Washington DC Itinerary: Monuments, Museums, Neighborhoods, and a Nationals Game

Planning a trip to the nation’s capital can feel overwhelming because there is so much to see. This Washington DC itinerary is designed to help you experience the city’s highlights in a simple, organized way, including iconic monuments, world-class museums, local neighborhoods, and an evening at a Major League Baseball game.

This Washington DC itinerary includes the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, Georgetown, local dining areas, and a Washington Nationals game, with internal links for deeper planning.

The Washington Monument

Washington DC Itinerary Overview

Day	Focus
Day 1	National Mall and Smithsonian museums
Day 2	Neighborhoods, local food, and Nationals game
Day 3	Additional museums, markets, and scenic areas

If you want more ideas beyond this plan, you can explore additional attractions in the complete guide to Everything to Do in Washington DC.

Day 1: National Mall and Museums

Start your trip at the heart of the city.

Morning: Walk the National Mall

Must-see landmarks:

• Lincoln Memorial

• Washington Monument

• World War II Memorial

• Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Plan time to walk the Reflecting Pool and take photos. Visiting early in the morning helps you avoid crowds and summer heat.

Afternoon: Smithsonian Museums

Choose one or two museums near the Mall.

Top options:

• National Museum of Natural History

• National Air and Space Museum

• National Museum of American History

All Smithsonian museums are free, but some may require timed entry during busy periods.

Evening: Monuments at Night

Return to the Mall after sunset to see:

• Thomas Jefferson Memorial

• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

The monuments are beautifully lit and much less crowded in the evening.

Day 2: Local Neighborhoods and Nationals Game

Morning: Explore Georgetown

Spend time walking through one of DC’s most charming areas.

Things to do:

• Walk along the Georgetown Waterfront

• Shop local boutiques on M Street

• Visit cafés and bakeries

• Walk part of the historic C&O Canal

Afternoon: The Wharf or Navy Yard

Head toward the waterfront for lunch and exploring.

Two great options:

• The Wharf DC – Restaurants, shops, and scenic harbor views

• Yards Park – Green space and riverfront paths near Nationals Park

Evening: Washington Nationals Game

Catch a game at Nationals Park, home of the Washington Nationals.

Why it’s a great addition to your itinerary:

• Easy Metro access via the Navy Yard–Ballpark station

• Beautiful views of the Anacostia River and DC skyline

• Family-friendly atmosphere

• Great local food options inside the stadium

Arrive early to explore the Navy Yard area before first pitch.

For detailed seating advice, food recommendations, and planning tips, see the complete Nationals Park visitor guide.

Day 3: Markets, Culture, and Hidden Gems

Morning: Eastern Market or Dupont Circle

Visit Eastern Market for:

• Local vendors and crafts

• Fresh food and baked goods

• Weekend art markets

Alternatively, explore Dupont Circle’s bookstores, galleries, and cafés.

Afternoon: Museum or Cultural Stop

Consider one of these:

• National Gallery of Art

• International Spy Museum

• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

Evening: Rooftop or Scenic Views

End your trip with:

• A walk along the Tidal Basin (seasonal favorite)

• Free rooftop views from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Getting Around Washington DC

• Metro is the easiest way to reach major attractions

• Walking works well around the National Mall

• Rideshare services are convenient for longer distances

• Avoid driving when possible due to traffic and parking costs

FAQ: Washington DC Itinerary

How many days do you need in Washington DC?

Three days allows you to see major monuments, visit museums, explore neighborhoods, and attend a Nationals game.

Is Nationals Park easy to reach?

Yes. The stadium is directly accessible by Metro and located in the walkable Navy Yard area.

Are Smithsonian museums really free?

Yes. Most Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo offer free admission.

Final Thoughts

This Washington DC itinerary combines history, culture, local neighborhoods, waterfront areas, and a live baseball experience. By mixing iconic landmarks with time to explore areas like Georgetown and Navy Yard, you’ll experience both the historic and modern sides of the capital while keeping your plans simple and easy to navigate.