If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Washington, DC, this guide is for you! In just one day, you can hit all of the highlights of America’s capital city. From iconic monuments to world-renowned museums, Washington, DC, has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
The National Mall & Memorial Parks
No visit to Washington DC would be complete without a walk down The National Mall. This two-mile stretch of parkland is home to some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, and the Washington Monument. You could easily spend hours strolling around this area, taking in the history and soaking up the atmosphere.
The Smithsonian Museums
Washington, DC, is home to more than a dozen Smithsonian museums, covering everything from art and history to science and nature. While it would be impossible to see them all in one day, you can definitely hit a few of the highlights. The Smithsonian Institution Building—aka “The Castle”—houses the offices and administration for all of the Smithsonian museums. It’s definitely worth a quick visit to see this beautiful building in person.
Capitol Hill & Union Station
No trip to Washington DC would be complete without stopping by Capitol Hill, home to the United States Capitol Building and the Library of Congress. If you have time, you can take a tour of the Capitol Building itself or simply admire it from outside. Then head over to Union Station, which is not only an important transportation hub but also a beautiful historic building in it’s own right.
If You Want More Than One Day
A popular option if you are staying overnight, an illumination Tour, which includes a nighttime tour of all of the hotspots around the city with memorial lighting. This tour will take you around town and show you the beauty of the city at night.
Even if you only have one day in Washington, DC, there’s still plenty to see and do. From iconic monuments to world-renowned museums, this city has something for everyone. So get out there and explore!
