Once known best for monuments and museums, the White House and the Capitol; Washington DC has shed it’s formerly buttoned up reputation to become one of the most dynamic cities in the United States. A visit to the American capital today finds eclectic neighborhoods, an ever-changing roster of cultural events and one of the most exciting food scenes in the world. With so much to see, do and eat planning to travel to Washington DC can be a little daunting, but armed with these tips you can make your first trip to Washington DC one to remember.
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How to Travel to Washington DC
1. Getting to Washington DC. Washington DC is served by three major airports; Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport(BWI). All of them offer multiple domestic and international flights. Regan National Airport is the closest airport to Washington DC and is accessible by Metro on the Yellow and Blue lines or by taxi for about $15-$20. Dulles is 26 miles from Washington DC and a taxi will run about $60-$70. You can get from BWI to downtown Washington DC (Union Station) on Amtrak for $15-$30.
If you prefer to arrive by train Amtrak offers hourly service for the Northeast from New York City (between Penn Station in NYC and Union Station in Washington DC), the ride is about 3 hours one way. Purchase your train tickets in advance for best prices.
2. Driving and Parking in Washington DC The first piece of advice for driving in Washington DC is don’t. A labyrinth of traffic circles and one way streets, driving in Washington DC can be maddening to say the least.Park your car at your hotel or find and reserve a parking spot with the SpotHero app.
Getting around Washington DC
3. Washington DC has an excellent public transportation system including the Metro and bus system that are popular with both locals and tourists. The Metro consists of six color coded lines (Yellow, Blue, Silver, Green, Orange and Red) that connect with each other at transfer stations and service Washington DC as well as suburban Virginia and Maryland.
4. The following Metro stops are close to popular tourist sites in Washington DC. This is not an exhaustive list but should help with getting to most of the major tourist sights in Washington DC.
Arlington Cemetery (Blue line)– Arlington National Cemetery, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Lincoln Memorial (requires a walk across the Arlington
Smithsonian (Orange, Blue and Silver lines)– Smithsonian Castle, Middle portion of the National Mall, Washington Monument, National Museum of African American History, National Museum of African American History, National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African Art, Hirshorn Museum, National Air and Space Museum, National Gallery of Art
Federal Triangle (Orange, Blue and Silver lines)-White House, Middle portion of the National Mall, Washington Monument, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of American History
Federal Center (Orange, Blue and Silver lines)– East end of the National Mall, National Air and Space Museum, United States Botanic Garden, US Capitol Building, Library of Congress, Hirshorn Museum, National Gallery of Art
McPherson Square (Orange, Blue and Silver lines) – White House, Washington Monument, Renwick Gallery
Farragut West (red line)– White House, Washington Monument, Renwick Gallery
Archives ( Yellow and Green lines)– National Archives, International Spy Museum, Crime and Punishment Museum, Newseum,
Foggy Bottom (Orange, Blue and Silver lines)– West end of the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, WWII Memorial
L’Enfant Plaza( Orange, Blue, Green, Yellow and Silver lines)-Hirshorn Museum, Sculpture Garden,Tidal Basin,Jefferson Memorial
Gallery Place/Chinatown( Green, red and yellow lines) -Penn Quarter, Capital One Arena, National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Building Museum
Woodley Park/Zoo( Red line) -National Zoo, National Cathedral
5. The routes of the Circulator bus system connects many of Washington’s most popular tourist destinations and neighborhoods and at just $1 per ride( or $3 for a day pass) its one of the most affordable ways to get around the city.
When to Visit Washington DC
6. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, but along with great weather comes more crowds and higher hotel room prices. Summers are hot and muggy and winter weather can range from mild to blizzard (often in the same week) but hotels are much more affordable.
Cherry Blossom Season in Washington DC
7. While a trip to Washington DC is great any time of year, it is particularly magical in the springtime when the cherry blossoms bloom in a burst of pinks and whites highlighting the beauty of the American capital. The timing of peak bloom varies wildly each yea making it difficult to plan a trip if you’re traveling from afar. While the average date for the peak bloom is April 4 it has happened as early as March 15 and as late as April 18. The National Park Service (NPS) is able to predict the peak bloom about 10 days before hand and provides up-to-date information on its website. The NPS also provides an annual Cherry Blossom Festival map to help you plan your trip as well as a calendar of cultural events including the National Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony and the Blossom Kite Festival. Check out more tips for enjoying the cherry blossoms in Washington DC.
