Only have one day to see DC?
Washington, D.C. is not only the nation’s capital but also a vibrant hub of history, culture, and iconic landmarks. From the world-renowned Smithsonian museums to the historic monuments that define the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, even if you’re only spending one day in Washington DC.
As a Northern Virginia local just 30 minutes from D.C., I’ve spent countless days capturing the city’s dynamic streets and monumental sights. I’ll help you experience the best of Washington, D.C., guiding you through the best tours and Instagrammable spots so you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories!
Short on Time?
This quick itinerary hits the must-see highlights so you can make the most of every hour.
- Morning: See the iconic U.S. Capitol on a guided D.C. tour, then stroll the National Mall.
- Afternoon: Tour the Smithsonian Museums.
- Evening: Catch a stunning sunset at the Lincoln Memorial, then enjoy a peaceful walk by the Tidal Basin.
Where To Stay In DC
Here are some centrally located options to make the most of your short visit to Washington D.C., to fit all budgets!
- Budget: State Plaza Hotel – This hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities in a central location. A few blocks away from the White House, it’s perfect for travelers who want comfort without the high price tag. Book your stay.
- Mid-Range: The Hamilton Hotel – This is a stylish, centrally located option within walking distance of major attractions like the White House and National Mall. Book your stay.
- Luxury: The Willard InterContinental – This historic and luxurious hotel is perfectly located if you’ll visit all of the monuments and Smithsonian museums. It has been serving guests since 1818 and is known for its opulent rooms and high-end service. Book your stay.
One Day In Washington DC – Morning to Evening Itinerary
There are so many things to do in Washington DC, between walking the National Mall to the historic monuments and museums.
In order to spend an effective day in DC, you need to visit a few must-see landmarks and hidden gems, so you can get the most out of a single day in the nation’s capital.
Morning: Visit the U.S. Capitol and National Mall
Start your day early with a visit to the U.S. Capitol. It’s the seat of the United States Congress and an essential part of D.C.’s history. Be sure to snap a few photos of the Capitol Building, as the early morning light casts a beautiful glow on the neoclassical architecture.
After soaking in the views, take a leisurely stroll along the National Mall, a stretch of parkland lined with monuments and museums. You’ll pass by the Washington Monument, the Reflecting Pool, and the Lincoln Memorial, all perfect photo opportunities.
I recommend getting there early to avoid the crowds, preferably on a weekday while everyone is at work!
A great way to see all of the sites early (and avoid the crowds!) is to book a full sightseeing day tour in Washington DC. This tour is small group only and allows you to beat the long entrance lines and experience some of the most popular attractions in Washington, DC.
Enjoy priority entry into the United States Capitol Building, and see the city’s most famous landmarks and monuments, like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and more.
Your DC tour will end with a visit to the National Archives Museum (admission included as part of the tour), where the original Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, and the United States Constitution are on display!
After touring the Capitol, head to the nearby Old Ebbitt Grill for breakfast or brunch. Their crab cakes are a D.C. favorite! You can also head to Georgetown for some other famous, as-seen-on-TV eateries, like Georgetown Cupcakes and Martin’s Tavern.
Georgetown is a bit far from the National Mall (about an 18-minute drive), but I think the food selection there is worth the drive!
➡️ Want a guided experience in Washington DC? I recommend this tour!
Afternoon: Explore the Smithsonian Museums
The Smithsonian Museums are world-renowned and should be on your list of must-dos during your day in D.C. Choose a museum that fits your interests—there are so many incredible, free museums in Washington DC!
Choose from museums like the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, or the National Gallery of Art. Each museum offers a unique glimpse into different aspects of history and culture, and most are free to enter. Spend about 2-3 hours here depending on your interest and pace.
It’s also possible to explore these museums in exclusive guided tours! Here are some options:
- 2-Hour National Air & Space Museum Exclusive Guided Tour
- 2.5-Hour Museum of American History Exclusive Guided Tour
- 2.5-Hour National Gallery of Art DC Exclusive Guided Tour
The Smithsonian museums are just a short walk from the National Mall, so you’ll be able to easily navigate between them!
