3 day itinerary for Dc

Itinerary

Washington, D.C. is a fantastic city for families, and there’s so much to see and do. With your constraints in mind, here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that includes the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and some budget-friendly food options. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring the National Mall

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers (it’s a bit of a splurge, but worth it for the pancakes and farm-fresh options). If you want something cheaper, grab a bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels nearby.
• Visit the National Air and Space Museum: This is a must-see! The kids will love the interactive exhibits, and you can marvel at the history of aviation and space exploration. Don’t miss the Apollo 11 command module!

Lunch:

• Food Trucks: Head outside to the National Mall where you’ll find a variety of food trucks. You can grab a delicious and affordable lunch—think tacos, burgers, or even falafel!

Afternoon:

• Explore the National Museum of Natural History: Just a short walk away, this museum is a hit with families. The dinosaur fossils and the Hope Diamond are always crowd-pleasers!
• Stroll through the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden: Let the kids run around and enjoy the beautiful outdoor space.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try Shake Shack for some tasty burgers and shakes. It’s casual and kid-friendly!
• Nighttime Monument Tour: If the kids still have energy, take a stroll to see the monuments lit up at night. The Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument are particularly stunning.

## Day 2: History and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at Café Columbia for some delicious pastries and coffee.
• Visit the National Museum of American History: This museum is packed with fascinating exhibits, including the original Star-Spangled Banner and the First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns.

Lunch:

• Food Court at the Ronald Reagan Building: This is a great spot for a variety of affordable options, from Asian cuisine to sandwiches.

Afternoon:

• Visit the National Archives: Check out the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The kids will love seeing these historic documents up close!
• Explore the National Gallery of Art (West Building): If time allows, take a peek at some classic art. The family can enjoy the art scavenger hunt available for kids!

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to &pizza for some customizable pizzas. It’s quick, affordable, and everyone can create their own masterpiece!
• Evening Activity: If you’re up for it, consider catching a family-friendly show at the Kennedy Center or just enjoy the views along the Potomac River.

## Day 3: A Day in the Neighborhoods

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day at The Smith for a classic American breakfast. If you want something lighter, grab a smoothie from Jamba Juice.
• Visit the National Zoo: Head to the Smithsonian National Zoo in Woodley Park. It’s free and the kids will love seeing the giant pandas and other animals!

Lunch:

• Woodley Park: After the zoo, grab lunch at Deli City for some sandwiches or Pizzeria Paradiso for delicious pizza. Both are family-friendly and budget-conscious.

Afternoon:

• Explore the U Street Corridor: Check out the vibrant neighborhood, and if you have time, visit the African American Civil War Museum. It’s small but impactful.
• Visit the National Portrait Gallery: This museum is free and has a fantastic collection of portraits of American figures, which can be quite engaging for kids.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last night, try Ben’s Chili Bowl for a taste of D.C.’s famous chili dogs and half-smokes. It’s a local favorite and very family-friendly!
• Wrap Up: If you have time, take a leisurely walk around the historic streets of Georgetown or along the waterfront to soak in the last moments of your D.C. adventure.

And there you have it! A fun-filled, family-friendly itinerary that balances educational experiences with delicious, budget-friendly meals. Enjoy your trip to D.C.! If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!