Where to Stay in Washington DC
8. Hotels in Washington DC by Neighborhood
Downtown– hotels in downtown Washington DC will put you closest to the White House and National Mall, but these addresses usually come at a premium price though there are a few exceptions. Downtown Washington DC is home to some of the grandest and most storied hotels and is a great area if you’re looking to splurge. Another thing to note about staying in Downtown Washington DC is that your dining options are a bit limited and also tend to be on the pricier side.
Hampton Inn Washington DC-White House
Hyatt Place Washington DC/White House
Courtyard by Marriott Washington DC/Foggy Bottom
Penn Quarter – Penn Quarter is a great area to stay in for it’s proximity to the National Mall, CityCenterDC, the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Capital One Arena and Chinatown. Penn Quarter also has an amazing array of dining options for every budget.
Washington Marriott at Metro Center
Rennaisance Washington DC, Downtown Hotel
Embassy Suites Washington DC- Convention Center
Dupont Circle -Dupont Circle is personally one of my favorite areas to stay in. A 20ish minute walk will bring you to the National Mall and Dupont Circle has great Metro access putting most of Washington DC at your fingertips. Dupont Circle has a great neighborhood feel with a mix of shops and restaurants. The Dupont Circle neighborhood is also convenient to Embassy Row and Georgetown.
Woodley Park – The Woodley Park area is close to the National Zoo and the Washington National Cathedral and with it’s own metro stop you can be at the National Mall in minutes. Woodley Park is in a quiet residential area and has a handful of restaurants.
Washington Marriott Wardman Park
Capitol Hill – The Capitol Hill area is convenient to Union Station, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress and obviously the United States Capitol. Adjacent to the United States Capitol is a residential neighborhood filled with colorful homes and great restaurants.
9. Hotels in Arlington/Alexandria
With great Metro access to Washington DC hotels in Arlington and Alexandria, Virginia are often a fraction of the price of those access the Potomac River. Arlington tends to be more business oriented while Alexandria has a very charming downtown and makes a great weekend getaway in it’s own right.
Hampton Inn Alexandria/Old Town
Museums in Washington DC
10. Free Museums and Attractions– The Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of African American History; not only are these some of the best museums in the world but as part of the Smithsonian all of these museums offer free admission. (Be prepared for airport style security checks that include metal detectors and bag checks at many of the city’s museums and federal buildings). Other free museums include the National Gallery of Art, US Botanic Garden, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Hirshorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Castle, US Bureau of Engraving and Printing, National Archives and the Renwick Gallery
11. Museum that require advances tickets – While the Smithsonian museums are free to enter some of them do require advanced tickets. Make sure to get tickets ahead of time for the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the US Bureau of Engraving and Printing and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
12. Paid Admission Museums– With the number of free museums in Washington DC it can be tempting to skip the ones you have to pay for but these museums are well worth the price of admission. Featuring interactive spy experiences and the largest collection of espionage artifacts in the world the International Spy Museum is a must stop for any 007 fan. The Newseum aims to teach the public about the importance of the First Amendment and a free press. The National Building Museum explores the role of architecture in our society and often features large scale interactive exhibitions each summer.
Washington DC Sightseeing
13. At nearly two miles from the Capitol steps to the Lincoln Memorial the National Mall is a lot longer than many people think. Lace up your shoes and enjoy strolling among the monuments (the WW2 Memorial is especially moving) or if limited mobility is a concern try one of the many National Mall bus tours.
14. Spend a morning at the National Zoo with the famed pandas while they snack on bamboo or watch the sleek cheetahs sprint through their savannah inspired exhibit. As part of the Smithsonian admission to the National Zoo is free.
15. Interested in touring the White House during your visit to Washington DC? Be sure to plan ahead as far in advance as possible, lead times can vary from 3 weeks to 6 months. White House tours can be arranged by contacting your congressional office, further details can be found at White House website.
16. The US. Capitol Building is the seat of American Democracy and one of the most recognizable buildings in the United States. While you can get same day tickets its highly recommended to book tickets in advance. The standard guided tour does not include the Senate and House floors; contact your congressman to get passes to view the Congress and Senate galleries when in session.
