This 3-day Washington, DC itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors. It includes local favorites, kid-friendly attractions, and the best museums and monuments to see in the city.
There is so much to see and do in Washington, DC that it’s impossible to see it all in just one visit. I recommend planning a 3-day trip for first-time visitors to the capital of the USA.
Whether you’re visiting over a long weekend or during the week, I guarantee that you won’t run out of fun things to do.
With so many famous memorials and monuments to see, planning your trip can be a little daunting.
Fortunately, this 3-day Washington, DC itinerary is perfect for first timers. It includes visiting the monuments, touring the popular museums, and exploring the neighborhoods around the city.
And if you’re traveling on a budget, this 3 day itinerary includes plenty of free or cheap things to do!
Table of Contents
Where should I stay in Washington, DC for the first time?
If you’re visiting Washington, DC for the first time, these are the 5 best neighborhoods to book your hotel:
- Dupont Circle – Great for those who want the city scene without the office buildings. Close to Embassy Row.
- Foggy Bottom – Great for first-timers. Close to all the must-see attractions.
- Adams Morgan – Great for young travelers. Enjoy outdoor markets, shopping and nightlife.
- Logan Circle – Great for those on a budget. Enjoy this charming and historic neighborhood.
- Georgetown – Best for all kinds of travelers. One of the oldest areas in Washington, DC with cobbled streets and beautiful architecture.
For our trip, we stayed in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, which we found was a great base for exploring the city’s top attractions.
While Washington, DC’s hotel rates can be very expensive (especially during the week), one of my favorite ways to save money on accommodations is to compare rates on Booking.com.
For travelers on a budget, these are the best affordable hotels in Washington, DC:
- Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center
- Holiday Inn Washington Capitol – National Mall
- Washington Plaza Hotel
Below are some of the best mid-range hotels in Washington, DC:
- Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall
- The Normandy Hotel – Near Adams Morgan
- Hyatt Place Washington DC/White House
Below are some popular luxury hotels in Washington, DC:
- Willard InterContinental – Near the White House
- Fairmont Washington DC Georgetown
- Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC – Near the National Mall
How to get from Dulles Airport to Washington, DC
The fastest way to get from Dulles Airport to downtown Washington, DC is to take a cab or ride share service like Uber / Lyft. With good traffic conditions, it’s about a 40-minute drive.
The cheapest option to get from Dulles Airport to the city center is to take the bus. There are multiple routes depending on where you want to go, which takes about 50 minutes. During rush hour, add an extra 15-30 minutes to your trip.
The Metrobus Route 5A offers the cheapest public transit option from Dulles to DC. It makes three stops at the central L’Enfant Plaza, Rosslyn, and Herndon-Monroe Park & Ride Lot.
The Silver Line Metrorail is fastest and most direct public transit option from Dulles to DC. The station is connected to the main terminal at Dulles Airport by an indoor pedestrian tunnel.
How to get from Ronald Reagan Airport to Washington, DC
The main advantage of flying into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is that it’s just five miles from downtown Washington, DC.
The Metro is the cheapest and fastest way to get from Ronald Reagan Airport to Washington, DC. You can take the yellow or the blue line.
Getting around Washington, DC
The best way to get around Washington, DC is on foot or using public transportation. Washington, DC is one of the most walkable cities in the USA, so you’ll want to bring comfortable shoes.
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and fun way to get around the city, consider riding the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.
This lets you to visit all the top landmarks at your leisure. Popular stops include the White House, Capitol Hill, Jefferson Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial.
Big Bus Tours is the #1 bus tour company and is recommended by Expedia. You may recognize their buses from other popular destinations such as New York City, London, Paris, and so on.
This can be a great way to learn about history and fun facts while taking a comfortable sightseeing tour. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out these happy reviews!
Saving money on Washington, DC attractions
The good news is there’s lots of free things to do in Washington, DC, such as visiting the National Mall, exploring the Smithsonian Institution, and checking out the Library of Congress.
Washington, DC also has a few paid attractions that are worth visiting. This includes Madame Tussauds, Washington National Cathedral, Mount Vernon, the National Geographic Museum, among others.
To save money on Washington, DC’s paid attractions, consider getting the Washington DC Sightseeing Pass.
This is a multi-attraction card where you can choose to visit 15+ top attractions all for ONE low price, including Madame Tussauds DC, Big Bus Panoramic Night Tour, and the Capitol Wheel.
This flexible sightseeing pass can be a great option if you want explore Washington, DC while saving money at the city’s most popular attractions.
Related Post: 10 things you need to know before visiting Washington, DC
Day 1 in Washington, DC: Visiting the Monuments
Plan to spend the first day exploring the monuments and memorials at the National Mall.
