If you are planning a quick getaway to Washington D.C. and want to experience the vibrant culture and historic landmarks without diving into the museums, this itinerary is perfect for you. I recently spent two incredible days in D.C., soaking up the sights and flavors of this dynamic city! Here is the exact 2-day Washington D.C. itinerary I did, plus some recommendations for where to stay and tips for your trip.

2-Day Washington D.C. Itinerary

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Culinary Delights

Breakfast at Le Diplomate

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Le Diplomate, a charming French bistro that will transport you straight to Paris. The ambiance is cozy, and the croissants are delicious. I recommend the yogurt parfait, an omelette, and of course a croissant.

Yogurt Parfait at Le Diplomate in Washington D.C. — Yogurt Parfait

Gruyère Omelette at Le Diplomate in Washington D.C. — Yogurt Parfait

Walking the National Mall

After breakfast, head to the National Mall for a full day of walking and exploring the iconic landmarks. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because there is a lot to see!

Washington Monument: Marvel at this towering structure and maybe even take the elevator ride to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
Lincoln Memorial: Walk along the Reflecting Pool to reach this iconic tribute to Abraham Lincoln. It’s especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: A poignant place to pay your respects and reflect on the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War.
World War II Memorial: Another significant site, offering beautiful fountains and pillars representing the states and territories.
The White House: Although you can’t tour the inside without advance arrangements, the exterior view of the President’s residence is iconic. Snap a photo from Lafayette Square and take in the history and significance of this landmark.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial: This neoclassical memorial dedicated to Thomas Jefferson, one of the Founding Fathers and the third President of the United States, is situated by the Tidal Basin, offering picturesque views, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial: Spanning 7.5 acres, this memorial dedicated to FDR is unique with its waterfalls, sculptures, and quotes reflecting his four terms in office.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: This powerful memorial honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a 30-foot statue and inscriptions of his speeches.
Library of Congress: The largest library in the world, it houses millions of books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts. The architecture itself is stunning.
Supreme Court: The highest court in the United States, the Supreme Court building is an impressive structure where many landmark decisions have been made.

Washington Monument: 2-Day Washington D.C. Itinerary — Washington Monument

Capital: 2-Day Washington D.C. Itinerary — Washington Monument

Freshen Up

Take some time to freshen up at your hotel after your long day of walking. Get a snack on your way home (maybe a smoothie at Coffee Republic), shower, and rest your feet.

Dinner at Grazie Nonna

For dinner, make your way to Grazie Nonna, an Italian eatery that offers a warm atmosphere and delicious dishes. I indulged in the calamari and the Drunken Love pizza, with a vodka sauce swirl.

Drinks at Mirrors

End your evening with drinks at Mirrors, a trendy bar known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the local nightlife.

It has a speakeasy vibe, so head down the stairs when you arrive and open the mirror door, which transport you into a dark underground bar.

Day 2: Georgetown Charm

Breakfast at Tatte Bakery & Café

Begin your second day with breakfast at Tatte Bakery & Café, where you can enjoy a delightful selection of pastries, coffee, and breakfast dishes. Their breakfast sandwiches are so good!

Coffee with words "tatte like latte" at Tatte Bakery & Café

Breakfast Sandwhich at Tatte Bakery & Café in Washington D.C.

Exploring Georgetown

Spend the day exploring the charming neighborhood of Georgetown. Here are some highlights:

Shopping: Wander along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, where you will find a mix of high-end boutiques, trendy shops, and local stores.
Georgetown Waterfront Park: Take a relaxing walk by the Potomac River, and if the weather is nice, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard.
Georgetown University: Stroll around the picturesque campus and admire the stunning Gothic architecture.

Georgetown: 2-Day Washington D.C Itinerary — Georgetown Neighborhoods

Freshen Up

Take some time to freshen up at your hotel after another long day of walking. Get a snack on your way home, shower, and rest your feet.

Dinner at Mi Casa

After a day of exploring, enjoy dinner at Mi Casa, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of flavorful dishes. Their tacos and margaritas are a must-try!

Mi Casa Restaurant: 2-Day Washington D.C. Itinerary

Where to Stay: Dupont Circle

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For your stay, I recommend the Dupont Circle area. It’s a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of dining options, shops, and easy walking to everything in this itinerary or easy access to public transportation. Some great hotels in the area include:

The Dupont Circle Hotel: A luxurious option with stylish rooms and top-notch amenities.
Courtyard Washington, DC Dupont Circle: Contemporary rooms with an on-site bistro. (This is where I stayed)
Hotel Madera: A boutique hotel offering a cozy atmosphere and excellent service.

Museums to Consider

If you do have extra time and want to dive deeper into the history by exploring some museums, here are a few recommendations:

Smithsonian National Museum of American History: Discover the rich history of the United States through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture: Explore the rich history and culture of African Americans through powerful exhibits and artifacts.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: A must-visit for aviation and space enthusiasts.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: Learn about the history of the Holocaust through poignant exhibits and survivor testimonies.
The National Gallery of Art: Home to an extensive collection of art from various periods and styles.
International Spy Museum: Dive into the world of espionage with interactive exhibits and artifacts from real-life spies and intelligence operations.

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Building Architecture — Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Tips for Your Trip

Wear Comfortable Shoes: Both days involve a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Reservations: Places like Le Diplomate and Grazie Nonna can get quite busy, so definitely book reservations in advance.
Weather Prep: Check the weather before your trip and dress accordingly, as much of your time will be spent outdoors.
Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
Use Public Transportation: The D.C. Metro and bus system are efficient and can save you the hassle of finding parking or give you a break from walking.
Download Maps and Apps: Use apps like Google Maps for navigation and SmarTrip to pay for public transportation.

This 2-day Washington D.C. itinerary provides a taste of the area’s rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights without diving into the museums. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, D.C. always has something new to offer. Enjoy your trip!

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