3 Days in Washington, D.C.
National Monuments, Global Dining, and Free Museums
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March 25, 2026
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As the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C. attracts school groups, diplomats, social-justice seekers, and visitors from all states and corners of the Earth. It tells the nation’s story through monuments and museums—many of them part of the Smithsonian network, which offers free admission.
There’s a thriving restaurant scene that reflects the diverse population, and happy hour often begins with weekday specials as early as 3pm. Things to do in Washington, D.C. also include touring historic estates in Georgetown, catching live music at the 9:30 Club or The Anthem in The Wharf waterfront district, and browsing local markets and boutiques. In spring, locals and visitors turn out in droves to admire blooming cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin and the National Arboretum.
If you’re transiting through Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), check out our Centurion Lounge, where eligible Card Members can experience an impressive art gallery, menus from award-winning chefs, and quintessential Centurion Lounge amenities like a shower suite and private phone and conference rooms.
Read on for our curated three-day Washington, D.C. itinerary and learn more about the benefits that you can enjoy throughout your journey when you book through American Express Travel®.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are often considered D.C.'s sweet spots, with mild temperatures and colorful scenery—the blooming cherry blossoms in spring, while autumn brings cool, crisp air and golden leaves. Summers can be hot and humid, with plenty of visitors and seasonal festivals, and winter is colder but noticeably less crowded around the city’s major sights.
Getting There
Enjoy savings on select economy tickets with Delta Air Lines on designated domestic flights through Amex Travel™ with Platinum Member Airfares™* when booked through American Express Travel®. Platinum Card and Centurion Members receive reduced fares compared to fares available for other American Express® Card Members through Amex Travel™. Plus, Platinum Card® Members earn 5X Membership Rewards® points* on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked through American Express Travel® or flights purchased directly from airlines.
A Capital Introduction
Accommodation
Rosewood Washington, D.C.
Fairmont Washington DC
Place of Interest
Capitol Hill
Eat & Drink
Happy Hour Culture
Albi
Rose’s Luxury
Bar del Monte
National Mall & the Arts
Place of Interest
The National Mall Tour
Monuments, Mall & More by Bike
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
National Museum of African American History & Culture
Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
International Spy Museum
National Shakespeare Company
9:30 Club
Eat & Drink
Old Ebbitt Grill
Dogon by Kwame Onwuachi
Fiola DC
Anju
Old & New Georgetown
Place of Interest
Arlington House & Arlington National Cemetery
Hillwood Estate, Museum, and Gardens
Discover Historic Georgetown
Boating in DC
Eat & Drink
Omakase @ Barracks Row
Tail Up Goat
Maydan
Amelie Wine Bar
Rosewood Washington, D.C.
Situated in a brownstone building along Georgetown’s historic C&O Canal, Rosewood Washington, D.C. offers a refined residential feel with contemporary furnishings and artwork. Marble bathrooms are outfitted with rainfall showers and soaking tubs, while select suites feature fireplaces. Six adjacent townhouses enhance the cozy ambiance while still allowing guests to enjoy hotel amenities, including the rooftop pool overlooking the Potomac River and the Washington Monument, as well as on-site steakhouse Cut by Wolfgang Puck.
Fairmont Washington DC
Marble floors, a garden courtyard, and high ceilings set a grand scene upon arrival at the Fairmont Washington, DC. The property features 413 rooms and suites decorated in soothing earth tones, with windows that let in ample natural light. Select suites include separate living and dining areas and additional bedrooms. Guests can take advantage of complimentary fitness classes, from yoga to Pilates, plus a lap pool and sauna. Visit Juniper for locavore American fare. The hotel’s West End location also provides convenient access to Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and downtown.
*
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
Daily breakfast for two
$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Guaranteed 4pm check-out
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3,*
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Late check-out, when available
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
More of Our Favorite D.C. Hotels
With a prime waterfront location, Pendry Washington DC, The Wharf offers a sleek, contemporary setting just south of the National Mall and within easy reach of the city’s iconic monuments. It pairs polished interiors (leather upholstered headboards, marble baths, a calm color palette) with dynamic public spaces, from a rooftop pool overlooking the Potomac to acclaimed dining venues.
You’ll find some of the city’s most spacious rooms and suites at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, complete with soaring windows and sparkling chandeliers. The decor is as grand as you’d expect, blending historic elegance with modern comforts and the convenience of its Pennsylvania Avenue location—within walking distance of the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and other celebrated landmarks.
Once a private residence, The Hay-Adams, Washington, D.C. retains an intimate feel and features, beautifully appointed rooms—some with private balconies and coveted White House views—along with the beloved Off the Record bar for a quintessential Washington experience. It’s a classically elegant property in the heart of downtown, overlooking Lafayette Square.
Exploring Capitol Hill
The Supreme Court, the U.S. Capitol, and the Library of Congress are among the federal buildings that loom large in Capitol Hill. The area also has a wonderful community spirit that comes alive at bustling Eastern Market, rich in local produce, arts, and crafts (easternmarket-dc.org). Explore streets with eclectic stores selling handmade pieces by local artists, restaurants creating the next must-have dish, and bookstores like Capitol Hill Books (capitolhillbooks-dc.com).
