Washington D.C.'s Romantic Long Weekend Guide
Fall in love all over again in Washington.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
A romantic trip to Washington, United States offers a perfect blend of historical landmarks, vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty. The city's impressive monuments, museums and galleries promise to awe-inspire both locals and tourists alike while its charming neighborhoods, picturesque parks and scenic waterfronts invite couples to embark on romantic strolls and leisurely picnics. With a plethora of cozy bistros, trendy cafes and world-class dining options, Washington is a culinary haven where couples can indulge in delectable cuisines and fine wines.
Travel plan
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- • Stay at the chic and elegant Hay-Adams hotel, located right next to the White House.
- • Take a stroll around the National Mall, soaking up the historic atmosphere of the capital.
- • Visit the Smithsonian Museums Air and Space Museum, National Portrait Gallery, and Museum of Natural History.
- • Dine at Rasika, an award-winning Indian restaurant with a tantalizing menu.
- • Get a bird's eye view of the city from The Capital Wheel on National Harbor.
- • Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building, where you can witness democracy in action.
- • Visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world with over 170 million items.
- • Head to the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and watch a show or performance.
- • Try the famous lobster roll at Luke's Lobster, a cozy seafood spot in Penn Quarter.
- • Relax at the spa in The Four Seasons Hotel, indulging in aromatherapy massages and facials.
- • Explore the beautiful and expansive Rock Creek Park for a dose of nature.
- • Take a trip to the National Zoo and visit the giant pandas.
- • Admire the city's vibrant street art scene on a guided mural tour.
- • Experience innovative farm-to-table cuisine at Chloe, a modern bistro in Navy Yard.
- • Enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the city skyline at the Rooftop Bar at the Watergate Hotel.
- • Discover the unique boutiques and vintage shops at the historic Georgetown district.
- • Taste the famous half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, a DC landmark since 1958.
- • Admire the iconic cherry blossom trees in the Tidal Basin during springtime.
- • Visit the National Cathedral and marvel at its stunning neo-Gothic architecture.
- • Enjoy a sunset river cruise on the Potomac River on the luxurious Odyssey Cruise Ship.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Washington, United States by plane is to fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport which is located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
Car
Driving to Washington, D.C. is a great option, as it's easily accessible from major highways, including I-95, I-295, and I-495. Parking may be a bit challenging and expensive, but there are many parking garages throughout the city.
Train
There is a train station in Washington, D.C. called Union Station, where you can arrive from various nearby cities like New York or Philadelphia via Amtrak or commuter rail services.
Boat
While not the most practical way to get there, you can take a boat to Washington, D.C. via the Potomac River. Just south of D.C. is the National Harbor, which serves as a port for many cruises and water taxis. You can also take a ferry from nearby Alexandria, Virginia.
Bus
If you're looking to travel by bus, Greyhound and Megabus offer services from major cities to the DC area. You can arrive at Union Station or the Greyhound terminal.