. The nice part is this museum stays open later than other Smithsonian museums in the National Mall. You can head here after a day of exploring and still enjoy an exhibit or two before the museum closes at 7 p.m. Because the gallery is open later, it makes a perfect late afternoon activity.

Time: 1 to 2 hours depending on how many exhibits you plan to visit. Hours as of 2023 are 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Dinner in Downtown DC

Rumi’s Kitchen is a well-known Persian restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere and great food located right next to Mount Vernon Triangle.

Night out on the town

There are options for after dinner. 

If you are a planner, it is worthwhile to make a reservation or two at a bar. Venues can fill up quickly. This is especially important if you have a group. If it is just one or two people, you can likely squeeze in somewhere. In general though, it is easier to make a reservation beforehand.

During my last trip, I did not make a reservation, and it took us a few spots before we found a bar that had enough seating for our group.

 

Night out in Washington DC

You have many great options for going out after dinner. Here are three of the top rated streets I found in Washington DC to have a drink or enjoy an evening out.

U Street/14th Street Corridor: This street holds a number of popular, highly rated bars and has a lively atmosphere. 

14th Street NW & Logan Circle: Victorian-style pub Crown and Crow is a fun basement spot. The street has a wine bar, and both laid back and upscale options.

Adams Morgan + 18th Street: Adams Morgan is a region along 18th Street. There are a number of great bars. I enjoyed Jack Rose Dining Saloon, it has a calm, low-lit interior and a fantastic whiskey selection.

 

Day 3: Arlington National Cemetery, The National Archives Museum, Museums at the National Mall, Dinner, Show at Fords Theater or Kennedy Center

 

Overview

Day 3 starts at the Arlington National Cemetery followed by The National Archives Museum to see the Constitution. In the afternoon, visit museums and cafes at the National Mall. Finish the day with dinner and a show or exhibit at Fords Theater or Kennedy Center.

 

Arlington National Cemetery

This is the largest military cemetery in the United States covering 639 acres, and the final resting place of over 400,000 United States military veterans. It is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the resting place of John Kennedy and other noted Americans. There are many memorials to visit along the paved trails.

You can arrive at Arlington Memorial by car or on the Metrorail system, at the Arlington Memorial stop. There is an ID check at the entrance, so be sure to bring an ID. You can walk the trails, and there is also a trolley that shuttles visitors to major sites throughout.

The walk through the grounds is memorable. It is well worth going to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for the changing of the guard that happens at the top of every hour. Get there a few minutes early to find a place to sit.

You can also take the trail up the hill from the cemetery a short ways to the Netherlands Carillon and the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours to walk the grounds and join in watching the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

 

 

The National Archives Museum

From Arlington Cemetery you can walk, bike, take the Metrorail, or drive to the National Archives Museum, which is part of the National Mall. This is where many of the Smithsonian Museums are, and they are free. They are also open most days of the year.

The National Archives Museum holds the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights, along with historically significant artifacts and displays.

Entry is free. You can make a reservation or walk up. However, reservations for timed entry are strongly recommended during busy months, and are helpful for planning. I walked up, and was fortunate to wait in line for only 15 minutes without a reservation. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours to see the historic documents and exhibits. This does not factor in time in line to go through security. Walk through at your own pace, there are no set tours.

 

Lunch

If you want to keep the momentum going, you can visit a museum cafe in one of the Smithsonian museums for lunch. There are also many food trucks throughout the National Mall green that serve quick bites, think burgers, soft pretzels, drinks and desserts.

For a sit-down lunch, there are a number of great restaurants along 7th street, and I would recommend making a reservation.

 

 

Museums at the National Mall

There are 11 museums in total around the National Mall, so it is easy to spend half a day, or a full day, exploring them.

Here is a list of museums around the green of the National Mall:

• National Museum of African American History and Culture (free)

• National Museum of American History (free)

• National Museum of Natural History (free)

• National Archives Museum (free)

• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (free)

• National Gallery of Art (free)

• National Museum of the American Indian (free)

• National Air and Space Museum (free)

• National Museum of African Art (free)

• Smithsonian Castle (free)

• The National Museum of Asian Art (free)

• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (free)

• National Postal Museum (free, north of the National Mall)

• International Spy Museum (paid, south of the National Mall)

You will find many more museums in Washington DC, so if you’re interested in exploring outside of the National Mall there are many other areas you can go to.

It is possible to walk into each museum, but it is likely there will be lines during busy seasons and for the most popular museums. For example, the Air and Space Museum would be a good one to get a reserved time ticket for. You can visit each museum’s websites for a list of ticket options (all free).

I’ve gone to the Natural History Museum, the Air and Space Museum, The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, The National Gallery of Art, and the Portrait Gallery.

Museums (except for the Portrait Museum which closes at 7 p.m.) will close at 5 or 5:30 p.m.

Time: You can easily spend 1 hour or more at each museum. Factor in wait times if you are going to a museum with a line, and you don’t have timed tickets.

 

Dinner on a Rooftop Terrace

Dinner reservations will depend on which theater you plan to visit.

If you plan to visit Fords Theater, it is a very short distance from the National Mall. You can easily reserve dinner at one of the restaurants on the same block as the venue.

If you plan to visit Kennedy Center, leave enough time to travel to the venue. Kennedy Center is about 2 miles west of the National Mall. If you want to keep dinner quick, grab food at a museum cafe or visit a food card along the Mall green. If you want to experience the Roof Terrace Restaurant at the Kennedy Center, make reservations in advance. 

 

Fords Theater or Kennedy Center

Fords Theater or Kennedy Center both offer unique chances to experience history through performing arts. Plus, why not have a great time seeing a show in one of two truly historic buildings?

Fords Theater was a popular venue from the Civil War through the Presidency of Abraham Lincoln. After being closed for more than 100 years, it was reopened in 1968 as a performance center and historical site. The tickets are very affordable!

The Kennedy Center is a cultural hub that is also a living memorial to John F. Kennedy. The center offers live performances, events, and immersive exhibits.

Time: Depends on season, show, and availability. Be sure to get your tickets before your trip or as early as possible.

 

Day 4: Breakfast at Historic Restaurant, Guided Audio Walking Tour, Museums at the National Mall

 

 

Overview

Start the day with breakfast at a historic Washington DC restaurant. Then, ease into the day with a guided audio walking tour around DC neighborhoods, before exploring more of the museums at the National Mall. Make a dinner reservation if you have one more evening in town.

 

Historic Breakfast in Washington DC

For the final leg of the trip, why not enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the historic downtown restaurants? If you like beautiful atmospheres and brunch, try Old Ebbitt Grill beside the White House, or Iron Gate in Dupont Circle.

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

 

Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Washington DC Neighborhoods

I love using self guided audio tours in different cities. These GPSmyCity self guided walking tour audios for Washington DC looks great for exploring neighborhoods outside of the National Mall and Capitol Hill areas.

They are free to download, and cost $1.99 to upgrade so that you can walk from point to point and be guided as you listen.

I have not personally used this company. But after reading several online blog reviews, I wish I had! I’m keeping them in mind for my next trip.

Time: Depends on which guide you download. Guides are self paced and can be started or stopped any time.

 

​Museums at the National Mall

​It would be tough to fit 11 museums into one day, so returning to the Smithsonian museums around the National Mall for a second day can be a great option. You can get timed tickets or walk up.

Time: Set your own pace. It is easy to spend 1 or more hours at each museum.

 

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, an easy to use Washington DC 4 Day Itinerary! Use this guide to tailor your trip towards your interests. There is so much to see and do at in the United States capital, so you’re sure to have a wonderful time.

 

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