17. The final resting place of John F. Kennedy Jr., countless servicemen and women and home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; a visit to Arlington National Cemetery is a solemn and profoundly moving experience.
18. Don’t miss a visit to the Library of Congress, home to the world’s largest collection of books. The Thomas Jefferson Room is a visually stunning Beaux Arts confection of frescoes and sculptures celebrating Western Civilization’s most influential thinkers.
19. Take a free tour of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Take the free shuttle from the Foggy Bottom Metro station (shuttles depart every 15 minutes starting at 9:45 am M-F, 10 am on Saturday and noon on Sundays). Guided tours start every 10 minutes and feature an interactive exhibit on the life of President John F. Kennedy and fantastic city views from the rooftop terrace.
20.Context Travel offers in-depth tours led by local historians and scholars. Learn about the history behind the monuments at the National Mall or explore the National Portrait Gallery with a PhD level art historian.
21. Cross the Potomac to visit George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon then explore the independent boutiques and restaurants that line the cobblestone streets of Alexandria. Check out my recommendations for other things to do in Alexandria.
Dining in Washington DC
22. In recent years Washington DC has become a culinary destination in its own right and from casual to fine dining there is no shortage of great places to eat. While I’ve got my own favorites DC’s culinary scene is always changing, here you can find a few of my favorite places to eat in Washington DC and I’m always following the recommendations from this guide on where to eat in DC as well as from my Washington DC based friend Jessica at the Dining Traveler.
23. Some of DC’s most unique dining experiences can be found at the cafes located within the Smithsonian musuems. A museum cafe you say? Here me out. At the National Museum of the American Indian Mitsitam Cafe features cuisine indigenous to the Americas with menu items ranging from wild salmon and forage mushrooms to bison chili and fry bread.After you’re done exploring the National Museum of African-American History and Culture be sure to get lunch at Sweet Home Cafe. Helmed by Chef Jerome Grant and Chef Ambassador Carla Hall the cafe features regional African American classics like pan-fried Louisiana catfish po’boy and duck, andouille & crawfish gumbo but be sure to save room for the praline bread pudding with bourbon caramel sauce.
24.Union Market, a revitalized mid-century food hall has turned the NoMa neighborhood into a culinary haven. Slurp fresh-from-the-Chesapeake oysters at Rappahannock, a chorizo burger from Red Apron Butcher or savor Michelin-starred Italian at Masseria.
25. Food tours are one of my favorite ways to explore an area in short amount of time. DC Metro Food Tours lead you through some of Washington DC’s tastiest neighborhoods allowing you to truly taste the best of Washington DC.
Planning a trip to Washington DC? Pin this post for later!
cengiz selçok says
I will be there one day =)
Brianna says
I hope so, DC is great!
Brianna says
I hope so, DC is a great city!
Cưới Hỏi Việt Nam says
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Andi says
Having lived in the area for three years (a long time ago) I can say these are great tips – some new ones for me too. I’m intrigued by #11 and will have to check that out on my next trip. I love the Spy Museum!
Jessica M Van Dop DeJesus says
In terms of neighborhoods, what’s really hot right now is Shaw/U Street area and the Navy Yard. There are some great restaurants and bars popping up everywhere! Looking forward for the Wharf to be completed to see the new exciting additions to the city.
Brianna says
I haven’t had the chance to explore Shaw yet, I’ll have to get some recs from you on my next trip!
Kavey says
Some great tips, wish I’d had these before our first trip for my cousin’s wedding there. I did LOVE the architecture within the metro!
Brianna says
Sounds like a good reason for a return trip.
Rachael says
I used to live in Northern Virginia and trips into DC were always so much fun! I love that all the Smithsonian museums are free to get into (including the zoo). Spending time down on the national mall hanging out is a lot of fun too…I always loved on a windy da seeing the people out flying kites.
Kelly says
I just revisiting D.C. for the first time in a while so the tips are timely. I was bummed to miss the cherry blossoms due to poor weather but loved union market and barracks row. Agree that Shaw is another happening spot right now too!
sherianne says
I saw Capital Steps when I was there, very funny!
