One Day Washington DC Itinerary: Best Things to Do
Spending one day in Washington, DC seems like a little too much for some people, especially with the number of museums and other attractions worth seeing that may make an itinerary overwhelming.
However, if you have limited time, it is still possible to visit the nation’s capital alongside historical and science museums.
My favorite time of year to visit is during the cherry blossom festival even if it is the time of year when everyone decides to go.
Seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms with historical buildings behind them is truly magical. Whether you live in a nearby state, or city, or have a long layover, I would definitely recommend checking out what DC has to offer.
This past weekend I took a day trip to Washington, D.C. for the cherry blossoms even though it was raining the whole time.
But, I was able to take in more of the sights without all of the tourists that the spring season brings.
Here is a great itinerary to make the most of your one day in Washington DC in March and April!
How to Get to the Downtown Area (Transportation Options)
If you are driving from a state or city nearby, you can easily drive, just make sure to leave early enough before the traffic gets heavy.
Although it may seem convenient to drive right into the city, it is quite the opposite with limited parking and confusing intersections.
The best way to travel into the metropolitan is by taking the metro or a bus. If you’re coming from one of the DC airports like Dulles, you will need to take the bus to the Wiehle-Reston East metro station and ride the silver line.
Since I live in Virginia, I was able to park and head to the Vienna station for the downtown area.
For the Vienna station, you will take the orange line and get off at the Smithsonian stop where the museums and Washington Monument are located. (You will have to pay for parking during weekdays.)
Costs of Metro and Taxi in Washington DC
Depending on how long you are staying in Washington D.C., the metro prices will vary. When exploring the city for one day, you will need the 1-day unlimited pass for $13.
You can easily purchase a metro card at the service desk or at the kiosks inside the station before catching the metro. Do keep in mind that metro passes can increase in price during peak hours.
If you think taking a taxi is more beneficial for you, go for it! You just might be paying a lot more if you plan on going somewhere that is a fair distance away.
Things to Do in Washington D.C.
1. Take the Old Town Trolley Tour
The best way to see a bunch of interesting sights at one time is by taking a trolley tour of the city.
Without having to use your map to locate the sights, the Old Town Trolley does all the work for you by highlighting the best places like the Jefferson Memorial, The Library of Congress, and more!
You will also get a chance to see world-class museums by hopping on and off.
2. Have a Delicious Breakfast
A hearty breakfast will provide energy for a long day of exploring DC. Here are some of the best places in the Nation’s Capital that serve classic and unique dishes like pancakes and chocolate croissants:
- Tony’s Place (1401 H St NE, Washington, DC)
- Bread Furst (4434 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC)
- Lincoln’s Waffle Shop (504 10th St NW Washington, DC)
- Founding Farmers DC (1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC)
3. Do a Walking Tour
If you have a little more time to waste, consider adding a walking tour to your itinerary to see the most iconic sites in Washington DC. The five-mile walking tour allows you to see The White House, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall, and many more places!
4. Visit A Few Museums
The early morning is the best time to squeeze in a few museums before the afternoon crowds. There are several fascinating museums in DC that provide immersive experiences for science, art, and culture that have shaped the world we live in today.
One of my favorite museums that I was recently able to explore more is the National Museum of Asian Art. But there is so many more worth exploring including the ones below:
- Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
- International Spy Museum
- Hirshhorn Museum
- Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum
- National Gallery of Art
- African American Civil War Museum
- National Museum of the American Indian
Tip: Do keep in mind that some of these museums like the Air and Space Museum require you to reserve your spot. (It’s free of course!)
5. Buy Lunch
Washington DC has some of the best restaurants that offer a distinct flavor and gateway into the local culture. The Capital Grille and The Dabney are both highly-rated restaurants worth checking out if you’re interested in fine dining.
You can also try your luck at restaurants inside the museums but they do tend to get crowded during peak lunch hours.
I personally prefer to have a taste of one of the many few trucks lining the streets to help me save money.
Best Food and Dessert Trucks to Try in DC
- Far East Taco Grille (Korean-style tacos)
- Sate Indonesian Food (chicken on bamboo skewers)
- Pho Wheels (Vietnamese sandwiches)
- Swizzler (juicy burgers and hot dogs)
- Captain Cookie and the Milkman (ice cream sandwiches cookie-style)
6. See the Cherry Blossoms at the Tidal Basin
If you do enough exploring of DC, you will notice a bunch of cherry blossom trees not just at the Tidal Basin but also near the National Mall and other historical landmarks.
But the most popular location for the cherry blossoms is the Tidal Basin because of the stunning views over the water. The best time to see the cherry blossoms is in the early morning on a weekday. Depending on the weather, the blossoms will have different peak times.
This year, spring came early so the blossoms were on their way to peak bloom around March 22nd. But the latest they have bloomed in the past was April 10th.
7. Dinner
Try out another fine dining restaurant for dinner like the Fiola or stick to the cheaper option (food truck) for your one day trip!
Best Places to Eat for Dinner
- Ambar Capitol Hill (523 8th St SE, Washington, DC)
- BRESCA (1906 14th St NW, Washington, DC)
- Old Ebbitt Grill (675 15th St NW, Washington, DC)
- Seven Reasons (2208 14th St NW, Washington, DC)
8. Things to Do If You Have Extra Time
- Visit the National Zoo
- Arlington National Cemetery
- Korean War Memorial
- Washington National Cathedral
- Explore Georgetown
- Visit the National Harbor
- Tour the White House and Capitol Building
One day in Washington DC is quite overwhelming when there are endless things to see and do in this vibrant city.
Whether you’re an experienced traveler or someone who is dipping their toes into travel, this one-day itinerary for Washington DC provides some of the best sightseeing, transportation, and restaurants to help make your trip a little easier.
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