For lunch, grab a bite at the museum cafés or wander down to the vibrant Penn Quarter for a variety of dining options.
➡️ Click here to book your tour to a Smithsonian museum!
Evening: Sunset at the Lincoln Memorial and Tidal Basin
As it gets dark, head toward the Lincoln Memorial. The setting sun over the Reflecting Pool provides one of the most picturesque views in D.C., making it an ideal time for photos!
The Memorial itself is breathtaking, and you’ll have the chance to photograph its towering statue of Abraham Lincoln. If you have time, take a walk around the Tidal Basin, especially if you’re visiting during cherry blossom season. The area is even more stunning with the cherry blossoms surrounding the Tidal Basin.
Spend about 1-2 hours at the Lincoln Memorial to enjoy the evening atmosphere and capture the magic of D.C. at dusk.
If you’re looking for some nightlife options or fun things to do in Washington DC at night, head to U Street, a popular nightlife destination with a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues. The area between 14th and 15th streets is great for bar hopping as well!
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale for dinner, visit The Hamilton, an elegant American restaurant with a cozy, lively atmosphere. They open late and they have a really cool live music stage downstairs! If you go, I highly recommend their pork chop – it’s super tender and delicious.
Getting Around
D.C. is a very walkable city, especially in the National Mall area. Most of the key attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you can explore at your own pace without needing a car.
However, if you’re looking to cover more ground or visit farther locations, the D.C. Metro is an efficient and affordable way to get around. A one-way fare typically costs between $2 and $6, depending on the distance.
For short distances, riding the Metro is quick and convenient. If you prefer biking, D.C. offers Capital Bikeshare, a bike rental system that allows you to pick up and drop off bikes at various locations throughout the city.
Is It Safe?
D.C. is pretty safe, especially around the National Mall and the main tourist spots. Just stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your stuff, and stick to well-lit streets at night. Most visitors walk around without any issues. It’s an easy city to explore and feel comfortable in.
Best Time To Visit
Spring is magical with cherry blossoms in full bloom, and fall brings mild weather and colorful leaves. Both are perfect for walking around and snapping photos. Summer can get hot and busy, while winter is quieter but chilly. Planning your trip in spring or fall means you’ll see D.C. at its best!
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about spending one day in Washington DC.
Is 1 day enough for Washington DC?
While one day isn’t enough to see everything, you can easily experience the highlights of D.C. in a day with proper planning. This itinerary will help you hit the must-see spots and get a great feel for the city.
Is Washington DC walkable for tourists?
Absolutely! Most of D.C.’s famous landmarks are within walking distance of each other, particularly along the National Mall. It’s easy to get around on foot and enjoy the architecture and monuments along the way.
Is it safe to ride the metro in Washington DC?
Yes, the D.C. Metro in Washington DC is generally safe for tourists, much safer than in other major cities like New York City. However, as with any public transportation system, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.
How much money should I take to DC?
It depends on your planned activities and budget, but for a day trip, I’d say you need around $50-$100/person for transportation, meals, and any entry fees (most museums are free). If you plan on booking tours or dining at upscale restaurants, be prepared to budget a bit more.
Final Thoughts
There are so many different things you can do in Washington, D.C. It’s a city full of history, culture, and activities that offer a lot to explore. Even if you’re visiting Washington DC in one day, you can still cover a lot of ground.
If you choose to extend your stay, consider taking a day trip from Washington D.C. to explore Old Town Alexandria, which is one of the top Virginia day trips from Washington D.C.
I hope this guide helps you make the most of your day trip to D.C., and don’t forget to bring your camera! There are plenty of photo opportunities around the city to help you make those lasting memories.
Happy travels!
Tours mentioned in this post:
About the Author
Sasha is the founder of Little Happy Travels, a blog with tips and inspiration for combining work + travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle. As a business coach and remote worker, she’s spent the last few years traveling the world while helping others do the same. Follow for guides, tips, and personal stories on working from anywhere!