Brianna says
I’d love to see them!
Ann c says
Capitol steps performed at a conference for us last week. They were great!
First trip to D.C. since I eas 9. It was the best!
Julie at FuninFairfaxVa says
Excellent round-up of things to do in and near DC. You’re right about the mall being longer than people expect. A stroll around the Tidal Basin is a nice alternate—shorter and includes several great memorials. Love your Washington Monument pictures too!
Lois Alter Mark says
These are all great tips – especially the cupcakes! Our son went to Georgetown University so we spent a lot of time in the area and absolutely loved it (and Baked & Wired)!
Anne says
I love the idea of the photographer but think I would feel really self conscious. My favourite place to visit in Washington is definitely the Lincoln memorial though. It’s awesome
Jenn and Ed Coleman says
Solid list of tips for DC. I have been going to DC three times a year for the past five years and try to tourist at least once a year. I didn’t know the Mitsitam Cafe was so interesting. There is a serious lack of eateries on the Mall and I have actually gone to the Mc Donalds at Air and Space out of desperation. That’s not a worth while way to spend per diem but buffalo chili sounds pretty good.
Chrysoula says
I have never been to Washington DC but is definitely on my list. So many interesting museums to see and I would love a tour at the White House. Thanks for sharing all these tips.
Penny Sadler says
I’ve never been to D.C. and will definitely bookmark this for the future. I like #10 & #11 especially.
BonBon says
Yay!!! this is great:) Passing it along to clients:) Thank you for sharing… xoxo
Holly says
I have been many times especially since I used to live in Maryland. I have never been to Georgetown Cupcakes though and will have to remember to stop there on my next visit.
Charles McCool says
Excellent list. The cafe at Museum of the American Indian is one of my favorites. Good call. A cheaper eat is at the Senate cafeteria near the Capitol Building. I had a few lunches there and even ran into Bernie Sanders one day.
Jeremy says
It looks like you had fun exploring my town. 🙂 I’m glad you got to see so much.
Brianna says
DC is definitely one of my favorite cities!
Agness of aTukTuk says
I’d love to visit Washington one day. Your post is so detailed and inspirational, Brianna!
Brianna says
I’m glad you found it helpful!
Ray says
There’s an International Spy Museum?!? No way! What other quirky attractions does D.C. have to offer?
Mimi says
A bit of updating: Paper passes are no longer issued for Metro. Each passenger must have a SmarTrip card. Also be aware that Metro is undergoing a great deal of maintenance and repair workfor the foreseeable future. This work means that operating hours are reduced, especially late at night, some stations may be closed for varying amounts of time, and trains are often crowded and delayed.
When you use a Metro escalator, please stand to the right and leave the left “lane” for people who are walking up or down. Stand clear of train doors and never lean on them or try to keep the from closing. The doors are finicky and one malfunctioning door puts the whole train out of service.
Brianna says
Thanks for the update!
Chris says
Oh, I love Washington so much. I was there 2 years ago and we walked in these beautiful roads that were full with trees. Amazingly tasty beggels with turkey and soft cheese! We drove to NY after that but Washington was imprinted in my memories!
Brianna says
Perhaps its time for a return trip?
Caitlin says
Love this list- especially the tips for where to stay depending on your travel style. Keep up the great writing!
Kathleen Limjuco says
Thanks for sharing this Brianna! Will come in handy when we visit! We’re planning a side trip to DC this coming January – its our only time to go – i know its suppose to be cold. but shame not to go considering I’m going to be on that side of the world then. We live in Manila.
Any tips for a January trip?
Brianna says
Kathleen, it will be cold as most of the US East Coast will be and there is a likelihood for snowstorms but I would not let that stop you from visiting. DC has some of the best museums in the world, many of which are free and the monuments lit up at night are amazing.
Kim says
We are planning a family trip to Washington/Baltimore area this summer! Your blog is very informative and easy to follow. Do you know of any free tour guides that visitors can use during their time out there? Would you recommend a bus tour?