If you’re traveling on foot, I recommend wearing your most comfortable pair of shoes and bringing a refillable bottle of water with you to stay hydrated. This is especially important if you’re visiting during the warmer months when it can get pretty hot.
I also recommend bringing a backpack for your trip. This is much easier than carrying around a purse. THIS is the backpack that I personally use for all my travels.
PRO TIP: A better way to see the popular monuments and memorials is take a tour. This 2-hour National Mall tour by electric vehicle allows you to checkout all the top landmarks at your leisure. Popular stops include the White House, Capitol Hill, Jefferson Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial.
If you’re looking for something fun to do at night, I highly recommend doing the Night Bus Tour.
Photo of the White House
The White House
Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, a trip to DC is not complete without a visit to this famous address!
Plan ahead and you might be able to book a tour of the White House. Unfortunately when I tried to book through the Canadian Embassy, White House tours were currently on hold for foreign citizens.
Washington Monument
Built to commemorate George Washington, this is both the tallest stone structure and the tallest obelisk in the world. Plus it’s managed by the National Park Service.
Tickets are available along 15th Street for distribution of free, same day, timed tickets on a first come, first serve basis. Alternatively, you can reserve tickets ahead of time online for a small service fee.
National World War II Memorial
National World War II Memorial
Dedicated to Americans who served in the armed forces and as civilians during World War II, this memorial consists of 56 pillars and a pair of small triumphal arches which surround the plaza and fountain.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
This memorial is dedicated to one of the most important of the American Founding Fathers who was also the main drafter and writer of the Declaration of Independence.
Despite its location away from the other memorials on the Mall, it was one of my favorites and definitely worth visit. If you have time, rent a paddle boat in the Tidal Basin.
If you’re visiting during the spring, this is the perfect place to see the cherry blossoms. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is located on the banks of the Potomac Tidal Basin and next to the Potomac River.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Built to honor the 32nd president of the United States, this monument is divided into four rooms which represent FDR’s four terms in office.
My favorite Washington DC travel guides for 2023:
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Korean War Memorial
This memorial is dedicated to armed forces that served during the Korean War.
Korean War Memorial
Martin Luther King Jr Memorial
The Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial on the National Mall is the fourth to honor a non-president and the first to honor a man of color.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The wall stands a symbol of America’s honor which recognizes the men and women who served and sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War.
DC War Memorial
The District of Columbia memorial was built to commemorate the 26,000 citizens of Washington, DC who served in World War 1. This is the only memorial on the National Mall dedicated to local residents.
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
The 19-foot Abraham Lincoln statue sits overlooking the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument from his permanent seat. The Reflecting Pool was modeled after the grand canals at Versailles and Fontainebleau.
Capitol Building
The United States Capitol (also known as The Capitol or the Capitol Building), is the seat of the legislative branch of the United States federal government. You’ll find this iconic building on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall.
Book tours through the visitor center of the Capitol where you’ll see the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. But it doesn’t include the Senate and House of Representatives galleries.
More fun things to do in Washington, DC:
- Washington, DC Full-Day Tour with Scenic River Cruise
- Washington, DC Walking Tour and African American Museum
- Gourmet Brunch of Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
Day 2 in Washington, DC: Touring the Museums
One of the great things about Washington, DC is that many of their popular museums offer free admission to the public.
This makes visiting DC affordable for families and students since there are many free things to do around the city.
Plan to spend the day exploring at least two or three of the museums, depending on your walking pace. You can easily visit more if you are only interested in exploring select exhibits within each museum.
I personally enjoyed the National Museum of American History where Dorothy’s famous ruby slippers were on display from the movie, The Wizard of Oz.
Photo of the National Archives
The National Archives
Here you’ll find on display the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. Plan to spend at least an hour here, depending on your walking pace and interests.
National Gallery of Art
The permanent collection compromises of pieces from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Highlights include: Rogier van der Weyden, Portrait of a Lady, Leonardo da Vinci, Ginevra de’ Benci, Rembrandt van Rijn, Self-Portrait and Vincent van Gogh, Self-portrait.
If you have time, don’t miss The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, which is the most recent addition here.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
With more than 7 million visitors per year, this Smithsonian museum remains one of the most popular in the world. Perfect for all ages who are interested in learning all about the natural world around us.
National Museum of American History
This museum holds more than 3 million artifacts, including Dorothy’s ruby slippers and a piece of Plymouth Rock.
I also recommend checking out The First Ladies Collection which displays more than two dozen gowns, fine china and other furnishings from First Ladies.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
This museum hold the largest collection of aviation and space artifacts which encompass all aspects of human flight and related works. With over eight million visitors per year, this is the most visited museum in the country.
