Itinerary for 3 day trip to Washington Dc

Washington, D.C. is a fantastic place to explore, especially in December when the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and engaged!

Day 1: and Museums

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this popular spot. They have a great menu with something for everyone, from pancakes to healthy options.
: After breakfast, head to the . The iconic monuments and memorials are a must-see. Don’t miss the , the , and the . The walk is beautiful, especially with the crisp December air!

Afternoon:

: Choose a couple of Smithsonian museums to explore. The and the are both fantastic for families. Kids will love the interactive exhibits!
Lunch at the : Grab a quick bite at one of the museum cafés. They usually have kid-friendly options.

Evening:

: Head over to the Ellipse to see the , beautifully lit and surrounded by smaller trees representing each state. It’s a magical sight!
Dinner at : Just a short walk away, offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. It’s a great place to unwind after a busy day.

Day 2: Exploring Neighborhoods and Holiday Festivities

Morning:

Breakfast at a Local Café: Try a local favorite like for a cozy breakfast.
Visit the : Take a guided tour of the Capitol Building. It’s educational and fascinating for the whole family!

Afternoon:

Explore the : Head to this historic market for lunch. You can find delicious food stalls and local crafts. It’s a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs!
Visit the : The West Building has a fantastic collection of classic art, and the East Building features modern art. The family can enjoy the art and the beautiful architecture.

Evening:

Ice Skating at the : If the weather permits, enjoy some ice skating! It’s a fun way to embrace the winter spirit.
Dinner at : This iconic D.C. restaurant is perfect for families and offers a variety of dishes. Make sure to try their famous oysters!

Day 3: Zoo and

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a classic diner breakfast. The kids will love the retro vibe!
: Spend the morning at the zoo. It’s free and has a variety of animals to see. Don’t miss the giant pandas if they’re on display!

Afternoon:

Lunch in Woodley Park: There are several family-friendly restaurants near the zoo. Try a casual spot like for some Tex-Mex.
: Head over to for some holiday shopping and sightseeing. The historic streets are charming, and you can enjoy the festive decorations. Stop by the for a lovely view of the Potomac River.

Evening:

Dinner at : Treat the family to a nice dinner at this waterfront restaurant. The seafood is fantastic, and the ambiance is lovely.
: If you’re still up for it, check out the , an outdoor light art exhibition that runs through December. It’s a beautiful way to end your trip!