5-day itinerary
The Perfect 5 Days in Washington, D.C.
A balanced 5-day plan for Washington, D.C., built around its top-rated sights so each day flows without backtracking — plus a bite to eat along the way. Like it? Make it your own in a couple of taps.
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Customize it free →Day 1 — The Big Highlights
Morning
Supreme Court of the United States
Witness democracy in marble—tour the iconic court where landmark decisions shape American history.
Afternoon
United States Capitol
Marvel at the iconic marble dome where Congress shapes the laws of a nation.
Evening
Capitol Hill
Walk the storied streets where American democracy was shaped, surrounded by iconic monuments and vibrant history.
Where to eat: Old Ebbitt Grill — American — a well-loved local spot.
Day 2 — Culture & Icons
Morning
National Gallery of Art
Explore masterpieces from da Vinci to Monet—all free—in a stunning neoclassical landmark on the Mall.
Afternoon
Monument to Balzac
Rodin's powerful bronze Balzac captures the legendary novelist in timeless, brooding grandeur.
Evening
Hirshhorn Museum
A bold concrete drum showcasing cutting-edge modern and contemporary art, free to all visitors on the National Mall.
Where to eat: El Cielo — Latin American — a well-loved local spot.
Day 3 — Culture & Icons
Morning
Washington Monument
Soar to the top of America's tallest stone monument for breathtaking views of the capital.
Afternoon
Jefferson Memorial
A stunning domed tribute to Thomas Jefferson, reflecting majestically over the Tidal Basin day and night.
Evening
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Nineteen stainless steel soldiers patrol a hauntingly beautiful granite memorial honoring Korean War veterans.
Where to eat: The Dabney — American — a well-loved local spot.
Day 4 — Culture & Icons
Morning
Lincoln Memorial
Gaze up at Lincoln's marble likeness and feel the weight of American history wash over you.
Afternoon
Theodore Roosevelt Island
A forested Potomac island refuge honoring TR, with trails, wildlife, and a grand memorial statue.
Evening
Number One Observatory Circle
Step outside the gate of the Vice President's elegant official residence on the Naval Observatory grounds.
Where to eat: Fiola — Italian — a well-loved local spot.
Day 5 — Culture & Icons
Morning
Homeless Jesus
A stirring bronze sculpture of Christ as a homeless figure, challenging passersby to reflect on compassion.
Afternoon
Congressional Cemetery
One of America's oldest and most storied cemeteries, where senators, heroes, and legends rest.
Evening
George Washington Masonic National Memorial
A towering tribute to America's Founding Father, blending Masonic mystique with stunning panoramic views of Alexandria.
Where to eat: Honeymoon Chicken — Chicken — a well-loved local spot.
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Build my Washington, D.C. itinerary →Built from Washington, D.C.'s top-rated attractions. Opening hours, prices, and whether a spot still delivers can change — double-check anything time-sensitive before you go.