Washington, DC is one of those cities that manages to combine world-famous landmarks with surprisingly family-friendly attractions. From iconic monuments and fascinating museums to neighbourhoods packed with great food, there’s plenty to fill a long weekend or even a full week’s holiday. If you’re planning your first visit, choosing where to stay in Washington DC is one of the most important decisions, as the right location makes exploring the city much easier. Once you’ve booked your accommodation, these are some of the best experiences to add to your itinerary.
Tour the National Mall
A visit to the National Mall should be at the top of every Washington itinerary. Stretching between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, it’s home to many of the city’s most famous monuments, memorials and Smithsonian museums. Walking this historic area is one of the best ways to appreciate the history and scale of the nation’s capital. If you’re only visiting for a few days, choosing one of the many hotels near National Mall can save valuable sightseeing time and make it easy to explore on foot.
Visit the White House
White House tours remain free but must be requested well in advance through your Member of Congress (or, for international visitors, through your embassy). Security procedures can change, so it’s always worth checking the latest visitor information before you travel.
Have a guided tour
DC is accessible both by foot and bicycle so that you can have interesting tours all over the city completely sustainably. The city is a tourist centre, but you can find many surprisingly affordable bike rentals and tours that will give you the freedom to explore. Bike rentals even offer trailers and tag-a-longs for kids, so it’s a perfect way for a family to see the city. You also get helmets, baskets, locks and illustrated maps, so you’ll be completely ready for your adventure.
If you’d rather leave the planning to someone else, a private guided tour is a great option, especially for families or anyone short on time. Companies like Tiber Creek Private Tours offer small-group and private tours of DC’s top landmarks, with a knowledgeable local guide handling the route, the history, and the logistics so you can just enjoy the sights.
Explore the Smithsonian Museums
The Smithsonian museums remain one of Washington, DC’s biggest draws, offering an incredible range of free attractions for visitors of all interests.
The National Air and Space Museum has recently undergone major renovations, making it an even more impressive and engaging experience than before, with updated galleries and exhibits that are well worth exploring.
It’s also worth noting that some Smithsonian museums may require free timed-entry passes during busy periods or when popular exhibitions are on display. Checking ahead before your visit can help you avoid disappointment and make the most of your time in the city.
Stand in awe of the Library of Congress
If you’re a fan of books, you must visit the Library of Congress, the biggest library in the world. Besides its incredible collection of books, papers, maps and other documents, the building offers a great visitor experience with its gorgeous Gilded Age architecture. Free guided tours are often available and are well worth joining if you’d like to learn more about the building’s history and architecture.
Cross the river
While many visitors spend most of their time exploring Washington, DC itself, crossing the Potomac River opens up even more fascinating places to discover. Arlington is home to the moving Arlington National Cemetery, where you can watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, as well as the iconic Marine Corps War Memorial (often called the Iwo Jima Memorial). For fantastic panoramic views across the capital, head up to the Observation Deck at CEB Tower.
A little further along the river, the historic city of Alexandria offers cobbled streets, boutique shops, riverside restaurants and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. History lovers can also visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate or explore Cedar Hill, the former home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass. If you’re looking for something a little different, National Harbor combines waterfront dining, shopping, entertainment and family attractions, making it a great addition to your Washington, DC itinerary.
Explore Some Hidden Gems
Once you’ve ticked off Washington, DC’s famous landmarks, take some time to explore beyond the main tourist trail. Wander through the historic streets of Georgetown, browse independent shops and cafés, or enjoy the peaceful gardens at Dumbarton Oaks. Art lovers will also enjoy discovering the colourful murals tucked away in Blagden Alley, while The Wharf offers a lively waterfront filled with restaurants, live entertainment and beautiful views across the Washington Channel.
Taking time to explore these lesser-known corners of the city gives you a chance to experience a different side of Washington, DC and often escape the busiest crowds, making your visit feel even more memorable.
Dine like a boss
Finally, you will probably get super hungry from all the exploration. Washington, DC has become one of America’s best food cities, with everything from Michelin-recognised restaurants to vibrant food halls and international street food.
Editor’s Note: This guide was reviewed and updated in July 2026 to reflect current visitor information, attractions and travel advice for Washington, DC.