Itinerary

Washington, D.C. is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, packed with history, culture, and fun activities. Here’s a lively 4-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, education, and a bit of relaxation. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: National Mall & Museums

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Founding Farmers. They have a great family-friendly menu!
• National Mall: Head to the National Mall. Begin at the Washington Monument. You can take a quick photo op here and enjoy the views.

Mid-Morning:

• Smithsonian Museums: Visit the National Museum of American History. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and you can see the original Star-Spangled Banner!

Lunch:

• Grab lunch at the Museum Café or pack a picnic to enjoy on the Mall.

Afternoon:

• National Air and Space Museum: This is a must-see for families! Explore the wonders of flight and space. Don’t miss the IMAX theater if you have time!

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to Old Ebbitt Grill for a classic D.C. dining experience. It’s close to the White House, so you can stroll by afterward.
• Nighttime Stroll: Walk around the White House and take some family photos!

## Day 2: Monuments & Memorials

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Lincoln Memorial: Start your day at the Lincoln Memorial. It’s stunning in the morning light!

Mid-Morning:

• Tidal Basin: Walk around the Tidal Basin and visit the Jefferson Memorial. If you’re visiting in spring, the cherry blossoms are a must-see!

Lunch:

• Have lunch at The Wharf, a vibrant waterfront area with plenty of dining options.

Afternoon:

• National World War II Memorial: After lunch, visit this beautiful memorial. It’s a great spot for family photos!
• Korean War Veterans Memorial: Just a short walk away, this memorial is poignant and worth a visit.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try The Capital Grille for a nice family dinner.
• Evening Activity: If the kids are up for it, consider a guided night tour of the monuments. They look magical when lit up!

## Day 3: Capitol Hill & Georgetown

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start with breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien.
• U.S. Capitol Tour: Book a tour of the U.S. Capitol in advance. It’s fascinating to learn about the legislative process!

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at The Dubliner, an Irish pub near the Capitol.

Afternoon:

• Library of Congress: Visit the stunning Library of Congress. The architecture is breathtaking, and there are often family-friendly exhibits.
• Supreme Court: If time allows, take a quick peek at the Supreme Court building.

Evening:

• Georgetown: Head to Georgetown for dinner. Try Fiola Mare for a lovely waterfront dining experience.
• Explore: After dinner, stroll along the historic streets of Georgetown. Don’t forget to check out the famous Exorcist Steps!

## Day 4: Zoo & Neighborhood Exploration

Morning:

• Breakfast: Grab breakfast at The Smith in the U Street Corridor.
• National Zoo: Spend the morning at the Smithsonian National Zoo. It’s free and has tons of animals to see, including the famous giant pandas!

Lunch:

• Have a picnic lunch at the zoo or head to Woodley Park for a nearby café.

Afternoon:

• Explore Adams Morgan: After the zoo, take a stroll through the vibrant neighborhood of Adams Morgan. Check out the local shops and street art.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last night, enjoy dinner at Jaleo, a fun Spanish tapas restaurant.
• Final Activity: If you have energy left, consider catching a show at the Kennedy Center or a family-friendly event in the area.

Tips:

• Transportation: Use the Metro for easy travel around the city. It’s family-friendly and convenient!
• Rest: Don’t forget to take breaks, especially with kids. There are plenty of parks and green spaces to relax in.
• Weather: Check the weather and dress accordingly, as D.C. can be quite humid in the summer and chilly in the winter.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Washington, D.C.! Enjoy your family vacation! 🌟