Discovering Washington DC: The Ultimate Day Trip

Discover the heart of America in Washington.

22 April 2023

A trip to Washington, United States, as a tourist is a great way to immerse yourself in American history and culture. You can visit world-renowned landmarks such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian Museums, each showcasing a different aspect of the country's past and present. With easy access to public transportation, a diverse culinary scene, and plenty of entertainment options, Washington is a perfect destination for travelers looking to learn and explore.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Nation's Capital

  • Start your day with a visit to the iconic National Mall, where you can see the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
  • Take a tour of the White House and learn about the history of the United States presidency.
  • Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you can see artifacts from key moments in American history like the Star-Spangled Banner and the First Ladies' Inaugural Gowns.
  • Grab lunch at Ben's Chili Bowl, a local institution that's been serving up its famous chili dogs since 1958.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts or taking a stroll through the beautiful gardens at the United States Botanic Garden.
  • End your day with dinner at Founding Farmers, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up delicious American classics like fried chicken and mac and cheese.
  • Washington DC is full of amazing attractions that showcase the country's rich history and culture. With so much to see and do, you'll need to plan another trip to take it all in!

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.

More travel plans

Washington Wonders: A Family-Friendly Capital Adventure

A family friendly trip to Washington, United States promises exciting adventures for all ages. Explore the historical landmarks of the capital city, such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and National Mall, while learning about American history. Immerse in the natural beauty of Olympic National Park or enjoy the thrilling experiences at the Pacific Science Center, making it an unforgettable trip for the whole family.

DC Delights: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

With a limited budget, Washington D.C. can still provide a great experience. Start by exploring the Smithsonian museums, all of which are free admission. Take a walk through the National Mall to see iconic monuments like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Finally, enjoy some local cuisine by visiting the food trucks and street vendors throughout the city.

Washington on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun

A budget-friendly trip to Washington, United States would include exploring the many free museums and galleries located throughout the city, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Additionally, visitors could take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system, which offers affordable options for seeing the iconic landmarks and monuments, such as the White House and Lincoln Memorial. Finally, inexpensive local food options like food trucks and markets can provide a cost-effective way to get a taste of the local cuisine.

4-Day Adventure in Washington: History, Food & Fun

Washington, D.C. is the perfect destination for not just American history buffs, but anyone who wants to see some of the most famous landmarks in the country including the Lincoln Memorial and White House. Visitors can also explore some of the world-famous museums and art galleries, including the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. In addition, visitors can take advantage of the many tours available to see the city's most important sites, including the National Mall and the Capitol building.