The Happy Hour Scene
Perched on the banks of the Potomac, The Wharf offers an ideal place to sample a little bit of every aspect of DC culture. Snag a travel read at Politics & Prose (wharfdc.com), catch a concert at The Anthem (theanthemdc.com), or tap into the happy hour buzz at Boardwalk Bar & Arcade (wharfdc.com) or Kirwan’s Irish Pub (kirwansonthewharf.com).
Dine at One of D.C.’s Hottest Tables
Photography courtesy of Albi
Albi
Albi’s chef is deeply influenced by his family’s Palestinian heritage and shares the flavors of his childhood here in D.C.’s Navy Yard neighborhood. At the center of the dining room is a wood-burning oven, and guests can reserve the Hearth Table for a curated tasting menu and an intimate view of the open kitchen. An incredibly flavorful journey through the Levant awaits.
Photography courtesy of Rose's Luxury
Rose's Luxury
This buzzed-about restaurant serves Southern comfort food with an international twist in an industrial-chic space. The classic dining experience is a five-course “choose your own adventure,” where guests pick shareable items from an eclectic menu that includes pork and lychee salad, tteokbokki with tomatoes, and miso-glazed sea bass. The meal culminates with Cornbread Fried Ice Cream and other super-sized desserts.
Photography courtesy of Sonny's Pizza
Sonny's Pizza
Head to this neighborhood favorite for craveable square slices with focaccia-like crust, where customization is part of the fun. Signature pies with playful names and build-your-own options star on the menu, alongside chicken and eggplant parms, meatballs, and natural wine. The covered, heated “pizza garden” patio makes it an easy choice for a laid-back night out in any season.
Tour the National Mall by Foot or Bike
National Mall: National Mall Tour by Electric Vehicle
Stretching from the Potomac River to the cast-iron dome of the U.S. Capitol, the National Mall is a park full of symbolic significance. Tour the sites and learn from a local guide while an electric vehicle takes you between the Washington Monument, District of Columbia War Memorial, the White House, and more for a tour that’s as reflective as it is informative.
Book your experience at getyourguide.com.
Monuments: Capitol and Library of Congress
Stroll between some of the pillars of American democracy. Your expert guide will tell you about landmark cases when you tour the U.S. Supreme Court; share the story of the Library of Congress while you explore the treasure trove of public knowledge; and point out the finer details of historic architecture as you make your way through the interior of the iconic U.S. Capitol.
Book your experience at getyourguide.com.
Dig into Natural History or African American History
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has been showcasing moments of natural wonder since 1910 (naturalhistory.si.edu). With more than 140 million cultural artifacts and natural specimens on display—from the cursed Hope Diamond to some of the world’s most complete dinosaur fossils—the museum is an endless source of education and fascination for all ages. Teens and preteens can make their own scientific discoveries at the Education Center. Admission is free.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture showcases first-person tales and moving accounts in the Slavery and Freedom and other exhibitions. Musical Crossroads examines the evolution of African and African American music, from the songs of the slave trade to the lyrics of hip-hop. Notable artifacts include Harriet Tubman's hymnal and an authentic plantation cabin brought in from South Carolina.
Book your free timed-entry passes at event.etix.com
Lunch at a Historic Saloon or a Modern Spanish Kaiseki Spot
Restaurant photos courtesy of Old Ebbitt Grill
Old Ebbitt Grill
Established in 1856, D.C.’s self-proclaimed oldest saloon has changed location several times. Still, loyalists and a steady stream of tourists find their way to Old Ebbitt Grill for the extensive oyster menu and comfort food classics like meatloaf, chicken sandwiches, jumbo lump crab cakes, and housemade pastas. It’s recognized as a historic landmark for its Victorian interiors and antiques.
Book Old Ebbitt Grill at ebbitt.com.
Restaurant photos courtesy of Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi
Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi
Situated in the Salamander Hotel, the sleek, moody interior of Dōgon by Kwama Onwuachi draws diners’ attention unerringly back to the stunning menu. Onwuachi brings his award-winning chops and a range of influences from his Afro-Caribbean heritage to bear on everything from roasted chicken with jollof rice to braised wagyu oxtails and craveworthy coco bread.
Set Out on a Space or Spy Museum Mission
Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum takes visitors from the first flight by the Wright brothers in 1903 to Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s 1969 moon landing. Other exhibitions include The Nation of Speed–vintage vehicles, race cars, and planes show how technology has transformed movement—and the Kenneth C. Griffin Exploring the Planets Gallery about the solar system. The museum continues to develop its exhibition space with new works planned for 2026.
Book your free timed-entry passes at event.etix.com
International Spy Museum
Located on L'Enfant Plaza, the Spy Museum is a purpose-built building where you can discover the life of a genuine spy and incredible international artifacts. You can be a spy for a day as you participate in an "Undercover Mission." During your experience, you will receive a cover identity and be tested on your skills and knowledge through the interactive exhibitions. Your "mission" will end in the Debriefing Center, where you will discover your skill ratings and your award.
Buy your tickets at spymuseum.org.
