How to Spend a Long Weekend in Washington DC Itinerary
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If you're looking for the perfect weekend getaway destination, Washington DC is a great choice! The US capital city is filled with famous landmarks, world-class museums, and numerous other unique and fascinating attractions.
By following this long weekend in Washington DC itinerary, you'll be able to see all of the city's top points of interest. Places to visit range from political landmarks and memorials to cathedrals and even a spy museum!
To discover what to do with 72 hours in DC, read on for a comprehensive Washington travel guide.
Heading to Washington, D.C. and planning last minute?
Before traveling to Washington, D.C., book your accommodation and experiences ahead of time. Below are some top recommendations to get you started.
Top Accommodation in Washington, D.C.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Silver Spring (rated highly)
- Riggs Washington DC (5-star rating)
- Hilton Washington DCRockville Hotel & Executive Meeting Center (relax by the pool)
Top Tours and Experiences in Washington, D.C.
- Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley (likely to sell out)
- Private Washington DC Guided Tour (rated highly)
- DC Monuments & Memorials Night Tour (very popular)
- Three-Hour DC Nighttime Monuments Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour (very popular)
- Best of DC Plus US Capitol & National Archives Reserved Entry (very popular)
- 3 day itinerary
- Average of 7 stops per day
Washington DC in a Weekend
Washington, D.C. Map
A map of Washington, D.C.. Use the map to explore all the days and stops.
Washington’s Top Attractions
On your first day in Washington DC you’ll see some of the city’s most renowned places. Your first stop is the Museum of African American History and Culture followed by a trip to the iconic Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
Your next stops will also commemorate famous individuals and events. The Korean War and Vietnam Veterans Memorials commemorate those who fought for the US, while the Lincoln Memorial pays homage to President Lincoln.
After exploring these memorial sites, you’ll visit the United States Holocaust Museum before going to your last attraction of the day, the National Portrait Gallery. Your evening will be spent shopping and dining in the bustling Penn Quarter neighborhood.
Museum of African American History and Culture
The Museum of African American History and Culture is one of the largest museums in the United States dedicated to African American culture. The museum is located on the National Mall and was established in 2003.
A unique way to see the museum is by going on an African American history tour of DC. This excursion takes you to various landmarks in the city, such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and includes admission to the museum.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
A must-see landmark on your weekend in DC itinerary is the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. The four-acre memorial features a statue of the renowned Civil Rights leader and the Stone of Hope monument. Around the statue, you’ll also find 14 of MLK’s most inspirational quotes.
If you’re interested in seeing other DC landmarks, consider a Washington DC sightseeing tour. On the tour, you’ll go to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and over ten other attractions.
Korean War Memorial
Located in West Potomac Park, the Korean War Veterans Memorial is another significant landmark in DC. This memorial was constructed to commemorate those that fought in and were involved in the Korean War.
The two most renowned parts of this site are the Pool of Remembrance and the statues of 19 soldiers in combat. This landmark offers a look at the sacrifices involved in the Korean War to allow for US freedoms.
Are you looking for an easy way to see the Korean War Veterans Memorial?
- DC Monuments Moonlight Trolley Tour (highly sought-after)
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. The monument depicts President Lincoln and has been in Washington DC since 1922.
To get to the memorial, simply walk to the western end of the National Mall. Alternatively, consider a hop-on-hop-off DC trolley tour that will take you to the Lincoln Memorial and other attractions mentioned on your first day in DC itinerary.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Another historical landmark to see on a long weekend in DC is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This US national memorial commemorates the men and women who fought in the Vietnam War.
One of the most notable features of this attraction is the stone wall that has the names of over 50,000 soldiers who lost their lives in service to the US. There’s also a statue dedicated to the women who fought and assisted in the war, along with numerous other monuments.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is an educational museum covering Holocaust history. It's also the US’ official Holocaust memorial.
Exhibits in found here cover World War II, those affected by the Holocaust, and the long-lasting effects of the horrific period in time. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum frequently hosts events and talks too.
National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is an art gallery that houses portraits of various famous figures. These individuals include every US president, as well as iconic US figures like Harriet Tubman and Benjamin Franklin.
In total, the gallery’s extensive collection includes over 23,000 works. Lovers of art and cultural attractions have to make a trip to the National Portrait Gallery during a weekend in Washington DC!
Are you looking to discover the National Portrait Gallery?
- Private DC SUV Tour (often praised)
Penn Quarter
Penn Quarter is a fun area of DC with an array of bars, restaurants, and shops. It's the perfect place to spend the evening, doing some shopping and trying some outstanding cuisine.
If you like sports, you can find Capital One Arena in Penn Quarter too. At the arena, you can watch both the Washington Capitals NHL team and the Washington Wizards NBA team play. Penn Quarter is also next to Chinatown, which is well worth exploring.
A Trip to Mount Vernon and More DC Landmarks
The second day of your Washington DC three day itinerary will begin with a trip out of the city to George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria. After exploring these attractions, you’ll head back to DC to visit the Arlington National Cemetery.
Your next stop of the day is the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. In the afternoon, you can explore the fascinating Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and then move on to the breathtaking Washington National Cathedral.
The day will end at Dupont Circle. While here, you can get dinner at an incredible restaurant before getting some drinks at one of a plethora of exciting bars.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria
Mount Vernon is a historic estate located about a 30-minute drive from central Washington DC. This attraction is notable as it was the home of the first president of the United States, George Washington.