National Musem of the American Indian
This museum showcases the culture of the indigenous peoples of Americas. Here you can find Native American objects, photographs, media, and artifacts which represent over 12,000 years of history.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
This is the country’s largest and most comprehensive museum that’s devoted to showcasing the African American story and its impact on the nation and world history.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
This is the best holocaust museum in the USA. This living memorial to the Holocaust aims to inspire people worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity.
More great museums to check out in Washington, DC:
Day 3 in Washington, DC: Exploring the city
While you can easily spend all three days on the National Mall, it’s worth taking the time to explore some notable places around the city too.
Ford’s Theater
Ford’s Theater
Interactive exhibits tell the story of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and assassination. You can visit the theater where Lincoln was shot and the Peterson House across the street where he died the following the morning.
Library of Congress
This is the nation’s oldest federal cultural institution and also the largest library in the world, home to millions of books, recordings, photographs and more. Don’t forget to visit Thomas Jefferson’s library here.
More fun things to do in Washington, DC:
- Washington, DC See the City Segway Tour
- Haunted History Ghost Tour of Washington, DC
- African American History Tour
Library of Congress
Supreme Court
Open to the public Monday through Friday, visitors are encouraged to take advantage of a variety of educational programs available such as Courtroom Lectures.
Supreme Court
Georgetown
This historic neighborhood in DC is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. Here you’ll discover quaint boutiques, delicious eats, pretty residential streets, and nightlife. If you’re not driving, the best way to get here is by DC Metro Bus or taxi.
Chinatown
This is a small historic neighborhood of Washington, DC that’s within walking distance of the National Mall and Penn Quarter.
This is a great area to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, see the Friendship Arch, take an Alleyway tour, or visit a nearby museum.
Old Town Alexandria
This is a beautiful historic district on the Potomac River waterfront. You’ll find plenty of independent boutiques and restaurants along King Street.
If you visit on a Saturday, be sure to check out the local farmer’s market which has been operating for 260 years.
Arlington National Cemetery, Virgina
This is the most famous cemetery in the USA and encompasses 639 acres overlooking the Potomac River across from Washington, DC.
Nearly 400,000 people are buried here, including veterans of every American conflict.
Here you’ll also find The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a historic monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains have not yet been identified.
You can watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier which happens every hour on the hour (October to March), and every half hour (April to September).
More places to explore in Washington, DC:
- Washington, DC Night Under the Stars Bus & Walking Tour
- From Washington, DC: Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour
- Washington, DC Old Town Trolley City Tour
Washington, DC Itinerary FAQs
How many days do you need in Washington, DC?
You should plan to spend at least 3 days exploring Washington, DC. This will give you enough time to see all the highlights of the city, including popular monuments, memorials, museums, and local parks. This also gives you enough time to check out more of the city so you won’t feel rushed during your vacation.
Is 3 days enough in Washington, DC?
While you could easily spend a week in Washington, DC exploring the cities and its surrounding neighborhoods, 3 days is enough time to see the main landmarks and attractions.
What’s the number one visitor attraction in Washington, DC?
The White House and the Washington Monument are two iconic symbols of the USA. This is a must if you’re visiting Washington, DC for the first time.
Is 2 days enough for Washington, DC?
2 days is enough to see most of the popular museums, monuments, and memorials. If you plan your route accordingly, you can easily walk between each of the main attractions. Although you might feel a little rushed if you’re only spending two days in the city.
What is the cheapest time of year to go to Washington, DC?
The cheapest time of year to visit Washingont, DC is in the winter.
What is the best time to visit Washington, DC?
The best time of year to visit Washington, DC is in the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May). This is when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Can you walk everywhere in Washington, DC?
Yes, Washington, DC is one of the most walkable cities in the USA. This means that there’s no reason to rent a car or hire a taxi service when visiting Washington, DC.
With that said, you’ll want to wear your most comfortable walking shoes and if you need to give your feet a break, simply hop on the public metro transportation or consider taking a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
What is the best way to travel around Washington, DC?
The cheapest and fastest way to get around Washington, DC is to ride the Metrorail, which is the local subway system.
If you’re looking for a fun way to see the city, consider taking the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. This is a great way to see all the famous landmarks and get to know more about the capital city.
Do I need a car in Washington, DC?
No, I don’t recommend renting a car. This is one of the worst cities for driving. Instead, the best way to get around is to use public transportation. The metrorail is safe, clean and highly efficient.
What do I need to know before going to Washington, DC?
For tips on what you should avoid and the do’s and don’ts of the city, check out my post: 10 things you need to know before visiting Washington, DC
