Ok, trick question! Because there really isn’t a bad time of year to visit Washington DC. In a city this dynamic, you’ll find things to do no matter when you visit!
However, if we had to choose, the best time to visit Washington DC would be in the spring– right when the beautiful cherry blossoms begin to bloom. The weather is mild, and it’s great walking weather for sightseeing. We would travel to this city any time of year, but spring is the best time to visit Washington DC!
This ultimate travel guide will give you ideas on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in Washington DC. Read until the end to get a curated two-day sample itinerary to use on your next trip to Washington DC.
Where to Stay In Washington DC
Washington DC is a very walkable city. The public transportation is one of the best in the country. Finding the right area to stay depends on what you’re looking to do on your trip.
- Around National Mall: this area is great for first timers looking to visit all of the historic sights, but it will get very busy and touristy. With several museums and memorials to visit, it is ideal for sight-seers, families, and those looking for a walkable area. The vast park areas are a perk that might not be found in other areas.
- Capitol Hill: this is east of the National Mall area, and it is a popular neighborhood filled with politicians, congressional staffers, and more food options. The Capitol Building is located on one side of the neighborhood, and the Supreme Court and the Library of Congress are on the other side. This is ideal for history-buffs and sight-seers. However, it can be more expensive since it’s a central location.
- Dupont Circle: if you’re looking for a fun nightlife and food scene, this is the neighborhood for you. Located north of Capitol Hill, this is a trendy area filled with eclectic shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants. Similar to the atmosphere of Greenwich Village in New York, there is a gay community in this neighborhood that’s welcoming and inclusive.
- The Waterfront (Wharf): for the best value, you will want to check out this DC area. This sits between the National Mall and the Washington Channel. It has some of the best seafood restaurants and is the hub for entertainment venues and sports stadiums. We stayed at the Pendry – The Wharf. It’s a luxury boutique hotel with great amenities. Rooftop pool? Say less.
What to Do in Washington DC
We can probably live in Washington DC and still find something we haven’t done before. There are endless activities and events in the city, but below are the must-do’s when you visit.
- Go sightseeing historic monuments and memorials (National Mall). DC is a very walkable city, so you’re able to conveniently bop around to many different sites. You can either map out a route yourself or join one of the many walking tours available.
- Go on a walking tour with Underground Donut Tour. For $65 per adult, this is a unique way to do a walking tour. It stops at 4 different donut shops along a historic route. Taste the best donuts in the city within about 2 hours. You’ll burn off all of the sweets and calories on the 2-mile walk.
- Visit one of the many Smithsonian Museums (National Mall). You can spend days and long afternoons visiting all of the museums. We really enjoyed The African American National Museum and The National Air and Space Museum. There is so much to learn and see with a variety of topics to cover. The best part? Most of them are free admission!
- Laugh the night away at DC Improv Comedy Club (Downtown). Visit their website for upcoming events and shows. There’s always something, and it’s fun to drink and eat over some good laughs.
- Western Market Food Hall (Foggy Bottom). This food hall market has 20 unique vendors and is a mix of modern in a historic neighborhood.
- Union Market (Northeast). This is one of the best shopping districts with shops on shops on shops. Not into the shopping? Check out local eats and drinks or the event calendar for fun social activities.
Where To Eat in Washington DC
You can pretty much find any type of cuisine in the city, but below are some of our favorite eats that we tried.
- Colada Shop (The Wharf) – for a casual Cuban meal.
- Ben’s Chili Bowl (multiple locations) – for the most famous chili, with a vegetarian option as well!
- Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls (multiple locations) – for one of the best lobster rolls in the city (& casual grab-and-go locations).
- Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar (Downtown) – for tasty Peruvian with a great atmosphere.
- Iron Gate Restaurant (Dupont Circle) – for the most delicious meal of your life.
- Oyamel Cocina Mexicana (Penn Quarter) – for the best tasting menu value.
2-Day Sample Itinerary
DAY 1
- Check into the Pendry Hotel.
- Eat lunch at Colada. We recommend the sampler platter!
- Head to the National Mall area to do some sightseeing.
- Grab drinks at Iron Gate restaurant. If you have time, the tasting menu is a must!
- Check out a show at DC Improv Comedy Club. There is a 2-item minimum, so you can order drinks or food.
- Dance around Dupont Circle and have a night out on the town.
DAY 2
- Start the day with donuts and a walking tour of the city with Underground Donut Tour.
- Grab lunch at Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar. Best Peruvian ceviche in the city!
- Walk around downtown afterwards and take in the city.
- Have dinner at Oyamel. Highly recommend the tasting menu! Warning: you won’t be able to move after consuming the amount of good food. It’s a great value.
- Nightcap at the beautiful Waldorf Astoria Hotel.
One of our top cities – the next time you head to Washington DC, make sure you bring us with you! For more east coast city ideas, check out our NYC travel guide.