During your visit, you can explore the house and gardens and learn more about the life of Washington. If you don’t have a car in DC, you can easily reach this attraction by going on a Mount Vernon tour.
This tour will also take you to the charming Old Town Alexandria. The quaint town features independent shops and interesting restaurants which are located on scenic cobblestone streets.
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most famous Washington DC landmarks. The cemetery is the final resting place of notable figures, including John F. Kennedy.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is also a well-known feature here. This monument is dedicated to those missing in action and soldiers who have never been identified.
A great way to see this landmark during your 72 hours in Washington DC is on an Arlington National Cemetery walking tour. You also get to see the symbolic Changing of the Guards.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
A quick trip to see the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is another highly recommended thing to do. This monument features a statue of the 32nd president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and his Scottish terrier Fala.
The surrounding park also features manicured gardens, water sculptures, and other historic memorials.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Established in 1946, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is another of the educational attractions found in DC. This museum includes exhibits on air transport and space exploration.
Exhibits to discover include those on commercial aviation, the US’ role in the development of flight, the mechanics of space flight, and much more. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a fascinating attraction that is sure to teach you something new!
Do you want to join a tour to explore the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum?
- Washington DC Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour (extremely popular)
- Small Group Night Tour of National Malls Top 10 Attractions (rated well)
Washington National Cathedral
Also known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, the Washington National Cathedral is a breathtaking cathedral found about 15-minutes from downtown DC. The cathedral was constructed in the early 1900s and is visited by over 270,000 people every year.
When visiting, you can explore the stunning church and take in the Gothic Revival design. Lovers of religious architecture must add a trip to the Washington National Cathedral to their Washington DC weekend itinerary!
Are you looking for an easy way to see the Washington National Cathedral?
- Customized Private Tours of Washington, DC (frequently earns a five-star rating)
- DC Night Tour With Hotel Pickup (well-rated)
Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle is a bustling part of Washington known for its array of eateries and bars. Having dinner at Dupont Circle is one of the best things to do at night in DC, and you’ll find numerous options to choose from.
World-class dining options include Obelisk a South American hotspot. No matter which restaurant you eat at, you’re sure to have some amazing food and drinks!
Are you looking to visit Dupont Circle with a tour?
- Tour of Presidential Residences in Dupont & Kalorama (often fully booked)
Washington’s World-Class Museums
Your three perfect days in Washington DC will include visits to some more of the city’s incredible museums and landmarks. The day begins with a trip to the US Capitol which you can explore on a guided tour.
Next, you’ll head to the National Gallery of Art before moving on to the National Archives Museum. At this attraction, you can see the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and more.
Another museum, the Museum of Natural History, is on the itinerary in the afternoon. Your day will finish with visits to some of the most well-known places in DC, the White House, the National Mall, and the Washington Monument. If looking for a nighttime activity, you can explore these landmarks on a moonlit tour!
United States Capitol Building
The US Capitol Building is one of the most significant political buildings in Washington DC. This site on Capitol Hill is where the United States Congress meets and is also the seat of the legislative branch of the US government.
When in Washington, you must at least walk past this building and take some pictures. If interested in learning more about the US Capitol, you can go inside and take a guided tour. A recommended one to try is the best of DC VIP tour that will also take you to some other world-renowned spots.
National Gallery of Art
Art enthusiasts will be very excited to go to this renowned art gallery! The National Gallery of Art houses over 150,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more.
As you explore, you’ll come across pieces by famous artists, including Thomas Gainsborough and Johannes Vermeer. You can also take a private guided tour of the National Gallery of Art to learn even more about the works you see.
National Archives Museum
The National Archives Museum is a fascinating attraction to see during your weekend getaway in Washington DC. The museum holds various important documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights.
After viewing these significant pieces of history, you can explore other exhibits. These displays cover US politics, culture, and important events.
Are you looking for an easy way to see the National Archives Museum?
- Private Washington DC Guided Tour (highly rated)
- Best of dc Plus us Capitol & National Archives Reserved Entry (popular and sought-after)
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Another world-class museum in Washington DC is the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Exhibits to see here cover topics like the world’s wildlife, fossils, human evolution, and more.
To get the most out of your visit, opt for a Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History guided tour. Exploring the museum is a great DC date idea too!
The White House
The White House is hands down the most well-known place in DC. It’s also one of the most famous landmarks in North America. The White House has been home to the US president since 1800.
A Washington DC weekend trip itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a visiting this historical attraction! When visiting, you have the option to take a guided tour of the building. Going on a moonlit tour of Washington, which includes a trip to the White House, is another popular activity to try.
National Mall and Washington Monument
Located close to the White House are two other renowned sights, the National Mall and the Washington Monument. After wandering along the mall, which is kept in perfect condition thanks to the National Park Service, you can view the iconic Washington Monument.
The monument was installed in 1888 and commemorates George Washington. If you’re looking for a unique evening activity, another great experience to try is a DC after dark tour. This tour takes you to the illuminated Mall and Washington Monument, plus other attractions.
In Summary
Washington DC is one of the best weekend getaway locations in the US. You can discover a multitude of political and cultural attractions to visit here that will appeal to all types of travelers.
By following this Washington DC weekend itinerary, you won't miss any of the must-see places in DC, even if you're only in the US capital for 72 hours.
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Written by Alli Sewell
allisewell WRITER Currently based in Canada, Alli has also lived and worked in the UK and Brazil and traveled in North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She loves finding the best photo-ops and food and drink locations wherever she goes.
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