Experience D.C.’s Fine Dining
Photography courtesy of Fiola DC
Fiola DC
This is Fiola’s acclaimed flagship location and a standard bearer for the mini restaurant empire. It’s an in-the-mood-to-splurge type of place, where the four-, five-, and nine-course prix fixe menus take inspiration from Tuscany and the Adriatic coast—with produce sourced from the restaurant’s dedicated garden in Rappahannock County.
Restaurant photos courtesy of Anju
Anju
This Dupont Circle restaurant by the the mother-and-son team behind local favorites CHIKO and Mandu is the talk of the town. Korean family recipes—like kimchi jjigae with melt-in-your-mouth pork shoulder—alone are worth the visit.Add on the artful elevations of classics like mandu and ddukbokgi, and the house-infused soju on offer in the downstairs bar, and you’ve got a meal to remember.
Catch a Theatrical Drama or Live Music
Shakespeare Theatre Company
This award-winning theater company breathes fresh life into Shakespeare’s tales while also staging works that are Shakespearean in nature with “profound themes and complex characters.” On a given night, you might be in for The Odyssey; an adaptation of Mozart’s opera The Magic Flute; or the Mock Trial (Malcolm v. the Estates of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth) in which the audience decides who must pay damages.
Book your tickets at shakespearetheatre.org.
9:30 Club
A D.C. institution since 1980, the 9:30 Club has been repeatedly ranked one of America’s top live-music venues. Its intimate size (up to 1,200 people) attracts emerging acts, though some of music’s biggest names have played here too. You can expect good sightlines, great acoustics, multiple bars, and cupcakes that will very possibly sell out.
Book your tickets at 930.com.
Arlington National Cemetery
This vast military cemetery just across the Potomac in Virginia opens daily at 8am; arrive early and let yourself be humbled by the quiet beauty and somber feel (arlingtoncemetery.mil). Its 639 acres include graves dating back to the earliest moments of US history along with tombstones for former presidents, Supreme Court justices, and other luminaries (find them with the help of the free ANC Explorer app). Catch the ceremonial changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where soldiers keep a 24-hour watch in honor of the unidentified dead from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
Osteria Mozza
Photos courtesy of Osteria Mozza
The Georgetown outpost of a Los Angeles favorite brings la dolce vita vibes to a bright, welcoming dining room. Start with baked treats and antipasti (the bombolini are a must), then move to wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas, like fennel sausage orecchiette, before finishing with the chef’s signature butterscotch budino—it’s a knockout. Fresh cocktails, a standout wine list, and friendly service make it even more of a crowd pleaser. In addition to lunch, Osteria Mozza is open for weekend brunch, midday snacks, and dinner nightly.
Must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.
Wander Historic Georgetown
Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Georgetown to take in the charm of its townhomes and namesake university, founded in 1789. The neighborhood is dotted with cafes and college dives, upscale boutiques, and art and antique stores, where you never know what kind of treasure you might find. Shop Made in DC is a one-stop source for a variety of locally made items (shopmadeindc.com). While browsing on M Street, keep an eye out for Old Stone House, the city’s only pre-Revolutionary colonial home left standing. Tudor Place Historic House & Garden preserves the stories of six generations of Martha Washington's descendants along with the enslaved people who lived and worked here (tudorplace.org). And for a serene side of the neighborhood, seek out the Dumbarton Oaks Gardens (doaks.org). To explore Georgetown with a guide, consider Blue Fern Travel’s food-themed walking tour (blueferntravel.com).
Boating in D.C.
Hit the water for scenic views along the Potomac and an invigorating workout. You can rent single or double kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards from six D.C.-area boathouses, including Key Bridge Boathouse in Georgetown. Boating in D.C. also offers classes and tours such as a 75-minute host and history-themed guided kayak excursion. Boating season typically runs from April to October.
Book your rental at boatingindc.com.
Spin the Globe for Your Last D.C. Supper
Photography courtesy of Omakase @ Barracks Row
Omakase @ Barracks Row
The chef behind this Barracks Row restaurant trained in world-class kitchens, so it’s no surprise that what began as a pop-up omakase bar quickly became too popular not to stay. Settle in for a tasting menu of approximately 20 courses, starting with otsumami-inspired bar bites and working your way up to a nigiri-focused menu with a bespoke blend of traditional and contemporary influences.
Photography courtesy of Kayu
Kayu
Reopened in a new space after a stint on H Street, this modern Filipino restaurant offers a more casual, streamlined take on its earlier tasting-room concept. The menu is a blend of returning favorites with new creations—from sweet corn agnolotti to cassava cake topped with crab fat and trout roe—alongside playful dishes like ube bao bun chorizo burgers. Sip a tamarind margarita at the bar or settle in for dinner in the airy dining room or patio.
Photography courtesy of Amélie Wine Bar
Amélie Wine Bar
Pull up a stool at Amélie Wine Bar in Logan Circle and choose from an expert-curated array of vintages, with an emphasis on boutique and biodynamic French wines. For those who want the bistro ambiance without the alcohol, there’s also a thoughtfully curated alcohol-free wine and mocktail list, as well as classic French cuisine, including steak frites, baked Camembert, and escargot. Bon appétit!
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