Brianna says
Thank you so much for your kind words! The bus tours are a great way to get an overview of the city if you have a short amount of time. DC by Foot and Walk of the Town both offer “Pay what you wish” tours so you pay what you feel the tour was worth (basically tipping the guide based on your experience with them.
dc scooter says
Hey Brianna,
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Buffy says
This is a nice article. I appreciate the shout out to Alexandria. Many folks don’t know that Part of Arlington and Alexandria were both originally deeded to make up DC. Then VA took them back. That’s why L’Enfant’s perfect Diamond shape for the district has a bite missing on the Virginia side. 🙂
May I suggest however that you label the picture of Chadwick House, as you mention both Mt. Vernon and Old Town above. Some people may think the picture is of the estate and it’s not. It’s another lovely historic building in Alexandria. Cheers.
Buffy says
Pardon me, meant to write Carlyle House. My mind was on another favorite spot of mine, and a great place to dine.
Barbara Paine says
I’m a native (3rd generation) Washingtonian, and there is so much to see and enjoy in this city. All who go, enjoy it to the fullest. All of the Smithsonian museums are free. If you go in the winter (trust me, it is probably the best time to go( you can pay as minimum cost to ice skate at the National Gallery of Art’ s skating rink. I have spent many a Sarurday morning on it and then headed to a coffee shop for Hot Cocoa. Enjoy my city, all who cisit!
Brianna says
Washington DC is one of my favorite cities any time of year!
Barbara Paine says
I’m a native (3rd generation) Washingtonian, and there is so much to see and enjoy in this city. All who go, enjoy it to the fullest. All of the Smithsonian museums are free. If you go in the winter (trust me, it is probably the best time to go( you can pay as minimum cost to ice skate at the National Gallery of Art’ s skating rink. I have spent many a Sarurday morning on it and then headed to a coffee shop for Hot Cocoa. Enjoy my city, all who visi.
Nebiat says
I will visit DC soon. The last time I visited was in 2006. The tips are valuable in many ways.
Thank you.
Gregory J Culin, Sr. says
A visit to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing is a must. See how the paper money you are spending is made. Tour slots are limited, M-F only. Free. Check out their website site for more info.
April says
I love DC! There are so many options and things to do. When I lived in NYC, I’d take the bus down (super cheap) and then spend the weekend walking my feet off (whole heartedly agree with you – comfortable shoes are a must in DC!). It’s been several years since I’ve been and your photos brought back some good memories. DC always makes for a fun visit.
Dee says
WOW! What a comprehensive resource for visitors! Great job pulling it all together!
Sage Scott says
There is SO MUCH to see and do in DC! I agree with all of your tips and believe this post will be super helpful for folks as they plan their trip. I cannot reinforce how fast, easy, and affordable the metro is, so be sure to use it when you visit! 🙂 Sage Scott, the Everyday Wanderer
Alison says
Great, comprehensive post about a place which is definitely on my list.
Jen Ambrose says
Great tips! I haven’t been to DC in a long time, but have been talking about going there later this year. The Spy Museum and Newseum are two of my favorites!
Kinga Gorski says
Wow, this is such a detailed post! I need to make it down to Washington one of these days – just a good old coast line trip down from Vancouver, BC!
Meet Saxena says
Can you give me the answer about approaximately what is the entry fees for the museum becasue I had 2 year old child so if possible can you revert me for i? I am coming in next month.
David says
Very helpful information. Thank you … but strange that Ronald Reagan’s name is incorrectly spelled.
Joe says
Great blog post- very detailed! Your post will be very helpful to travelers. This summer I am planning to visit this beautiful city.
Megan Adler says
I love how you elaborated on all the great things to do in Washington dc. I’m going to be taking a family trip to that great city and I wanted to start planning what we’re going to visit. I think taking a tour of the top 10 attractions would be a great option for us.
Sabs says
Washington is a wonderful place to visit. The National Mall offers so many sights and museums, one can easily spend a few days exploring it and the surrounding areas.
Tracy says
Hoping you can help me out. We are going to VA next week and planning to go to DC and spend time before we start back home. We want to go to the Holocaust museum and Arlington National Cemetery for sure. Maybe Air and Space Museum and Washington Memorial. I need tips on where to park to start at the Holocaust Museum.
Brianna says
If I’m not staying in DC I usually park in Crystal City and take the metro over (the Smithsonian stop would work for you) but a quick google search found 3 garages close by if you don’t mind paying a little more for the convenience.